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Review of the Canon EOS 40D

Canon EOS 40D

Canon EOS 40D
www.canon.co.uk

The dual digit range of Canon EOS cameras from the D30 through to the 10D, 20D and 30D have always enjoyed a large following of dedicated enthusiasts and semi-pros. The solid build, higher resolution and enhanced features have proven to be a deciding factor for those upgrading from entry-level models or even compacts – especially in the early DSLR days when the 3MP D30 and 6MP 10D ruled the roost, before the arrival of Canon’s first sub £1000 camera, the 300D.

The last model in the range was the 30D and proved to be something of a disappointment as an upgrade, with comparatively minor enhancements over the 20D. This new model seems to be a proper upgrade with some significant new additions to the feature set. Canon has introduced a range of new developments, some of which also feature on its new pro SLRs and some which follow current trends or include technology seen on cameras from other manufacturers.

For the first time too, we are seeing a dual digit Canon enthusiast camera launching at a price below the £1000 mark – the Canon EOS 40D is £300 cheaper than its predecessor at launch, with an RRP of just £900.


Specification

Manufacturer Canon
Model EOS 40D
RRP £900 (body-only)
Sensor 22.8 x 14.8mm CMOS, 10.1 MP effective
Max Image Size 3888 x 2592 pixels
Max Print Size 12.96 x 8.64 in @300dpi
Magnification 1.6
Lens Mount Canon EF-S
Rec Format RAW, JPEG, sRAW
Shutter Speeds 30-1/8000sec, Bulb
ISO 100-3200
Exp Modes PASM, Auto, Sc
Flash Built-in GN 12m, hotshoe
Flash Sync 1/250sec
Sync Socket Yes
Drive Modes Single, continuous, 6.5fps over 75 JPEGs or 17 Raw
Meter Evaluative, centre-weighted, spot
White Balance Auto, 7 preset, WB comp and bracketing,
Colour Modes sRGB, Adobe RGB
Focus AF/MF, 9 selectable cross hair focus points
Viewfinder 95%
Monitor 3in LCD with Live View, 230,000 pixels
Connection USB 2.0
File EXIF 2.2, DPOF, PictBridge
Video Output Stills only
Power Lithium ion
Storage CF Type I/II
Dimensions 145.5 x 107.8 x 73.5mm
Weight 740g