It seems at odds with these hard times that new cameras are released more frequently than ever, with people seemingly having enough cash to splash out on new camera kit. One section of the camera market that is particularly busy and competitive is that of the entry-level DSLR.

While most manufacturers update their consumer SLRs more often that their higher-end models, Canon has waited almost three years to upgrade the EOS 1000D.

Picture quality up to 3200 ISO; Responsive for day-to-day use; Pleasant to handle and use; Simplified modes for beginners (Custom Auto mode

Low-def screen; Less responsive in Raw mode; Room for improvement in the camera's build (slippery; Kit lens isn't stabilised (unless there's a 18-55 mm IS kit; Awful sound in video mode

It might be short on exciting extras but the Canon EOS 1100D's ability to take gorgeous photos is hard to fault

The Canon EOS 1100D (also known as the Digital Rebel T3) is the new entry-level model in Canon's extensive range of digital SLR cameras, replacing the 3 year old 1000D model. Aimed at first-time DSLR users, the 1100D inherits features from both the equally new and more expensive EOS 600D and the...

The EOS 1100D steps into Canon's DSLR line-up between the EOS 1000D and EOS 550D and features a 12.2 megapixel CMOS sensor. Offered for the first time in three colours - Black, Metallic Grey and a limited edition Red - the EOS 1100D supports 720p HD video recording and introduces a new Feature Guide...

The Canon EOS 1100D follows on from the previous 1000D model. It's been quite a few years in the making, so has Canon truly delivered with this latest model and does the budget DSLR market have a new king?

Image quality; autofocus performance (at this entry level

Softness and quality issues from kit lens; plasticy build; sluggish live view

Canon EOS 1100D: Overview Canon has long catered well for the entry-level digital SLR market. Canon's EOS 300D was the first digital SLR available for under ￡1000 and as technology has advanced, its cameras aimed at this market have been made cheaper and more compact, whilst still sporting a decent...

We in the photography press get a lot of cryptic invites to industry events, and usually you can deduce what, if anything, is going to be launched by the age of a company's current models – sometimes even by where the event is being held and what they're serving!

The Canon EOS 1100D (Rebel T3) builds upon the previous EOS 1000D (XS) release. But just how good is the 1100D (T3)? Can it be crowned the king of entry-level DSLRs? The What Digital Camera Canon EOS 1100D (Rebel T3) review…

Fast AF for entry-level model; good image quality

Build quality (plastic finish); slow live view focusing

Canon's EOS 1100D enters the market as a stripped down version of its more expensive siblings, the 550D and 600D. Banking on its genetic lineage, it hopes to stand on its own with less perks and a matching lower price tag.

: Image quality; Relatively user-friendly; Cheapest entry-point to Canon DSLR system : Plastic finish feels a bit cheap; No rubberisation on grip; Contrast-detect live view AF is slow

: Plastic finish feels a bit cheap; No rubberisation on grip; Contrast-detect live view AF is slow