Top Digital SLR Cameras

Canon EOS Rebel T2i Black SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 18-55mm Lens (18MP, 3.1x Opt, SD/SDHC/SDXC Card Slot)

505 Reviews

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	Price: $699.99
	Price: $649.00
	Price: $547.00
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Pros: High resolution, Enhanced video capabilities, Fast shooting speed
Cons: Large output files, Viewfinder needs improvement, No wireless flash

While its weight and design is similar to its predecessor, Canon's EOS Rebel T2i delivers unparalleled picture quality along with improved video capabilities. It utilizes an 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor and Canon's DIGIC 4 Image Processor which offer superb delineation and excellent color reproduction. It also has a 64-zone dual-layer metering sensor which provides ideal exposures in almost any lighting situation. This DSLR camera sports a 3-inch, anti-reflective LCD display for easy viewing. It even has an HDMI output which lets you view your stills and videos on your HDTV. The control layout is very much the same with the t1i, the only difference is that it now has a Live View/Movie button which enables easy transition from still to movie mode and a Quick Control button which makes changing settings a lot easier to do. One of its big step-up features is its ability to shoot full HD 1080p videos at 24 frames per second. It also allows you to record videos in various sizes including 1280 x 720 and 640 x 480. On a side note, you may need an SD, SDHC or SDXC memory card due to the fact that the files are too large. The EOS Rebel T2i is compatible with Canon's EF and EF-S lenses. Although it doesn't have a wireless flash and its viewfinder needs improvement, its weight and rubberized body give you more control when holding the camera and it boasts a shooting speed of up to 1/4000 sec. which makes it ideal for capturing fast-paced sports. It is also equipped with a built-in microphone and a jack for attaching an external microphone. Overall, it provides an affordable way to begin your journey in DSLR photography and it produces professional looking images on par with higher-priced cameras.

Canon EOS 7D Black SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 28-135mm Lens (18MP, CompactFlash Card Slot)

312 Reviews

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	Price: $1699.00
	Price: $1799.00
	Price: $1799.99
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Pros: Fast shooting speed, Large Viewfinder, Better AF system, Robust construction
Cons: Small buttons

The Canon EOS 7D boasts of a faster shooting speed along with an improved Auto Focus system. It can capture up to 8 frames per second and has a 19-point cross-type AF sensor that performs well even under poor lighting conditions. It also employs a Dual DIGIC 4 Imaging Processor and an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor which when combined, produces vibrant and high-quality images. In contrast with competing models in this price range, the EOS 7D is ready to take on all challenges. It is designed with a magnesium-alloy body that can withstand outdoor and heavy use and comes fully equipped with a Self Cleaning Sensor, a wireless flash controller, an HDMI output for viewing images on your HDTV and a bright Intelligent Viewfinder which offers 100% coverage. There are also 6 Picture Styles consist of Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful and Monochrome and 3 Live View focusing modes which include Live mode, Quick mode and Face detection mode. In terms of operation, its 3.0-inch Clear View LCD screen makes it easy to use and see in varying lighting conditions. The Mode dial enables you to quickly switch between shooting modes and the buttons are also very intuitive. The only gripe is that some buttons are just a little too small for comfortable use. While it is aimed towards mid-level and professional photographers, Canon's EOS 7D also makes a great starter DSLR camera. It allows you to shoot full HD Videos at 1920 x 1080 resolution and offers a great range of ISO settings which let you capture crisp images even when you think it's not possible.

Canon EOS 60D Black SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 18-135 mm Lens (18 MP, SD/SDHC/SDXC Card Slot)

283 Reviews

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	Price: $1299.99
	Price: $1199.00
	Price: $1199.00
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Pros: Amazing image quality, Longer battery life, Articulating screen
Cons: No lens microadjustment, Uses SD cards instead of CF cards, More expensive than the T series cameras

The Canon EOS 60D is not only designed for still photography but also for videographers. In addition to the pentaprism viewfinder which offers more coverage and better magnification, it also sports a Vari-angle 3.0-inch Clear View swivel LCD that gives you the freedom to shoot from any angle. It can handle various resolutions starting from 1920 x 1080 Full HD video to 1280 x 720 or SD/VGA at 640 x 480. Video clips are saved as MOV files and it also features manual exposure control for greater control and creativity. The 18.0 Megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor produces images with intricate detail and the ISO settings, expandable up to 12800, provide great shots and exposure even in bright or dark environments. The 60D can capture up to 5.3 frames per second and convert RAW images into JPEG files. The DIGIC 4 Image Processor delivers faster speed and greater performance and the camera also has a 63-zone Dual-layer sensor and a 9-point AF system. Battery life is longer and it utilizes SD, SDHC and SDXC memory cards, instead of the usual CF cards. This can be an advantage due to the fact that it is cheap but it can also be a disadvantage for those who have a lot of CF cards lying around their home or office. Aside from being slightly pricier compared to Canon's T series cameras, the 60D has no lens microadjustment. It is a downgrade, especially upon considering that the 50D has this particular feature. While it doesn't affect the shots taken, those who need this might want to get their lens calibrated. The screen can also be a fingerprint- or dust-magnet so constant cleaning using the camera cloth is required or a screen protector might be a better choice. This camera is compatible with PictBridge printers and can be used alongside Canon's EF & EF-S Lenses. Although it has a built-in pop-up flash, the Canon Speedlite 430EX is also a great add-on for those who want the versatility of having a rotating and tilting flash head. Instead of the Magnesium alloy body found on other cameras, it has a polycarbonate on aluminum chassis which makes it more lightweight at around 675 g or 23.8 oz. The Canon EOS 60D can also be bought with an 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS UD Standard Zoom Lens or body only.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Black SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 24-105mm Lens (21.1 Megapixel - 7.6 cm 3" LCD - 4.3x Optical Zoom - 5616 x 3744 Image - 1920 x 1080 Video - HDMI - PictBridge)

