Newbie need help to pick a used camera please

[ezpop]

I used to borrow a T3i from my brother. Now I have saved up some money to buy a camera body for myself. I dont wanna use a rebel body coz my friends are all semi-pro bodies user. They look great and are more sturdy in their built.

For the money I have, I can afford a 50D, 60D or a 7D body.

Locally in Toronto, I can grab a 50D for $400, a 60D for $550 or a 7D for $750.

I made some inquiries responding to some CL ads and got some exciting responses.

1. A 2 years old 7D with under 10k actuation with original everything for $750. It comes with a 16gb Cf card as well. I like the built, the speed and the badge. That's my no.1 choice.

2. A 6 months old 60D with may be 4k actuation with 2 years extended warranty. No card but come with an additional third party battery. Seller told me he bought it during last boxing sale for $800 plus tax with 18 200 kit lens but now will keep the lens and sell the body for lowest $530 to me. The good point is the like new condition and warranty. But it is not the 7D and no AFMA if I need it.

3. A 50D with 14k, seems well used. Asking $450. Obviously, it's least attractive to me.

My camera will be mainly for landscape and portrait shooting. Little chance to do sports and wildlife etc at this moment. I may start learning to shoot video as well. I have access to some nice lenses. Family members are generous to share. I will buy a few primes later.

Then. Which camera body should I buy? Which one will hold better value? I don't want a T4i, T5i or an old FF 5D and I can't afford
A 70D. My choice seems limited. I guess I will go for one of the above.

Help me with my choice please.

 

[ajfotofilmagem]

If you do not want to shoot sports and wildlife then 60D looks better for the price. If the budget allows, 70D has significant improvements, makes fast and accurate focus in live view, and will continue updated for several years

 

[greger]

Get the 7D. I think it is the best option and value. You may not want to shoot sports now, but if you change your mind
The 7D has 3 C (custom settings) that save time and the other cameras lack. 7D may not be the best choice for video.
I use C1 for BIF, C2 for flash and C3 for landscape. You could set one C mode for video. Good Luck.

 

[Deleted member 91053]

You want a used camera at sensible money for landscape and portraits yet you rule out the 5D?
I have owned a few crop cameras (both 1.6 and 1.3 (1D4) and, for this sort of work my 5D was my preferred camera. It might be old but the images are excellent - made my 50D look a bit poor to say the least. Now that I use the 1DX my 5D is semi retired but the images are far from shabby and certainly better than anything I got on APSC cameras.
From my experience I would take a 5D over any of the cameras you are considering for landscape and portrait. The only thing wrong with the 5D (IMO) is the lack of liver view for macro work - but then you don't mention that as a consideration.

 

[sagittariansrock]

You want a used camera at sensible money for landscape and portraits yet you rule out the 5D?
I have owned a few crop cameras (both 1.6 and 1.3 (1D4) and, for this sort of work my 5D was my preferred camera. It might be old but the images are excellent - made my 50D look a bit poor to say the least. Now that I use the 1DX my 5D is semi retired but the images are far from shabby and certainly better than anything I got on APSC cameras.
From my experience I would take a 5D over any of the cameras you are considering for landscape and portrait. The only thing wrong with the 5D (IMO) is the lack of liver view for macro work - but then you don't mention that as a consideration.

I had started writing a response on the same lines, especially after my recent good experience buying and using a 5D, but then I saw (s)he wants to learn video. That might be the reason to discount it.

 

[East Wind Photography]

I used to borrow a T3i from my brother. Now I have saved up some money to buy a camera body for myself. I dont wanna use a rebel body coz my friends are all semi-pro bodies user. They look great and are more sturdy in their built.

For the money I have, I can afford a 50D, 60D or a 7D body.

Locally in Toronto, I can grab a 50D for $400, a 60D for $550 or a 7D for $750.

I made some inquiries responding to some CL ads and got some exciting responses.

1. A 2 years old 7D with under 10k actuation with original everything for $750. It comes with a 16gb Cf card as well. I like the built, the speed and the badge. That's my no.1 choice.

2. A 6 months old 60D with may be 4k actuation with 2 years extended warranty. No card but come with an additional third party battery. Seller told me he bought it during last boxing sale for $800 plus tax with 18 200 kit lens but now will keep the lens and sell the body for lowest $530 to me. The good point is the like new condition and warranty. But it is not the 7D and no AFMA if I need it.

3. A 50D with 14k, seems well used. Asking $450. Obviously, it's least attractive to me.

My camera will be mainly for landscape and portrait shooting. Little chance to do sports and wildlife etc at this moment. I may start learning to shoot video as well. I have access to some nice lenses. Family members are generous to share. I will buy a few primes later.

