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Canon EOS 550D / Rebel T2i review Externally the EOS 550D / T2i greatly resembles its predecessor with similar dimensions, weight, build, styling and controls, but as Canon tradition dictates, it inherits a number of key aspects from a higher-end model in the range (in this case the EOS 7D), along with at least one brand new feature. From the 7D, the EOS 550D / T2i inherits the same 18 Megapixel resolution (albeit with a slightly different sensor), the same 100-6400 ISO sensitivity range (with 12,800 ISO expansion), the choice of 1080p or 720p movies at a variety of frame rates, an external stereo microphone input and the same 63-zone iCFL metering. Continuous shooting is understandably much slower than the 7D, but still slightly quicker than the 500D / T1i at 3.7fps, albeit with fewer frames in the buffer. The EOS 550D / T2i's unique new feature in the EOS range is a 3in 1040k screen with a 3:2 aspect ratio which matches the shape of its sensor, so images in Live View and playback fill the screen without black bars above or below.
Looking at these specifications in greater detail, we understand the only difference between the sensor in the EOS 550D / T2i and the high-end EOS 7D is the data readout: four channels on the new model compared to eight on the 7D. This is one of the reasons why the continuous shooting speed of the new EOS 550D / T2i remains firmly planted in the upper entry-level category, leaving pricier semi-pro models to shoot any faster. Impressively the EOS 550D / Rebel T2i shares exactly the same movie mode options as the 7D, so it's out with the disappointing 20fps 1080p mode of its predecessor and in with 1080p in the choice of 24, 25 or 30fps. Like the 7D you can also switch to 720p mode, again in the choice of 50 or 60fps. There's also a 640x480 option at 50 or 60fps. The inclusion of a 24fps option at 1920x1080 pixels will delight independent film makers, while owners in PAL regions will also be pleased to find a 25fps option which matches their video standards. Unlike many affordable models which have restricted functionality, Canon has also equipped the EOS 550D / T2i with a 3.5mm stereo jack allowing you to connect an optional microphone for high quality sound in its movie mode. You can also shoot movies in manual mode for control over the shutter speed and depth of field. The camera also becomes Canon's first to offer a movie crop facility which records with the central 640x480 pixel area of the sensor, delivering standard definition movies with around seven times magnification compared to shooting with the entire frame. The biggest physical change is the new 3in / 1040k dot / 720x480 pixel screen, which for the first time on a Canon DSLR employs a 3:2 aspect ratio which matches the native shape of its sensor. Previous Canon DSLRs – and indeed most rival models – used squarer 4:3 aspect ratio screens which meant images in Live View or playback had black bars above or below when the entire frame was viewed. Now on the EOS 550D / T2i, images in Live View or playback fill the screen. An unexpected but welcome inheritance from the EOS 7D is the 63-zone Focus Colour Luminance metering system (iCFL for short) with dual layers allowing it to take colour information into account. This brings Canon's latest DSLRs more in line with Nikon’s 3D Colour Matrix Metering system. Completing the new features are support for larger SDXC memory cards, an HDMI port which supports Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) for operation with a compatible TV remote, and dedicated functions for optional Eye Fi wireless memory cards. Beyond these improvements, the other core specifications remain mostly the same as the older EOS 500D / T1i, with the same penta-mirror optical viewfinder and 9-point AF system. |
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