If you're thinking that we've already covered too many entry-level cameras, the answer will always be 'no'. Even if their technical specs are similar, availability and price can vary widely between regions, and our goal is to bring as many enthusiasts as possible into this photographic adventure. What camera is next on the list? None other than the Canon EOS 200D, with a compact design, very lightweight, and a series of controls that will let you master it in minutes.
The strategy of camera manufacturers is quite clear: satisfy all the requirements of professionals, while also taking some of the best features from their higher-end models to tempt the entry market with more affordable options. That might give the impression of an arms race even between cameras of the same brand, but with each new generation we receive 'a little more' at a lower cost, which we wholeheartedly welcome. One of the best examples Canon has to offer is the EOS 200D, which hit the shelves in July 2017 as a companion to the Canon EOS 6D Mark II.
Canon EOS 200D: A Solid Package of Features at an Excellent Price
If we have to think of a direct rival for the Canon EOS 200D, that rival would probably be the Nikon D3400 we studied closely in late May, but today I dare say the EOS 200D is a step above. It uses a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, includes a DIGIC 7 image processor, 9 focus points, Dual Pixel system for autofocus in live view mode, and a 3-inch articulating LCD touchscreen (1.04 million dots) that enables greater control in awkward angles. The D3400 adds two extra focus points and longer battery life, but the presence of Dual Pixel, the articulating touchscreen, and expanded connectivity with WiFi, Bluetooth, and NFC tend to tip the scales in favor of the Canon EOS 200D.
In terms of controls, it would be difficult to make a simpler DSLR than this without sacrificing features. It has a single mode dial, which an experienced photographer will surely see as a limitation, but if it's your first time shooting with a DSLR, set the dial to Auto and let the camera do the heavy lifting for now. On the other hand, if you want to dive headfirst into manual mode, you'll discover an ISO sensitivity from 100 to 25,600 with a Boost of 51,200, and a shutter speed between 1/4000 and 30 seconds. Several colleague sites have noted that the Canon EOS 200D is a bit conservative with the shutter in Auto mode, so if the plan is to photograph moving objects or sports scenes, put the camera in Tv mode and adjust the speed.
Canon understood that one of the most important desires among beginner photographers is to share their images on social media with ease, and that's where wireless support comes in. The official Camera Connect app turns your smartphone into a remote control for the EOS 200D, and pairing devices with NFC and Bluetooth is a matter of seconds. The latest feedback available for Camera Connect reveals that it still needs to fix some aspects, but its last update was last week, and there has been progress. Any additional questions can be resolved by visiting the general manual, or the WiFi manual (don't be fooled by the 172 pages, it's easy to follow).
To close this section, the Canon EOS 200D doesn't bring big surprises in its video modes, and it will fulfill what you ask as long as you don't need to go beyond 1080p60. Once again, 4K is notably absent, but it's not a very big weakness (the Nikon D3400 is in the same situation), and I figure that feature will be part of entry-level cameras in a couple of generations at most. At the moment, the Canon EOS 200D has a fairly reasonable price, and for 449 euros you'll get its standard configuration with an 18-55mm lens included. That's enough to get started, however, the camera will give you a much more complete experience if you add the right accessories.
The Canon EOS 200D is also available on Amazon.
Accessories for the Canon EOS 200D
It's easy to get tempted by an excessive purchase of accessories for any camera, but when taking our first steps with an entry-level DSLR, logic demands squeezing the most out of the cost-benefit ratio, and that's where our suggestions point. Your Canon EOS 200D can improve a lot with very reasonable investments, and we invite you to consider some of them.
Flashes and Lighting
Unlike high-speed scenes that require extra attention, one of the Canon EOS 200D's strongest points is portrait photography and other relatively static situations. However, it would be a mistake to expect the camera to do a good job without enough light. In the world of flashes, it's very hard to go against a robust option like the Gloxy GX-F1000N (product code '0713633211,VisicoFLPAR'), especially at 150 euros, which includes 20 color gels, diffuser, stand, gift bag, and free shipping. On the other hand, the studio kit based on the Visico VL-400 Plus flash, a diffuser umbrella, and a stand is an excellent complement for your portrait and beauty sessions.
Bags and Backpacks
Finding a good backpack for the Canon EOS 200D shouldn't be difficult, and once again, the folks at Gloxy come to the rescue with their Pro AW series. The Model 10 is a good starting point, with space for the camera with one lens mounted, and two additional lenses or flashes. It can also carry a tripod, and the AW cover provides an extra layer of protection against the elements. Alternatively, if you want a compact solution that lets you carry the camera, a couple of batteries, and some personal effects, then you don't need to go beyond the Lowepro Toploader Zoom 55, which has a padded interior, shoulder strap, and AW waterproof cover, just like the backpack. (Product code: 'GloxyPRO,0712001273')
Batteries and Power
The Canon EOS 200D can extend its battery life to around 650 shots using the optical viewfinder, but that number drops significantly when you enable live view mode. In other words, you'll need a good battery backup if your sessions get very long. The compatible module is the LP-E17, which currently costs around 55 euros. Now, the camera doesn't have the ability to recharge its batteries via USB. If you're only using two batteries, you can keep one in the EOS 200D while the other stays in the included charger, but if you have more, it's not a bad idea to add a secondary LC-E17 charger. Just like light, it's better to have leftover energy than to run out. (Product code: 'IM712557944,IM712557947')
Lenses
Lenses represent a complex investment that not all of us can face at the beginning, but I guarantee that as you grow as a photographer, you'll find they're worth every penny. Our two main recommendations for enthusiasts and professionals alike are the Irix Firefly and the Irix Blackstone, unbeatable among wide-angle lenses when considering their price-performance ratio. At the same time, you can expand your horizons by adding the Tamron 18-200 XR Di II VC, a solid all-rounder that can be used as a wide-angle, telephoto, and almost anything in between. And to finish, something special: A Samyang 650-1300 cannon that begs for a chance in your astrophotography and distant nature sessions. (Product codes: '0713043559,0713043555' and '0712710391,SAM650CANON')
Tripods and Supports
The articulating screen on the Canon EOS 200D is a very valuable asset when taking photos from unusual angles or positions, but even though we don't like to admit it, our hand stability has limits. Fortunately, adding a tripod to the list of accessories isn't traumatic at all. The Gloxy GX-T6662A Plus is a great option, with a maximum load of 10 kilograms, a convenient hook on the bottom, and anti-slip legs. Another very useful option is the Takeway T1 clamp, ideal for improvising anchor points in circumstances that don't allow a traditional tripod. In fact, nothing prevents both accessories from working together... (Product code: '0713869670,0712163592')
Special Kits
All good so far, but I know some beginner photographers out there need to squeeze every last bit of steam from their budgets, and here at NeoTeo we're not going to abandon them. For just 180 euros, this special 15-piece kit will give you access to the aforementioned Takeway T1, an excellent Delta 400A bag, two lenses (wide-angle and macro), four filters, and a cleaning kit that should never be missing. If you still want to buy a lens, Gloxy offers a unique kit composed of the GX-T6662A tripod and a robust 500mm telephoto lens. (Product code: '15PDSLR-Kit62,GLOXY500MMGXCANON')
We've reached the end, but only for today. The photographic pilgrimage never ends, and the Canon EOS 200D is a formidable addition to our reviews. Its features are exactly at the level we expected, and the same can be said for the price. If you have 450 euros burning a hole in your pocket and want to start shooting right away, your best options today are the Canon EOS 200D (with a slight current price advantage) or the Nikon D3400. Good luck!
