Canon T3i vs. Rebel SL1: I'm about to buy a new camera, and I've narrowed the choices, I think, to the Canon T3i and the SL1. I don't see much difference other than a $50 price...

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

I'm about to buy a new camera, and I've narrowed the choices, I think, to the Canon T3i and the SL1. I don't see much difference other than a $50 price difference. Both have 18-55 and 70-300 lenses with them. I know the SL1 is small, but I don't have a problem w/ that. Any thoughts?

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

The SL1 is newer and it is mirrorless.

Cutting edge technology too, whereas the T3i is a few years old.

I'd by the SL1....

Macromad Loc: New Zealand

Hi owner user T3i would recommend to anyone.

Shutterbugsailer Loc: Staten Island NY (AKA Cincinnati by the Sea)

CHOLLY wrote:

The SL1 is newer and it is mirrorless.

Cutting edge technology too, whereas the T3i is a few years old.

I'd by the SL1....

I think you are mistaken. The SL1 is indeed, more cutting edge, but is not mirrorless. Personally, I would buy the T3i over the SL1 for a number of reasons. Of all camera types, the entry DSLRs have the highest incidence of sample defects. They are nearly as complex as their higher priced cousins, while at the same time, are mass-produced to meet a price point. Moreover, new models are introduced yearly, often without sufficient time to weed out design or manufacturing flaws. By getting an older model, you save a few C notes and are likely to get a camera with the bugs worked out of it.

Ched49 Loc: Pittsburgh, Pa.

There's no clear advantages that would put one model over the other...my only advise is, if you like smaller cameras, pick the SL1.

WayneL Loc: Baltimore Md

CHOLLY wrote:

The SL1 is newer and it is mirrorless.

Cutting edge technology too, whereas the T3i is a few years old.

I'd by the SL1....

Not mirrorless, you need the EOS-M for that

WayneL Loc: Baltimore Md

jaymatt wrote:

I'm about to buy a new camera, and I've narrowed the choices, I think, to the Canon T3i and the SL1. I don't see much difference other than a $50 price difference. Both have 18-55 and 70-300 lenses with them. I know the SL1 is small, but I don't have a problem w/ that. Any thoughts?

The SL1 makes a nice small package with the 40mm lens

jsktb Loc: Westerly, Rhode Island

I use a T3i and it is great. It has an articulated screen and the SL1 does not. For me, a fully articulated screen comes in very handy in many situations. Costco has a very good deal on the T3i with 2 lenses, bag, SD card, etc.

CHOLLY Loc: THE FLORIDA PANHANDLE!

For $50 difference I would go with the NEWER technology jay... ;)

dem45133 Loc: Home-Hillsboro OH, work NM

Not that I am any kind of an expert by any means of measure... but an earlier reply talked to buggy new releases. Something to be said for that. I have had the "new latest and greatest" and had nothing but problems (non photography). I'd go with the tried and true myself...besides its easier on my blood pressure.

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

Thanks for the replies.

Dave Johnson Loc: Grand Rapids, Michigan

T3i for sure in my opinion but get the body only and add an 18-250 zoom from Tamron or Sigma.

StormSeeker

I love my T3i and have had no problems with it in the 3-years that I have owned it, nor have any of my friends who own them. Reliable and great results = can't go wrong with the T3i.

Shutterbugsailer Loc: Staten Island NY (AKA Cincinnati by the Sea)

jaymatt wrote:

I'm about to buy a new camera, and I've narrowed the choices, I think, to the Canon T3i and the SL1. I don't see much difference other than a $50 price difference. Both have 18-55 and 70-300 lenses with them. I know the SL1 is small, but I don't have a problem w/ that. Any thoughts?

if you can do without an articulating tilt screen, you might consider the Rebel T3. That model is nearly 3 years old and still going strong. All of the bugs have been worked out, and because it is not the "latest and greatest", it can be had for a dime and a song. Target stores has a doorbuster deal on black friday; $450.00 with the kit lens and a 75-300mm zoom. Check out the reviews on Amazon.com and Cameradebate.com. You will see how highly it is rated.