Canon EOS 60D 18 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera Body Only

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This addition to Canons XXD line might initially seem like a minor downgrade to the previous XXD cameras, but several new capabilities actually help make this a nice, well-featured camera that will appeal to many people who dont get caught up in whether or not this is a better camera than its predecessor. Canon certainly made this camera for the price point and was careful to add just enough features to make it desirable over the T2i, but not desirable enough to compete with the 7D. In some respects though, it seems like a beefed-up version of the Rebel line (a "Super-Rebel") instead of a new addition to the XXD line. As someone who has now had the opportunity to use all three of Canons mid-range lineup (the T2i, 60D, and 7D), I have to say that I really like the feel of the 60D. Even though it no longer has the magnesium alloy body, it feels solid. In no way does it feel cheap. I have fairly small hands and the 60D feels like it was made for me. Its significantly lighter than the 7D and feels like it would be much more friendly on long hikes. The 7D feels much more robust; however, the 60D feels much more "comfy". It is definitely bigger in size than the T2i, but the angles and design of the camera have a nicely updated feel to them that makes it seem like you are getting a much more substantial camera. The articulating screen was also done very well. My initial worries that the screen would feel cheap and break easily were immediately relieved after using it. The hinges are very solid and feel almost stiff to the point where you are comfortable with it staying right where you want it. It also is very flush with the rest of the body and offers little space in between. Aside from the feel, the camera takes beautiful pictures. Quality-wise, there is very little difference between the pictures that come out of the T2i, 60D, and 7D. ISO performance is very similar and therefore can not be much of a deciding factor between the models. Most of the decision factors really will focus on which user interface and camera system best appeals to your type and level of photography. Each of Canons mid-range models has its own pros and cons, and while there are MANY differences between each camera, these are the main points I considered when deciding between cameras to purchase (hopefully it helps those going through the same decision I did): 60D vs. 50D: (+) New Sensor - the same 18MP sensor that the 7D and T2i have, better ISO coverage/performance (+) 63 zone dual-layer metering (+) Better viewfinder - 96% coverage vs 95% coverage (+) Video (+) Articulating screen (+) Wireless flash control (+) Horizontal electronic level (+) In camera processing (new RAW processing feature and in camera filter effects) (+) Control over max auto-ISO (+) Eye-Fi wifi file transfer functions (-) The magnesium alloy body of the 50D has been replaced with a polycarbonate body (-) 6.3 fps shooting is down to 5.3 fps (-) No lens microadjustment in 60D (+/-) Compact flash card slot has been changed to a SD card slot (+/-) Joystick replaced by directional pad 60D vs. T2i (+) 9 all cross-type AF points vs T2is 9 points w/ 1 center cross-type (+) 96%, .95 magnification pentaprism viewfinder vs T2is 95%, .87 magnification pentamirror viewfinder (+) Articulating screen (+) Wireless flash control (+) Horizontal electronic level (+) In camera processing (new RAW processing feature and in camera filter effects) (+) Top LCD screen (+) 5.3 fps vs 3.7 fps (+) Built in adjustable audio level capability in video 60D vs. 7D (+) Articulating screen (+) In camera processing (new RAW processing feature and in camera filter effects) (+) Control over max auto-ISO (+) Eye-Fi wifi file transfer functions (+) Built in adjustable audio level capability in video (-) 9 all cross-type AF points vs 7Ds 19 all cross-type points (-) Less AF features (such as Zone AF and Point Expansion) (-) Polycarbonate body vs 7Ds magnesium alloy (-) 96%, .95 magnification pentaprism viewfinder vs 7Ds 100%, 1.0x magnification pentaprism viewfinder (-) Transmissive LCD screen on focus screen on 7D (-) Only horizontal electronic level vs both horizontal and vertical level on 7D (-) 5.3 fps vs 7Ds 8 fps (-) No lens microadjustment in 60D (-) Shutter life of 100,000 vs 7Ds 150,000 (-) Dual DIGIC 4 processors in 7D (-) 3 custom settings in 7D; 1 custom settings in 60D (-) No PC Sync in 60D By comparing these features, its easy to see that the 60D fits well in the price point directly between the T2i and 7D, but of course, a large segment of previous 40D and 50D owners hoping for a true successor that isnt watered down to a certain price point will still undoubtedly be disappointed. Its easy to see in comparing the 60D to the 7D and also to Nikons newest offerings that Canon chose to limit functionality merely so that 60D sales didnt interfere with the 7D. In fact, if you are not completely entrenched in the Canon camp, I would also suggest looking at the new Nikon D7000. It looks like a spectacular camera for not much more than the 60D. I have not used it nor will I, so I cant comment on whether its a better choice or not. Even so, the quality of the 60D and new functionality offer enough new aspects that many customers will surely be happy with it. The articulating screen offers a way to attain tough shots that would have previously demanded extra equipment or odd contortions to reach. It also gives a great new avenue for video capture. Eye-fi wireless transfers work well and help out on those lazy days where you just want to set your camera down and have the work of transferring photos be done for you. Much of the in camera post-production comes off as being a little "gimmicky" to me, but having the option to add effects and process photos definitely doesnt detract from the camera. And many people who dont do much of their own post-processing after transfer to a computer will probably find the in camera RAW conversion and creative effects to be a nice addition. To me, it really came down to one major factor though: autofocus. I tend to do a lot of shooting involving fast moving subjects, so autofocus for my photography is key. The T1i and T2i were disappointing in this respect. 