The Canon Digital Rebel XTi proved to be another excellent DSLR, just like its predecessor the Rebel XT. Presently, this is the least expensive 10 megapixels DSLR on the market. Canon had to make some compromises for this, but still produced a superb contender

 

In terms of image quality, the Rebel XTi is top-notch. It produces highly detailed images with very low noise. Details only slightly deteriorate at ISO 800. Noise becomes quite apparent at ISO 1600 and details disappear even more. The XTi produces images with more details than any of its already reviewed competitors (Sony Alpha A100, Nikon D80 & Nikon D200). As for noise levels, only the D80 shows less at high ISO but it also shows significantly less details. The only problem with image quality is poor automatic white-balance under artificial lighting, something which is common with most digital cameras. All current 10 megapixels DSLR cameras produce nearly indistinguishable images up to ISO 400. From ISO 800 and up, the XTi produces the best images among its peers.

 

Where Canon cut-back with the XTi relates mostly to its ergonomics. The Rebel XTi's small size makes it less comfortable to hold than its peers. The grip is so close to the lens mount that large lenses do not leave much room for fingers. It also has the smallest viewfinder and least external controls of 10 megapixels DSLR cameras. The XTi's competitors all offer better ergonomics, particularly the Nikon D80 and Pentax K10D. For a full analysis of current 10 megapixels DSLR cameras, see our comparison feature article.

 

The only serious limitation of the Canon XTi is its lack of spot-metering, something that every other DSLR and most other digital cameras all have. This is Canon's way of making sure that advanced photographers pay for a more expensive camera such as the excellent Canon EOS 30D. Note that the 30D also has 5 FPS continuous shooting and produces equally detailed images despite having 8 megapixels. The weak battery is nothing to worry about since the XTi can still take several hundred pictures on a single charge.

 

Need help chosing one or more lenses for a DSLR? See our short lens selection feature article.