Canon EOS 550D launched

Today sees a further advancement in the mid-range video enabled DSLR market with Canon's EOS 550D (REBEL T2i in the US). This model expands on the success of the previous 500D and introduces some impressive features for a camera of this level, including a new 18MP sensor and ultra high resolution LCD screen. It also adds a microphone input and manual control for more creative video use.

The new 18MP CMOS sensor is coupled with the DIGIC 4 processor to achieve high quality, low noise results and offers a standard 100-6400 ISO range, expandable to 12,800. The Auto setting now allows for a maximum ISO value to be set for more controlled usage. The nine point AF system includes a central cross-type sensor for increased sensitivity, while burst mode shooting has been increased to 3.7fps.

The rear LCD has seen an increase in resolution, with the Clear View 3in screen offering a 1,040k dot display.

The video mode allows full 1080P (1920x1080 pixel) at 24, 25, or 30fps, and even 50 or 60fps at 720P sizing. A 3.5mm microphone socket allows for an external microphone to be used and users also have use of full manual exposure controls while in video. A movie crop mode can use the central areas of the sensor to record video at 640x480 with an effective seven times magnification.

For wireless connectivity the 550D supports use of Eye-Fi cards for uploading images straight to a wireless router.

Available from 24th February 2010 priced from £799.99 body only