They have just announced today the features of the new CANON EOS 450D:12.2 megapixel CMOS sensor SD/SDHC cards Larger viewfinder Live view mode, including contrast-detect AF Improved 9-point AF system Spot metering3.0 LCD monitor Redesigned menus (including My Menu as seen in 40D) Slightly redesigned info display Continuous shooting at 3.5fps for up to 53 JPEG (6 RAW) ISO setting displays in viewfinder and ISO button New, larger, higher capacity battery 14 bit A/D converter and processing Multi-shot self-timer mode Highlight Tone Priority (from 40D) Auto Lighting Optimiser (boosts shadows after shooting) Kit lens with ISI‘m still contemplating on getting either this 450D ($899) or the 400D ($549). Do you think the additional features justify the price difference? Or should I just get the 400D and get better lenses?
I would go for the 450D for a few important reasons: 1) improved AF system. Very important in getting focused shots, particularly in dim light. 2) larger LCD monitor. Avoid frustration from having to try to make out details on a small screen. 3) larger viewfinder: makes it easier to compose. 4) improved kit lens with IS All of these things together make the 450D a better value--you'll get more keepers. Any one alone might not be enough, but taken together, it makes the price difference inconsequential. If I were Canon, I'd cut the Canon 350D, keep the 400D and cut the price, and add the 450D.
