Canon today introduced what it says is the lightest and smallest SLR to date: the 18-megapixel Canon EOS Rebel SL1, which according to Canon weighs only 14.4 ounces (without the battery or SD memory card). That's more in line with what mirrorless, SLR-like models weigh, or even what larger, basic superzooms weigh, while still keeping the SLR mirror—which means you get a through-the-lens viewfinder.
The Rebel SL1 is 4.6 x 3.6 x 2.7 inches, a smaller footprint than some chunky superzooms. Of course, this measurement is without a lens, so adding a large zoom lens will increase the bulk. But for photographers who like to travel with their SLRs, this Rebel might be very attractive.
The Rebel SL1 also features a 3-inch touchscreen LCD—touchscreens are rare on SLRs. The camera can fire off shots in burst mode at 4 frames per second and capture video in full-resolution HD video. The model also includes 9 auto-focus points and has a top ISO of 12,800 ISO for still images and 6,400 ISO for video, which lets you shoot in very dim light.
In the past, previous Rebel models performed very well in our digital camera Ratings, and have often been ranked as Recommended or Best Buy models. See our digital camera buying guide for brand information.
In addition to the Rebel SL1, the company announced another SLR, the 18-megapixel Canon EOS Rebel T5i. This Rebel has most of the same features found on its predecessor, the EOS Rebel T4i,—although you can now choose from a selection of creative Instagram-like filters that you select before you shoot, including Grainy Black and White, Fish Eye, and Water Painting. Such in-camera filters have been included on a number of mirrorless cameras, including the Sony NEX and Olympus Pen models, but it's a new feature for Canon.
The Canon EOS Rebel SL1 will ship with an 18-55mm lens for $800, and body-only for $650. The Canon EOS Rebel 5Ti will ship with an 18-55mm lens for $900, and body-only for $750. The Rebel 5Ti is also available with 18-135mm lens for $1,100. Both SLRs will be available in April.