Then. Which camera body should I buy? Which one will hold better value? I don't want a T4i, T5i or an old FF 5D and I can't afford
A 70D. My choice seems limited. I guess I will go for one of the above.

Help me with my choice please.

Of those three i would choose the 7d. It is the best choice ofmthe three and will suit you well when you switch to video. The 7d build and firmware is much more capable than the other consumer models. The 7d may come down in price later this year when the 7d mark ii is announced. If you dont need it right away then wait a bit and see. Otherwise just buy it and enjoy shooting.

 

[timmy_650]

The Price for the 60D is kinda high. I would rather rate for a canon sale if you want a 60D. I would rather have a t5i than the 60D. My problem with the 50D, 60D, 7D for what you want you can get them same or worse image quality from a t2i. I do like the build of a semi pro body too (I have a 1D, 40D, t2i, 6D)
From your choices I would vote the 7D it is a great camera but I would also vote a 5D

 

[Menace]

Get the 7D - I loved mine

 

[scaptic]

I’m guessing you don’t own any lenses yet? Even if you can borrow all the lenses you want, you should own the lens you plan to use most.

Leave enough room in the budget to buy a nice lens along with the camera. If going for the 60D instead of the 7D means you have more to spend on a better lens, that would be my first choice.

For landscapes and portraits, a 60D will do just as well. True: it doesn’t have AFMA, but that’s mainly a question of testing the lens before you buy them. And if you shoot landscapes, you should be using liveview anyway (no need for AFMA).

 

[lholmes549]

From your list of choices I would go with the 60d. I have owned the 7D but if you aren't shooting sports or wildlife then I don't see any reason to choose the 7D over the 60d. AFMA probably won't be as important as you think it will, especially if you're starting out borrowing different lenses from people. I always think an articulated screen would be good for low level landscape work, but have never used one.
As another poster said, I am unsure of why you ruled the 5D out? If you're seriously thinking about video then fair enough, but for portraits and landscapes it would be by far the best choice of camera within your budget. It may not have all the bells and whistles by today's standards but the IQ will be easily better than that from your other choices.

 

[Deleted member 91053]

You want a used camera at sensible money for landscape and portraits yet you rule out the 5D?
I have owned a few crop cameras (both 1.6 and 1.3 (1D4) and, for this sort of work my 5D was my preferred camera. It might be old but the images are excellent - made my 50D look a bit poor to say the least. Now that I use the 1DX my 5D is semi retired but the images are far from shabby and certainly better than anything I got on APSC cameras.
From my experience I would take a 5D over any of the cameras you are considering for landscape and portrait. The only thing wrong with the 5D (IMO) is the lack of liver view for macro work - but then you don't mention that as a consideration.

I had started writing a response on the same lines, especially after my recent good experience buying and using a 5D, but then I saw (s)he wants to learn video. That might be the reason to discount it.

OOPS! I missed that!

 

[ezpop]

I appreciate you guys inputing valuable opinion.

I did not incude 5D here not just because it has no video feature, it's a bit too old for the money. Spending only $500 to $600 on a FF sensor seems fine but I have to worry about the money I possibly have to spend on repairing a may be 7 to 8 years old electronic equipment. Repairing cost easily reaches $300.

I also agree to some of you recommending 7D. It's best all round amongst the cropped sensor Canon Dslr within the price range. However, if I have to find a newer one, it will cost over $850. I have just received an offer for a 3 1/2 years old 7D with 30k actuation for $700. May consider but want to wait for one better than it.

$530 may seem a bit on the high side for a 60D ( really? ) but it's only a few months old with low shutter count. I have checked with CL and EBay and I found the price offered to be quite reasonable. I think if I take this one, shoot with it for about 2 years, I may still be able to resell it for $350 to 400. Then, my spending on this comparatively newer body will be very low - $10 or less per month. Moreover, it has a 2 years warranty on it and the cost of repair is 0 for the period. The general comment in reviews about this model is that is a downgrade to 50D that make it less popular.

Still struggling. 7D or 60D. Or may be I could buy the 70D with my credit card and pay the balance by instalments. (stop thinking about it, hate to have collection agencies calling again)

Btw, have you guys ever bought a 3 years old camera? Kind of scary having to consider buying a camera that old.:-!:-!:-!

I will have a 50 1.8 and 28-105 USM II to start with. Given to me by family. I can borrow a 70 300, UW or a few L lens if I need to use them so I'm fine with lenses for the time being. Also, I can used over 10 vintage mf lenses with adaptors - people seem to have abandoned them completely.

