Canon EOS 500D / Rebel T1i review

Full review at www.cameralabs.... . A 14 minute HD tour around the Canon EOS 500D / Rebel T1i, the company's latest upper-entry-level DSLR, featuring Live View and HD video. For my full review with comparisons, sample images and video, results and current pricing, please click the link at the start of this text or visit cameralabs . com. If you have any questions regarding this review, feel free to post on the Cameralabs forum!

[@cameralabs]

Hey, you're welcome! Don't forget if you'd like to support me and help me make more reviews, please shop through the stores at cameralabs . com!

[@cameralabs]

Thanks - don't forget to check out my full reviews at cameralabs . com as these videos are just the tip of the iceberg! And if you'd like to support me, please shop (for anything!) at the partner stores page at cameralabs . com!

[@cameralabs]

You're very welcome! Don't forget to check out my full review at cameralabs . com - and you can support me by shopping (for anything!) at our partner stores on that page - thanks!

[@cameralabs]

@Gouki87 You're very welcome! Don't forget to check out my full reviews (and more) at cameralabs . com, and if you're ever shopping for anything online, please consider doing so through one of the stores on our partner stores page - this supports me and my work, and allows me to continue producing reviews!

[@cameralabs]

Depends on your budget - feel free to ask in the Canon section of the cameralabs . com forum!

[@cameralabs]

@YouRockMySoxxxx Hmm, there's lots to weigh-up - check out the verdict pages of my T1i and D5000 reviews at cameralabs . com for full details. Don't forget you can support me by shopping through the partner stores page at cameralabs . com! Thanks!

[@cameralabs]

Depends what pictures you want to take and how you're finding the TLK limiting. Feel free to ask in the Canon section of the cameralabs forums!

[@cameralabs]

@SarahDally Thanks Sarah! Please do check out my review which goes with it at cameralabs . com, and also our friendly forum if you have any questions!

[@cameralabs]

Nope, this was just the start! Click the link below my video to see my full review!

[@cameralabs]

No, the 50D is a semi-pro camera. The USA name for the 500D is the T1i. I thought I mentioned that at the start of the video!

[@cameralabs]

Hi, there's low light comparisons in all my reviews at cameralabs . com!

[@cameralabs]

Your'e welcome! Don't forget to buy your accessories (or anything else!) through the partner stores page at cameralabs . com - it's the only way I get paid!

[@cameralabs]

Thanks, I think that's the first nice thing anyone's ever said about my shirts! It's from Paul Smith in London.

[@Chaluv19]

just went over to youtube looking for reviews on this and i was actually glad this dude is still presenting reviews because i remembered him the last time i bought my first canon dslr in 2009. the reviews are very thorough and detailed. thanks!

[@JoeyMurder]

This is the most thorough review I've seen yet for this camera. I had no idea you could control it from your computer! I'll be definitely purchasing this one soon.

[@JuiiceTheBox]

woah! found this video 7 years later! You're the reason I bought my T1i and got into videography

[@JasminArchundia]

DrinkSumJuiice will this be a good camera for youtube?

[@cameralabs]

Thanks for buying through one of the stores on my site - it really does help, and without support like this, I can't do any reviews!

[@abhi1048]

I have been watching your reviews for quite a few weeks now. I must say your reviews are the best! :)

[@cameralabs]

The EOS utility software which comes with every current Canon DSLR can act as an intervalometer. If you need wireless, consider the 40D or 50D with the WFT E3 wifi transmitter.

[@cameralabs]

You're correct that the Canon screen is higher resolution, but be careful how you describe the numbers. The Canon is 920k dots (640x480 pixels) and the Nikon is 230k dots (320x240 pixels). What you don't mention is the D5000's screen is fully articulated whereas the Canon's is fixed. An articulated screen is a huge benefit in Live View and when filming. Please see the verdict pages of my reviews for a full comparison between them.

[@cameralabs]

The exposure is automatic on the movie mode here, so you can't manually select a small f-number, BUT in low light, the camera will normally go for the smallest f-number anyway. So to further maximise the effect, I zoomed-in to 55mm, got very close to the foreground subject, then just manually focused back and forth.

[@mahamza86]

Nice to know that cameralabs has become the partner of youtube. You deserve it Gordon and team. Nice work as always

[@cameralabs]

You'll find my review at cameralabs . com.

