The Canon Rebel XTi (400D) Steers Clear of the Bleeding Edge

The Canon Digital Rebel XTi (400D) is the second last in the line of Canon digital SLR aimed at the enthusiast market segment. The successor to the Digital Rebel XT (350D) and the original Digital Rebel (300D) camera indeed marked a turning point in the market for digital SLR.

It was launched in October 2006, exactly 3 years after the first of the series (Canon Digital Rebel), with features that eluded many professional cameras. Interesting digital features such as a sensor cleaning system (EOS Integrated Cleaning System), the possibility of picture styles, auto focus sensor, 9-point support, F2.8 maximum aperture and a super bright display of 2.5 inches.

Based on the 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and Canon's image processing engine DIGIC II. Criticism of any camera that produces less noise in pictures with a sensitivity of ISO400 and higher, surpassing more expensive cameras like the Nikon D80. This camera has some complaints from consumers with larger hands because of small control buttons and dials. Other competitors include the Nikon D40x, the Sony Alpha 100 and Pentax K10D.

While it is a product for the amateur photographer, it does not offer all the features of the Canon EOS 30D or the Nikon D200. Its picture quality falls just short of those cameras. Obviously its top shutter speed of 1/4000s and burst of speed of 3 frames per second (fps) does not match the specifications of the professional cameras but meet the needs of most advanced amateur photographers (prosumers).

The camera is definitely small, which can be a problem for some, especially if your hands are large or have large lenses, so I would recommend the battery grip (Canon BG-E3 Battery Grip) which also provide place for a second battery. Balancing the camera with the larger grip and adding a more accessible shutter button when shooting photos vertically.

The screen deserves a separate chapter thanks to significant improvements over previous models (Digital Rebel and Digital Rebel XT). It now offers a wide viewing angle of 160 degrees and is bright enough to be able to view photos taken in direct sunlight. It is a pity that the small LCD of previous models and will not be able to compose the picture across the screen as it allows some reflex digital technology with LiveView.

After using LCD screens from point-and-shoot, I have to admit that more than once it bothers me to have to use a viewfinder. It is also a great surprise to prosumers that a camera in this price range forces you to use the optical viewfinder when framing your photos. The newer Rebel Xsi, does away with this restriction.

Other reviews I've read, made negative comments about the battery life (Canon NB-2LH Rechargeable Battery) that comes with the camera (720 mAh). Especially, when the competition offers batteries around 1500 mAh. Another good reason, to opt for the extra battery grip (Canon BG-E3 Battery Grip).

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