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Digital SLR Cameras Reviews
Updated November 2006
Along with interchangeable lenses, fast startup, imperceptible shutter lag and continuous bursts of action shots are some of the main advantages of digital SLR cameras over compact digital cameras . The best reviews compare models based on objective tests of these factors instead of relying on manufacturers' specifications. Objective tests can also measure digital noise at high ISO settings -- important for shooting sharp photos in dim light. This report covers the latest entry-level digital SLR camera costing less than about $1,200. A future ConsumerSearch report will cover higher-priced digital SLRs. While many sites offer excellent in-depth reviews of digital SLR cameras and the range of lenses available for them, the most useful reviews compare and rank models within a similar price range. Comparison tests and rankings at PC Magazine and CNet.com include the newest digital SLR cameras like the Canon Digital Rebel XTi (*est. $900 including lens) and the Sony Alpha A100 (*est. $900 including lens). American Photo and Popular Photo magazines test and compare most digital SLRs, and a UK magazine called "What Camera?" is valuable for noting some flaws other reviews overlook. At Digital Camera Resource Page, Jeff Keller writes in-depth reviews that include insightful comparisons among competing digital SLR cameras. Digital SLRs also offer the ultimate in manual control. You can adjust the aperture (F-stop) for the desired depth of field -- for example, to focus sharply on the subject, but blur the background. Reviews say the best digital SLRs make it easy to adjust settings and controls. Reviews consistently downgrade entry-level Pentax, Olympus and Samsung models for putting too many adjustments in onscreen menus. When shooting at default automatic settings this might not matter much, but it makes it harder to learn to exploit the camera's potential. Reviews prefer digital SLRs with more dials and buttons for quick, easy adjustments, giving Nikon the lead. Canon usually puts high-end adjustments on less expensive digital SLRs, but reviews say Nikon makes adjustments easier. New 10-megapixel digital
SLR cameras offer some appealing features. Reviews say the
Sony Alpha A100
(*est. $900 with lens)
has the best image stabilization, which helps counteract
camera shake caused by tiny movements of your hands. The Alpha A100 also has
a host of other special features, including autofocus that starts as soon
as you put your eye close to the viewfinder. The
Olympus Evolt E-330
(*est. $1,250 with lens)
is the first digital SLR to offer a tilting LCD. The Olympus
also lets you compose photos using the LCD instead of the viewfinder. While
compact cameras always let you do this, the majority of digital SLRs only
let you preview shots through the viewfinder. The LCD is only used for viewing
shots after you've taken them. Though these special features are nice, reviews
say image quality is more important, and in most reports Canon nearly always
ranks at the top, with Nikon a close second.
Expert reviews say the most
important thing to keep in mind when choosing a digital SLR camera is not
the specific model, but the brand – the entire system of camera bodies, lenses,
and accessories. The digital SLR body may be obsolete in less than two years,
but the lens is apt to be fine for ten or more. You can even use some SLR
lenses on both digital SLR and film
SLR camera bodies made by the same brand. And you're almost sure to find
one brand more comfortable to use than another – a factor emphasized in expert
reviews.
... Continued
Our Consensus Report shows how many times products are top-ranked by reviewers included in our
This chart reflects the position of the top contenders: the Canon EOS 30D vs. the Nikon D200 in the top price range, and at the other extreme, the Canon Digital Rebel XT vs. the Nikon D50 for an entry-level digital SLR. In between, the number of picks is distorted somewhat by how long models have been available for review; thus the Canon Digital Rebel XTi and Sony Alpha A100 are both at a disadvantage because they are quite new. The Pentax K10D and Sigma SD14 have only been previewed. Advertisement
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© 2008. ConsumerSearch, Inc. A service from 
, a part of The New York Times Company. All Rights Reserved.
ConsumerSearch and ConsumerSearch.com are registered trademarks of ConsumerSearch, Inc. Other trademarks or service marks on this site are the property of their respective owners. ConsumerSearch is not sponsored by any source reviewed, and we accept no consideration or payment for including, excluding, or ranking any reviews, products or services in our reports.
* Pricing information is approximate as of the time this report was written and is based on observed market selling prices and/or list prices. Actual selling prices may differ.
