T2i, T3i or wait for an upgraded version?

[jens871]

I am in the marketing for an entry level DSLR camera and liked the Rebel T2i and T3i. I have read a lot about them and that the T3i isn't that huge of an upgrade from the T2i. Is there likely to be an updated version soon? Should I wait or purchase one of those. I am wanting it with video, but have also heard the quality of video isn't worth getting it for that reason. I would just like to shoot videos of my baby without having another electronic.

 

[tt]

The Rebel series have updated every year around now. It's your choice as to which to purchase - if you wait out for the new model, you'll see what the changes are between them are. If you're just wanting to shoot video - have you thought about getting a specific video recorder rather than buying a dSLR? Depends on your primary usage. For the difference in price between a 650/600 adn the 550D - you could probably buy a decent video recorder.

 

[gene_can_sing]

CP+ is coming up in a few days. The rumor is there's a good chance they're going to announce the new Rebel. So I would wait at least until next Monday before making your decision.

The new Rebel with Digic 5 should be better, and drastically better in video (or at least I hope).

 

[Mt Spokane Photography]

There is always a new one on the horizon, price of a new one will be higher, but it will be the latest thing for another year.

I'd doubt that we will see any big changes, but even small ones might be important to some users.

 

[D_Rochat]

As gene_can_sing said, wait for CP+ and see what happens there. Maybe the T4i (if they announce it) would be worth it.

If I was trying to decide between the T2i and T3i with your needs in mind, I would choose the T3i for 2 reasons. First, you said you wanted it for video and having a flip screen for video is handy. For stills, meh....... The second reason I would get it is for wireless flash. The wireless flash function wasn't introduced to the lower end bodies untill the T3i and if you ever get an external flash, you will be thankful for being able to do off camera flash without inveting in a trigger.

One last piece of advice, get yourself a Canon 50mm 1.8 with what ever body that you choose. It's dirt cheap and it will get plenty of use with a baby around.

EDIT - Don't worry about the video quality. It's more than enough for the average Joe and home movies. Both come with an external mic port which is a bonus.

 

[idimoe]

I'm also waiting to pull the trigger on my first DSLR. If the past two years (t2i/t3i) are any evidence, then the t4i should be released at CP+.

I don't expect any major upgrades, but a Digic 5 processor and a possible new sensor is worth waiting a week IMO. If anything, you will be making a better informed decision (t3i/t4i) by next week. 8)

 

[DeadPixel]

jens871,

The T3i was my 1st DSLR and I went through the same thoughts as to wait or snag one at the time because CR was just starting to give a few specific rumors on the T4i. http://www.canonrumors.com/2011/12/canon-eos-rebel-t4i-cr2/

In the end just after Christmas a friends wife decided her new T3i was too complicated and I ended up buying it barely used from her in early January. I will say that I don't regret it for a moment - the camera is extremely easy to use and even manually controlling the camera is fairly intuitive. The only gripe I have is that the viewfinder is smaller than that of some more expensive models and when trying to manually focus it can be frustrating. Truthfully that little flip out screen has been useful - and if you're trying to take family portraits with a tripod you can use live view with the 10 second timer feature (or wireless remote control), flip the screen so you can see it and ensure everything you want is in frame.

The camera takes photos that make me happy for now (while I develop my skills), but as far as video I can't comment, its a feature that I haven't had the need for.

I'm not sure what your budget is, but I would think the T3i would be a bit cheaper than the upcoming model and if it's your first DSLR you probably wouldnt even miss the new features that will come with the T4i since its such a big upgrade from what you have.

Having said that, theres no harm in waiting, B&H shows the current instant savings is through March 3rd.

+1 on buying the 50mm f/1.8 prime, for the $120 price that lens is a steal.

DeadPixel

 

[wickidwombat]

If i was you i would hold off a little longer and see what the next rebel brings
at the very least it will make the T3i cheaper and more of a bargain
I got my parents a T3i for christmas and I have to say the flip screen is worth getting it over the T2i
and the built in flash commander works wonderfully to control an off camera flash
value for money you get a lot of camera for a pretty good price. but with the new rebel so close you are better off seeing what it brings.

 

[Mich]

I'm exactly in the same situation, about to buy a 600D but will wait a few days.

If the new model is announced and released, at least to check price difference and new specs, and only after that can decide with all the information.