While most manufacturers update their consumer SLRs more often that their higher-end models, Canon has waited almost three years to upgrade the EOS 1000D.

Picture quality up to 3200 ISO; Responsive for day-to-day use; Pleasant to handle and use; Simplified modes for beginners (Custom Auto mode

Low-def screen; Less responsive in Raw mode; Room for improvement in the camera's build (slippery; Kit lens isn't stabilised (unless there's a 18-55 mm IS kit; Awful sound in video mode

The EOS 1100D follows on from the 1000D as Canon's budget digital SLR aimed, like the Nikon D3100 , at those trading up from a compact camera for the first time.

Joshua Waller puts the Canon EOS 1100D through an expert test to see how this new camera performs.

Excellent image quality; Excellent colour reproduction; Extremely low noise; Excellent battery life; Brilliant JPEG output; Easy to use menu system

Only 2fps continuous shooting when set to RAW; Basic kit lens is not image stabilised; IS version costs more; Value for money could be better; Lacks sensor cleaning technology

As the entry point to Canon's DSLR range, the 1100D sits below the older yet still available 550D and the more recent 600D as a sort of bare-bones version of these more advanced entry-level models.

Image quality; Relatively user-friendly; Cheapest entry-point to Canon DSLR system

Plastic finish feels a bit cheap; No rubberisation on grip; Contrast-detect live view AF is slow

It seems at odds with these hard times that new cameras are released more frequently than ever, with people seemingly having enough cash to splash out on new camera kit. One section of the camera market that is particularly busy and competitive is that of the entry-level DSLR.

The Canon EOS Rebel T3 is a solid albeit unexciting, entry-level DSLR that is-for the most part-easy to use. Beginner photographers or those who want a little help along the way will appreciate the camera's on-board Feature Guide; enthusiasts who are comfortable with DSLR features can easily disable...

Improving on the 1000D, the Canon 1100D features a larger 12.2Mp APS-C 12.2Mp CMOS sensor and a 1.6x crop factor, meaning the 18-55mm kit lens is equivalent to 28.8-88mm in film terms.

I use the 1100D for outside shotsmainly, occasional portrait pics for business. The basics are unshiftably in place - speed, basic settings, focus and flash options. But I can't help thinking I am missing out, partly due to my lack of expertise (my problem!

Durable; Great Picture Quality

Bulky; Lacks Intuitive Usability

4 stars

12 megapixels; HD Video capability; on screen tips; basic + technology; good ISO setting

Has its limitations when you get more experiences; plasticky feel

What a superb workhorse camera. Hasn't let me down in four years of regular use, handy video clip feature, plus easy to use manual settings if you want to be creative but the P- Program setting copes with most lighting. Big range of used lenses fit this camera body too.