canon 350d replacement for autofocus

[sweijenberg]

Dear photographers,

I have used a 350d for the past 10 years but recently I have been noticing that the autofocus isn't doing great. I use the center point focus, but it seems to be off randomly, especially in low light. Lens is a Canon EFS 17-55 2.8 and I was afraid that it might be off (because the problem is less apparent with my 50mm 1.8 although still not perfect), but when I went to a local shop they checked my camera/lens and said the lens was fine, and that the old 350d body just wasn't accurate enough, and recommended to replace it.

So now i'm looking into a body upgrade. They had a 550d laying around and I played around with it for a bit, it seemed to do great. However, I wanted to ask what you guys would recommend me. I read online that the 550d isn't necessarily better at focussing. I don't really care about the number of focus points since I almost exclusively shoot center point focus.

I had in mind a budget of around 200 euros, but if there is a significant improvement to be had I'll consider investing up to €700. They asked 270 for the 550d+grip (missing battery cover).

Things I'm hoping to get out of the update:
- accurate autofocus in low light
- better iso performance
- better dynamic range
- more pixels
(- not too large body)

Thanks for reading, hope to hear from you!

Sietse

 

[PitaDaVespa]

I'd say, although not certain, that the 350D AF could be tuned/calibrated but, even if it could, it could cost some money, and that camera is so old that it may not worth it.
With 200 euros, I'd prefer a 40D or 50D all day, instead of a 550D.

That's my humble and short opinion.

Good luck with whatever you choose.

 

[Jannyfox]

1 The shop probably told you the camera was at fault to try to get some money off you for a replacement
2 Autofocus doesn't perform at its best in low light but some lenses are better than others
3 I wouldn't replace a 350D with a 550D. I have a 550D. It's a decent camera (as long as you know its limitations) and an improvement on the 350D but it's at least 5 years old now. Technology on the xxxD range has moved on a long way. For the money you're prepared to spend there's a lot better out there.

I'm pretty certain (without getting the manual out) there is no AF adjustment on the 550 so there won't be any on the 350

 

[sweijenberg]

Thanks both of you, appreciate the input and it gave me some ideas! Take care!

 

[Pmba]

I went from a 350d to a 70d a couple of years back. If your budget can stretch, highly recommend it. Difference is like night/day. Used prices may come down a bit too, now the 80d is established. Only marginally larger body than the 350d.