Best SLR Cameras

Canon EOS Rebel K2(Around $135 body only, $200 lens kit)

For a bargain price, the EOS Rebel K2 is the best budget single-lens reflex (SLR) camera according to both professional and user reviews. Compared with earlier Rebel budget models, the K2 has an improved pop-up flash, better autofocus and exposure metering and an LCD display on the back. At 1.5 frames per second (fps), film advance is slower than more expensive cameras, but the plastic body keeps the K2's weight to a comfortable 12 ounces.


Canon EOS Rebel T2 (Around $190, body only, Around $260 with lens kit)

For an entry-level or family camera, reviews and owners agree that the Rebel T2 is worth the price difference over the Canon EOS Rebel K2. The T2 has all the features of the K2 but adds a metal lens mount, depth-of-field (DOF) preview and several other features. With shutter speeds as fast as 1/4000 second and 3 fps film advance (2.8 fps for continuous shooting), it captures better action shots.


Canon EOS Elan 7N (Around $300 body only, $410 with lens)

More money buys more features, durability and convenience. Reviews recommend the top-rated Elan 7N for most users, with its metal body (the Rebel K2 and T2 have plastic bodies), more comfortable viewfinder, mirror lockup, backlit LCD screen, 13 custom functions and the option of silent film rewind. Autofocus and shutter speed are faster than those of the Rebel T2, and the film advance of 4 fps nearly matches more expensive pro models. A related model, the Elan 7NE, has eye-control, which tracks the movement of your cornea.


Nikon F100 (Around $940, body only)

For a rugged, weatherproofed body and 100% viewfinder, reviews recommend the pro-level Nikon F100. It can focus in dimmer light than the Canon EOS Rebel T2 and Elan 7N, offering more precise spot metering as well -- plus interchangeable focusing screens and 22 custom functions. Focus tracking and film advance can be as fast as 4.5 fps, or completely silent at 3 fps. You can download shooting data to a PC, so you don't have to record notes by hand.


Nikon F6 (Around $2050 body only)

This brand new flagship model has already earned one award as the best SLR camera of 2005. To the Nikon F100's features, the F6 adds mirror lockup along with improved weatherproofing and autofocus, plus 1,005 metering segments. Designed for ultra-quiet operation, the F6 also minimizes the vibration that can blur pictures. It has 41 custom settings and a customizable button as well. Shooting speed is 5.5 fps. With an optional MB-40 Battery Pack ($320), you can shoot at 8 fps.