Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D vs EOS Rebel T2i / 550D Comparison
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS Rebel T1i / 500D | EOS Rebel T2i / 550D | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2009 | 2010 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 25, 2009 | February 26, 2010 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D wins in this comparison with a score of 43/100, while the Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D scores 40/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as being DSLRs, having the same size (129 x 98 x 62mm), and being released around the same period (2009 and 2010).
The T1i / 500D stands out due to its lighter weight (520g) compared to the T2i / 550D (530g), and it scores higher for this reason. On the other hand, the T2i / 550D has a slightly lower launch price ($1000) compared to the T1i / 500D ($1040), which may appeal to some buyers.
Taking these factors into account, the T1i / 500D is the winner in this comparison, but the T2i / 550D could still be an attractive option for those looking for a more affordable option.
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D vs EOS Rebel T2i / 550D Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D is the winner in this optics comparison, scoring 45/100, while the Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D receives a score of 41/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including a CMOS sensor, a Digic 4 processor, an APS-C sensor size, a Canon EF-S lens mount, and no image stabilization.
The T1i / 500D has an edge over the T2i / 550D in terms of its optics score. This advantage is due to the camera’s slightly lower megapixel count of 15.1, as opposed to the T2i / 550D’s 18 megapixels. A lower megapixel count can lead to better low-light performance and reduced noise in images. Additionally, the T1i / 500D has a faster shooting speed of 3.4 frames per second, compared to the T2i / 550D’s 3.7 frames per second. This allows the T1i / 500D to capture action shots with more ease.
On the other hand, the T2i / 550D has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, at 66 compared to the T1i / 500D’s score of 63. This indicates that the T2i / 550D’s sensor may perform better in certain conditions, such as dynamic range and color depth. However, this advantage is not enough to outweigh the benefits of the T1i / 500D’s lower megapixel count and faster shooting speed.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D proves to be the better choice for those prioritizing optics performance. Its lower megapixel count and faster shooting speed provide a more versatile and reliable option for photographers looking to capture high-quality images in various lighting conditions and scenarios.
|
Optics
|
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D
|
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 15.1 MP | 18 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4752 x 3168 px | 5184 x 3456 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 14.9 x 22.3 mm | 14.9 x 22.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 3.4 fps | 3.7 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Canon EF-S | Canon EF-S | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic 4 | Digic 4 | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 6,400 | 6,400 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 12800 | 12800 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 4000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 9 | 9 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (pentamirror) | Optical (pentamirror) |
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D vs EOS Rebel T2i / 550D Video Performance
The Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D and the Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D both score 43/100 in terms of video capabilities, indicating no clear winner between the two models. Both cameras share common features in this aspect, such as Full HD video resolution and a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite equal scores, the T1i / 500D has a slight advantage in video dimensions, offering 1922 x 1080 pixels compared to the T2i / 550D’s 1920 x 1080 pixels. This difference is minor, but it may result in slightly higher quality video output for the T1i / 500D.
On the other hand, the T2i / 550D does not show any notable advantages over the T1i / 500D in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras have the same maximum video resolution, frame rate, and lack of time-lapse functionality.
In comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D and the Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D, it is evident that the two cameras are nearly identical in this area. The minor difference in video dimensions slightly favors the T1i / 500D, but this is not significant enough to declare a definitive winner. Therefore, when considering these models for their video capabilities, the choice between the T1i / 500D and the T2i / 550D will likely come down to personal preference and other factors such as price, design, and additional features.
|
Video
|
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D
|
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D
|
|
|
|
|
||
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
|---|---|---|---|
Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD | Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1922 x 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 30 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MOV | MOV |
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D vs EOS Rebel T2i / 550D Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D is the winner in terms of features, with a score of 44/100, compared to the Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D, which scored 41/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, no touchscreen, no flip screen, no GPS, no WIFI, and no Bluetooth.
The T2i / 550D outperforms the T1i / 500D in screen resolution, offering 1,040,000 dots compared to the T1i / 500D’s 920,000 dots. This difference in resolution provides a clearer and sharper image display on the T2i / 550D, making it easier for photographers to review their shots and make adjustments as needed.
The T1i / 500D does not have any features that are better than the T2i / 550D, as both cameras share the same specifications in other areas. This means that the T2i / 550D is a better camera in terms of features, as it offers a higher screen resolution without any drawbacks.
Taking into consideration the features of both cameras, the Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D is the superior choice due to its higher screen resolution. The T1i / 500D does not offer any advantages over the T2i / 550D, making it a less appealing option for photographers who value a clear and sharp image display.
|
Features
|
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D
|
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
|---|---|---|---|
External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | LCD | LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 920,000 dots | 1,040,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D vs EOS Rebel T2i / 550D Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D edges out the Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D in the storage and battery category, with both cameras scoring 24/100. They share some common specifications, such as having a single memory card slot and lacking USB charging capabilities. Moreover, they both provide a battery life of 440 shots.
The T2i / 550D has an advantage in terms of memory card compatibility, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, while the T1i / 500D only accepts SD and SDHC cards. This allows for a greater range of storage options and potentially higher capacities for the T2i / 550D. Additionally, the T2i / 550D utilizes a more advanced battery type, the LP-E8, compared to the T1i / 500D’s LP-E5.
There are no specific advantages for the T1i / 500D in this category, as both cameras share the same limitations, such as a single memory card slot and no USB charging.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D proves to be a better option for storage and battery capabilities due to its wider range of memory card compatibility and enhanced battery type.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D
|
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD / SDHC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
|---|---|---|---|
Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E5 | LP-E8 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 440 shots | 440 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D
|
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 21.7 bits | 22.1 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 11.5 EVs | 11.5 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 663 | 784 |
|
Scores
|
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D
|
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D
|
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D vs EOS Rebel T2i / 550D – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D or the Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D:
|
User Scores
|
Canon EOS Rebel T1i / 500D
|
Canon EOS Rebel T2i / 550D
|
|
B&H photo video |
|---|