Canon EOS 60D review
Design
The design and build of the Canon EOS 60D has changed quite significantly from the 50D. Because of this it fits more naturally between the 550D and 7D. To start with, the body is made from aluminium and polycarbonate resin with glass fibre, as opposed to the magnesium alloy seen on the 7D and the previous 50D.
This has been a bit of a sticking point for EOS users, as it means that the body is lighter and not quite as rugged. Yet, in the hand it still feels very solid and actually has better waterproofing than the old 0D. On the top-plate the quick access buttons in front of the info screen are now all single-use, rather than dual function as on previous models.
The mode dial has added a locking button, which requires you to press and hold the button to allow it to turn. This is to stop the dial accidentally moving but is not a problem I had ever come across and the new dial takes some getting used to.
On the rear the biggest change is the vari-angle nature of the screen. This does mean that the screen can be stored facing the camera for protection and having the ability to use the screen at extreme angles is very handy for shots with live view, and for tripod use.
There is a dedicated live view button placed just to the right of the viewfinder - perfect for a quick thumb press - which also works as a quick record button in video mode. The thumb joystick has disappeared however and, instead, the rear wheel has been incorporated with a multi-directional d-pad.
This means that most of the functions can be controlled from this one controller; rotated, pressed around its edges, or the centre button pushed. Though this is a clever use of space it does seem to be trying to do too much and operation can be a little tricky because of it. The rotation does have an auto locking facility too, which, when enabled, is released by a button below it. The power switch has been moved to the top left and more angular Menu, Info and Quick menu buttons sit above the d-pad controller.
The camera feels modern in its design and, though heavily consumer-oriented in its buttons and layout, remains a solid and well built unit, with only slight nuisances in the mode and rear dial.
Have your say!
Latest comments
March 27 19:00
Cosmo Smallpiece
@48Kustom. I've just made the jump from a 400D to 60D and the difference is stunning, razor sharp images, just brilliant.
May 02 10:33
bigdaveg40
In a comparison with the Sony A580 & Nikon D700 etc DXO mark paints a less than glossy picture of the 60d, J Rundle still uses his 10d, I wonder what would happen if all canon owners were asked which is better 40d or 60d ?. The same goes for the 550d vs 600d, has Canon lost it's way, burst rates are low & even the 60d's slow. Even the first generation SLT (A55) which is hundreds cheaper gives the 60d a right kicking.
December 10 04:32
Tomo955
I have just upgraded from a 550d to the 60d Reason: The fold away screen The locking control button Great for a lefty Feels a lot more substantial than the 550d Went all out and got the 15/85mm IS USM Lens for it Which is awsum campared to the kit lens
February 27 04:22
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