Canon Digital Rebel XT vs XTi or XSi Update
Now that Canon has released the latest addition to its ever-popular Digital Rebel line, the XSi, many current Rebel XT or XTi owners are probably wondering about the upgrade. The short answer is. . . whose! It’s really not worth it. Sure, Live View, a larger LCD screen, and faster FPS might sound appealing, but is it really worth it? What are you really looking for here? More bells and whistles, or better visuals? Personally, if I’m going to upgrade, it’s going to be something substantial. Something that allows me to take better pictures and improve my skills as a photographer. Let me enlighten.
All Canon Digital Rebels are actually entry-level digital SLR cameras. That includes XT, XTi and XSi. Don’t get me wrong, they are really great cameras and provide an excellent bridge for those wanting to move from the simple world of point and shoot photography to the beautifully rendered, almost professional quality of SLR photography. Canon has arguably done a better job of filling that void. Better than any other camera manufacturer, including Nikon, Sony and Olympus. My point though is, if you really want to move up to a better SLR then look up a little higher and take a look at the Canon EOS 30D or the Canon EOS 40D. It will not only challenge you to improve your photography skills, but you will also produce much better photos.
By skipping a model line up in Canon’s chain of command, you get a few extra benefits. Stepping up to a 30D or 40D gives you an all-metal camera body. The metal bodies are much more shock resistant and durable than the molded plastic found in the Digital Rebel line. The more delicate and sensitive internal parts of the camera will survive longer encased in a metal body. Plus, you’ll get better ISO performance, metering, and image control. Also, try to keep in mind that more megapixels doesn’t necessarily make a better camera. Especially once you have more than 5MP.
Another advantage of the Canon 30D and 40D models is that most accessories that work with the 30D and 40D will also work with more advanced cameras in Canon’s line of models, such as the 5D. Unruly accessories usually won’t. Given the perpetual “update” woe many cam fans find themselves in, that could save a lot of money on the next update. Of course you don’t necessarily need to save that money, you can always invest it in a really nice new lens to go with that improved camera 😉