[@cameralabs]

If you don't already have something specific in mind, then I'd start with the kit lens. After using it for a while you'll then know what you want from a second lens. Kit lenses are also really affordable and a great backup to have later, not to mention making it easier to sell the camera at a later date. But either way, please check the recommended Canon lenses section at cameralabs . com under the lenses tab.

[@cameralabs]

You can start the camera recording video using the software but the video will only be recorded to the memory card - not direct to your hard disk. Stills can be recorded to either the card or hard disk.

[@cameralabs]

Depends on your requirements and expectations. It's fine as it stands for normal astro shots, although removing the IR filter has the potential for better results - but this is only recommended for really serious astro-photographers and will of course restrict what you can use the camera for.

[@cameralabs]

Read the verdict page of my review at cameralabs . com.

[@cameralabs]

Um, you may want to rethink that statement as the predecessor to the 500D / T1i was the 450D / XSi, and last time I checked it also used SD memory. It was the 400D / XTi and older models which used CF.

[@cameralabs]

Frank, the video is designed to complement my written review at cameralabs which is where you'll find all the results and comparisons.

[@The0IdMan]

Great review. I've had this camera for almost 2 months now and I love it. Its my first DSLR and it was very easy to learn to use the basic functions and it can still do I lot more than I know how to use it for. Its great not being limited by my cameras options like I was with my old point and shoot and I've taken some amazing pictures that just wouldn't be possible without it.

[@emuuto]

Thanks again Gordon. You have managed to get me into photography with your dslr tips and spurred me on to buying a camera. I have gone for the 450d now that it is a little lower in price. The best camera reviewer

[@cameralabs]

Thanks! And thanks also for shopping through my sponsors! Check out the partner stores page at cameralabs . com...

[@cameralabs]

Both are great cameras, but it depends which features are more important to YOU personally. Please read the verdict pages on each review at cameralabs . com to compare the differences.

[@Gouki87]

Just wanted to drop you a massive thank you, I've been looking to replace my nikon D50 from years back, and am currently considering the sony a550, canon 500D and nikon D5000 your reviews have been a fantastic help in giving me an in depth understanding of the cameras before making my mind up!

[@RobvandenBoogaard]

Gordon, you're reviews are amazingly detailed and insightful and I really like the honest style, totally unbiased. I'm newer than a virgin to photography, but your reviews and excellent buyers guide helped me decide in buying my first proper camera (this same Canon 500d kit). I came across your channel and website searching for reviews about the sx20 is, but your buyers guide pulled me towards the dslr camp. You sparked an enthusiasm in me to get serious in photography with your clear expla

[@cameralabs]

Yes, the remote control works the same on ALL current Canon DSLRs.

[@RobvandenBoogaard]

(continued) You sparked an enthusiasm in me to get serious in photography with your clear explaining..... You've got yourself another subscriber! Love to see you make some videos someday, with tips ranging from all levels of experience...

[@CarlinComm]

Wow great review! I have had this camera for a month, already shot a music and food festival in Seattle, a wedding in San Luis Obispo, California, and my vacation in San Diego, CA. So far I love it. Now I need to explore that software more, very cool about the desktop view feature! Thanks, I didn't even think about that!

[@cameralabs]

@panhead88 Head on over to cameralabs . com and click on the lenses section - then go to the recommended Canon lenses link and you'll see the models I'd go for.

[@cameralabs]

@MrRhysSir Yep, check the verdict page of my 550D review at cameralabs . com.

[@cameralabs]

@LordEmosewa Thanks! B&H will ship internationally, although obviously there may be some tax to pay when it goes through your customs.

[@lapisbolpen]

thank you Gordon for the great reviews. I really learned a lot. I also visit cameralabs a lot these days..I just can't stop reading reviews and comparisons. It's so complete. It helps me decide. I'm currently reading the comparisons on cameras. I am now choosing from Canon EOS T1i and Nikon D5000 as my first DSLR camera.

[@Blushingbabyreborn]

I was so confused about wich camera to get but after seeing ur videos, I feel so much better....thank you for taking the time to do this....much better explanation then what I got from the camera shop that's for sure!!! Thanks a million!!!

[@cundsno]

My husband just bought me this camera this past week! Let me tell you...I still can't get over how amazing it is! This thing is a BEAST! Love it & can't wait to dive deeper into photography with it! Also, can't wait to travel....wish I could go back and re-shoot all the photos I have ever taken! Anyone have a time machine?!?! ;-)

[@cameralabs]

You put the lens to manual focus and turn the focusing ring. The aperture is sadly NOT adjustable while filming on the 500D / T1i, but if it's dim, it'll select the smallest f-number it can, such as in my example.

