[Entry Level DSLR Camera]
Canon’s EOS 1200D, which was announced in February, replaces the previous entry-level DSLR model, the EOS 1100D. Although it’s a relatively modest upgrade in most respects, most potential purchasers will welcome the increase in sensor resolution and support for Full HD movie recording at 30, 25 or 24 frames/second (fps). Canon has also added some new filters, which are applied post-capture via the playback menu and are mostly adjustable.
Aside from that and a slight refinement of the body design, nothing much has changed.
Unlike the 1100D, which came in three colours, the new camera is only available in black. Features common to both cameras include the autofocusing and exposure metering systems, the pop-up flash, rechargeable battery and mechanical shutter. Interestingly, the battery capacity of the new camera is significantly less than its predecessor .Like its predecessor, the 1200D is compatible with all EF and EF-S lenses.
What’s missing?
Manufacturers need some way to differentiate entry-level modes from those positioned a step or two above, which may offer the same resolution. So, although the EOS 1200D is well-equipped for its class, there are a few factors that could motivate potential purchasers to invest a little more in a higher-featured model.
– The LCD monitor is non-adjustable and, even though its resolution is double the 1100D’s, it is low for a modern camera. It also lacks touch-screen capabilities, which many novice users appreciate.
– There are only nine AF points (the same as the 1100D’s), which means autofocusing can struggle in dim lighting and with low-contrast subjects. This is particularly obvious when shooting in live view mode.
– Wi-Fi and NCF, which are becoming common in modern cameras, have not been included in the 1200D. The camera is compatible with Eye-Fi cards, but they don’t support remote camera control via a smart device.
– Continuous shooting rates are relatively slow and the buffer memory is small compared with higher-featured cameras.
Top view of the EOS 1200D with no lens fitted. (Source: Canon.)
Rear view of the EOS 1200D. (Source: Canon.)
In summary
Canon has done a good job of producing a DSLR camera for novice users. The EOS1200D is easy to operate, works well in auto mode and, with the aid of the Canon EOS Companion app, capable of providing the assistance novice users need to ease them from simply snapping shots to creating pictures.
Image and movie quality are good enough to satisfy potential users and the well-constructed camera body is robust enough to be used in most situations, although it’s not weatherproof. Although the supplied kit lens is an adequate performer and works well over its focal length range, we recommend paying extra for stabilisation if you add a telephoto lens to the basic package.
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