Looking for an entry level body with HD Video

Hi All,

First, I did read the compare sticky but it did not answer all of my questions. I'm looking for an entry level canon (body only) that has HD video capability. I am willing to buy used and would prefer to spend under $400. Right now I have an old Rebel and it was purchased right before those cameras came with HD capabilities.

I will be using the camera to be shooting short 1 - 5 minutes how-to videos (studio lit) as well as interviews.

Do any of you have any model recommendations?

Thanks!
M

If you are looking for 1080p @ 30fps, you will want to start looking at Canon 550D T2i's, then look at all of the models that followed the T2i. I've made a lot of video's with my T2i and it's done a good job over the years. However, If you want a flip out screen, then you will want to look at the T3i model and newer. The T3i is basically a T2i with a flip out screen and a couple other minor upgrades.

^^ Yup, that covers it if you're looking for a DSLR body. Start watching for the cheapest used T2i/550 (and up) body that you can lay your hands on. I actually bought one off of craigslist a while back for $100, works perfectly.

Just as an out-of-the box idea: The EOS-M takes great video also. Same sensor as the T2i, and you can use all your EF and EF-S lenses with a $50 adapter. There are some very good deals on those as well.

You also might consider installing Magic Lantern on whatever body you end up with. The video tools are outstanding.

Thanks! I'll keep an eye out.

Best,
M

Just a note though - the EOS M, SL1, T4i, T5i, all do AF during video. The T2i and T3i do not do AF during video.

Madwrench wrote in post #17267893
^^ Yup, that covers it if you're looking for a DSLR body. Start watching for the cheapest used T2i/550 (and up) body that you can lay your hands on. I actually bought one off of craigslist a while back for $100, works perfectly.

Just as an out-of-the box idea: The EOS-M takes great video also. Same sensor as the T2i, and you can use all your EF and EF-S lenses with a $50 adapter. There are some very good deals on those as well.

You also might consider installing Magic Lantern on whatever body you end up with. The video tools are outstanding.

Same sensor but the M has a much better processor which equals better ISO performance, at least a full stop over my old 60D.

you can usually find them for $100 less than the T2i and with the 22mm 2.0 kit lens that embarrasses the 18-55mm of the T2i.

A swivel screen makes life a LOT easier when doing video.

The T4i and T5i AF during video but it is better on paper than it is in practice.

The SL1 does face detecting AF in video mode and is much better than the T4i/T5i.

The M is in your price range but you'll only have a few lens choices natively...but if you're going to go with a mirrorless option might as well look at other makers who'll give you much better lens selection than Canon's M (not to mention 1080 60fps)

Keyan wrote in post #17267935
Just a note though - the EOS M, SL1, T4i, T5i, all do AF during video. The T2i and T3i do not do AF during video.

Good point, I meant to mention that.

For what he's doing manual is the way to go at any rate.

Keyan wrote in post #17267935
Just a note though - the EOS M, SL1, T4i, T5i, all do AF during video. The T2i and T3i do not do AF during video.

On that note, the 70D and 7D MK 2 are the only two camera's to date with duel pixel CMOS AF technology. In other words, the AF on the T4i and T5i etc..is rough.