[@mumphalee]

great addition to the written review. i just received mine last weekend.

[@cameralabs]

@TechManAlex I use whatever camera I'm testing at the time, so right now, it's a Canon S100...

[@hawiianpwr]

Just want to tell you thank you! You really helped me narrow down to the Canon T1I and love it!

[@cameralabs]

Both are great - check the verdict pages for each review at cameralabs . com and also our best buys section...

[@MannyGonzalezReyna]

I just bought one today on e-bay, great price for a total package with 4 lenses and some more goodies, let's see how it works, thanks Gordon for the video and review!!!!!

[@landcruiser77]

gordon,you are amazing,the best reviews here in youtube! im watching sice 2 years ago!

[@cameralabs]

The kit lens is good enough for the HD video, but you will get better quality from your still photos with a better lens.

[@cameralabs]

@BiB1304 You can do HDR with any camera, just by bracketing or by setting the exposures manually. See the HDR guide in the tutorials section at cameralabs . com - and also see the best buys section for recommended cameras.

[@cameralabs]

@TheTinkle the 1000d is the cheaper, entry level model. Please see my reviews and best buys sections at cameralabs . com!

[@cameralabs]

Maybe you need to adjust the focus of the actual viewfinder using the little wheel to the side until the numbers below the image are sharp - see your manual for details.

[@kamiconic2015]

you have to install the cd that comes with the camera. i forgot which one, but it should say that it installs on windows and mac, and then it lists the software. and then when it is done installing, connect camera through mini USB>USB and turn camera on. then go to EOS Utility (you just installed it) and then go to "Camera Settings/Remote Shooting" and there will be timers for time lapses and stuff as well! Good luck!

[@Zeusrunsthis]

To all you bitching about the video Q. It's a still shot camera, not a video camera. This camera is amzing.

[@nutmeg14609]

Thanks for sharing. I have one, already 2yrs old, but still learning how to use it right whenever I need it. Use it for child's sports, dance, parties. Feel lazy reading the manual. Will visit more your video. Again thank you so much.

[@cameralabs]

@AmtrakFlorida The smaller the f-number on the lens, the brighter it is, and therefore more suitable for low light. See the lenses section at cameralabs . com for recommended models.

[@cameralabs]

go to the verdict page of my 500D review at cameralabs . com - i've compared them there...

[@cameralabs]

Nikon has Camera Control Pro, but it costs extra and you'd need to check whether it works with your model.

[@AbulShahphoto]

@castingsinkers: Class 10 doesn't mean speed, the T1i says you need a minimum 16mbs, i'd recommend at least 22mbps

[@chris-vecchio]

Great review! Your positive attitude and love of photography always makes me want to go out and take photos. :)

[@john240881111]

always waiting for this great reviews!! and i tell they are all worth it!!! it helps my progress as a photographer a lot.......thanks

[@cameralabs]

@chrisaIves Sounds like your card is too slow - you'll really need class 6 or faster to avoid slowdowns, although class 4 might do at a push.

[@cameralabs]

@AgentJuly19903 As I recall, it only shoots 720p at 30fps or 1080p at 20fps. You'll need a 550D / T2i or newer to have 720p at 60fps.

[@hikeps]

Very detailed hands-on review. Nicely done.

[@cameralabs]

If you want to travel light, i'd get a mirrorless camera instead - check the best mirrorless cameras section, again at cameralabs!

[@chinacrash22]

i got 500D and im so in love with it...all i need now are prime lenses...

[@JLeYang]

Don't do that, your going to wear out the AF gears (especially in the Kit Lens since it's plastic)! Only FTM (Full Time Manual) lenses can be adjusted while in Auto Focus because they detect when your focusing and disengages the AF gears while you do so. Also there's two AF modes, there the setting on the Camera and the Setting on the lens, if you're moving the focus ring while AF is on (on the lens), you're going to damage it!

[@ckhfilms]

Brilliant review. The best I have come across and extremely helpful

[@MadPunky]

Brilliant review Gordon....This was very insightful and informative.

[@AdamAus85]

I went and had a look at a few Canons and Sonys tonight. I know that Canon are better with cameras, but I'm well and truely swung in their direction as I found that all the Sonys were Made In Thailand. I'll definately be going for the Japanese made 500D.

