OK, so it's not the 5D Mark III announcement some of you have been hoping for, but Canon has two new entry-level models ready for market at the end of March. The T3i is, predictably, the update to the Rebel T2i, which uses the same 18-megapixel CMOS sensor and Digic 4 processor as its predecessor. In the upgrade department, it gets a swiveling, 1,040,000 dot LCD monitor as well as more Speedlite controls to go along with the new flashes (270EX II and the 320EX). Of course, it also maintains the full suite of video features that made the T2i so powerful in the first place. It will be available in March for $799.99 (body only), or $899.99 as part of a kit.
The T3 is Canon's new most basic model, opting for a 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and the Digic 4 processor. Its video capabilities max out at 1280 x 720 and it uses a 63-zone dual-layer metering system and a nine-point AF system. It will be available with the new EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 II kit lens for $599.
In order to make their entry-level line even more appealing they have included several beginner-friendly options. The first is their EOS Feature Guide, which provides guided recommendations and explanations for camera settings and modes.

The Basic + Function allows allows shooters to make basic exposure adjustments when shooting in any of the creating shooting modes. This is augmented by their A+ Auto mode, which takes the place of their Scene Intelligent Auto technology, which chooses the right shooting mode by analyzing the scene in front of the lens.
They have also thrown in a couple new vide features for the T3i, including the ability to use digital zoom without sacrificiing quality. Plus, the Video Snapshot mode captures two-, four-, or eight second clips and links them together into a collage for users who don't want boring long-shots, but aren't up on their editing skills. It's a feature Canon has been using in their Vixia line of camcorders for a couple of years.
I knew it. I waited long enough. But my question is, does the T3i shoot better in the dark than the T2i???
yes! now for the t2i price drop!
Mike_311,
I own the T1i and man can she shoot well in low light! I love it. I was waiting for the price to drop on the T2i, but now I want the T3i
The new Canon T3i has me EXCITED about learning digital SLR photography! :-) I had almost resigned myself to buying the Nikon D3100 as my very first DSLR because of it's guide mode. I've read some photography books but figured that it would be better for me to have help in the camera as well. I could only look at the Canon T2i (a MUCH better camera according to most reviews that I've read) and sigh... NOW -- I can have both the T2i and the Nikon's guide mode in one camera -- the T3i --> YEAH!!!!!!!!!!
So now the questions is even more complicated....T2i...T3i...or 60D ?
I am was going to buy the 5D Mark II but should I wait for the 5D Mark III? How long will it be until it is in production?
YES!!! More toy DSLRs from Canon. Such Rebels over there at Canon.
A swivel screen? That's it? No weather proofing, gps, internal ois, higher burst rate? Huh, not time to go back to Canon yet.
Canon gives you more bang for the buck than Nikon or Sony--the only other players to consider in the articulated viewing screen arena.
I've owned more than one Rebel DSLR and I have never had one problem with them. To date my Rebel XT has recorded more than 12,000 shots with narry a glitch. In fact, the camera fell over forward on the tripod--crushing the UV filter--but the factory lens continued to work, albeit turning a little tightly, and the camera is still running perfectly.
Why would any one go "back to Canon" for one of these little cheap DSLRs? I can see where one may start with Canon until they realized the Rebel lineup are for Soccer moms, perpetual beginners or as high school graduation presents. And regarding bang for the buck...no one is beating Sony right now...and I dont even shoot with their system. I wish the systems I am using were that progressive and affordable versus what they are putting into R&D at the moment.
I own a Digital Rebel, and the T1i, both are capable if you learn to use the hardware. It's not the horsepower but the feel of the camera. Execellent pics are coaxed from the cheapest of camers (not that these are that cheap).
Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus, Pentax.
Disclaimer: I shoot Canon.
Let's be real: all of these companies are putting out gear that is very good. The $600 toy camera that people are dissing can produce tremendous results in the right hands and the technology they are holding is lightyears ahead of where the original consumer oriented Nikon D50 and Canon Xt started.
This is about lens systems and how things feel in your hands.
I shoot a Canon 50D and I will shoot Canon bc they're glass is great and seems to be a couple hundred dollars cheaper in certain ranges compared to Nikon.
In terms of value, Sony is very good as is Olympus. They have excellent weather seals and rugged bodies (I am not happy with the Canon 60D sans magnesium alloy body).
Lastly, I would love a full frame camera, but won't buy one unitil itis in the $2000 range.
The t3i will make the plastic 60D obsolete.
Same megapixel, same iso performance, same LCD swivel screen.
The only thing the 60D has in its favor is the faster burst rate. 5FPS vs 3 FPS.
50D will be worth more than 60D in residual value soon beacuse of its faster burst rate, solid magnesium alloy body construction and the ability for lens micro-adjustments.
WE WANT ONLY INTELLIGENT PHOTOGRAPHY INFORMATION, NOTHING ELSE. IS THAT POSSIBLE???
WILL THE CANON 5DMARK III BE A 5DMARK2 THAT WORKS AT ALL HUMIDITY AND WITHOUT POOR QUALITY CONTROL?
