A couple of months ago we talked about the Canon EOS 1300D, probably one of the most popular options in the entry-level DSLR space thanks to its price. However, the Japanese manufacturer is convinced it can offer an even more economical option in the future, and the result is the Canon EOS 4000D. While the camera has construction details that won't seduce the most demanding photographers, the fact of acquiring a 2018 DSLR at the price of a camera that has been on shelves for two years will definitely get the attention of beginners.
Several sites dedicated exclusively to cameras have spoken of a “lack of innovation” in recent models because they share many features, and sensor size tends to be similar. So, what options do manufacturers have to keep advancing and attract more customers? The first option is to reduce costs, but how viable is that? How much can you cut from a DSLR without losing its identity? One way to find out is to work on a model already considered “low budget,” and that's exactly what we see in the Canon EOS 4000D.
Canon EOS 4000D: The New “First DSLR” for Thousands of Users
The Canon EOS 4000D debuted last February 25 and presents a series of specifications that we can quickly associate with previous Canon cameras. Its sensor is 18 megapixels, identical to the EOS 1300D, but one step below the Canon EOS 200D and the Canon EOS 750D. Its ISO sensitivity goes from 100 to 6,400 with a Boost mode equivalent to ISO 12,800, and in terms of shutter speed it works between 1/4000 and 30 seconds. The LCD screen on the Canon EOS 4000D has no touch support, is not articulating, and reduces its size to 2.7 inches with only 230,000 dots of resolution, perhaps the biggest cut of the list. Canon decided to reuse the DIGIC 4+ as the image processor, autofocus has 9 points, and in the viewfinder (which you'll use a lot) we find a pentamirror design with 95% coverage.
As expected, in the construction of the Canon EOS 4000D we register extensive use of plastic, even in the lens mount mechanism. Canon's hypothesis here is that most users will use the 18-55 that comes in the kit, so there won't be too much interchange, but if it had serious wear problems, it wouldn't be there in the first place. In its “optimization” process, Canon turned the EOS 4000D into one of the easiest cameras to use. Its mode dial has 14 entries, with eight basic modes (Intelligent, Creative, Portraits, Landscapes, Close-up, Sports, Food, and Night Portraits), four special modes (the classic M, Av, Tv, and P), video mode, and of course, the off position (for more details, consult the manual). Image quality is very solid, although it's known that it likes to overexpose a bit, and action scenes aren't very favored with its Burst mode of 3 FPS, but these are aspects that can be compensated. Video support goes up to 1080p30 (no surprises here), and wireless connectivity is limited to Wi-Fi, without NFC or Bluetooth Low Energy.
This camera serves as an effective replacement for the Canon EOS 1300D, but leaves some elements by the wayside and reduces others. Those adjustments are directly reflected in the price: 360 euros with an 18-55 lens included. That number is very attractive, but the Canon EOS 4000D has a tough rival to beat... and it's the very camera it seeks to replace. The EOS 1300D costs the same without the cuts, and if you can find it, it might be a superior option. However, the Canon EOS 4000D has time on its side, and most likely the price will drop even further, not to mention that its potential expands with a balanced list of accessories.
Accessories for Canon EOS 4000D
We might make an exception or two as we progress through this recommended list of accessories for the Canon EOS 4000D, but I bet the owners of this camera will see cost-benefit as a critical aspect to follow, and we'll do our best not to disappoint.
Batteries and Power
Canon played it safe here and decided to keep the LP-E10 module, which translates into good availability of alternative batteries and chargers. The Gloxy battery (SKU “0712550135,VDTS-4604-CH-VDTS-41”) delivers 1020 mAh, a capacity slightly higher than a third of the original cost. On the other hand, the Gloxy 2-in-1 hybrid charger will allow you to keep your batteries at maximum level both at home and in the car, thanks to its cigarette lighter adapter.
Compatible Flashes
The ISO sensitivity of the Canon EOS 4000D wasn't hit too hard by the manufacturer's cut, but the law of “if there's no light, there's no photo” remains. Sooner or later, the small flash of the DSLR will need help, and nothing better than coming to the rescue with a Gloxy GX-F1000, which includes a foot, pouch, diffuser, and 20 gels to modify color. If you prefer something more compact and economical, then it's not a bad idea to go down a step and get the Gloxy TR-985, with diffuser, pouch, and two years of warranty.
Tripods and Supports
Fortunately, the search for a tripod for the Canon EOS 4000D is not complicated. The market responded wonderfully, and this reaches practically all DSLRs from the Japanese manufacturer. At this point it makes no sense to go against the Gloxy GX-T6662A tripod. It supports a maximum load of ten kilograms, and extends more than one and a half meters, and remains stable at 70 euros. In contrast, in the category of cheaper and more compact supports we find the Clampod Takeway T1. It doesn't look like much at first glance, but it withstands 40 kilograms, and it grips onto almost anything.
Backpacks and Cases
The plastic design of the Canon EOS 4000D doesn't make it particularly robust against the whims of dust and humidity, and that means that buying a backpack or case should be a priority. The good news is that this won't cost you more than 45 euros. The Gloxy Pro AW backpack is a great option if you want ample storage capacity, while the Lowepro Toploader Zoom 55 AW II bag is ideal if you feel more comfortable carrying the camera on your shoulder.
Lenses
Lenses are seen as budget destroyers, but I disagree. Lenses are investments, and as you grow in photography, you'll do nothing but rotate bodies with them. Once you're ready to buy a high-profile lens, remember that the Irix Blackstone and Firefly carry an excellent price-performance ratio (SKU “0713043555,0713043559”). As an alternative, you can add the Tamron 18-200mm XR Di II VC and the Gloxy 500-1000mm f/6.3 with duplicator (SKU “0712710391,0713562037”), two very balanced and versatile lenses, for just over 400 euros.
Kits and Special Offers
The best for last, as some say, and when the idea is to maximize the budget after having bought the Canon EOS 4000D, the most efficient strategy is to look for kits with multiple accessories. The 15-in-1 package (SKU “15PDSLR-Kit62,DI2904”) continues to be among our favorites because it attacks on all fronts: cleaning, filters, lenses, protective cap, an excellent Delta Fancier 400A bag, and the aforementioned Takeway T1, for 180 euros. Now, if you want to get your feet wet in the world of product photography, you can add a small 40 cm portable studio that includes two lights, four colored backgrounds, and a camera mount.
And so we close a new chapter in our photographic adventure. The Canon EOS 4000D has been classified as the cheapest DSLR to date. Technically that's not true yet, but it will be. Cheap means accepting some compromises, and if you don't agree with them, the best thing is to add 100 euros to your budget and aim in the direction of the Nikon D3400. On the other hand, I think Canon is on the right track, and the EOS 4000D will be the first of many “ultra-budget” DSLRs. Watch its evolution closely, and if the price clicks, then go ahead. Good luck!
