Digital Camera Review

Digital Camera Review

Nov 06, 2006 - By Patrick Singleton
There are choices for the photographer who wants a combination of manual and automatic options in a 10-megapixel sub-$1000 DSLR. In this comparison review, we're looking at the three most prominent cameras – the Sony Alpha A100, the Canon Rebel XTi and the Nikon D80. The Canon and the Sony are both available online for under $900 with a lens and both offer dust removal and reduction features. The Sony has in-camera image stabilization – Super Steady Shot technology that moves the sensor in response to camera shake. The Nikon lacks dust technology and stabilization, but goes for about $1100 with a similar lens (it's under $1000 for the body alone). Is there a separate niche for each of these, or is one simply a better buy?
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Advantages
D80
Rebel XTi
Alpha
Best autofocus – better in low-light and better tracking.
Good dust removal system – though one stubborn speck required manual cleaning
Super Steady Shot provides stabilization with any lens.
Better controls – two control dials, easy access to major settings.
Excellent color accuracy
Good dust removal system – we had no problems with it.
Monochrome LCD saves power while showing shooting data
Best dynamic range performance at high ISOs
LCD display shows shooting data clearly, and even rotates it for vertical shooting.
Robust construction will probably be more durable than XTi or Alpha
LCD display shows shooting data in big, uncrowded display
Evaluative metering system is effective, even in challenging scenes
Spec Comparison Page 7 of 8 Canon Rebel XTi vs. Nikon D80 vs. Sony Alpha A100 Head-to-Head-to-Head Digital Camera Review Navigation
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