Upgrade to 550D??

[TFM]

Currently using a 20D, which I'm very happy with. I've not printed any of my images yet but would like to do so in the near future. I want to go as big as A3, maybe even A2 for the odd shot.

From what I've read, this sounds a little ambitious for the 20D. The 550D's 18 megapixel sensor looks more suited, with the added advantage it will work with my existing lenses, in particular the ultra wide 10-22mm EF-S.

Although my 20D lenses will fit the 550D, unfortunately it looks like many of the accessories I've accumulated willl have to be replaced due to incompatibility e.g. battery grip, spare batteries, manual shutter release and timer shutter release.

I was wondering if there's another camera in the Canon crop-sensor range I should consider that will work with my existing lenses and accessories, yet still deliver images with good enough resolution for high quality A2 and A3 prints?

TIA for any suggestions.

[chris-p]

Hi TFM, welcome to the forums

It really depends on how much money you want to spend. I believe (although I'm not a Canon user) that the EOS 40D and 50D are compatible with the BP-E2 battery grip, which I assume is the one you have on your 20D.

The 40D and 50D are also compatible with an "N3 type" wired remote so if your current remote release is of that style then it will also work with both the 40D and 50D.

The 550D requires an "E3 type" cable release and uses the BG-E8 grip so will definitely require new bits and pieces.

As an added bonus, the specifications list that the EOS 20D came with a BP-511A battery (and you'll have more than one to go in the grip). Both the 40D and 50D also came with the BP-511A battery so you'd be able to use your old ones as well. Of course, the 550D uses different batteries so you'd have to replace them too...

[chris-p]

Just a quick follow up...

Looking at rough prices (all from WEx) an EOS 550D, BG-E8 grip and extra LP-E8 battery would set you back £850. The EOS 50D (body only) is £700 which is quite a significant difference, especially considering that, all round, the 50D is a better specified camera.

[TFM]

Great info Chris....

Just been checking spec on the 50D after reading your comments. Looks like it fits the bill perfectly. 3mpx less than the 550D but I believe that's more than enough for what I want.

Many thanks for taking the time to help out

[matt wilson]

Having read the 550 review I as a 50 d owner would keep my camera .It's really well built for one which seems to be a bit of a stumbling block on the 550.

Take the other points makes into account and it is a no brainer.

Money no object I would have a 7d as that is a significant improvement on the 50 d.

[anglefire]

Printing A3 from a 20D is not an issue. I have a A1 ish print from my 350D hanging on my wall.

Unless you need other features, I would at least get an image printed out before parting with my cash!

[TFM]

Originally Posted by anglefire

Printing A3 from a 20D is not an issue. I have a A1 ish print from my 350D hanging on my wall.

Unless you need other features, I would at least get an image printed out before parting with my cash!

Good advice! I've been checking out various online printing services this evening with exactly that in mind. I'll order up a few A3 prints and see how they look. Maybe I'm under estimating the 20D's capabilities

[nblackledge]

I have printed an A1 print from my 450D camera. Very good. Know the cameras getting on a bit now, but they are still out there.

[digoer]

The 50d and the 550 are both great cameras. The 550 affords you some bell/whistles you will not find on the 50d. I am a previous owner of both fo them. MY favorite camera is the 7d. Focusing alone is enough to buy it. As far as compatibiiity things have far improved over the 20d camera. The 50d probably comes closer for you.

[Chris George]

If you are using a 20D, I think you would miss the top-plate LCD and the rear dial if you opted for the 550D. The 50D would be a better upgrade. Of course, there well may be a 60D to add to your confusion in the near future!