Cheers.

 

[wickidwombat]

I appreciate you guys inputing valuable opinion.

I did not incude 5D here not just because it has no video feature, it's a bit too old for the money. Spending only $500 to $600 on a FF sensor seems fine but I have to worry about the money I possibly have to spend on repairing a may be 7 to 8 years old electronic equipment. Repairing cost easily reaches $300.

I also agree to some of you recommending 7D. It's best all round amongst the cropped sensor Canon Dslr within the price range. However, if I have to find a newer one, it will cost over $850. I have just received an offer for a 3 1/2 years old 7D with 30k actuation for $700. May consider but want to wait for one better than it.

$530 may seem a bit on the high side for a 60D ( really? ) but it's only a few months old with low shutter count. I have checked with CL and EBay and I found the price offered to be quite reasonable. I think if I take this one, shoot with it for about 2 years, I may still be able to resell it for $350 to 400. Then, my spending on this comparatively newer body will be very low - $10 or less per month. Moreover, it has a 2 years warranty on it and the cost of repair is 0 for the period. The general comment in reviews about this model is that is a downgrade to 50D that make it less popular.

Still struggling. 7D or 60D. Or may be I could buy the 70D with my credit card and pay the balance by instalments. (stop thinking about it, hate to have collection agencies calling again)

Btw, have you guys ever bought a 3 years old camera? Kind of scary having to consider buying a camera that old.:-!:-!:-!

I will have a 50 1.8 and 28-105 USM II to start with. Given to me by family. I can borrow a 70 300, UW or a few L lens if I need to use them so I'm fine with lenses for the time being. Also, I can used over 10 vintage mf lenses with adaptors - people seem to have abandoned them completely.

Cheers.

look around see if you can find a 5Dmk2 in your price range since you have full frame lenses! i'm sure there will be something close.

I would also say if you don't mind bulky look for a nice second hand 1Dmk3 they are only 10MP but the IQ is still better than all of canons crop sensor cameras and can be had pretty cheap and they are pro build with all the bells and whistles
In still use mine

but I think if it had to come down to the choice of a cheaper 60D or a 7D i would go with the cheaper 60D and buy the new 10-18 STM lens to go with it since you want to do lanscapes you will need a good wide angle and it looks like an awesome bang for buck on a crop and will fit nicely with the lenses you have

 

[brad-man]

I appreciate you guys inputing valuable opinion.

I did not incude 5D here not just because it has no video feature, it's a bit too old for the money. Spending only $500 to $600 on a FF sensor seems fine but I have to worry about the money I possibly have to spend on repairing a may be 7 to 8 years old electronic equipment. Repairing cost easily reaches $300.

I also agree to some of you recommending 7D. It's best all round amongst the cropped sensor Canon Dslr within the price range. However, if I have to find a newer one, it will cost over $850. I have just received an offer for a 3 1/2 years old 7D with 30k actuation for $700. May consider but want to wait for one better than it.

$530 may seem a bit on the high side for a 60D ( really? ) but it's only a few months old with low shutter count. I have checked with CL and EBay and I found the price offered to be quite reasonable. I think if I take this one, shoot with it for about 2 years, I may still be able to resell it for $350 to 400. Then, my spending on this comparatively newer body will be very low - $10 or less per month. Moreover, it has a 2 years warranty on it and the cost of repair is 0 for the period. The general comment in reviews about this model is that is a downgrade to 50D that make it less popular.

Still struggling. 7D or 60D. Or may be I could buy the 70D with my credit card and pay the balance by instalments. (stop thinking about it, hate to have collection agencies calling again)

Btw, have you guys ever bought a 3 years old camera? Kind of scary having to consider buying a camera that old.:-!:-!:-!

I will have a 50 1.8 and 28-105 USM II to start with. Given to me by family. I can borrow a 70 300, UW or a few L lens if I need to use them so I'm fine with lenses for the time being. Also, I can used over 10 vintage mf lenses with adaptors - people seem to have abandoned them completely.

Cheers.

I hate to argue with the OP right off the bat, but I think you would be better served by getting a refurbished Rebel T4i and with the money saved, pick up one or two of Canon's STM lenses. The T4i will meet or beat those other cameras in all aspects relating to IQ. The rebels are built plenty tough, and don't discount the functionality of an excellent articulating touch screen. The new STM lenses are all very good for stills and video. The EF-S 18-135mm IS STM is reputed to be an excellent "single lens solution" and can be had for $320 (USA model) from a reputable dealer on ebay....and now back to help-full suggestions...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/151185358474?item=151185358474&lgeo=1&vectorid=229466

 

[truejahmal]

you might want to keep a eye on canon usa they have a refurb section that has sales. Also bhphoto has a used section with a great return policy. they have a 7d for 749$ and free shipping, if you live outside of new york thats also no tax. they have great prices.

