Canon Rebel XT (350D) Review: Is a $60 DSLR Still Worth It?

The quick verdict

The camera in this review is the Canon Rebel XT, also called the EOS 350D. It is an older DSLR for still photography with an 8MP APS-C sensor and support for Canon EF and EF-S lenses.

The roughly $60 price is the used body price discussed in the video. You still need a lens and a usable battery, charger, and memory card. There is no video recording or Live View, so plan to compose through the optical viewfinder.

Check used Canon Rebel XT bodies at MPB. Compare what is included before choosing a listing.

Rebel XT specifications

Canon’s Rebel XT specifications cover the original camera features.

Photos and exposure

The Rebel XT can make useful photos with a suitable lens and careful focus. Eight megapixels leave less cropping room than a higher resolution body, so pay attention to framing when you shoot.

Lower ISO settings are a sensible starting point when the light allows, but I would not treat ISO 200 as a hard limit. Use the shutter speed you need, raise ISO when necessary, and judge the noise at the size you plan to view the photo.

The optical viewfinder experience

You cannot frame the scene on the rear screen before taking a photo. The small display is for reviewing the result, and it is less useful for checking fine detail than a modern screen.

The older autofocus and modest burst rate also call for patience with moving subjects. It is a more natural fit for learning exposure, portraits, and other photography where you can take time over the shot.

Handling and lens costs

The DSLR grip and physical controls give you more to hold than a tiny mirrorless body. Add a lens, and the complete kit is still much larger than a pocket compact.

Choose a compatible EF or EF-S lens for what you want to photograph. Price it with the body, and confirm focus and aperture operation. A cheap camera with a missing or unsuitable lens is not a complete bargain.

Buying a used Rebel XT

Check the shutter, autofocus, buttons, dial, flash, lens mount, sensor, card slot, battery, and charging setup. Inspect any bundled lens separately and read the condition and return terms.

Compare Canon Rebel XT availability at MPB.

My verdict

I would consider a tested Rebel XT near the budget in the video if I wanted an inexpensive still photography setup and was comfortable using the viewfinder. For video or easy composition on the rear screen, choose another camera.