[@Iliketorace]

Thanks mans, I was thinking about buying one of these, and after watching your review im sold, thank you sir!

[@cameralabs]

@Infodefender Thanks, you're very welcome!

[@RocketSpecialist]

Great video! Just bought this camera as my first DSLR and I learnt a lot how to use the features from this video :) Thanks

[@cameralabs]

Either would be great - depends if you want or need the extra features of the 500D - see the best buys section at cameralabs . com...

[@tstorm2200]

Thanks for the very detailed review. I bought this camera today.

[@thezmanz28]

Great review. I learned some new things about it. As comparing the XSI to T1i, I was trying lenses at the camera store, and someone was looking at the demo of the T1i. I had to test the lens with an XSI. It was difficult trying to change basic settings such as aperature and shutter speed. The T1i is much more user friendly when it comes to changing the cameras settings. Picture quality is probably similar between the two.

[@VodeoJMC63]

WOW, this makes me want this camera more!

[@6663000]

The T1i is beautiful. I really can't afford it right now, but I am still thinking about buying one :P Excellent review by the way !

[@Tehtog]

Make sure you happy with how it feels first, ie. In your hand and using the menus.

[@ValyenFluff]

All you who really want this camera .. get mad son cos this is in the post coming directly to my house .. pow!!

[@zbysz]

Hi, great rev., you gave a sort of diffrent look on the camera than all the other reviewers. Great job. I just have one question. Is it possible to record videos when connected to the PC, or can we only take pictures?

[@KaReLlEsS711]

@malnsk The T1i is the exact same camera as the T2i. There's barely a difference. I'd say, if you want to shoot video more than pictures, spend the extra $200 and pick up a T2i. It gives more options for video such as a 24fps 1080p over 20. If your just looking at pictures, not so much video, go for the T1i. The 1080p 20fps looks fine to me, and with the right work, you can make the video look just as good as the T2i. Hope I helped.

[@cameralabs]

You're right now, but when I made the video and the review it was the successor.

[@prchise]

Gordon, I love your reviews. I think they are the best out there. A simple question for you. Canon 500D or Nikon D3100? I used to own a Canon 350D and changed it for D3100 a few months ago. The D3100's images (JPEGs) are quite soft to what I'm used to with Canon. Your thoughts? (I'm more interested in stills than video capabilities and sometimes I simply cannot be asked to shoot RAW and process them afterwards) Cheerz, mate.

[@MGAviationNZAircraftVideos]

What a great review thanks for this. I used to use the 700D but that was school photography only, I have since left school and found the 500D very cheap and worth the money for me to buy for personal use. Once again thank you

[@BryanTobiason]

Outstanding Review! I'm looking for a camera of my own so I can quit borrowing my mothers Rebel XT. This has been my top choice and your Review was very helpful! I will now visit your site to find out which wide angle lens is the best since I shoot home interiors quite frequently. Thanks again for your great review!

[@HarlequinJitsu]

For the price difference available now you might as well go got the T1i. If you really want an XSi I'm selling my Kiss X2 ; )

[@InfamousDoktorJackal]

Im not trying to come off as a jerk but you forgot to mention that the T1i 500D uses SD memory versus its predecessors that use compact flash memory

[@cameralabs]

It's ok - the degradation will go away once the sensor cools down.

[@gitaryddcymraeg8816]

Great video, mate. I have ordered this camera to mount onto the focuser of my telescope to do astrophotography and you just reinforced my decision. Thank you.

[@cameralabs]

It's called EOS utility and only works with Canon DSLRs.

[@choufeizhu]

great review once again, Gordan As for the camera, i'm not sure it is worth it over the 450d. I think this time next year the HD video technology will be so advanced from what it is now so it may be worth waiting.

[@pouleto1]

i love your reviews man thank you...

[@mudboy4lifefitness355]

Thanks for this great review. I've just started out on youtube so I was looking for a decent DSLR. What do you think to get this one as first camera for youtube ?

[@butair1]

The movie option is not fully understood. Your video shed some light on it and I understand it a little better. Will look at your review on your website.

[@thecrazymusiclover14]

I got this camera today! It was used off of craigs list, but is in amazing condition! I got it for $100!! Like no joke! Pretty awesome deal I would say!(: I love it!(:

[@cameralabs]

If your amin aim is to recored video, I wouldn't use a DSLR. See my movie mode page on my 500D review at cameralabs . com.