Canon EOS 1300D review: Evolution of the entry-level DSLR

Entry-level DSLR cameras have become the backbone of most camera manufacturers in the last few years. And the EOS 1300D is the newest addition to Canon’s line-up of basic digital single lens reflex cameras. The Canon EOS 1300D is an evolved version of the EOS 1200D and thus, essentially improves upon the features that were already present in its predecessor(s).

Design and build
The first impression of the Canon EOS 1300D is that it is a sleek and fairly light DSLR, which can be attributed to the fact that it does not have a huge sensor or processor.Easy manoeuvrability is essential for beginners and so is the ease of access to the various functions of the camera. The positioning of the controls and buttons is well thought out for the convenience of the user. Furthermore, the Canon EOS 1300D has a very comfortable and textured grip which makes it easy to hold.
The Canon EOS 1300D is slimmer and more compact as compared to the EOS 1200D. Its body is made from carbon fibre polycarbonate and has a solid build. However, it is not weather-sealed.
Also read: Canon EOS M10 mirrorless camera review: The handy DSLR for photography enthusiasts

Apart from the conveniently placed exposure compensation buttons the Canon EOS 1300D also has dedicated ISO and White Balance control buttons, a ‘feature’ their entry-level Nikon counterparts don’t have.
The LCD screen of the Canon EOS 1300D is a notch better than the EOS 1200D and has a higher resolution and dpi. The Q button is very useful as well, as it launches a quick access menu for extensive exposure compensation.
The video control button is located on the back panel right beside the viewfinder and is thus easy to find and access.
Performance and image quality
In terms of performance the Canon EOS 1300D is not a big step up from the EOS 1200D. The 1300D has Full HD 30fps video capabilities, which are not that impressive as the Nikon D3300 has the same at 60fps. But the EOS 1300D has evolved in terms of connectivity because it sports both NFC and Wi-Fi.

The Canon EOS 1300D uses the Digic4+ processor and an 18 MP APS-C sensor which result in 3 shots per second, pretty standard for a beginner. The ISO sensitivity scales up to 6400 and remains unchanged from its predecessor, which is understandable as they both use the same sensor.
Also read: Canon IXUS 285 HS review: A well connected digicam
The focussing motor is standard and basic for the lenses that are available with the camera (both the 18-55 mm and the 55-250 mm). There is little to zero colour distortion in the images, and low light capabilities are fairly standard.
The battery easily lasts for around 500 shots with a single charge, enough to fill up about an 8 GB SD card. This is a considerable number because the better the camera, the more charge it requires per shot.
Camera shots (with 18-55 mm)



Verdict
The Canon EOS 1300D is a very impressive entry-level DSLR camera, considering the feature upgrades it brings to the table. Its standout aspect when compared to the competition is that it offers a both an EFS 18-55 mm lens and an EFS 55-250 mm lens with the kit, for a price of Rs 38,995. This is a very attractive deal for people who travel a lot and want to buy their first DSLR.