Video capture has eventually arrived on Canon?s entry-level DSLR EOS 1100D, a sequel to EOS 1000D. Though these two models look and feel a lot similar, but almost all its features have been upgraded. First, it has a 12 megapixel CMOS sensor with a sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 6400, providing a step up in resolution and flexibility, and enabling larger prints to be made and shots to be taken in lower lighting conditions than the previous model. Second, its auto focus has been raised to nine-point (AF) system, which is two points more than 1000D. It helps in quick and accurate focus on static and moving subjects. Third, it has an on-screen feature guide, and 720p high definition video capture.

The Canon EOS 1100D is a small and light DSLR camera with an all-plastic shell, weighing under 500g with the battery and memory card fitted and measuring 129.9 x 99.7 x 77.9 mm. In terms of build quality, the Canon EOS 1100D is more solid than an entry-level DSLR. The hand-grip is narrow and slippery, since the body has an appealingly glossy and smooth finish. Another thing which you may not like is the positioning of the SD slot, which is now under the camera in the battery compartment, and can cause discomfort while shooting with a tripod. EOS 1100D has a rather small (2.7-inch) and low-resolution (230k dot) fixed LCD screen which also has a Live View mode. Like most other DSLRs, this camera is also compatible with the manufacturer?s entire line-up of lenses, including both EF and EF-S glass.

Canon 1100D has plenty of space as it has a smaller and fixed LCD screen, which allows for bigger buttons than many advanced DSLRs. The optical viewfinder offers 95% coverage of the scene, which is standard among entry level DSLRs. The EOS 1100D?s top-mounted shooting mode dial has multitude of letters and icons. Like the Programmed Auto (P), Shutter Priority (Tv), Aperture Priority (Av), Manual (M) and A-DEP modes. The first four are very common, but A-DEP may appear new to those who have never used a Canon SLR camera before. This stands for Automatic Depth of Field, and in this mode, the camera will pick an f-stop that allows all the subjects covered by the nine AF points to be sharply rendered, and will also calculate and set the necessary shutter speed on its own.

While testing this camera with its original EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS kit lens, we were impressed with its fast shooting performance and quick start-up in 0.2 seconds. And the shutter lag was minimal like most DSLRs. The Autofocus is also very swift in outdoors and under bright light. But in low-light environments, the 1100D?s autofocus had to hunt for a few seconds before acquiring focus with the aid of the AF assist lamp.

In continuous shooting mode, the snapper delivers a 3fps burst in JPEG (2fps in RAW). The 1100D?s video mode looks a little simple in comparison to its stalemates. There is only one resolution available (720p) and very few manual options.

In sum total, despite its budget price-tag the Canon EOS 1100D is a responsive and intuitive DSLR that offers many of the key features of advanced DSLRs, in a smaller and lighter body.

Specs

Dimensions: 129.9 x 99.7 x 77.9 mm (W x H x D)

Image processor type: DIGIC 4

Image sensor type: 22.2 x 14.7 mm CMOS

LCD monitor: 6.8 cm TFT, approx. 230k dots

Electronically-controlled focal-plane shutter, with electronic first curtain

Shutter speed: 30-1/4000 sec

Focusing type: TTL-CT-SIR with a CMOS sensor

Viewfinder type: Pentamirror

Coverage (Vertical/Horizontal): Approx. 95%

Shooting modes: Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, No Flash, Creative Auto

Program AE , Shutter priority AE, Aperture priority AE, Manual, A-DEP

HD recording: 1280 x 720 pixels

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