The EOS 1000D, or Digital Rebel XS as it’s known in North America, is Canon’s latest entry-level DSLR. It’s the true successor to the best-selling EOS 400D / Rebel XTi and positioned below the EOS 450D / Rebel XSi which was launched six months earlier.
The new EOS 1000D / XS shares several key specifications with its predecessor. It has the same 10.1 Megapixel resolution using a CMOS sensor, the same 3fps continuous shooting rate (for JPEGS anyway) and the same sized 2.5in 230k pixel screen round the back (although it’s now brighter and sports a wider viewing angle). So far so similar, but Canon has of course made a number of changes.
Physically speaking the new EOS 1000D / XS is a slightly different shape to its predecessor, and closer to the recent 450D / XSi; indeed it also shares the same battery pack as the 450D / XSi along with its optional grip and a swap from Compact Flash to SD memory cards. Canon’s additionally shed further weight from the new model and at 450g, it’s officially the company’s lightest DSLR to date – 25g lighter than the 450D / XSi and 60g lighter than the 400D / XTi.
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In an attempt to distance it from the 450D / XSi, Canon’s actually downgraded the AF system in the 1000D from its predecessor – at least in terms of AF points anyway. So rather than the 9-point system of the 400D / XTi and 450D / XSi, Canon has recycled the 7-point system of the earlier 350D / XT for use on the 1000D / XS. Canon does however note the AF algorithm behind it is the same as that on the 450D / XSi, and at least 7-points are still more than the 3-point systems of entry-level Nikon and Olympus DSLRs.
Interestingly the continuous shooting specification is also a downgrade in some respects. The 1000D / XS can shoot at the same 3fps speed as its predecessor, but only for JPEG images. Switch both models to RAW and the new 1000D / XS drops to 1.5fps with a mere five frame buffer compared to 10 RAW frames at 3fps on the 400D / XTi. On the upside though, the 1000D / XS can shoot JPEGs until the card is full, whereas its predecessor stopped at 27.
In terms of bundled optics, the 1000D / XS is available in a kit with the latest EF-S 18-55mm IS lens, providing a basic range with optical stabilisation. Canon traditionally launches at least one new accessory with every new DSLR, and joining the EOS 1000D / XS is the new Speedlite 430 EX II flashgun. This replaces the existing 430 EX model, offering fast and silent recycling, control from compatible EOS bodies and a quick release mounting system first seen on the 580 EX II.
While some enthusiasts and owners of older models will lament certain feature downgrades on the new 1000D / XS, the fact is it ticks two important boxes most new budget DSLR buyers are looking for: Image Stabilisation and Live View. Couple this with 10 Megapixel resolution and Canon’s reputation for creating best-selling models and the success of the 1000D / XS isn’t in any doubt. But is it actually any good?
In our full review of the EOS 1000D / Rebel XS we’ll closely compare it against its predecessor, the 400D / XTi and the next model up in the range, the 450D / XSi. You’ll find out how the features, image quality and prices compare, along with seeing how the latest Canon measures-up against key rivals from other manufacturers. So read on to find out if the 1000D / XS is the new leader in the 10 Megapixel entry-level DSLR market.