Canon EOS 500D

DSLR with HD video trimmings, but has Canon sliced off too much?

By George Cole • Get more from this author

15th May 2009 14:18 GMT

What isn’t so great though, is the video performance. Video is in MOV (H.264) file format and the Full HD mode, with its disappointing 20fps, results in jerkiness on playback. The 720p/30fps mode offers smoother motion but it seems silly having to use the lower resolution setting in order to get better performance.

Full HD frame rate foibles make this EOS a questionable choice

Oh, and a note to Canon - we think anyone offering a camera with HD movie recording should include a mini HDMI lead in the box as standard. And it would useful if Canon had included an external mic socket on this model.

Verdict

The problem companies like Canon face is offering DSLRs with Full HD video, which at the same time, don’t harm its sales of camcorder products or more expensive DSLR offerings like the EOS 5D Mark II, which has Full HD at 30fps. It’s a hard balance to get right and, in its attempts to achieve it, it appears that Canon has compromised the video performance a little too much on the EOD 500D.

Even so, the EOS 500D is a very good camera indeed, but unless you really want video, opting for the EOS 450D will save you around £200. Our verdict is also influenced by the fact that a UK EOS 450D 18-55mm kit costs almost £400 than one selling in the US, although shopping around could save you lots. On performance, the EOS 500D scores well, but on value for money, it’s not so great. ®