from 20D to Rebel XS is it an upgrade or downgrade?

Have an opportunity to get Rebel XS pretty cheap but already have 20D. Wondering if it is really an upgrade. 20D has ISO3200, XXD body and battery, 9-points-auto focus, 5fps. XS does not have any of these, but it is a DSLR that was realesed 4 years after 20D. I am just wondering if Image quality and noise characteristics of XS due to 4 years advancement makes it a better choice provided I can upgrade and not lose any money.

The XS has some more MP, live view, and a better LCD. Other wise the 20D is better. I would rather have a 20D. If you want another body, get atleast a XSi, it has features like spot metering, 14 bit raws, and other features.

themadman wrote in post #9631977
The XS has some more MP, live view, and a better LCD. Other wise the 20D is better. I would rather have a 20D. If you want another body, get atleast a XSi, it has features like spot metering, 14 bit raws, and other features.

Well I don't want another body, and I love how XXD body feels in my hand. I used to own 40D but no longer own it. I was able to recently pick up a used 20D in great condition with 50mm 1.8 II lens for $190. 20D is fine except of course that 1.8 display is not really great, after using 3-inch display previously on 40D.

In any case, i read good things about image quality on XS (for example, in dpreview review) and seeing them going for very cheap on my local craigslist, I wanted to know if image quality is better in terms of low light performance as compared to 20D. If not, there is no reason for me to upgrade.

This is just my experience and not sure if it will help any but before I bought my 50d I bought a t1i due to funds and going from a d30 which is layed out as the xxd bodies I was just not happy with the feel of the rebel. Just really cheap feeling and not having the rear wheel really slowed me down. I think the 20d is an awesome camera and know many photographers who still own and shoot with them. When they go out they are cheap enough to replace and not worrying about how you are going to budget another camera. The xs has more MP but only a 7 point af as the 20d has 9. If you are happy with the 20d just shoot with it till it does and while you are doing that you can save for the next new body or better glass. Good luck.

Hmmm... the XS only has a 2.5 in screen as does the 30D... on the other hand the XSi has a 3in =P

I'm just messing with ya. I don't really think the XS is much better. Just save for a 40D since you love it.

I personally don't mind the rebels because they are small and nice, still take good photos. (I've got Two T1i's cause I love em that much =P)

Thanks everyone I was generally of the same opinion but wanted to hear it from others

I did almost the exact same thing.
Bought a 20D with a new shutter installed for $225.00
Decided to sell my 40D.
Now I see Xs for cheap and since I don't need video I was considering one.
After reading this thread, I think I'll keep the 20D.
The little LCD is good enough for chimping and with a 4GB card, I can shoot enough to pick the best later on the computer.
Thank you for supporting my decision and to absolutic for starting it.

Yep, frank2001, I also passed on $500 deal for 30D+17-85IS USM here.....figured the only difference between 30D and my 20D is essentially for all intents and purposes the display......will keep using 20D...