249 Reviews

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	Price: $3199.99
	Price: $2789.00
	Price: $3199.00
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Pros: Advanced image sensor, Excellent low-light shooting capabilities, High-resolution output
Cons: High Price Point

Canon has possibly topped the digital SLR camera field with the release of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, the successor to their highly-popular EOS 5D. The quality of the images produced by the Mark II is top-notch, even compared to those taken with high-end professional cameras from other brands. This may be because of its redesigned 21.1 Megapixel full frame CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 image processor and a wide range of ISO settings that give it amazing shooting abilities even in low-light to even near dark conditions. Its CMOS Sensor makes use of a fluorite-based Integrated Cleaning System for full-frame sensors. While this particular model does not have an internal flash built into the kit, attaching an external one is effortless. Its motor fires at a rapid 3.9 FPS of continuous shooting and its 3-inch rear LCD is larger and much brighter than that of the EOS 5D Mark I's display. It even has HD video capture at a clear 1920x1080 resolution, with an HDMI output port for quick and easy connection to other devices. This hardware profile demands a lot of power, and because it tends to eat through batteries quickly, always keeping backup batteries within reach in case of drainage is a good idea. DSLR Cameras like the Mark II live off the lenses fitted onto the body kits. For normal use, the package includes a Canon EF 24-105mm zoom lens. Of course, this lens can be conveniently swapped for another with ease as the shot requires. Software-wise, this DSLR camera's interface is cleaner and more user friendly than the older model. It produces images in JPEG or RAW formats for more advanced editing. However, this setting tends to take up a lot of space on your storage media, so be sure to take along some spares when shooting with it. In this case, it uses CompactFlash cards as its media. In the end, it goes without saying that such power comes at a price. This may be the Mark II's one drawback, as its price point places it within the range of professionals with serious budgets.

Nikon D5100 Black SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 18-55mm Lens (16.2MP, 3x Opt, SD/SDHC/SDXC Card Slot)

215 Reviews

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	Price: $749.95
	Price: $749.00
	Price: $799.99
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Pros: Budget DSLR with advanced features nearly identical to higher model, Great photo manipulation effects
Cons: Slower shooting speed, Single memory card slot, Slightly shorter battery life

While marketed as a midway camera between the smaller but more beginner-friendly Nikon D3100 and the heftier and more advanced Nikon D7000, the Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Kit comes with, surprisingly enough, an EXPEED 2 image processor and a 16.2 megapixel CMOS sensor measuring 23.6 X 15.6 mm, identical to the D7000's own sensor. In fact, this model can be considered as a very slight downgrade from the former, as it appears that they trimmed down some of the features just to justify the lesser price. This does not affect the image quality of pictures shot with this camera though, as they are outstanding. The wide ISO range (100-6400) combined with the rapid-fire, 4 FPS shutter allow for more shots with virtually no blur and more importantly, less noise. It has an optical viewfinder, but the LCD display is another area that the D5100 is ahead of the 7000. While both models have the same size of screen (3 inches and 921,000 dots), the Vari-Angle display on the D5100 is articulated, giving more room to explore different shooting angles. Shift into Live View mode and start recording high-definition video, with a maximum of 30 frames a second at 1080p, in H.264 MOV format. The control dial at the top of the camera gives easy access to adjustments. It also incorporates a number of effects in its operating system for quick but easy photo manipulation. We especially liked the High Dynamic Range that automatically creates an image from two separate exposures, which is perfect for high-contrast scenes, while functions such as Selective Color, Night Vision and Color Sketch will surely appeal to photo artists. Now, for the limitations. As we have said before, the Nikon D5100 is, almost exactly like the D7000 with a few features turned down for pricing. For example, the D7000 has the upper hand in continuous shooting with 7 Fps compared to the 4 Fps of the D5100. It also has the capacity to hold an extra SDXC memory card. Battery life of the D5100 is considerably shorter than that of the D7000. It could be said, though, that this model is, more or less, a budget DSLR, although a very powerful one. Considering the features, in addition to the fact that it comes with an 18-55mm 3x Zoom lens, the Nikon D5100 makes a compelling pick for a DSLR camera.

