Canon EOS Rebel XS

When the Canon EOS Rebel XS was first released in mid-2008, many Canon fans were slightly surprised at its feature pack. Canon is known to release only the most feature-packed or highest-priced Rebel DSLRs and yet, the Canon EOS Rebel XS just did not fit that criteria. In fact, this release was a unique mishmash of its predecessors, the Canon EOS Rebel XSi and the Canon EOS Rebel XTi., making the Canon EOS Rebel XS a perfect entry level camera for point and shoot users looking to upgrade to a DSLR for the first time.

Design

Although the Canon Rebel series is known for its compact size, the Canon Rebel XS is slightly larger than its older brothers, the Canon EOS Rebel XSi and Canon EOS Rebel XTi and even weighs less than the latter. Despite its larger frame, the Canon EOS Rebel XS could prove to be a lighter burden for those having to carry their cameras around alot.

This improved version of the XSi also features a taller grip area, though the grip is not as comfortable as the XSi, and a smaller 2.5-inch LCD which actually gives the Canon EOS Rebel XS a neat rear.

Canon has also done a good job about making small yet logical and significant changes to the button and wheel positions on the Canon EOS Rebel XS. For example, the diopter wheel was made a tad larger for easier access and the shutter release is now slanted at a more aggressive angle, looking alot like the Canon EOS 50D and the 1D series and making it alot easier to press that all-important button. The finish of the Canon EOS Rebel XS also looks alot more refined and sleek than that of its predecessors.

Actual user review:
“This review is geared toward complete newbies coming from the point-and-shoot world. I purchased this camera due to a budget constraint and after reading numerous reviews. For what you features you get, you simply cannot beat the price for an entry level DSLR camera. You may have looked at the XSI and have been tempted to put forth the extra $100. They are very minimally different and the “extra” features will have no bearing on DSLR newbies. Newbies will not be disappointed with this purchase. It will meet or exceed expectations of photo quality and features.” – B.White (OH,USA)

Features

The Canon EOS Rebel XS has been given features from both the T1i and XSi. It has been given the XSi’s body, battery, card slot, features such as Auto Lighting Optimizer, 7-point AF system and DIGIC III processor, and the XTi’s 10.08-megapixel sensor, rear LCD and 12-bit analog-to-digital conversions.

Also, this canon camera has inherited the more versatile user interface that is in the Canon 40D allowing users to easily switch between tabs.

When it comes to the processing power of this model, do take note that although the Canon EOS Rebel XS utilizes the same DIGIC III processor, the camera can only handle 12-bit analog-to-digital processing, falling short of the XSi’s 14-bit image processing and ability to capture 14-bit RAW files.

Shooting with the Canon EOS Rebel XS is similar to using the XSi, with great grip and perfectly placed buttons for users. And while this camera’s predecessors have faster frame rates, there is certainly no compromise on image quality and we must say that its ISO 1,600 setting is impressive.

Bottom Line

The Canon EOS Rebel XS is available in silver or in black and each of these come in a kit or body-only version. There is no doubt that the Canon EOS Rebel XS is a great entry level camera that is best suited for amateur photographers looking to graduate from a regular point and shoot camera, and at a great price that would give them the option of getting a lens or two to enhance their shooting experience, while at the same time, giving excellent performance and DSLR image quality. While most existing Canon users would not consider this camera for an upgrade, the excellent image quality and good performance of this entry level DSLR is more than enough to wow point and shoot users upgrading to a DSLR for the first time, making it one of the best buys for aspiring photography pros. What more with its affordable price tag!

Average User Rating:

• “This year I decided to finally get a digital SLR. I read lots of reviews and learned the terminology, and after a couple weeks finally decided on the Canon Rebel XS. As a beginner I simply wasn’t convinced that the additional features on the XSi were worth the extra cash, the image quality the two cameras being basically equal. So I sprang for the XS, got the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 II Camera Lens with the savings, and still had some cash left in my pocket. Generally I’ve been quite happy with my decision. Considering the price of the Rebel XS and the overall quality of the image quality and feature set, I’m convinced it gives you the most bang for your buck of cameras below $500. This camera is capable of taking very nice photographs, and I find the control layout to be very intuitive. The image quality of this camera is excellent, and I am most satisfied by its low-light performance. Over time, I have to say that the XS is a camera that has grown on me. In everyday use there is very little to dislike about this camera and it will take something very significant for me to switch brands.” – G.Wachman (MN,USA)
• “This camera is an excellent choice for those who are taking their first steps into serious (SLR) photography. The “basic” zones give comfortable starting point for new photographers. The XS also has plenty of room for a new photographer to grow with 4 pseudo-manual modes and full manual. Each of these modes, particularly manual, allows for much greater artistic expression and control than the automatic modes. Another nice feature of the XS is the extremely low noise when using higher ISO values. The XS works surprisingly well in low-light settings. The XS also has excellent lens support. This camera has done nothing but impress me since I purchased it two months, and several thousand shots ago.” – N.Clark (TX,USA)

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