The Canon EOS Rebel T3i is a solid, though unremarkable follow up to the T2i. It retains its predecessor’s compact size but the controls can be quite awkward to operate at first and its burst shooting feature is only average. However, in other ways the T3i shines, most notably due in part to its DIGIC 4 Image Processor and 18.0 Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor, which enables it to do Full HD video recording and Live View shooting. Neat features like the Vari-angle 3.0-inch LCD monitor and Wireless flash photography round it our as a full-featured camera.
Canon EOS Rebel T3i Reviews on Amazon!!
Contents
The Good
- 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 Image Processor
- Scene Intelligent Auto mode and Picture Style Auto for the EOS Scene Detection System
- Self-cleaning Sensor Unit
- Full HD 1080
- Light sensitivity ISO ranges from 100 – 6400 (expandable to 12800)
The Bad
- An upgrade, not a complete revamp, of the Canon EOS Rebel T2i
- Awkward controls and slow burst mode
The Consensus
No question about it, the Rebel T3i is a great camera but it is important to note that it is a tweaked version of the T2i. When buying this camera one should first take a look at the T2i. If you think the features of the T2i are good enough for your needs and that you won’t need the T3i’s articulated LCD, then you may be better off saving money and going for the T2i.
Hardware and Design
The T3i comes in a compact package at 5.2 in (W) x 3.9 in (H) x 3.1 in (D) and it is ergonomically sound, with its controls easy to get to – partly why people love it so much. It is the same dimensions as the T2i but it weighs a bit more at 18.2 ounces. In this case, it seems that the articulated LCD has added a couple of ounces.
Canon EOS Rebel T3i Reviews on Amazon!!
Video and Image Modes
The camera produces 18.0 megapixel images with a 3:2 (Horizontal:Vertical) picture. Its shutter speeds are 1/4000 to 1/60 sec., X-sync at 1/200 sec., 1/4000 to 30 sec., Bulb (Total shutter speed range. Available range varies by shooting mode.) and they can be set in 1/3- or 1/2-stop increments. It has Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten Light, White Fluorescent Light, Flash and Custom modes. Movie-recording Size and frame rates are:
1920×1080 30fps max
1280×720 60fps max
640×480 30fps max
Performance
It is a great camera overall but its articulated LCD can be both a blessing and a curse. It enables more creative shooting but it also diminishes its compact profile when it is flipped out. Sound is OK, not great, with only Linear PCM monaural quality.
Battery Life, Wi-fi, and Other Features
Based on CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) testing standards, this bad boy can do about 150-550 shots with its LP-E8. Wireless flash photography is a cool tweaked feature carried on from the T2i.
Accessories and Mounts
The Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital Camera Kit comes with an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Autofocus Lens, Eyecup Ef for Digital Rebel Cameras, LP-E8 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (7.2V, 1120mAh), LC-E8E Battery Charger, Wide Strap, USB Interface Cable IFC-130U, AVC DC400ST Stereo AV Cable, EOS Digital Solution Disk, Software Instruction Manual CD-ROM and a Camera Instruction Manual.
Conclusion
Great DLSR camera at a great value but do consider the T2i before grabbing this one. If you don’t need the articulated LCD and a few of the other features offered by the T3i then just go for the lower-priced T2i.
Canon EOS Rebel T3i Reviews on Amazon!!
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