 

[sama]

I appreciate you guys inputing valuable opinion.

I did not incude 5D here not just because it has no video feature, it's a bit too old for the money. Spending only $500 to $600 on a FF sensor seems fine but I have to worry about the money I possibly have to spend on repairing a may be 7 to 8 years old electronic equipment. Repairing cost easily reaches $300.

I also agree to some of you recommending 7D. It's best all round amongst the cropped sensor Canon Dslr within the price range. However, if I have to find a newer one, it will cost over $850. I have just received an offer for a 3 1/2 years old 7D with 30k actuation for $700. May consider but want to wait for one better than it.

$530 may seem a bit on the high side for a 60D ( really? ) but it's only a few months old with low shutter count. I have checked with CL and EBay and I found the price offered to be quite reasonable. I think if I take this one, shoot with it for about 2 years, I may still be able to resell it for $350 to 400. Then, my spending on this comparatively newer body will be very low - $10 or less per month. Moreover, it has a 2 years warranty on it and the cost of repair is 0 for the period. The general comment in reviews about this model is that is a downgrade to 50D that make it less popular.

Still struggling. 7D or 60D. Or may be I could buy the 70D with my credit card and pay the balance by instalments. (stop thinking about it, hate to have collection agencies calling again)

Btw, have you guys ever bought a 3 years old camera? Kind of scary having to consider buying a camera that old.:-!:-!:-!

I will have a 50 1.8 and 28-105 USM II to start with. Given to me by family. I can borrow a 70 300, UW or a few L lens if I need to use them so I'm fine with lenses for the time being. Also, I can used over 10 vintage mf lenses with adaptors - people seem to have abandoned them completely.

Cheers.

I hate to argue with the OP right off the bat, but I think you would be better served by getting a refurbished Rebel T4i and with the money saved, pick up one or two of Canon's STM lenses. The T4i will meet or beat those other cameras in all aspects relating to IQ. The rebels are built plenty tough, and don't discount the functionality of an excellent articulating touch screen. The new STM lenses are all very good for stills and video. The EF-S 18-135mm IS STM is reputed to be an excellent "single lens solution" and can be had for $320 (USA model) from a reputable dealer on ebay....and now back to help-full suggestions...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/151185358474?item=151185358474&lgeo=1&vectorid=229466

See snapshot for 60D and T4i comparison. Is T4i a better camera in all aspects, I doubt it.

I would go for the six months old 60D with warranty. Bring someone who knows how to inspect a used camera with you. Otherwise, search for a checklist online and If there is no obvious damage and scratches on the camera and if it is fully functional, it's a good choice.

7D may be better, but it's about 60% more expensive - $500 vs $800. The single digit badge may be a symbol of "semi-pro"but do you really need the more sophisticated AF system and mag alloy body in normal use ??Save the $300 for a nice STM lens (but it's it compatible with 60D ?? I don't know) Anyway, your 50 1.8 and 28 105 USM II are good to start with.

Nice people are sharing their experience here. It's only you yourself who know your own need and budget.

Buy the one you can afford and like and start shooting right away.

Happy shooting.

 

[sagittariansrock]

If you actually go through the points you will realize most of them are either theoretical (IQ, DR, color depth, noise), or marginal (viewfinder, shutter lag, fps) or can be easily remedied (battery life- get extra batteries, max speed- get ND filters). The weather sealing of the 60D is not sufficient, so I don't see how shooting in the rain with a 50% weather sealed camera is any better than a 20% weather sealed one.
T2i is actually a pretty good suggestion. Touch screen and video AF (STM) are great tools since the OP is interested in video. The weight and higher max ISO can also be helpful.

OP, I have just recently bought an 8-year old 5D. It works great (knock on wood). If you buy used from reputable sellers on FredMiranda, or even better, guaranteed used ones from KEH (they offer a 6-month warranty) then you don't have to worry about spending $$$ for repairs.

 

[Mt Spokane Photography]

I used to borrow a T3i from my brother. Now I have saved up some money to buy a camera body for myself. I dont wanna use a rebel body coz my friends are all semi-pro bodies user. They look great and are more sturdy in their built.

For the money I have, I can afford a 50D, 60D or a 7D body.

