The 650D is a nice update for the Rebel line and erases some of the 60D advantages (9 point cross-type AF, 5 FPS sped), but it only exceeds the 60D with the silent video AF feature and DIGIC5 processor (although I haven't seen any comparisons of the latter that indicate that the 650D might be faster). The touch screen seems a little gimmicky to me and could be an improvement if it is done really well.

But overall I think the 60D retains most of the advantages that makes it superior to the Rebel line, which is the camera body itself, not the electronic guts which have always been pretty close in capability. The ergonomic advantage of the rear command dial and top LCD are great. Additionally:

  • Size: The 60D fits my large hands better. By comparison the Rebels feel like small, cheap plastic toys.
  • 60D's pentaprism viewfinder is larger and much brighter than the Rebel's pentamirrors
  • 60D's maximum 1/8000 shutter speed
  • Weather/sand protection: the 60D is hardly weatherproof but its construction is far more robust and it uses more gaskets and seals than the Rebel


On paper the 60D has never compared well to the top Rebels. You have to handle the two cameras to appreciate how much better the 60D really is. Having AF video, the only new Rebel feature that much interests me, is not enough to make me want to downgrade. If you don't think the 60D is worth the extra ~$100, I'd advise you to wait for the next generation XXD.