Digital Camera Product Reviews Blog

Dust spots on your D-SLR’s sensor appear as tiny black specks on the image. When photographers change lenses, dust can enter the camera and lodge on the filter or protective glass that covers the sensor. These dust spots can show up as dark blotches in subsequent shots. A camera with Dust Control Systems will prevent dust from settling on your camera’s sensor which is exposed to the elements every time you take the lens off. This technology is only found in interchangeable-lens DSLR cameras, such as Canon 450D, Canon 50D and so on, where it is a virtual necessity.

Olympus was the first camera manufacturer to install dust-reduction technology in its DSLR cameras, with a special Supersonic Wave Filter (SSWF) system that vibrates the filter in front of the sensor to dislodge dust. The dust collects in a tray below the sensor, which is cleaned when the camera is serviced. Other manufacturers have followed with similar systems - but they may only be included in one or two models.

Some manufacturers combine the vibrating filter with anti-static materials in the camera’s mirror box, while Canon adds a Dust Delete detection/removal system via software. Only Canon’s system deals effectively with dust that becomes ‘welded on’ when a camera with dust on its sensor is moved between low and high humidity.

Listed below are a part of the latest digital SLR cameras that include dust control systems.

Sony A350 and Nikon D60 released the same month. The prices of these two cameras are nearly the same, and Nikon D60 a little cheaper. To compare with them, I list the specifications of both cameras in the following form. So if you don’t know which one to go with, wish it will help.

Clearly, Sony A350 has advantages on Megapixels Resolution (14 VS 10). The A350 features a breakthrough Live View function that offers straightforward and easy-to-use image framing and auto-focusing with the rear LCD panel. What’s more, the display alternates so that you can get up high or down low without straining your neck or getting on the ground, the articulating LCD and Live View function work quite well together.  In fact, these features set the Sony A350 apart from other entry-level DSLRs, including the Nikon D60 and Canon Rebel XSi. The A350 also feels great in the hands.  It is bigger than Nikon’s D60. But the A350 is still a compact DSLR.  The rubberized grip is most welcomed and helps the A350 to feel secure in your hands.

But if you ask my choice, I would go with Nikon D60. Continuing the Nikon trend of small, compact and cost-effective cameras, the D60 offers some minor upgrades over the D40x. I think Nikon D60 to be the most reasonable priced for the features it has. Good image quality, good sensor size, a huge array of available lenses and a sturdy body design. It has not many hidden frills, but many nice clear options. The most attractive features are a dust control system that includes an airflow control to blow dust away from the sensor and improved autofocus. Nikon D60’s kit includes a vibration reduction (VR) lens for clearer photos in low-light conditions. What’s more, I would trust Sony on the point & shoot cameras, but for digital SLR cameras, I would suggest Nikon or Canon, as Canon and Nikon are the top camera companies and the choice of professionals. And Nikon has more available lenses and accessories. If you ever plan on going further with your photography Nikon will have the pro model cameras and lenses you will need.

The Pentax K200D shares a playing field with the Canon EOS 450D, Nikon D60 and Sony Alpha A200. Canon 450D, as a multi-function digital camera,of course has many competitors, including Pentax K200D. This post simply discusses the pros and cons of Canon 450D and Pentax K200D.

The Canon 450D / XSi with a stabilised kit lens costs roughly 30% more than the Pentax K200D kit. Of course, coming with the expensive price, Canon 450D also has more features: two extra Megapixels, a bigger 3in screen, faster 3.5fps continuous shooting with a bigger buffer, Live View facilities with contrast-based AF, 14-bit image processing, a bigger viewfinder, and PC remote control software which includes a live on-screen preview.

Canon 450D

The Pentax K200D boasts far superior weatherproof build quality (although is heavier), built-in Shake Reduction which works with any lens, a slightly more sophisticated 11-point AF system, an upper LCD information screen, a dedicated RAW button, support for Adobe’s open DNG format, and is powered by four AA batteries which are readily available almost anywhere in the World.

Pentax K200D

Conclusion

Canon XSI (450D) - best in class if not for the high price
• Pros: Lots of features; somewhat inconvenient live view but it’s there; light and compact; great autofocus; IS kit lens; can use lenses from many other manufacturers with adapter.
• Cons: No build-in IS; most expensive of the entry levels.

Pentax K200D - fully featured, cheap but big and heavy
• Pros: Weather and dust resistant ; good viewfinder; in-body SR; Best kit lens among competition; cheap.
• Cons: Heavy; biggish; slower auto focus.

Sony A900 boasts the biggest megapixel so far in digital slr, which is 24megapixel. Nikon D700 will be the other main rival for the Sony A900, as both bodies are priced at roughly the same point (US$3K). So would you rather buy a 12MP Nikon D700 or 24MP Sony A900? Here is a table of the two cameras’ specifications.