Which to buy: the Canon Rebel XS/1000D or XSi/450D?

It was only a few months after Canon introduced the Rebel XSi/450D digital single reflex camera that they announced the XS/1000D. As of this writing, the XS costs about $200.00 U.S. less than the XSi.

The XS and XSi have just about the same look, weight and size. And both cameras come with the well-regarded Canon 18-55mm IS kit lens.

So, what do you not get for $200.00 less? Here are the main differences. The XS information is listed first:

• Megapixels: 10 instead of 12.
• LCD: 2 1/2" instead of 3".
• Autofocus: 7 point instead of 9 point.
• Image processing: 12-bit instead of 14-bit.
• Viewfinder magnification: 81% instead of 87%.

Unlike the XSi, the XS does not have:

• Spot metering (but it does have partial metering).
• A Proximity sensor, which automatically shuts off the LCD when the eye is raised to the viewfinder.
• Highlight tone priority. 

The XSi takes both a wireless and wired remote control. The XS only uses a wired remote.

XS/1000D or XSi/450D?

So what does all this mean for those considering one of the newest, lightweight, entry level DSLRs made by Canon?

It depends.

If you're buying a DSLR for the first time, you may want to get the XS. The money you save could go towards other DSLR accessories you'll need. Just wait until you find out what some interchangeable lenses cost!

The XS is by no means a bare-bones camera. While it lacks some features found on the XSi, they are ones, quite frankly, that some will probably never even use.

On the other hand, if you're an experienced compact digital camera user, or someone with a growing passion for digital photography, the extra features of the XSi are worth the extra cost.