T2i, T3i, T41...differences?

All things being considered, I've decided that it's time for my first DSLR.

What are the differences in the the a/m models?

FWIW, I'm not at all interested in video.

Cost IS a factor.

Any guidance would be most appreciated.

Cheers, del Sol

There are lots of sites comparing the three with way more details than I'm willing to type out but basically the T2i is going to be your least expensive, the T3i is a bit more with a few improvements and the T4i the most expensive with yet more improvements.
http://snapsort.com …4i-vs-Canon_EOS_Rebel_T2i
http://www.lightandmat​ter.org …t3i-whats-the-difference/
http://www.lightandmat​ter.org …t3i-worth-the-extra-cost/

They all have basically the same 18MP sensor, similar size, control layout.

T2i doesn't have an articulated LCD.

T3i adds the articulated LCD screen.

T4i has the articulated screen, but it's now a touch-screen (first DSLR to have one). Plus it's got 60D-style AF (9-points, all dual axis type) and enhanced video-related features, including STM lens functionality. It's the first Rebel (xxxD) model to use the new Digic V processor, which gives it a slightly higher frame rate.

Since you don't care about video, probably the main features of the T4i that might be important to you are more versatile AF, possibly better tracking for AI Servo/action shooting, and the higher frame rate.

The articulated screens of both the T4i and T3i can be useful for video, but also would be nice for low or high angle still shots... macro for example.

Not sure what you mean by "a/m models".

You might find this site's comparisons useful... http://www.dpreview.co​m …0d&products=can​on_eos550d

However, you will probably need to read the full review... the summaries linked above don't show all the differences.

I wanted a t2i when I first bought my t3i (just couldn't find one used locally).

Honestly, both of them will serve you well, I wouldn't go for the t4i in this case,

The T3i also has wireless(optical) flash triggering and some JPEG and video processing options, in addition to the articulated screen, that the T2i doesn't have. The T4i also has these as well as the features that have already been mentioned. The T3i also has a unique 3X-10X digital zoom for use when shooting videos. I know that you are not interested in video so I won't go into detail about this but I mention it only because I wasn't interested in video either when I bought the T3i, but now find myself in need of this feature. You never know when your needs may change.

That digital zoom of T3i is a biggy.
With the prices so close, I see no reason why one should hesitate on T4i.

samsen wrote in post #15656513
That digital zoom of T3i is a biggy.
With the prices so close, I see no reason why one should hesitate on T4i.

Yes, it is very cool in a lot of ways and T4i doesn't have it.

go for the t4i, the price isn´t so different

I'd go for the t2i. Then some glass. I had mine for 2 years before upgrading and it's a solid camera for the price.

amfoto1 wrote in post #15656371
They all have basically the same 18MP sensor, similar size, control layout.

T2i doesn't have an articulated LCD.

T3i adds the articulated LCD screen.

T4i has the articulated screen, but it's now a touch-screen (first DSLR to have one). Plus it's got 60D-style AF (9-points, all dual axis type) and enhanced video-related features, including STM lens functionality. It's the first Rebel (xxxD) model to use the new Digic V processor, which gives it a slightly higher frame rate.

Since you don't care about video, probably the main features of the T4i that might be important to you are more versatile AF, possibly better tracking for AI Servo/action shooting, and the higher frame rate.

The articulated screens of both the T4i and T3i can be useful for video, but also would be nice for low or high angle still shots... macro for example.

Not sure what you mean by "a/m models".

You might find this site's comparisons useful... http://www.dpreview.co​m …0d&products=can​on_eos550d

However, you will probably need to read the full review... the summaries linked above don't show all the differences.

Thanks to all who took the time to reply.

a/m means above-mentioned.

Cheers, del Sol

Don't exclude the 60D, very similar but some people just like the "feel" as compared to the "T" series.

I went with the T2i so I could get more lenses. I've been pretty happy so far and the T2i will take you where you are at with experience and serve you well. IMO there would be no need to upgrade any time soon from the T2i unless significant advances are made on the low end DSLR's. Otherwise use some good lenses and get some more experience using what you have.

I'm not a fan of buying a Rebel when the newest model because the value drops pretty quick (new model released every year). So T4i is out.

T2i and T3i are pretty much the same camera with a swivel screen difference. I prefer the T3i but if you don't want it or care about the swivel screen, then the T2i is a good choice. If you can get one refurbished , a T2i is extremely good value for the money now.

I briefly owned the T3 and traded up to the T4i. The touch screen on the T4i is really, really nice. It makes changing settings on the camera so much faster and easier.

It depends on what your needs are, and where your priorities lay.

If you're talking Image Quality - then they all have the same sensor - so, the T2i will be cheaper than the T3i, etc...

If you're talking functions / features, it's not quite as simple. The T3i has some additional functions (and then the T4i some more again)... However - Magic Lantern is available for the T2i and the T3i, but not the T4i - and it gives some additional (different) functions as well that are only found on more expensive / pro camera's.

If you like the camera having extra functions, touch screens, processing in camera as opposed to later on your computer, etc - then the T4i will probably capture your attention a little more.

However if you're more focused on image quality - I'd almost suggest considering the T2i and invest the additional money (if you have any) in good glass.

When I started off with Canon, I bought the T2i. (Still have it). Even though mates had the 600D, the 650D and the 60D. My priorities lay with Image Quality, and for the types of shooting I do (portrait and landscape), the more expensive models weren't going to give me any extra value for the money.

BUT - I was able to invest that additional savings in glass. At the end of the day - I see a camera body like a car, and Lenses like property. The body will depreciate in value very quickly, and are constantly being outdated / updated. Glass on the other hand will continue to serve you for a long time in the future, well after newer bodies have come out.

Not that there's anything wrong with a nice body, (or a nice car) provided you understand that it will depreciate faster, and it's not as much of an investment as glass. (Likewise, if you're chasing IQ - glass is where it will be at for you too... not the body)