Upgrading from 400D (50D or 550D?)

Hi,

I currently have an XTi (400D) and I am planning to upgrade. I am a very 'ocassional' user. I have a few shoots here and there (with lights etc) while other time I take images with my on-camera 580 EX II flash.

My primary glass is Canon 17-55 2.8.

I have been looking at 50D but also have started looking at the 550D. I understand that 50D is more 'Pro' camera but 550D also seems to have some good features including the video option. Having a newer sensor and full HD videos looks like good things to have. In most cases I will use it as a photo camera only but it is nice to know option is there. On the other hand 50D just feels nicer in your hands

What do you guys recommend I should go for out of these options?

Thanks.

Baadil wrote in post #10244583
Hi,

I currently have an XTi (400D) and I am planning to upgrade. I am a very 'ocassional' user. I have a few shoots here and there (with lights etc) while other time I take images with my on-camera 580 EX II flash.

My primary glass is Canon 17-55 2.8.

I have been looking at 50D but also have started looking at the 550D. I understand that 50D is more 'Pro' camera but 550D also seems to have some good features including the video option. Having a newer sensor and full HD videos looks like good things to have. In most cases I will use it as a photo camera only but it is nice to know option is there. On the other hand 50D just feels nicer in your hands

What do you guys recommend I should go for out of these options?

Thanks.

Do you want a newer model with better ISO performance, image quality and HD video or do you want something that "feels nicer in your hand"?
Talk to the hand!

Both are excellent, I prefer the ergonomics of the 50D over any Rebel though!

I am having a similar dilemma, I have had my 400D for 3 years now and I'm thinking of upgrading, but I am looking at either the 50D or the 7D as my next camera.

I would say go for the 50D or wait a bit longer with your 400D to see if the rumoured 60D is worth getting instead.

I just upgraded from a 400D to a 50D.

For me the main reason to upgrade was for the ergonomics and build quality, which are lot better, especially when bigger lenses are attached.

The auto focus does seem to be better, as does the Iso performance.

It only cost me 290 Aus Dollars to upgrade, with the sale of the 400D.

As far as the final print output is concerned I would be hard pressed to see any realistic difference between 400D to the 50D.

Thanks everyone.

I have been hearing here and there that 550D may have better IQ than 50D. If that is so, isn't it better to go with 550D and perhaps get a grip?

Baadil wrote in post #10250621
Thanks everyone.

I have been hearing here and there that 550D may have better IQ than 50D. If that is so, isn't it better to go with 550D and perhaps get a grip?

IQ won't be drastically different. They both produce excellent images provided you use good glass.

550D + grip is nothing like a 50D, with or without a grip. You really need to handle them in person to realize the differences. It isn't nearly as apparent in photos. Only you can decide which you prefer. If you're happy with the ergonomics and size of the 400D, then you'll be happy with a 550D. If you have ever felt the 400D was a bit cramped and cumbersome, look at the 50D (or better yet the 7D).

A minor consideration that may not have occurred to you: the 50D takes CF cards, the 550D takes SD cards.