Canon EOS Rebel T1i

1. PopPhoto.com

Based on objective lab tests as well as hands-on use, reviewer Philip Ryan picks the Canon T1i as the best entry-level digital SLR camera in this older review. However, the T1i no longer holds a top rating in the site's buying guide.

Review: DSLR Test: Canon EOS Rebel T1i, Philip Ryan, Aug. 2009

2. Amateur Photographer

This U.K. site puts the Canon 500D, known as the T1i in the U.S., through rigorous lab and field tests, concluding that it deserves the same "very good" rating as its main competitor, the Nikon D5000. Video capability isn't as good as that on the more expensive Canon EOS 5D Mark II, and the Canon 50D is sturdier and faster.

Review: Canon EOS 500D Review, Angela Nicholson, Aug. 2009

3. ConsumerReports.org

ConsumerReports.org compares the Canon EOS Rebel T1i with other digital SLR cameras, including other models in this price range such as the Canon EOS Rebel T2i and the Olympus E-620, based on ratings for image and video quality, versatility, ease of use and more.

Review: Digital SLR Camera Ratings and Reliability, Editors of ConsumerReports.org

4. Imaging-Resource.com

This review includes sample photos showing that image quality from the Canon T1i matches that of the more expensive Canon 50D as well as the Nikon D90. The reviewers include a detailed list of faults, but the list of Canon T1i advantages is much longer.

Review: Canon EOS T1i (Rebel T1i, Canon 500D), Shawn Barnett, Dave Etchells and Zig Weidelich, Oct. 2009

5. DPReview.com

This comprehensive review notes that the Canon T1i provides most of the advantages of the more expensive Canon 50D, plus HD video capability. Charts show upgrades from the less expensive Canon XSi (notably a sharper LCD and better performance in very dim light) and detailed comparisons with the Nikon D5000 and Olympus E-620 -- all of which earn high ratings here.

Review: Canon EOS 500D (Digital Rebel T1i/Kiss X3 Digital) Review, Lars Rehm and Richard Butler, June 2009

6. CNET

CNET's review of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i is more critical than most, noting that the viewfinder and autofocus are hard to use. Image quality and performance make the T1i a good buy, but the Nikon D5000 ranks slightly higher here (despite the same faults), thanks to faster speed, a better kit lens and a flip-down LCD.

Review: Canon EOS Rebel T1i , Lori Grunin, May 2009

7. DXOMark.com

Lab tests here evaluate digital-camera sensors, only one factor that affects image quality, but it's worth noting that the sensor on the Canon T1i ranks well below that of the Nikon D5000 and Sony A700 -- both of whose sensors have better color depth and dynamic range.

Review: Tests and Reviews for Canon EOS 500D, Digital Rebel T1i or Kiss Digital X3, Editors of DxOMark.com