Canon EOS Rebel T3 Black SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 18-55mm Lens (12.2 Megapixel - 2.7" LCD - 3.1x Optical Zoom - Optical - 4272 x 2848 Image - PictBridge)

148 Reviews

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	Price: $499.00
	Price: $449.00
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Pros: Great entry-level DSLR camera, Good set of features, Affordable
Cons: Not as solidly built as other DSLRs, Uses SD memory cards only

The Canon EOS Rebel T3 makes a great entry-point into DSLR photography. Although its body only weighs 17.4 oz. or 495g, it is feature packed and incredibly easy to use. A Live View Function permits easy, manual focusing and the 2.7-inch TFT LCD monitor boasts 99% coverage and 170° viewing angle. It is also made 30% brighter to provide a crisp and clear view regardless of lighting conditions. With the 12.2 Megapixel APS-C Size CMOS Sensor, 9-point AF system and great range of ISO settings (ISO 400, 800, 1600, 3200, or 6400), you're sure to get sharp, vivid and breathtaking shots, even in tricky lighting situations. Different picture styles like Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful and Monochrome are likewise offered to enhance creativity. Maximum Burst Speed is rated at 830 JPEG shots and 5 RAW shots. In addition to capturing 3.0 fps for JPEGs or 2.0 fps for RAW files, it can shoot HD videos (1280 x 720 resolution) at 30 or 25 fps with great quality. Video output is acceptable and better than most DSLR cameras. As mentioned, while most Canon cameras utilize CF cards, this one uses SD, SDHC, SDXC memory cards and Eye-Fi SD cards only. On the contrary, the T3 comes with an 18-55mm Lens and you can also use it together with an External Canon Speedlite in case you prefer that instead of the built-in pop-up flash. If you're planning to expand the range of shots your camera's capable of capturing, you'll be glad to know that it is compatible with Canon's EF and EF-S Lenses. In terms of ease of use, it includes adequate instructions and even has an in-camera Feature Guide which gives a quick description of each feature and makes the controls easy to master. Battery life is great. You can capture approximately 800 shots when using the viewfinder, 240 shots on Live View mode and a total of 1 hour and 50 minutes of video per charge. Overall, the build of the Canon EOS Rebel T3 doesn't seem as solid as other DSLRs. It may also be too lightweight for some but if you're one of the many photographers who'd like a good starter kit but are not willing to spend too much, then the T3 is probably one of your best choices.

Sony alpha SLT-A55VL Black SLR Digital Camera Kit w/ 18-55mm Lens (16.2MP, SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Pro Duo Card Slot)

99 Reviews

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	Price: $799.99
	Price: $799.00
	Price: $739.99
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Pros: High frame rate, Supports 1080p HD video, Articulated LCD display, Great feature set
Cons: Heating problems, Short battery life

The Sony A55 did not get chosen by a photography industry magazine as the Digital Camera of the year for 2010 for nothing. This entry-level DSLR has decidedly prosumer features, distinctive technology and great performance at a lesser price than similar starter kits from other manufacturers. The A55 is a hybrid DSLR kit with a 16.2 Megapixel Exmor HD CMOS sensor that has a translucent pane of optical glass fixed in front of it which reflects a little light upwards to an array of autofocus phase detectors at the top of the camera. What this means is that both the main sensor and the autofocus gets a share of the light coming in through the lens, which in turn, makes for faster but more properly focused images. The Image sensor is powered by the BIONZ image processor which supports high-speed shooting, advanced digital composition and Full HD Video recording. This camera shoots at a maximum of 10 frames a second at full resolution and 1080p video recording at 30 FPS, which is then enhanced to double the original rate. A choice of two viewfinders, an electronic and an optical, make composing shots easier and more accurately. The electronic viewfinder, in particular, excels in framing shots while in low-light conditions. The LCD monitor at the back of the Sony A55 also merits special attention, with its rich, vibrant colors and 16:9 aspect ratio providing photographers with a real-time, WYSIWYG preview of the image being shot aside from extra data. The best thing about the LCD monitor is its full articulation, swinging to a maximum of 18 degrees vertical and 270 degrees horizontal. This freedom of movement enables shots to be taken from odd angles without losing either focus or composition. The flash is a small integrated pop-up type at the top part of the unit. The all-electronic operating system behind the Sony A55 also simplifies the art of taking a better picture. It has excellent image stabilization so there's no fear of getting motion blur from shaky hands while shooting, and to help line up the shot, a level displays onscreen. The sweep panorama feature is a handy add-on that definitely must be used when shooting landscapes and the high dynamic range function ensures that pictures are exposed correctly even in variable lighting conditions. A choice of additional operating modes is available through the click wheel interface and it has an actual GPS that encodes geographical location data into every shot that the camera takes. While the Sony A55 Digital SLR is a recommended camera especially for entry-level enthusiasts, it does have its share of shortcomings. The video shooting mode, for example, tends to heat up the image sensor too much, especially when using it on HD mode. Alongside that is a short battery life issue. It may also feel too small for those who have large hands as its form factor is smaller than that of other DSLRs.