Locally in Toronto, I can grab a 50D for $400, a 60D for $550 or a 7D for $750.

I made some inquiries responding to some CL ads and got some exciting responses.

1. A 2 years old 7D with under 10k actuation with original everything for $750. It comes with a 16gb Cf card as well. I like the built, the speed and the badge. That's my no.1 choice.

2. A 6 months old 60D with may be 4k actuation with 2 years extended warranty. No card but come with an additional third party battery. Seller told me he bought it during last boxing sale for $800 plus tax with 18 200 kit lens but now will keep the lens and sell the body for lowest $530 to me. The good point is the like new condition and warranty. But it is not the 7D and no AFMA if I need it.

3. A 50D with 14k, seems well used. Asking $450. Obviously, it's least attractive to me.

My camera will be mainly for landscape and portrait shooting. Little chance to do sports and wildlife etc at this moment. I may start learning to shoot video as well. I have access to some nice lenses. Family members are generous to share. I will buy a few primes later.

Then. Which camera body should I buy? Which one will hold better value? I don't want a T4i, T5i or an old FF 5D and I can't afford
A 70D. My choice seems limited. I guess I will go for one of the above.

Help me with my choice please.

Bodies do not hold their value. They all drop in value with time, and much faster than lenses.
A new person buying used is a target for scammers, because they can't tell if a camera is good or bad. Sellers will lie about warranties. Warranties are generally not transferrable, those that are charge a fee.

I'd hate to see you spend your cash on a camera and later find out it has issues. Many issues do not show up right away, but a few can be found by careful testing.

In the US, you can get a 70D for about $734 net right now, but you need to put up $1584 and then wait for rebates, sell the free printer and the lens. If someone can help you out, its a good deal. Its listed on the CR front page.
Here is how I compute it.
$1584 up front
Free Pixma Pro 100 printer with paper ($150 Resale value)
$400 rebate
Free 18-135mm STM lens - Resale value $300

Free SD card and case, keep them, they are not worth reselling.

Net Cost of camera body: $734.

I did this with a G1X and resold all the stuff, and my net cost was $150. The trick is to put up the cash up front, and to sell all the valuable stuff. The rebate is a Amex Card, so its not cash. No problem for me, I used it at Costco for my regular purchases.

I think that getting the rebate in Canada is a show stopper.

 

[sama]

If you actually go through the points you will realize most of them are either theoretical (IQ, DR, color depth, noise), or marginal (viewfinder, shutter lag, fps) or can be easily remedied (battery life- get extra batteries, max speed- get ND filters). The weather sealing of the 60D is not sufficient, so I don't see how shooting in the rain with a 50% weather sealed camera is any better than a 20% weather sealed one.
T2i is actually a pretty good suggestion. Touch screen and video AF (STM) are great tools since the OP is interested in video. The weight and higher max ISO can also be helpful.

OP, I have just recently bought an 8-year old 5D. It works great (knock on wood). If you buy used from reputable sellers on FredMiranda, or even better, guaranteed used ones from KEH (they offer a 6-month warranty) then you don't have to worry about spending $$$ for repairs.

The OP specifically indicate that he/she wants a body other than Rebel. Whilst T2i/T3i are capable cameras, they don't match his criteria of choice. T4i has a similar 18MP sensor with touch screen etc, it is also in the Rebel category I believe and it is about the price of the 60D mentioned. The OP's list of choice i.e. 7D and 60D definitely has better construction than the Rebel bodies. Other recommendations are of course providing him/her different thoughts.

Buying from reputable sellers in Canada is definitely more expensive than from private sale. If the OP can find one used from private sale with transferable warranty, it is a good alternative too. Btw, for local private sale, the buyer don't to pay the 13% HST (sales tax) thus reducing the cost of purchase. Buying from US based companies is not worth the hassle, shipping and custom charges and return shipping added up to the cost and trouble.

I would further suggest the OP to continue using his bro's T3i if practical and save some more money for a 70D which may possibly have a lower price tag soon (Back to school and Boxing sales) or a FF 5D2 used which is also an excellent choice.

Sharing experience here is really a joy. I am learning from here everyday.

 

[timmy_650]

Btw, have you guys ever bought a 3 years old camera? Kind of scary having to consider buying a camera that old.:-!:-!:-!

I got a 1D like 2 years ago so that was like 10 years old and I have love it and didn't have problems. I also got a 40D a few months ago and I wasn't worried at all. But I watched ebay for awhile and found one that was cheap ($200) It was a bit of a risk bc there was like no information but it turn out well low shutter count.