Canon EOS 1500D Review: A Comprehensive Look at Canon's Entry-Level DSLR
The Canon EOS 1500D, introduced on February 26th alongside the EOS 3000D, aims to replace the EOS 1300D. Targeted at novice photographers seeking superior image quality over smartphones, the EOS 1500D and its more affordable sibling, the EOS 3000D, feature Wi-Fi, Full HD 1080p video up to 30 fps, and continuous shooting at up to three frames per second. Both models include a 9-point autofocus system and Canon’s Scene Intelligent Auto mode for effortless point-and-shoot photography.
Design and Features
The EOS 1500D offers minor upgrades over its predecessor, the EOS 1300D, mainly boasting a higher-resolution CMOS sensor found in many of Canon’s entry- and mid-level DSLRs. The camera retains the DIGIC 4+ processor and the older CR2.RAW file format, not adopting the newer CR3.RAW format introduced with the EOS M50.
The cheaper EOS 3000D retains the 1300D’s 18-megapixel sensor but lacks several key features. It has a smaller monitor, no separate on/off switch, no speaker, and no dioptre adjustments for the viewfinder. Its plastic lens mount and manually activated flash are other downgrades. Canon markets the 3000D as an entry-level DSLR for first-time users.
Key Specifications Comparison
| Specifications | EOS 1500D | EOS 3000D | EOS 1300D |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS | 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS | 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS |
| Processor | DIGIC 4+ | DIGIC 4+ | DIGIC 4+ |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) | 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) | 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) |
| Video | Full HD 1080p up to 30fps | Full HD 1080p up to 30fps | Full HD 1080p up to 30fps |
| Continuous Shooting | 3 fps | 3 fps | 3 fps |
| AF System | 9-point autofocus | 9-point autofocus | 9-point autofocus |
| Monitor | 3-inch TFT with 920,000 dots | 2.7-inch TFT with 920,000 dots | 3-inch TFT with 920,000 dots |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi plus NFC connectivity | Wi-Fi only | Wi-Fi plus NFC connectivity |
| Ease-of-use Features | Scene Intelligent Auto mode, Creative filters | Scene Intelligent Auto mode, Creative filters | Scene Intelligent Auto mode, Creative filters |
| Battery/Capacity (shots/charge) | LP-E10 / 500 with OVF | LP-E10 / 500 with OVF | LP-E10 / 500 with OVF |
| Dimensions | 129.0 x 101.3 x 77.6 mm | 129.0 x 101.6 x 77.1 mm | 129.0 x 101.3 x 77.6 mm |
| Weight (with battery & card) | 475 grams | 436 grams | 485 grams |
Who’s it For?
Canon is targeting price-sensitive consumers with the EOS 1500D, priced competitively to attract budget-conscious buyers. However, compared to mirrorless options like the EOS M5/M50, the 1500D is bulkier, has a lower-resolution non-touchscreen monitor, and lacks innovative features.
The 9-point AF system can struggle in low light and low-contrast situations, particularly in live view mode. Face recognition and video capabilities are limited, making the EOS 3000D even less attractive due to its stripped-back features.
Build and Ergonomics
The EOS 1500D’s design remains largely unchanged from the EOS 1300D, with a slightly lighter carbon-fiber reinforced polycarbonate body and an identical control layout.
New Features
The EOS 1500D doesn’t offer many new features. Canon has reused components and added a new badge. However, it is part of the Canon Camera Assist Program, offering video guides, advanced tips, and smartphone connectivity instructions.
Key Features
The 1500D features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor with a fixed optical low-pass filter, paired with the DIGIC 4+ processor. The native sensitivity range is ISO 100-6400, expandable to 12800. The camera supports Full HD 1080p video at up to 30 fps, and built-in Wi-Fi with NFC allows smartphone connectivity via the Canon Camera Connect app.
Performance
When using the viewfinder, about 5% of the subject is cropped, affecting framing accuracy. The situation is similar in live view mode, despite the camera’s specs claiming a 100% field of view. Test shots were generally softer, especially at the zoom range ends, with contrast appearing flat in JPEGs out of the camera. However, color accuracy was good, and saturation was modest.
Imatest results showed the camera almost met expectations for the sensor’s resolution with raw files but fell short with JPEGs. Noise became visible in long exposures from ISO 3200, with softening and blotchiness evident at ISO 6400 and above.
Autofocusing performance was inconsistent, with slower focusing in live view mode and potential issues when switching between viewfinder and live view.
Video and Playback
Video recording options are limited to 1920 x 1080 at 25 or 24 fps, 1280 x 960 at 50 fps, or 640 x 480 at 25 fps. Sound is recorded monaurally, with the microphone picking up mechanical noises. The wind filter provided mixed results.
Conclusion
The EOS 1500D is a viable option for budget-conscious buyers needing an interchangeable-lens camera. It's compact, lightweight, and easy to use but lacks excitement and advanced features. The build quality is adequate for normal use, though not rough treatment. For the price, it offers decent value, but better options exist, particularly in the mirrorless sector.
With the innovation in the mirrorless sector, DSLRs are declining in sales, while mirrorless cameras are gaining popularity, indicating the future of interchangeable-lens cameras.