I am looking at upgrading my camera and getting a DSLR and I like Canon the best but I can't afford the high end models. Right now I'm stuck between the Rebel SL1for it's compact size and better ISO and autofocus and the slightly less expensive T3i--which has more professional controls and a handy flip out screen. I have a camcorder, but wanted to explore DSLR video creation. Any thoughts? Who's using these cameras and do you like them?
I have the T3i and it's working great for me. I've had it about 18 months, and every few months I still go to the instruction manual and learn something new and useful. As I become familiar with each control, I find it easy to operate.
I use it for videos too - I was using a point and shoot canon camera for this before, and the difference is enormous. Fills up a memory card really fast, though!
I don't know anything about the other model you are considering. Good luck with your decision. Once you make it, don't look back. ;-)
The Canon Rebel SL1 is called the 100D outside the USA and is touted as being the smallest and lightest DSLR on the market currently. I was toying with the idea of a compact mirrorless system--but it seems like the Gold Standard of digital photography is still the DSLR. I love my Canon Powershot SX50; but I want something that my photography can grow with--it has a great lens, takes jpeg and raw images, but doesn't allow one to change the lenses.
Either would be a good DSLR entry point. The SL1 is newer technology and is one full stop better in low light, and the newer technology will give you better video performance for sure. Price points in the USA put the SL1 slightly less than the T3i. But I do find slightly annoying having to go to the menu systems for even the most minor setting change. But the T3i doesn't have that much of an advantage. The flip screen does little for me, but for video where you will, presumably, be using Live View, it may be a point in favor of the T3i. Good luck with your venture into DSLR land.
I have the T3i, upgraded from the Rebel XS. I love it. The higher ISO and faster shutter make night time shots a lot more 'doable'. My kids have used the video a lot so that's a welcome addition but the flip up screen is really just a novelty and in my opinion adds nothing to the camera. Live view is a bit slow too but I tend to always go with the view finder anyway so it's not an issue.
I have the SL1/100d and it's a lovely little camera. With the 40 mm pancake lens it is easy to take with me every day and I use this lens most of the time. The only downside is auto focus is slow/tracks in low light but I think all cameras do that.
I've become used to the flip screen with the SX50 and my prior Powershot--it does come in handy for group shots and selfies and getting down low. I'm not, however, getting rid the SX50--it's zoom is something (50x) that I'd not be able to afford in a DSLR version and I love wildlife photography. The reason I'm attracted to the SL1 is because of it's light weight and compact size. I want the 40mm Pancake lens or a 50mm prime for close up and portrait photography and better Bokeh. The flipping mirror is something I could do without--but I was a SLR photographer in the film days and I'm sure I would quicikly get used to the clacking again.
I have both, and recommend them for different reasons. As you say, the Rebel SL1 is fabulously compact and easy to carry around all the time. I usually keep the Pancake 40mm on it because I bought it to have a small camera that would be portable. Yet you can put on any lens -- even the giant "L" series lenses, and it works well. The T3i was my first SLR and I loved it -- especially for its flip-out screen. I'm short, and I could use that screen to see what I was photographing at any angle I could hold the camera, and it was very useful! If I hadn't smashed it on my trip to Japan last summer, I'd still be using it.
I too have both and I love what Junko said....other than that I shoot with my SL1 and shoot all lens types....it is so much lighter and I have been pleased with the quality..works well back and forth to work!:). Good luck...
I have the Rebel T2i, but I don't recommend it for video if you are going to use it for that purpose--the T3i and above are better, and you can usually find a kit purchase at Sam's or Cosco for a good deal! I LOVE my Rebel. I think the others have given you great advice--sounds like you can't really go wrong with either.
@darylo I agree about video on the T2i, but I think/thought maybe it is "user ignorance" on my part. ???not sure. I don't get how you focus on things properly when shooting video. I felt like I am flying blind. I make much better videos and even macro videos with my iphone as compared to my T2i!
@espyetta It's not you. The T2i does not really come with auto focus, so you are good if you have a scene where things unfold in front of you, but if you attempt to zoom and pan it's pretty bad. I practiced for a wedding and the focus is basically manual. The T3i fixes a bunch of that I believe, so that's why I put that warning about our particular model! My husband bought me a boom mike for the camera, and I said, "send it back; I'm not using this thing for video unless absolutely necessary". Now I DID use it to capture a concert performance with my tripod, but again, that was a stationary subject and preset focus--it worked beautifully (and maybe the mike would have been an asset then), but it's not for typical video with subjects that move. Hope that helps. And affirms it's not you. :)
Bought a canon 100 d, small and light and great. Very reasonable price. Lots of good features including DOF button, take photos during video, host of fun settings, light for travelling etc
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I use it for videos too - I was using a point and shoot canon camera for this before, and the difference is enormous. Fills up a memory card really fast, though!
I don't know anything about the other model you are considering. Good luck with your decision. Once you make it, don't look back. ;-)