"minimum" DSLR to get metal body

jwcdds wrote in post #12777317
Of all my lenses, only the 100-400 wobbles. But then again, it is also an "L".

Yep.. at times, there may be some play and it's within "tolerance". Better get used to it.

That is also the one lens that I have owned that had a little bit of play. A little concerning at first but as everyone has said I found it's normal, up to a point anyway.

If you are looking for an entry level dSLR and want better build quality than the Txi series, you might consider getting a used XSi. It's not metal, but it feels significantly more solid nonetheless. You'll lose video and high iso performance, but you'll pay a lot less and still get fantastic quality shots.

Just want to thank everyone for the great feedback! In search now for a 60D body at a reasonable price.

John from PA

I don't think you'll be disappointed. The 60D body isn't cheap plastic; it's a composite that is (for all practical purposes) just as sturdy as the Magnesium body. I've been quite happy with mine; from the standpoint of build quality and heft, it's definitely a huge step up from the XTi I had previously.

50D is probably your least expensive option if you want a more solid body with good features for controlling the camera. With 60D you gain video and marginallly better high ISO, but you lose the magnesium alloy body and MFA. Not sure why they eliminated these features with the 60D vs. 50D (most likely to reduce costs / improve profit margin). Also an articulating screen is one more thing to break (60D) if you're concerned with longevity of the body. A cheaper better body means more $$$ to spend on glass! Just my 8 cents worth...

oyster_photos wrote in post #12799170
50D is probably your least expensive option if you want a more solid body with good features for controlling the camera. With 60D you gain video and marginallly better high ISO, but you lose the magnesium alloy body and MFA. Not sure why they eliminated these features with the 60D vs. 50D (most likely to reduce costs / improve profit margin). Also an articulating screen is one more thing to break (60D) if you're concerned with longevity of the body. A cheaper better body means more $$$ to spend on glass! Just my 8 cents worth...

Also, the 60D gets you built-in ETTL wireless flash control, longer battery life, better rear LCD, .. ah, let's not have another 60D vs 50D pros-n-cons thread, shall we?