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Canon Digital Rebel XT Review

Flashback Review

We’re digging into the archives to find our review on the Canon Digital Rebel XT. First introduced in 2005, there’s still a lot to love about this camera in 2020. You can still find these cameras on the market today as a very affordable price.

As you look through the vast array of cameras and digital cameras you can buy, you may wonder which ones are good for the average photographer. Many features that are offered with DSLR cameras have more similarities than unique features. Of the many camera choices out there, the Canon Digital Rebel XT is a smaller, lighter digital camera that offers you many great features for your photography adventures.

Overview

The Rebel XT was launched as the successor to the first Canon Digital Rebel. This version has many of the features of its predecessor and many improvements that have been included in the design modification.

These days, the Canon Digital Rebel XT DSLR Camera is a true bargain among DSLR cameras. There are some outstanding features at this price point. Both amateurs DSLR enthusiasts and pros will find things to love about this camera.

canon-digital-rebel-xt-dslr-camera-lcd-screen
Canon Rebel XT LCD Screen.
Click image for current Amazon pricing.

Features

Three things we noticed that are a step up from the previous model are resolution, comfort and shutter speed. Ergonomics were thought through as part of the package and not just an after-thought. It does feel a little light compared to many DSLR cameras and that could be perceived as flimsy, but we don’t think so. The camera body is compatible will all Canon lenses. Its versatility makes it a very good choice at this price point.

Canon has included an 8.0 megapixel CMOS sensor in the XT which is certainly a resolution high enough for quality prints up to 16 x 22 inches and screen size images of up to 3,456 x 2,304 pixels. The DIGIC II image processor is fast and accurate. This camera processes images with impressive clarity.  Other features to note:

  • The processing rate caps at 3 frames per second.
  • Its maximum shutter speed is 1/4000 second.
  • The wake up time is a scant .2 seconds.
  • ISO range is 100 – 1600, making it a winner when shooting in low light.
  • The LCD screen is fixed with a 115K resolution.
  • The optical viewfinder gives coverage up to 95% with a 0.5 magnification.
  • There’s a built-in flash.
  • There’s room for an optional external flash.
  • Seven auto-focus points helps with the accuracy of the auto-phase detection.
  • Action shots are easily accomplished with the image buffer.

Click here to Check Out the Canon Digital Rebel XT DSLR Camera on Amazon

Balancing Act

This is a great camera for beginners with a manageable learning curve and ergonomics that maintain balance even with a lens attached. Newcomers to the craft will appreciate the shooting modes: night, landscape, portrait and sports. These modes reduce the chance of overexposure and enhance auto-focus sessions. Canon did have to compromise with its plastic housing. While the lighter weigh is suitable for beginners, professionals will find it a bit cumbersome as heft can help to steady the lens.

These are custom function menus where you have been given the ability to customize this Canon Digital Rebel XT even more. In addition to the customizing menu system, you have access to an adjustable EV step size, metering modes and a flash exposure compensation.

These many features that are part of this camera Canon Digital Rebel XT has incorporated, makes this an excellent camera for the experienced photographer as well as the novice. Unless you’re looking to print out at poster sized pictures, the resolution will work wonders for you.

For the person who is looking to buy a camera Canon Digital Rebel XT there are many benefits to be found. These are the various instructions in the digital camera that make it possible to use this camera easily everyday. There is a faster processing of images that customers require.

canon-digital-rebel-xt-dslr-camera-flash
Canon Rebel XT Flash.
Click image for current Amazon pricing.

Pros

  • The Rebel XT is lightweight and ergonomically designed.
  • Controls are designed for intuitive operation.
  • The performance of the flash is outstanding, even in total darkness.
  • The long battery life and fast starting time means the camera is ready when you are.
  • There’s a sound mute feature that allow you to shoot pictures discreetly.
  • Amateurs will love the preset shooting modes.
  • It will accommodate your old Canon camera lenses.

Cons

  • The LCD and its menu selections are practically invisible in bright light.
  • As with most DLSR cameras, you’ll need to take some time to learn the ins and outs of modifying the settings, changing the lenses and getting familiar with the filters.
  • Continuous shoot mode is limited.
  • It doesn’t have a spot meter.

Our Take

Its design makes it sturdy and reliable. Ease of use makes it a snap to turn out high quality pictures.
We like the Canon Digital Rebel XT as a solid choice for those just getting into DSLR photography.

2020 Update on the Canon Rebel XT:

We’re still very comfortable with the Canon Rebel XT as a beginner’s choice for learning DSLR photography. The 8.0 megapixel CMOS sensor is still fine for most pictures and the lenses and filters are still interchangeable with most Canon cameras so your investment in lenses and filters won’t limited to this camera body if you ever feel like trading up to a newer model.

Transferring photos from the Canon Rebel XT to an iPhone requires a CF card reader with a lightning (Apple) connector.

You can still find these on Amazon and ebay.

Click here to Check Out the Canon Digital Rebel XT DSLR Camera on Amazon

Canon EOS Rebel Resources

Canon Help Files
Rebel XT PDF Help File

Forum
Canon EOS Rebel Forum

Cam
I'm Oliver (my friends call me 'Cam'), a passionate DSLR enthusiast and lifelong learner in the art of capturing moments. I've journeyed from amateur shutterbug to seasoned photographer, exploring the vast and vibrant world through my lens. I work as a freelance writer to share my experiences.
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