Tech Made Simple

Hot Topics: How to Fix Bluetooth Pairing Problems | Complete Guide to Facebook Privacy | How to Block Spam Calls | Snapchat Symbol Meaning

We may earn commissions when you buy from links on our site. Why you can trust us.

author photo

Canon EOS Rebel SL1: The World's Smallest & Lightest DSLR

by K.T. Bradford on March 21, 2013

Canon EOS Rebel SL1Compact mirrorless interchangable lens cameras (MILC), like the Olympus PEN, Sony Alpha NEX and Samsung NX lines, are among the most popular cameras right now. That’s because they combine big, DSLR-quality sensors with small point-and-shoot-like bodies. Though the lenses still make this type of camera bulkier than a true compact camera, the reduction in size and weight from a full DSLR is pretty significant. That's part of the appeal (as is the relatively lower cost).

There are drawbacks to this type of camera: no optical viewfinder for one, and a shorter battery life, in some cases due to the power draw from the LCD screen and/or electronic viewfinder. So what do you do if you want a real DSLR and you want something small and compact?

Canon thinks they've come up with the answer. The company just announced the Canon EOS Rebel SL1, the smallest and lightest DSLR in the world. Today, at least. Weighing 14.36 ounces and measuring 4.6” (w) x 3.57” (h) x 2.74” (d), the Rebel SL1 is certainly smaller than the average DSLR, but it's not necessarily compact. Then again, when compared to larger bodied fixed-lens cameras like the GE X600 or the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS, the Rebel SL1 is about the same size and not much heavier, yet offers far more power and performance.

Look and feel

The Rebel SL1 looks smaller when compared to normal DSLR's, but the real difference becomes apparent when you pick it up. It feels lighter than it looks and sits well in the hand. The grip is a bit small and too short to quite fit the natural curve of my fingers. It is comfortable and the rubberesque coating made it possible to hold the camera with one hand without feeling in danger of dropping it.

The 18-55mm zoom lens that comes with the kit ($799) doesn't throw the SL1 out of balance, as zoom lenses sometimes do on more compact MILCs. However, if size and weight are your main motivations, you might want to check out the pancake lens that will also be available (no word on price yet). You'll still get excellent quality shots, just no zooming. In my hands-on time with the SL1 I found that I preferred the zoom lens for the versatility. It's not that much heavier than a smaller lens, and a camera that's lighter overall offers some wiggle room for adding heavier lenses – in the end, there's still less weight on your shoulder.

Features

Compact size doesn't mean a loss of functionality. This is a true DSLR complete with 18MP sensor, hybrid CMOS multipoint auto focus and other features found in the Rebel line up. The touchscreen LCD on the back is the same as the one found on the Rebel T4i camera except it doesn't swivel out. Touchscreen functionality includes point selection, menu navigation, swiping through pictures and more.

Availability and pricing

The Canon Rebel SL1 will retail for $649 (body only) and $799 (18-55mm kit). Currently, that's the only kit Canon plans to offer. The camera will be available in mid-April but can be pre-ordered now.

 

Compare the SL1 to other Canon DSLRs on Amazon

Compare the SL1 to Nikon DSLRs on Amazon

 

Topics

Cameras and Photography, News, Cameras, Blog


Discussion loading

Home | About | Meet the Team | Contact Us
Media Kit | Newsletter Sponsorships | Licensing & Permissions
Accessibility Statement
Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookie Policy

Techlicious participates in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which provide a small commission from some, but not all, of the "click-thru to buy" links contained in our articles. These click-thru links are determined after the article has been written, based on price and product availability — the commissions do not impact our choice of recommended product, nor the price you pay. When you use these links, you help support our ongoing editorial mission to provide you with the best product recommendations.

© Techlicious LLC.