9 points with one cross-type in the T1i/T2i is respectable, but I found that I really could only rely on using the center point in AI servo mode to get many speedy subjects in focus. I purchased a 7D later, and was blown away by the accuracy. The options of using extra points for expansion, using autofocus zones, having 19 full cross-type points, superior subject tracking, and even the option for narrowing the points in spot autofocus really opened up new areas of photography for me. I get about 10x the amount of usable shots than I would with the T1i and T2i. The 60D isnt THAT good, but it is still much better than the T1i/T2i. In fact, just like with almost everything else about the camera, its just about right in between the T2i and 7D. Autofocus is fast and accurate, but there are still moments where subjects just move too fast and unfortunately, the 60D doesnt have the capabilities of the 7D. If you are deciding between the 7D and 60D, this is the area you should really look at, because this is the real difference between the 2 cameras. I chose the 7D, and then decided to give the 60D a try just to see if I made the right decision. I am happy with my 7D, but the 60D was no slouch. In my honest opinion, I think this is a huge sticking point for 40D and 50D owners though. The autofocus system needed to be updated from the previous 2 XXD editions. It has the same 9 cross-type points as the 40D and 50D did before it, and same functionality. To be a good upgrade for previous XXD users, it didnt have to be as good or better than the 7D, but it would have been nice for it to be better than the previous 2 models. Removing the magnesium alloy body and lens microadjustment really comes across as a slap in the face to some users who valued those aspects. I have to say that the body is much lighter, doesnt feel significantly less sturdy (even though it probably is less sturdy), and Ive never needed to use lens microadjustment though, so Im not overly upset about those aspects. I am not thrilled about the "non-update" of the autofocus system though. Now that I have handled and used all 3 cameras currently in Canons mid-range lineup, I can definitively say that they are all stellar cameras, but just made for different segments of the market. The T2i is an amazing starter camera and takes great photos for those who want to save a little extra money by going without some of the features they might not use. It might be the best budget option for those who dont take many action shots. For an extra few hundred dollars, the 60D adds some intriguing new features and seems to be aimed at the people who want a slightly higher-end camera than the T2i, but arent ready to shell out the money for the 7D. Its a great compromise, and to me, the main thing you are missing out on is superior autofocus capabilities. The 7D is more aimed towards the pro-sumer market who want/need a faster autofocus and overall faster, more rugged camera. Its hard to go wrong with any of them, but the 60D offers a great blend of features from both the T2i and 7D along with new features of its own for a price that wont completely break the bank. It seems to have accomplished everything it needed to do, except for one: giving the 40D and 50D owners an option for upgrade aside from the expensive 7D. If the 60D had kept the magnesium alloy body, lens microadjustment, or even just had a slightly better AF system compared to the 50D, I could easily give this camera 5 stars. As it is, I can only give it 4 stars because its a wonderful camera for a certain segment of customers looking for a new camera, but completely isolates another loyal customer base looking for their beloved XXD line to continue. Update: With the release of the T4i, Canons camera playing field has certainly changed. The minor changes to the T3i didnt warrant much more discussion on the 60D vs Rebel DSLRs than was already posted with the T2i, but the T4i brings some new interesting features to the table, puts picture quality and capture characteristics on par with the 60D, and in some respects ends up being a more appealing camera. Perhaps the most interesting new features on the T4i are that it now has autofocus during video while using Canons new STM lenses and has a touchscreen display. For those who want or need autofocus while shooting video, this is a big selling point for the new Rebel instead of the 60D. Granted, its not going to live up to the snappy autofocus you get when not using live-view mode or that when using specialized video cameras, but Canon did a great job with it over all. In my mind, it is a desirable feature to have access to even if you prefer to manual focus video most of the time. The T4i also upped the Rebel lines bar to include the 5 fps and 9 cross type autofocus points already found on the 60D. So back to the question at hand though: If you are choosing between the 60D and the T4i, which one do you go for? The 60D still has some major advantages in my opinion, and it really comes down to the better camera body of the 60D vs. the new video features of the T4i. With the 60D, you get the large dial on the back of the camera for rotating through images and selections and you also get the top LCD. The 60D still has a better, brighter viewfinder and can shoot at 1/8000 of a second opposed to the max 1/4000 of a second that the T4i can do. If those aspects dont concern you and you desperately want video autofocus, go for the T4i instead. Its a great camera. If, on the other hand, you would like a slightly more professional body and can live without video autofocus, the 60D is a great choice too. My personal choice still goes to the 7D if you can afford the upgrade though - the autofocus and 8 fps on it really put it in another level.

