Jump to a part

Canon EOS Rebel XS

Digital Camera Review

September 04, 2008 By Tim Barribeau 0 Comments (add your own)

This review is organized into 13 pages

Next: Page 1

Introduction

The EOS Rebel XS is Canon’s newest entry-level SLR. Based on the Rebel XSi, it’s marginally cheaper and less powerful, with a resolution of 10 megapixels versus 12 for the XSi, a smaller 2.5" LCD screen. It arrives into an already crowded marketplace, full of affordable, starter SLRs. The XS performed competently in most of our tests, and proved itself able to handle low light situations well, and boasting an impressive dynamic range. For an entry-level SLR, it would easily handle nighttime and indoor shooting well. At the same time it’s only barely cheaper than the Rebel XSi, and is more expensive than two of its major competitors, the Sony Alpha 200 and the Nikon D60. The former generally scored worse than the XS, but is significantly cheaper, and the latter offers roughly similar performance for a slightly lower price tag. The XS has a list price of $699 including an EF-S 18-55mm 1:3.5-5.6 IS Lens.

This review is organized into 13 pages
Page 1 Physical Tour Buttons are large and clearly labeled. We're not crazy about the change from rubber to plastic for grip, however. Read More...	Page 2 Testing / Performance Good low light and dynamic range scores, but only average scores for color and resolution. Read More...	Page 3 Components It has a bright LCD with large, easy to read letters. We didn't like that autofocus is housed in the camera lens rather than the body. Read More...
Page 4 Design / Layout The XS is light and easy to hold, but the construction feels cheap. Read More...	Page 5 Modes Strong auto mode, good speed for continuous shooting. Limited options during playback. Read More...	Page 6 Control Options Fast auto focus, good range of shutter speeds. Slow and inaccurate Live View auto focus. Read More...
Page 7 Image Parameters Ability to shoot in RAW and JPEG. Only two levels of image quality. Read More...	Page 8 Connectivity / Extras Excellent battery life. Limited DPOF support, wired remote control only. Read More...	Page 9 Overall Impressions Decent price for an entry level SLR, but it's only slightly less expensive than the Rebel XSi. Read More...
Page 10 Conclusion Read our final conclusion of the Canon EOS Rebel XS. Read More...	Page 11 Sample Photos A gallery of photos taken with the Canon EOS Rebel XS Read More...	Page 12 Specs / Ratings See all the scores for the Canon EOS Rebel XS. Read More...
Part 13 Comments Read what people are saying about the Canon EOS Rebel XS Add Your Comments

Jump to a part

Shop for the Canon XS

Loading Recently Viewed Products

Latest News
& Reviews

02-Feb-2012
Pentax's risky K-01 is like no other mirrorless camera

Pentax has made a brave move with their latest mirrorless system camera: they’ve to ignored all prevailing trends in the space, and announced a new model that strongly favors form over function (gasp!). Read More...
31-Jan-2012
Nikon launches Coolpix P510, the world's longest superzoom

The P510’s 42x, 24-1000mm lens leaves others in the dust, while the P310 packs an f/1.8 piece to dominate dark shooting situations. Read More...
Nikon debuts S9300 and S6300 Coolpix long-zooms, two others 31-Jan Read More...
Three new entry-level compacts from Nikon 31-Jan Read More...
Is More Zoom Always Better? 31-Jan Read More...

Top Rated Digital SLRs

$1,049.95
1
Canon EOS 60D

The Canon EOS 60D is a top-notch camera in terms of performance, handling and flexibility. However, the performance of the kit lens leaves something to be desired. Read full 7-part review

$1,049.95

Read full 7-part review

Types

Prosumer

Any Megapixels

0,8

< 8 Megapixels

8,10

8 to 10 Megapixels

10,15

10 to 15 Megapixels

15,

> 15 Megapixels

19.00
$589.95
2
Nikon D5100

The D5100 is the latest entry-level DSLR from Nikon, with full 1080/30p video, an articulated LCD, and the same image sensor as the D7000. It lacks an internal focus motor, but we found it produced some of the most accurate colors we've seen yet. Read full 7-part review

$589.95

Read full 7-part review

Types

Any Megapixels

0,8

< 8 Megapixels

8,10

8 to 10 Megapixels

10,15

10 to 15 Megapixels

15,

> 15 Megapixels

16.2
$1,174.99
3
Canon EOS 7D

The 18-megapixel Canon 7D delivers high resolution stills and full HD video in a well-built camera designed for serious photographers without the desire (or budget) for a full-frame model. Read full 7-part review

$1,174.99

Read full 7-part review

Types

Prosumer

Any Megapixels

0,8

< 8 Megapixels

8,10

8 to 10 Megapixels

10,15

10 to 15 Megapixels

15,

> 15 Megapixels

19.00
$1,199.00
4
Nikon D7000

The Nikon D7000 is a powerhouse camera at an excellent price. It offers a huge range of features that will make shooting quicker and easier for the experienced shooter, with lots of customizable options and quick control access. Read full 7-part review

$1,199.00

Read full 7-part review

Types

Prosumer

Any Megapixels

0,8

< 8 Megapixels

8,10

8 to 10 Megapixels

10,15

10 to 15 Megapixels

15,

> 15 Megapixels

16.9
$565.00
5
Sony Alpha SLT-A55V

The SLT-A55 is a well performing SLR, with a wide ISO range, good color and relatively low noise. . Read full 7-part review

$565.00

Read full 7-part review

Types

Consumer

Any Megapixels

0,8

< 8 Megapixels

8,10

8 to 10 Megapixels

10,15

10 to 15 Megapixels

15,

> 15 Megapixels

17