Canon Announces the Rebel XS

On Tuesday, Canon announced an entry-level model to their Rebel DSLR series, the Rebel XS (aka EOS 1000D). Beginning with the original Digital Rebel in 2003, Canon’s Rebel line retains its #1 place as the highest-selling consumer DSLR line. With the addition of the Rebel XS, Canon’s focal point is on the amateur or casual photographer wanting more flexibility and features than their compact camera offers, while still making basic point-and-shoot photography a snap.

The XS is nearly identical to its bigger brother, the Rebel XSi EOS 450D (don’t be confused by the lower model number), but with a lower megapixel count (10 vs. 12), smaller LCD monitor (2.5” vs. 3.0”), and missing several other more advanced features. For the first-time DSLR user, these disparities are probably insignificant. And those upgrading from a compact camera may be relieved that there is live view for composing pictures using the LCD. It also has a 7-point wide-area AF system and an unlimited burst rate of 3fps when shooting in JPEG.

But there are areas where the XS outperforms its bigger brother. It uses Canon’s latest Digic III image processor, which should show improvements in image quality, especially when using higher ISOs. In addition, the XS has a longer battery life.

Like Canon’s previous Rebels, the XS will be available in black or silver, and sold as body-only or as a kit with Canon’s new 18-55mm with IS. Although Canon has not yet officially set a release date, it will likely be available in the US in July, with a price range similar to the XSi right now.

This entry was posted by Nick on Thursday, June 12th, 2008 at 2:58 pm