Canon EOS 50D: Review

Posted to Digital SLR 2009-09-01

Canon EOS 50D Review:

If you are looking for a top-quality digital SLR, consider the Canon EOS 50D, an upgraded successor to the 40D. This model is a fully-featured, fully-loaded camera that won't disappoint on performance and value. Although some users claim that the 40D has better picture quality, the 50D is far superior in improvements and performance. The picture possibilities are virtually endless with this camera, from high-speed sports to subtle scenery- it has been designed with the seasoned photographer in mind.

The Canon EOS 50D digital SLR measures approximately 5.7" x 4.2" x 2.9" and weighs 25.7 oz. Although this model is more bulky than others, it is compact (but not lightweight) for such a full-featured SLR. Most impressive of all are the technologies and enhancements incorporated into this 15.1-megapixel camera. It features a bright 3-inch LCD display for superior previewing, automatic image correction for spectacular outputs, and a HDMI port for HDTV viewing. And that's just the start. Professionals or hobbyists who need a high-performance digital SLR should look to the Canon EOS 50D.

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Quality

Although the emphasis on this model is performance, Canon introduced a number of exciting enhancements and technologies to improve the quality of snapshots. One of those improvements included the 15.1-megapixel CMOS censor, which allows for higher resolution images (max ISO 12800). Some users have discovered that the picture quality is actually poorer than that of the Canon EOS 40D; however, this may have more to do with the settings of the camera and the situation. This model is a high-quality SLR that may not be perfect, but is well-worth the price.

Performance

Consumers wanting a high-speed, high-performance SLR should definitely consider this model. It provides a quick start-up time, fast continuous shooting, and breathtaking performance in total. The next generation DIGIC 4 Image Processor allows faster processing, with 6.3fps up to 90 JPEGS using a high-speed card. And with new and improved CMOS censor and noise reduction, now you can take the quality shots you want in less time. In addition to better snapshot performance, battery life has been extended thanks to circuitry advancements made by Canon.

Summary

With almost too many features and capabilities to discuss, the Canon EOS 50D is an extraordinary digital SLR that is perfect for the photographer who needs something fast and reliable. Although the quality of pictures may sometimes fall below expectations, the camera itself is a great release from Canon. It has new and exciting improvements that make your prints look more professional than ever before. If you don't mind the somewhat-bulky camera body and the occasional "soft" image, then the Canon EOS 50D is right for you.

Pros

15.1-megapixel censor with high ISO range
quick start-up and speedy shooting with up to 6.3fps
packed with support for PictBridge, USB 2.0, HDMI, and more
new features like DIGIC 4 Image Processor and lens enhancements

Cons

compact D-SLR may be slightly heavy for some users