A response to a rather snotty remark by "ananymous on 2/11/11. I have an "old" Rebel XSi. What pray tell is so wrong with that? I don't worry about being a "perpetual beginner" or have pipe dreams of being a professional photographer. I indulge in my hobby for fun and have done so since my really old AE-1 film days.
I recently bought a T3i, debating between the 7D and the 60D. Yes, the 7D is built more rugged and has a faster frame rate and more sensor points BUT it's too big for me. I have a very small hand and cannot handle that size camera. Even the 60D is too heavy. I make plenty of money with my "lowly" Rebel cameras and feel there is plenty of features there to take stunning photos. So, I take offense at comments like from Anonymous above. Using manual and AV and a good lens (not the kit lens) you have many options to create the photo you have in mind. Don't let those who think they are better than the rest of us scare you off a very decent camera with technology that wasn't even possible six or seven years ago.
I knew it. I waited long enough. But my question is, does the T3i shoot better in the dark than the T2i???
yes! now for the t2i price drop!
Mike_311,
I own the T1i and man can she shoot well in low light! I love it. I was waiting for the price to drop on the T2i, but now I want the T3i
The new Canon T3i has me EXCITED about learning digital SLR photography! :-) I had almost resigned myself to buying the Nikon D3100 as my very first DSLR because of it's guide mode. I've read some photography books but figured that it would be better for me to have help in the camera as well. I could only look at the Canon T2i (a MUCH better camera according to most reviews that I've read) and sigh... NOW -- I can have both the T2i and the Nikon's guide mode in one camera -- the T3i --> YEAH!!!!!!!!!!
So now the questions is even more complicated....T2i...T3i...or 60D ?
I am was going to buy the 5D Mark II but should I wait for the 5D Mark III? How long will it be until it is in production?
YES!!! More toy DSLRs from Canon. Such Rebels over there at Canon.
A swivel screen? That's it? No weather proofing, gps, internal ois, higher burst rate? Huh, not time to go back to Canon yet.
Canon gives you more bang for the buck than Nikon or Sony--the only other players to consider in the articulated viewing screen arena.
I've owned more than one Rebel DSLR and I have never had one problem with them. To date my Rebel XT has recorded more than 12,000 shots with narry a glitch. In fact, the camera fell over forward on the tripod--crushing the UV filter--but the factory lens continued to work, albeit turning a little tightly, and the camera is still running perfectly.
Why would any one go "back to Canon" for one of these little cheap DSLRs? I can see where one may start with Canon until they realized the Rebel lineup are for Soccer moms, perpetual beginners or as high school graduation presents. And regarding bang for the buck...no one is beating Sony right now...and I dont even shoot with their system. I wish the systems I am using were that progressive and affordable versus what they are putting into R&D at the moment.
I own a Digital Rebel, and the T1i, both are capable if you learn to use the hardware. It's not the horsepower but the feel of the camera. Execellent pics are coaxed from the cheapest of camers (not that these are that cheap).
Nikon, Canon, Sony, Olympus, Pentax.
Disclaimer: I shoot Canon.
Let's be real: all of these companies are putting out gear that is very good. The $600 toy camera that people are dissing can produce tremendous results in the right hands and the technology they are holding is lightyears ahead of where the original consumer oriented Nikon D50 and Canon Xt started.
This is about lens systems and how things feel in your hands.
I shoot a Canon 50D and I will shoot Canon bc they're glass is great and seems to be a couple hundred dollars cheaper in certain ranges compared to Nikon.
In terms of value, Sony is very good as is Olympus. They have excellent weather seals and rugged bodies (I am not happy with the Canon 60D sans magnesium alloy body).
Lastly, I would love a full frame camera, but won't buy one unitil itis in the $2000 range.
The t3i will make the plastic 60D obsolete.
Same megapixel, same iso performance, same LCD swivel screen.
The only thing the 60D has in its favor is the faster burst rate. 5FPS vs 3 FPS.
50D will be worth more than 60D in residual value soon beacuse of its faster burst rate, solid magnesium alloy body construction and the ability for lens micro-adjustments.
WE WANT ONLY INTELLIGENT PHOTOGRAPHY INFORMATION, NOTHING ELSE. IS THAT POSSIBLE???
WILL THE CANON 5DMARK III BE A 5DMARK2 THAT WORKS AT ALL HUMIDITY AND WITHOUT POOR QUALITY CONTROL?
A response to a rather snotty remark by "ananymous on 2/11/11. I have an "old" Rebel XSi. What pray tell is so wrong with that? I don't worry about being a "perpetual beginner" or have pipe dreams of being a professional photographer. I indulge in my hobby for fun and have done so since my really old AE-1 film days.
I recently bought a T3i, debating between the 7D and the 60D. Yes, the 7D is built more rugged and has a faster frame rate and more sensor points BUT it's too big for me. I have a very small hand and cannot handle that size camera. Even the 60D is too heavy. I make plenty of money with my "lowly" Rebel cameras and feel there is plenty of features there to take stunning photos. So, I take offense at comments like from Anonymous above. Using manual and AV and a good lens (not the kit lens) you have many options to create the photo you have in mind. Don't let those who think they are better than the rest of us scare you off a very decent camera with technology that wasn't even possible six or seven years ago.