Canon's triple-digit EOS line has traditionally catered for those dipping their toes into DSLR photography, but as successive models have acquired more functionality, they've ventured further into enthusiast territory.

Overall strong image quality; Wireless flash capabilities; Articulated LCD; Full HD video recording; Plenty of features for beginners to grow

Meagre burst rate; Not built for those with large hands

The Canon EOS 600D isn't much to look at, but it's a great performer, and its creative features and helpful nature make it an excellent choice for both beginners and enthusiasts looking to replace an older dSLR.

Useful fold-out screen; Numerous video features; Plenty of on-board help and creative tools

Run-of-the-mill design; Plasticky feel

is Canon's latest Digital SLR and updates the popular 550D and is the latest in a line of DSLRs dating back to the 300D. No longer the entry level SLR in Canon's line up, it is now a step up from that, as that role has been filled by the new 1100D, the 1100D being an update to the 1000D introduced...

Gorgeous 3" 1040k dot screen; Excellent image quality; Brilliant colour reproduction; Solid body with great rubber grips; Low noise upto ISO3200; Better than expected battery life

Mono mic; Little battery warning; Slow live view focusing

Updates to Canon's popular range of consumer-level digital SLRs always make waves, and the new EOS 600D is no exception. Slotting in at the top end of Canon's entry-level line-up, it ‘makes capturing exciting, fun and creative images easier than ever', the company brags.

Excellent sensor and great high-ISO quality; articulating LCD screen is bright and detailed; some improvements over the EOS 550D

Some menu options hard to find; layout of controls could be better

The Canon EOS 600D is more than the "550D with vari-angle screen" it may at first appear to be. It's really the built-in wireless flash commander that pushes the camera into new and more advanced territory.

Detailed vari-angle screen; wireless flash control

Plasticy build quality; slow AF in live view; Raw continuous shooting

For amateurs wanting to achieve professional looking photos, and, increasingly, video, the digital SLR remains king. Canon's newest entry level DSLR comes after last year's equally accessible EOS 550D, which remains just below it in the EOS range.

Canon's new low to mid-range DSLR is essentially a 550D with a flip out screen but that's precisely why it's so good.

Canon has had an admirably tight grip on the DSLR market ever since the phenomenally successful EOS 300D dived below the four-figure price barrier back in 2003. The success of the EOS D range has never been simply about price however, but the high quality kit you get for your money.

Overall the Canon EOS 600D scores above the average model; however, it's not without its flaws. Look past these, though, and you've got a great entry-level DSLR

Outwardly, the Canon EOS 600D / Rebel T3i is virtually identical its predecessor, with a few tweaks to accomodate the new vari-angle LCD screen. It is a fairly small camera with a largely plastic shell and a pretty narrow, mildly uncomfortable hand-grip.