Noob: New vs. Used

I'm looking to get a t3i mostly for my wife. She currently has a E series Olympus, but would prefer a Canon mostly just so she can swap lenses/accessories with others she knows. She found a basic kit for $439 with a 18-55/3.5-6. I normally look used. Most of this equipment doesn't really wear out, and we are far from needing top of the line, but I would think if I can get brand new for $439, then I should be able to spend $439 on used and end up with better equipment.

Do my expectations carry over into the Camera world? Most of my experience is with music gear.

Also of interest, is Canon t3i a full description or are there version numbers with different specs I should be aware of?

My experience... It doesn't wear out. People generally take very good care of it....

Used should be at least 20% off BH on L lenses....

Lesser gear more discounts.....

Buy used...

Mark H

have a look here: https://photography-on-the.net …/showthread.php​?t=1020976
T3i = 600D

Looking through the "marketplace" here it looks like I can't get a used 600D for $439. Maybe I should get this.

$439 for a new T3i kit is a pretty good deal. I sold mine last month for about that, but I included a few extras, like a grip. I've seen the T3i kits selling here for anout $400. Make absolutely sure the $439 for new isn't the Canon T3. They are completely different cameras. The T3i version is the newest one with the much higher megapixel rating.

mikeinctown wrote in post #15605955
$439 for a new T3i kit is a pretty good deal. I sold mine last month for about that, but I included a few extras, like a grip. I've seen the T3i kits selling here for anout $400. Make absolutely sure the $439 for new isn't the Canon T3. They are completely different cameras. The T3i version is the newest one with the much higher megapixel rating.

Actually they are up to the T4i now so a good deal on a T3i shouldn't be unheard of. I would agree that if it is a new T3i $439 is a really good deal. If it's a T3 I'd pass as you can get the T3 kit for $400 on Amazon.

Yeah, when I said newest I was trying to differentiate between the T3 and the T3i. The T3i has been going for about a hundred or so less than the T4i from what I have seen. The best deals are the new "refurbished" kits. They are in the $400+ price range last I saw and they carry a warranty through some sellers. (I bought mine through Adorama and it had a 1 year warranty through them)

You can't go wrong with any of these cameras. They are all within $100 difference. Go with what's comfortable for your wallet.

Got my T3i kit used from Canon Direct, $470. It works flawlessly and shutter count was under 5K clicks.

All of my gear is used, actually. the camera, 3 lenses and a flash. I've had no problem.

I recommend buying from a reputable vendor (B&H, Adorama, etc.) or a forum member with positive buyer feedback.

Where are you buying from? $440 sounds too good to be true. Be careful.

Thanks. It was a T3 not a T3i. Glad I posted here.

Glad we cleared that up. Used T3i would be a great value. If you're not doing so much video, you may not need the flip screen, so the T2i would be a great option there, with the body going for around $350 used. T3i looks like the high 400s for body only. The price difference will get you started on a lens, and you get to choose the lens, if you like. If you don't like the lens after a while, a used purchase will not depreciate much at all...

T3i is a good camera for the OL
I sold a used t3i on ebay with grip extra batteries and an intervalopter for $435 (no lens) a few weeks ago.