At the heart of the Rebel Xsi is the 12.2 megapixel sensor and the Digic III processor that has already proved its ability in previous Eos 1 models. Pushing past its competition with the 12.2 megapixels, the Rebel Xsi offers a variety advancements that make this camera joy to use. The Xsi offers a larger viewfinder and a larger LCD (3”) as well as the ability to switch the LCD to live view. For those who want greater control of their images, this model also offers the RAW format option.

Standout features

• 12.2 megapixels
• Live view
• 3.5 frames per second
• Larger LCD and viewfinder

Features

This camera puts many of the features found in the more expensive dSLR cameras into a package priced for the average camera user. Beyond the Live view option, larger viewfinder and larger sensor than its competition this camera continues to shine.

The Digic III processor can handle up to 53 JPEG images without hesitation, allowing you to photograph to your hearts content. A new high capacity battery will last up to 500 exposures. You won’t have to worry about noise or dust in your images as you snap away. Canon has deployed its low noise, high sensitivity CMOS sensor in this camera as well as the EOS Integrated Cleaning System to help keep your sensor dust free.

The Xsi features a quick start up time of 0.1 seconds as you prepare to unleash your creativity. The Xsi offers the usual array of shooting modes from full automatic to full manual. Also offered are several custom functions, including High Tone Priority and Auto Lighting Optimizer to capture quality images in a variety of situations.

Control of the camera is made easier with key exposure data now displayed in the viewfinder for on the go adjustments while you continue shooting. Live view enables you to make quality images when you can’t quite look through the viewfinder.

The Xsi offers the usual control functions including:
30 - 1/4000 sec
Flash X-Sync: 1/200 sec
Bulb
DOF preview
Various White Balance settings
Several drive speeds
ISO 100-1600

Reviews from Across the Internet

Experts have praised the amount of features available in this compact, reasonably priced camera. Where is really counts - performance and image quality - this camera really stands out in the crowd. Several noted highlights are:

Excellent high ISO noise behavior
Live View is very well implemented
Viewfinder is much improved over the Rebel XTi/400D.
Canon Rebel XSi/450D has full support for AEB (Auto Exposure Bracketing)
Excellent value for the money

Summary

Users have praised the image quality, live view, and the noise reduction especially in low light settings.
“Long exposure noise reduction (great for night photography), beautiful RAW, 14-bit A/D processing, very portable, SDHC is cheap, built-in USB 2.0 is actually pretty fast.”

“Live View 3 inch screen, image stabilizer lens, automatic and scene modes as well as full manual controls, fast performance, excellent photo quality, good exposure controls and manual exposure BULB setting, easy to use for an SLR, 12MP, good battery.”

Take a look at other great Professional DSLR Cameras on TopTenREVIEWS and compare and contrast them as well.