Buyer's Guide 2009: D-SLRs Under $1,000

As technology advances, pro-level features are appearing at entry-level prices

For first-time D-SLR buyers, the sub-$1,000 category is often the best balance between performance and price. The entry-level segment of the market is highly competitive, with manufacturers vying to bring photographers into their systems. The result is that many of the newest models offer features that were previously reserved for far more expensive pro cameras. Though they can't do everything their more expensive siblings can do, you'll get a lot of value with these models.

Canon EOS Rebel XS
Canon's smallest and lightest D-SLR, the entry-level EOS Rebel XS nonetheless incorporates lots of popular features, including a self-cleaning sensor unit and Live-View operation with manual focusing and two AF modes: Quick, using the camera's quick 7-point phase-detection AF; and Live, using contrast-based AF right from the imaging sensor. The live image also can be sent to a computer via USB cable and the camera operated from the computer using supplied EOS Utility software-a pro-level feature that's a big bonus for an entry-level D-SLR.

Also Consider
Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi Image Sensor: 10.1-megapixel CMOS Focal-Length Factor: 1.6x (APS-C) Estimated Street Price: $569
Canon EOS Rebel XSi Image Sensor: 12.2-megapixel CMOS Focal-Length Factor: 1.6x (APS-C) Estimated Street Price: $749

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