Canon 400D (Rebel XTi): a practical look at an affordable DSLR from 2006

The Canon 400D (Rebel XTi) is a 10MP entry-level DSLR introduced in 2006. It offered A3-capable image quality, an optical viewfinder that makes manual focusing easy, and an automatic sensor-vibration cleaning routine. Today it can be a low-cost way to learn DSLR basics, but modern mirrorless cameras offer more features and better ergonomics.

Overview

The Canon 400D (sold as the Rebel XTi in North America) was Canon's affordable entry-level DSLR introduced in 2006. It packs a 10-megapixel APS-C sensor and a straightforward control layout aimed at photographers moving up from compact cameras. Today it's best understood as a capable, low-cost used camera for learning basic DSLR technique.

Image quality and resolution

The 400D's 10MP sensor produces files that can be printed at A3 sizes with good quality, and for many users that was comparable to what 35mm film could deliver for framed prints. Its image quality still holds up for web use, snapshots, and learning exposure and composition.

Dust and sensor cleaning

One common problem with interchangeable-lens DSLRs is dust on the sensor. The 400D addressed this with a built-in sensor vibration routine that runs at power on/off to shake loose particles. It was an early step toward the automatic cleaning systems now common on modern cameras.

Viewfinder and focusing

A classic DSLR advantage is the clear optical viewfinder. The 400D's pentamirror viewfinder makes manual focus simple and practical. That remains a strong reason to use an optical finder for tasks like macro work, low-light scenes, or when autofocus struggles with busy subjects.

Ergonomics and controls

The 400D is compact and lightweight, but a few design choices frustrated some users. Setting aperture in manual modes requires holding the exposure compensation button while turning the main command dial - awkward when shooting with the camera at your eye. The rear LCD is generously sized for its era but not recessed, which means it can pick up cheek marks when you brace the camera to your face.

These niggles were common points of feedback in 2006 and remain useful to know if you buy one used; they don't stop the camera from being a solid learning tool, but they do affect handling comfort.

Buying perspective in 2025

The 400D is now a legacy DSLR. If you want a very inexpensive way to learn exposure, composition, and manual focusing, a used 400D can still do the job. If your priorities include low-light performance, live-view autofocus, video, or smaller bodies, modern mirrorless cameras (Canon's EOS R series and models from other manufacturers) are worth considering.

Bottom line

The Canon 400D was a sensible, affordable step into DSLR photography. It remains a practical used option for beginners who want an optical viewfinder and simple controls, but shoppers in 2025 should weigh used 400Ds against current entry-level mirrorless models for features they may now expect (better autofocus, video, and compactness).