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Im an experienced amateur photographer who does professional video work. Last year, I purchased a Rebel T3i to use for both photography and video. After doing some research, I decided that the T3i was probably the best value in DSLR video and I was (and still am) very happy with that camera. However, the recent price drops on the 60D (due to the announcement of the 70D) inspired me to trade in my T3i and upgrade from the "Rebel" line of DSLRs. Im incredibly happy I did so and would whole-heartedly recommend the 60D to anyone serious about photography or DSLR video. Its important to remember that the 60D has the exact same cropped sensor as the T2i, T3i, T4i, and T5i Rebel cameras. That means that the quality of photos and videos produced by the cameras will be virtually identical – and very good. In the right hands, any one of those cameras can capture stunning photos and HD video. The difference is largely in the quality and layout of the body, as well as the smarter, faster focusing system in the 60D. The 60D feels great in the hands and – although it isnt advertised – there is apparently much better weather-sealing in the 60D than there is in the Rebels. It has an articulating LCD screen, like the T3i (a real plus for video work), but it lacks the touch functionality of the T4i and T5i. Where the 60D really shines is in its manual controls. Instead of having to hunt through menus or use combo-button presses, the 60D puts a ton of controls right at your fingertips. The buttons are laid out in a fairly logical way and I became familiar with the workings of the camera pretty quickly. The 60D is a camera that really wants to be used in "manual" mode. If youre the kind of photographer that sticks mostly to automatic settings – which is fine! – this might not be the camera for you. I actually love having the digital readout on the top of the camera, which displays the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and more. Having that info on the top of the camera means that the rear LCD screen can remain off until you want to use the menus, check the electronic level (which is kind of rad), or review your pics. This saves battery life (at least in photo mode) and is great for sunny conditions that make LCD screens tough to see. Speaking of battery life, the 60D uses higher capacity batteries than the Rebel line. Theyre a little heavier and a little pricier, but at nearly double the battery life, this is well worth it. I have a few nitpicks with the camera, although nothing very substantial. It lacks some of the features, particularly for video, introduced into some of the more recent Rebels. It doesnt have electronic video zoom (introduced in the T3i) and it cant autofocus during video recording (introduced in the T4i). As I mentioned earlier, the LCD screen is touch-free. Probably my biggest gripe is that it is weirdly inconvenient to switch the camera from photo-mode to video-mode. Video mode is down at the very bottom of the mode dial, below all the "creative" modes (Sports! Face! Flower!) that I frankly wish werent even there. Going from "M" manual photo mode to video mode requires you to depress the dial lock and turn the thing almost completely around. The T4i switches into video mode from the power switch, instead of the mode dial, which just makes so much more sense. Its a tiny gripe, but a persistent one. I also desperately wish that Canon would make a headphone jack standard issue on their video-equipped DSLRs for audio monitoring, but this is apparently wishful thinking. Theres one on the 5D Mark III, but right now thats five times the price of the 60D. Going from the T3i to the 60D has felt like switching from a consumer-grade camera to a professional one. While I dont expect it to capture drastically better images, it has absolutely encouraged me to take ownership of the cameras manual controls and become a better, more knowledgeable photographer. Now that the 60Ds successor, the 70D, has been announced, Im sure that many people are wondering if the 60D is still worth it. The 70D will have an improved sensor (the first new Canon ASP-C sensor in years), and more video features, such as autofocus and digital zoom (still no headphone jack, though). However, the 70D will also sell for around double what the 60D is currently selling for. As far as Im concerned, as a photographer and video user on a budget, that means that there has never been a better time to pick up a 60D.

