Outstanding Performance in a DSLR. The Time to Buy is Now
Written: Jul 03 '06
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Pros: DSLR image quality, super fast response time, highly programmable, extensive system expandability, 1.6 magnification factor
Cons: Somewhat disappointing noise level in tough shooting situations, flash and download software poor.
The Bottom Line: But it. Outstanding images, exceptionally fast response time, high speed burst mode, automated multi-exposure and multi-color balanced shooting, with true SLR performance and full Canon EOS compatibility. Now under $1000.
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| jackoh's Full Review: Canon EOS-20D Body only Digital Camera |
If you've been considering the Canon 20D now is the time to buy one. This high performing digital SLR has been replaced by the 30D, yet both cameras are pretty much the same, except for price. The 20D is now available for under $1,000. Grab it while you can.
This is an outstanding digital SLR with an exceptionally fast response time, high speed burst mode, automated multi-exposure and multi color balanced shooting, with true SLR performance. All of this while running on a common platform with Canon's EF series products. That includes the entire film EOS body series, the full EF lens line, as well as the (much) higher priced Canon 5D and 1D for those professionals looking for a lower cost backup body.
Picture quality is excellent, and can be adjusted prior to shooting to either your liking, or over a range of predetermined exposure or color correction values. I was somewhat disappointed in the noise level under tough shooting conditions (see below), but overall, in print, the noise is no more visible than grain in higher ISO film speeds.
The 20D offers superb performance with Canon's AF / IS series of lenses, but at a steep price. If you're willing to pay $450 and up (and up), you can get a solid performance lens with fast autofocus and 2 F-stop equivalent Image Stabilization (IS). But there are also much lower cost lens options, from Canon's EF series without the IS feature, as well as third party compatible lenses.
I spent some time playing with a Rebel XT (borrowed), before I bought the 20D. There are a lot of common features, but overall I liked the 20D's solid feel. I don't abuse my cameras (I still have and use an old Canon A-1) - but my take on the Rebel XT was "plastique". I'd be very hesitant (no, afraid) to have it bouncing from my hip with a large heavy lens attached. Personally, wouldn't even consider putting an L series on the Rebel.
Options on the 20D are extensive. Many reviews describe them in detail. Very little that I'd want to add to the camera, at least at this price. Although I would have liked the auto exposure bracketing to be all electronic rather than requiring a three shot burst. Guess I'm being picky.
Downsides. Big. Heavy, Bulky - like any other SLR. Clunky sounding mirror. The built in flash just screams out "go buy a real flash". A bit too much noise on the CCD. This is extremely bothersome for airshows, where I'm capturing a gray heavily shadowed aircraft moving fast against a gray sky. A little Photoshopping to handle the backlighting brings out that ugliness in the shadows rather notably. Yet, for any print photo, held at a "normal" distance, the noise is not all that visible. Perhaps it's just the fact that I can see this stuff on screen that makes me gripe. The battery doesn't last nearly as long as Canon claims, and even less so with the power requirements of IS and AF. Carry a spare if you intend to take a lot of shots or go hiking for a few days in the hinterland.
A lot has been written about the 1.6 magnification factor. Personally I like it. For those who are telephoto freaks - whether action or portrait - this offers you a high degree of magnification without the expense or bulk of a very long lens. The EF 70-300mm AF / IS lens is functionally a 112-480mm on the 20D. Superb for sports photography, sneaking photos of your kids playing, and of course racing - horses, cars, people, boats or airplanes.
Petty gripes - Most of Canon's bundled software is poor. Go buy a USB CF card reader for your PC, then use your own image management software. The 20D does come with Photoshop Elements 2 - good enough for most basic uses if you don't already have a personal software favorite.
For an everyday lens, avoid the bundled 18-55mm EF-S zoom. Grab the body then add on a better EF lens or third party lens that works with the 20D. The EF-S series is designed for only a handful of Canon's EOS Digital bodies. They aren't meant for use with the film EOS series or the higher end Canon DSLRs. Personally, I can't detect any difference in performance between and EF-S and EF lens. I'm sure someone can explain to me just what it is I'm missing...
Overall, if you're in the market for a quality digital SLR that will grow with you (and your budget) this is the camera body to get. Be aware that it's "only" 8.2MP - still high end, but not awe inspiring in today's market. Yet with very little competition anywhere near the 20D's combination of price, performance and system capability in the DSLR field, this is still an outstanding buy.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1044
This Camera is a Good Choice if You Want Something... Solid Enough for a Professional
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Epinions.com ID:
jackoh
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Reviews written: 5
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