Best of the Rest

The Best of the Best DSLR cameras are really entry to mid-level professional quality while the Best Value category is a very good mix of serious amateur DSLRs. It’s really Canon that dominates the Best Value category featuring its Digital Rebel XT line. The Canon Digital Rebel XTi is the Best Value DSLR camera. It is the same basic camera as the Canon EOS 40-D, but without a lot of the more professional features. However, it is well made and is offered at a great price point for entry into the DSLR world. Remember to keep the total cost of ownership in mind when in this world.

A total cost of ownership model means you invest your money wisely and make deliberate purchases. While entry-level DSLR models don’t change as frequently as consumer digital camera models, you will still see a new model every 10 months or so. Knowing about a DSLR’s key features (optics, sensor size and megapixels) will make you a very informed and clever buyer. The great thing about any DSLR listed is that most of these can take a wide variety of film camera lenses. This gives you flexibility.

It also gives you access to professional-quality lenses, so these DSLRs could even make a great back-up camera body. While the sensors of the Best Value cameras have the same multiplication factor of 1.5 or 1.6 as the Best of the Best DSLR cameras, all have a slightly smaller MP count. The smaller sensors need to do more ‘work’ in order for you to see your final image in the sharpest detail possible. DSLR’s in this category will have a MP count in the 6-10 range.

Again, I like the Canon Digital Rebel XTi, but if you want more professional features, then go with the Canon EOS 30-D. However, if you have a closet full of Nikon lenses and this is your first DSLR, then look at the Nikon N-80. Another option is to consider the inexpensive Canon Digital Rebel XT or if you prefer Pentax, the K100D. The Pentax can accept any lens ever made by this platform. Where applicable I mention the ability to accept rechargeable AA batteries and all cameras come with a hot shoe attachment. However, only the Nikon D80 cannot accept the professional CFII cards and can only accept the SD (secure digital) cards.