Differences between T2i and T3i
Contents
T2i vs. T3i
The Canon EOS Rebel T2i (known as the EOS 550D in Europe and EOS Kiss X4 in Japan) and the Canon EOS Rebel T3i (EOS 600D/Kiss X5) are two digital single-lens reflex cameras from Canon's entry-level lineup.[1][2] Released approximately one year apart, with the T2i arriving in 2010 and the T3i in 2011, both cameras share many core components but differ in several key features that cater to different user needs.[3]
At their heart, both the T2i and T3i use the same 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor.[4][5][3] This results in nearly identical still image quality between the two models when shooting in RAW format.[4] Both cameras also share the same ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 12800), shutter speed range, and 9-point autofocus system.[4][3] Video capabilities are also similar, with both cameras offering 1080p HD video recording at various frame rates.[1]
The primary distinctions lie in their external hardware and internal software features. The T3i introduced a vari-angle (articulating) LCD screen, a feature not present on the T2i's fixed display.[4] Additionally, the T3i includes a built-in wireless flash controller, allowing it to trigger compatible external flashes without the need for an accessory that the T2i would require.[4]
Comparison Table
[4]| LCD Screen[4]| Wireless Flash Control[4]| Weight (Body Only)| Category | T2i | T3i |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 18.0 MP APS-C CMOS[5] | 18.0 MP APS-C CMOS[5] |
| Image Processor | DIGIC 4[1] | DIGIC 4 |
| ISO Range | 100–6400 (Expandable to 12800) | [4] 100–6400 (Expandable to 12800) |
| 3.0-inch fixed | 3.0-inch articulating (vari-angle) | |
| Requires external transmitter | Built[4]-in | |
| Video Features | 1080p HD video | 1080p HD video with digital zoom |
| 530 g | 570 g | |
| Release Date | February 2010 | February[3] 2011 |
Articulating Screen
The most significant physical difference between the two models is the T3i's 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD screen. This screen can be flipped out and tilted, which allows for easier framing of shots at high or low angles when using Live View for photos or while recording video. The T2i features a static 3.0-inch LCD screen that is fixed to the camera body. The addition of the articulating mechanism contributes to the T3i being slightly heavier and deeper than the T2i.
[4][3]= Wireless Flash =
The T3i was the first camera in the Canon Rebel line to feature an integrated wireless Speedlite transmitter. This system allows the camera's built-in pop-up flash to act as a commander, triggering compatible off-camera Canon Speedlites. T2i users can achieve wireless flash control, but it requires purchasing a separate accessory, such as the Canon ST-E2 transmitter or a compatible Speedlite that can act as a master unit.
[4]= Software and Other Features =
Canon included several new software-based features in the T3i. A "Video Snapshot" mode allows users to create short video clips that can be assembled in-camera. It also[4] introduced "Creative Filters" like Grainy B/W, Soft Focus, and Toy Camera Effect that can be applied to JPEG images after they are taken. For beginners, the T3i added a Feature Guide that provides brief on-screen explanations of camera settings. Another[4] addition was a digital zoom function for video recording, which crops the sensor to provide a 3x to 10x zoom while maintaining 1080p resolution.[4]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "global.canon". Retrieved January 31, 2026.
- ↑ "global.canon". Retrieved January 31, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 "youtube.com". Retrieved January 31, 2026.
- ↑ 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 4.11 4.12 4.13 4.14 "apotelyt.com". Retrieved January 31, 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "lightandmatter.org". Retrieved January 31, 2026.
