Canon EOS Rebel XTi

Comparisons
Nikon D80 - The Nikon D80 is a 10.2-megapixel DSLR that lists for $999 - $400 more than the Rebel XTi. The D80 replaces the D70, a 6-megapixel DSLR, the more full-featured of Nikon's entry-level cameras. It has more refined controls than the Rebel XTi, with two control dials and a 4-way controller that’s a single disk. The D70 is better-built than the Rebel XT; And though we haven't tested a D80, we expect it to resemble the D70 in build quality and construction. In that case, it is expected to be much more solid than the Canon Rebel XTi. The Nikon D80 lacks dust control, but it has the same autofocus mechanism as the Nikon D200, an 11-sensor unit that  beats out even the improved sensor in the Rebel XTi. Like the Rebel XTi, the D80 includes extensive in-camera controls for optimized printing.

Sony α Alpha A100 - The Sony Alpha DSLR-A100 is a 10.2-megapixel DSLR that lists for $899 for the body only, or about $300 more than the Rebel XTi. Like the XTi, the Alpha has a dust reduction system that vibrates. In a big step ahead, the Alpha offers in-camera image stabilization. Canon offers individual lenses with stabilization, but they're all expensive compared to the kit lens and rival the price of the XTi camera body. Both cameras have sensors to note when the camera is held at eye level; the Alpha starts up its autofocus, while the Rebel XTi merely shuts off its LCD display. Shoppers will want to compare the XTi and the Alpha closely.

Olympus EVOLT E-330 - The Olympus EVOLT E-330 lists for $1100, and has a 7.5-megapixel sensor. Unlike the Rebel XTi, it has a live preview. The live preview allows the E-330 to act something like a compact camera, which may appeal to some users transitioning from point-and-shoot models. The most useful aspect of the live preview is for enlarged manual focus, a slow process. It's best for macro photography of still subjects. The E-330 has a dust reduction system, much like the one in the Rebel XTi. Olympus introduced the vibrating plate system long ago.

Value (8.25)
The Canon Rebel XTi's predecessor, the Rebel XT, seemed like an overwhelming value proposition – for its time, a quick, full-featured 8-megapixel DSLR for under $1000. The original Digital Rebel was slow and clunky, and the Rebel series matured with the XT.

The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi offers a significant increase in pixel count, and a better interface, but other manufacturers have caught up in the entry-level DSLR race. The XTi is good, but it's very clear how Canon kept the price down: it's not sturdy, it has only one control dial, and its fit and finish aren't up to the standard of other Canon DSLRs. The Rebel XTi's price is justified, but users who can spend more might want to pay for a more durable camera.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters - The Rebel XTi is made for point-and-shooters who are hungry for a DSLR. The XTi is good for snapshots, and provides room to grow.

Budget Consumers - The Rebel XTi is an inexpensive DSLR, and an inexpensive entry into the Canon line. It's a strong contender for photographers who plan to grow, but who are on a budget.

Gadget Freaks - We don't see geek appeal in the Canon XTi. The dust reduction system has been done before, although the LCD-off sensor is useful.

Manual Control Freaks - We'd rather have two control wheels when shooting manual, so the Rebel XTi isn't the perfect choice for this group, though it's otherwise capable.

Pros/Serious Amateurs - The Rebel XTi just doesn't seem sturdy enough for this group. Even as a backup camera, it feels flimsy.