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This was a real bargain to me, a near-professional high quality camera body to replace my old Canon film body. I am retaining the film 50mm lens for now and using it in manual mode to test it. So far I have had no problem with it for still and for videos, much better resolution vids than the point and click cams I have. My next purchase will be a canon automatic telephoto but I already get what is in effect a 7X telephoto with the old 50mm adapted to the 60D, which is perfect for pets, kids, and some sports. Since I am familiar with manually focusing and setting speed and aperture on the film Canon it is not an issue that it is not automatic and the quality is really great but especially at this price.

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I think the Canon 60d is a magnificent camera. It takes great images in even the most difficult settings. It has a wonderful grip which makes it very comfortable and secure to hold. It does not weigh too much with the basic 18-55 kit lens but with longer zooms it is a handful. It focuses very quickly, stores the image quickly on a high speed SD card (you buy) The high speed capture allows 5 shots per second. The many options available make even the most difficult to take images, possible. I rated this camera 5 stars because it is a true 5 star super Rebel camera that has everything any non pro could ever want. It is missing some of the great new features that have been added to the Canon T4i and newer Canon T5i like the fabulous touch screen LCD. You do get a full user manual unlike the standard rebels. This is very helpful and it is small enough to carry in a dSLR bag. Right now, Amazon is selling the body for almost half the price I paid for my original Rebel and it is an good bargain. Many will be tempted to buy the newer T4i model which now is about the same price. The t4i may have some newer features and better video performance so it may be a very difficult decision for some to choose which way to go. If you are a beginner looking at this camera for your first purchase of a dSLR, may not a good choice. I would stick with an entry level Canon or Nikon dSLR camera because it will take just as good images and be much easier to learn the basics. I think you can learn faster with a more simplified interface and lighter camera. If you find you really love photography, it will be much easier the second time around to choose a more competent camera which will have more features and will probably cost less to buy in the future. The Canon 60d matched with a nice lens, is possible to get superior images of macro objects, very low light scenes with image quality not possible with the smaller sensor cameras. However, I must admit now, I will not take this camera on a trip because of total weight with lenses and body. This is always a personal decision everyone has to make when packing for a trip. I find a super zoom (bridge camera) like the Canon SX50, or the Panasonic FZ200 and subcompacts such as Canon S95 or S110 are easier to take anywhere and allow more candid photos. Things I like about the Canon 60D which are not available with the entry level Ti series. 1. Extra info LCD display on top, which gives extra helpful info but not easy to see in dark setting,it has weak light which helps a little 2. Great button placement and many individual controls for ISO, Drive, exposure, etc 3. Better and brighter viewfinder with pentaprism. 4. Wireless flash control, more flash options 5. Q menu allow quick change of functions... T4i has this with touch screen 6. Longer battery life. Can take a huge number of images, 500 plus before needing to recharge battery 7. Many more custom settings allowed. They can easily be reset 8. Electronic level helps keep horizon level, helpful especially when on tripod. 9. Many extra features and options in the menu system. 10. Better grip, camera is larger and easier to handle especially with a larger lens. 11. Better build quality than entry level or ti series. 12. Some weather sealing but not pro level. More robust than ti series but less than pro models which have magnesium frames. This doesnt have it. 13. Very fast focusing and display 14. Many more options than available to entry level models. Things not so great. I am struggling to find complaints, so here are a few weak arguments. 1. 60D has not been updated for almost 2 years. a new model will be out soon. 2. Camera is larger and heavier than ti series. 3. The LCD display is difficult to view in some lighting situations, could be larger 4. No touch screen, gps, or other newer features found on newer cameras which might be on upgraded model at a higher price. Canon wisely steered this model to the Amateur who wants a little more Camera but does not need a professional model with Magnesium frame and fully weatherproofed with a giant sensor, extra processors, and a camera that can be used and abused. The 60D uses a poly-carbonate frame like the other rebels. Its strong enough and tough enough for 97% of us taking pictures. It probably has enough to satisfy anyone maybe even the pros who may chose to buy it as a second or third body. If you are trying to decide whether to buy this camera over the T4i, the T4i has the edge because it has been upgraded to have many newer capabilities beyond the Canon 60D. The advanced amateur, semipro, and pro would probably be better off with the 60D primarily because of better ergonomics, build quality, weather sealing, better viewfinder and more customization. The novice photographer to advanced photographer might be better of with the T41 with its many great new features. Both take great images with a good lens (glass). What lenses to buy? The kit lens is OK starter lens and has the advantage of cost and lightness. Choosing a good lens is probably the most difficult decision in photography. The kit lenses offered by Canon for their cameras are a good start. Buying the Canon F1.8 is a no brainer because its the best buy in lenses today. This review is about the Canon 60D but I mentioned the T4i which I also bought. You may wonder which I like better. I havent decided yet because they are both great cameras and you cant go wrong with either. I hope this review has helped in your decision making.

