From the time of SLR (Single Lens Reflex) cameras which were/are mostly manual or rather analogue as today’s generation want to label them, to the DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) people have been spoilt for choice, the mirrorless hybrids notwithstanding. There are still brands churning out inexpensive cameras. The purpose of this column is to demystify what constitutes a good camera for this year and at a budget. If you have the money to splurge and can buy anything, then this is for you too.

We are here to talk about the latest gadgets in the market and all matters camera.  Not everybody is discerning when it comes to buying a camera. Unless you are a seasoned professional buying, even a passable camera can be quite the challenge. The lens specs, focal lengths, and the megapixels can sound complicated to some, but we are here to help you make an informed decision. If you are on a lean budget and looking for a professional grade device or an upgrade, this product review is for you. Much of the conversation has been centered on the mirrorless cameras lately.

Durability, aesthetics and the user-friendliness coupled with the price range are the general yardsticks by which we shall measure the camera.

Canon EOS 200D Rebel

First off, we shall review the Canon EOS 200D Rebel. A photographer’s go-to camera. Among its most endearing aspects is that it’s lightweight. Its small compact SLR body is full of helpful features. Together with the 18 to 55 mm kit lens, it weighs slightly less than 2 pounds.

Pros:

• The camera comes with a 24.2-megapixel sensor.
• It has a continuous drive of up to 5fps with an Auto ISO of 100-26000 (can be expanded to 51200).
• Its viewfinder is optical pentamirror with 95% 0f coverage and a magnification of 0.54x.
• It has a 3 inch fully articulated LCD screen with touch capabilities.
• It has a shutter speed of 30sec minimum to 1/4000sec maximum.
• For those low light conditions, it has been equipped with a pop up inbuilt flash.
• Part of what makes this camera amazing is its big sensor which translates to crisp and detailed images and video.

• 1 HDMI port
• Wireless capabilities and Bluetooth.
• For storage, it comes with almost all the ports for cards like SD/SDHC/SDXC.

Cons:

Despite its many attributes, the 200DL has its weaknesses.

• Dual pixel Auto Focus for video but it does not have stabilization.
• It has no microphone or headphone ports.
• Audio from the in-built microphone is especially unreliable in windy outdoor shoots.
• Its highest resolution is 1920 x 1080.
• Has a 60fps for video and a USB 2.0 port for connectivity.
• Its battery life is rated at 650 shots at full charge.
• Does not require adapters to mount other lenses on it.
• It accepts the wide range of Canon lenses on EFS and EF mounts.

Finally, it currently retails at $599. For that, you will get an 18mm -55mm kit lens, battery charger, and a small bag.

In terms of quality in performance, durability, and affordability the Canon EOS 200D Rebel is the best solution for a travel camera.