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Though an older model, the Canon 60D is still by far one of the great models for beginners. if you are coming from a T5 or T6 this would be the next step. 18MP and a fast shutter speed allow you to make memories. This is the camera I have all my photographers use as they start out while working for me. Its a good body to start with

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This is the third 60D Ive owned. They are simply great cameras now at a very attractive price point. I abuse mine pretty hard shooting ten to twenty music festivals a year and these guys are champs. Paired with good glass you can shoot great video and create intense images. There are plenty of folks who talk about specs my main focus is to say these bodies have been true work horses for me. Reliable, problem free, they dont only get the job done they keep doing it for years. My oldest 60D I bought when these first came out and we are still using it today. Some folks probably wonder why I havent upgraded to something newer. Because these still get my job done, Im not afraid to use and abuse them, I know all the menus and buttons by heart, they feel right in my hand and Canon simply hasnt made enough advances to warrant me spending three times as much for the newer models.

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_____________________________________________ Instant update!!!! I forgot to mention that this camera also shoots Video!!! Yes, I have always wanted a means to shoot video when photographing birds and well, I have never had a video camera with me when I needed one. Well, now I do! In the past, when out shooting (photographing) birds I have had an instance of rarity that I could not keep up with shooting still pictures. "You are photographing song birds and notice that a coopers hawk lands in a tree nearby". Yeah, you can use rapid fire to hopefully capture the "bird of prey getting its prey" but odds are, you will miss it all... With video capabilities, you go from stills to video in a second and capture the entire footage. _____________________________________________ This model replaces a Canon Rebel Xsi, purchased in 2008, that also replaced a Canon Rebel XT purchased in 2005. Up until 2005, I had owned numerous digital cameras, but none of them had the diversity that a film camera possessed. So, I decided to make the move to a DSLR, and have had no regrets what so ever. Yeah, the price is higher, but what you save on film erases the cost difference in just one year if you take pictures like I do. I use mine for a variety of photos, but mainly, I love to photograph wildlife! Invest in a 200 mm or even better a 400 mm lens and you can get very up close and personal with even the most skittish hummingbird. For wildlife, you also need to invest, but its not a must if you use a tripod, in an "IS" piece of glass. The "IS" stands for "image Stabilizer". It compensates for your hand shake. Trust me, its worth the investment. With the past models, I have found that using the "manual" settings worked best with me for the best shots. With the 60D, so far, the "auto" setting gets me really breath-taking photos! I cant wait to see what I can do with the manual settings, but as with any new camera, the learning curve is steep. I also love taking photos of pets and so far, I am not disappointed at all shooting pictures inside. The MP increase from the Xsi is almost 50 percent, and it shows! All of my old lenses work on this model and also, my memory cards do too.... The battery is another beast. Seems that Canon has an evil plot to keep changing the battery design so that you can not use a battery from an older model in a newer model. So, if you plan on keeping up with the Jones, then dont buy a lot of extra batteries as if/when you upgrade cameras, you will not be able to carry them with you. Other than that, this is a great camera and for a really good price here on Amazon compared to every other place I have shopped.

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As a professional photographer with many years of experience, I used my 60D recently under rather demanding conditions of dust, moisture and exposure to the elements. The 60D performed well, especially for the price. The camera is a very good value. What I like most about it is the combination of the articulating screen and "live view." This combination allows me to make images that would otherwise require elaborate contortions which Im not interested in doing and perhaps not agile enough to do at this point in life. I dont have to get down on my stomach or elevate myself to get the "right" angle. The articulating screen and live view make photographing, especially unusual angles, much easier. Im planning to buy a second 60D as a backup to my current 60D. Nice job, Canon. I did buy a second 60D as a backup. I had one problem with the 1st 60D. The rubber grip came loose in several places and had to be replaced. It is apparently a design or engineering problem. The camera repair station guy said many cameras eventually have their grips come loose. The 60D was my first and only camera with this problem. But again, the articulating screen is a "must" for me so Im keeping the 5 star rating. If they had a 4.5 star rating, Id probably give the 60D that rating because of the rubber grip coming loose in several spots.

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Im a Nikon still shooter (Nikon D700) but bought this because I wanted to try my hand at video and Nikon is not quite as far along as Canon in the HDSLR game. It isnt fair to compare this to a full-frame camera like the Nikon D700 and I dont want to give the wrong impression, but the images from this camera are not as nice as from the D700. There seems to be more noise at lower ISOs when shooting RAW. The focus system is not as quick. But again, this is not a fair comparison. If you want to shoot still images and this camera is at about the top of your budget, it will create fantastic images! If youre a pro and an additional $1500 is justified, you can get slightly better images out of any of the full-frame DSLRs. But if video is important to you, this camera is really impressive. The video files are really impressive with a stunning ability to create defocused backgrounds. The file is clean and artifact free, mostly noise free until you get up into the 1000 ISO range and higher. Even then, the file is still quite usable. I use the fotodiox adapter to use my older Nikkor lenses on this body and they work brilliantly (20mm f/2.8D and 105mm f/1.8 AiS.) If I could only keep either the Nikon D700 or the Canon 60D, Id choose the Canon because it is more versatile (stills and video) and the stills are almost as nice as those produced on the D700.

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This is my second Canon SLR camera. My first was a Rebel Xsi which I really was happy with, but still was quite perplexed with how to operate all of the features. I only have had my 60D for a day now and find that it is actually easier to use. The layout of the controls seems much more user friendly and logical in their location. I have only taken a few stills and cant believe the image contrast and vibrancy in colors. I really like the quick access button to see real time changes that can be made to the image before taking the shot or video recording. The feel of the camera seems to be much more comfortable and professional than the Xsi. I did a lot of research before ordering the 60D on my decision to upgrade and found that by selling my Xsi on eBay and purchasing the 60D on Amazon it costs me about $300 to make the swap for the bodies only. I had several Canon lenses already that were perfect in the transition to the 60D. I also wanted a SLR camera that could do video which the Xsi would not do. That alone makes it much more logical to make the move to the 60D. I can hardly wait until I can find some worthwhile subject matter to record with the video so purchased a high speed SD card in anticipation of the need for both speed and storage. I would highly recommend the 60D to anyone considering a consumer grade camera near the top end of what might be considered a professional model.

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