Canon EOS 100D Review: The World’s Smallest DSLR

The Canon EOS 100D (also known as the Rebel SL1 in North America) holds the distinction of being the world’s smallest Digital SLR, making it an ideal choice for photographers who want DSLR quality in an incredibly compact package. When paired with the popular 18-55mm and 55-250mm lens combination, it creates a versatile photography system that’s perfect for beginners and travel photographers alike.

What Makes the Canon EOS 100D Special?

The Canon EOS 100D revolutionized entry-level DSLR photography by proving that size doesn’t have to compromise performance. While it adopts a similar performing sensor to the EOS 700D, the body is around 25% of the size of that model by volume, making it incredibly portable without sacrificing image quality.

Key Specifications

Sensor and Image Quality:

18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
DIGIC 5 image processor
ISO range: 100-12800 (expandable to 25600)
1080p Full HD video recording
9-point autofocus system with cross-type center point

Physical Design:

Dimensions: 116.8 x 90.7 x 69.4mm
Weight: Approximately 407g (body only)
3-inch Clear View LCD Touch Screen
Built-in pop-up flash

Performance Features:

Continuous shooting up to 4 fps
Scene Intelligent Auto mode
Creative filters and effects
Wi-Fi connectivity (varies by region)

The Perfect Lens Combination: 18-55mm and 55-250mm

Canon EF-S 18-55mm IS STM: Your All-Purpose Companion

The 18-55mm lens that comes with most 100D kits is far more capable than many give it credit for. Canon’s latest miniature SLR with its new, silent-focusing kit zoom provides:

Focal Length Versatility:

Wide-angle coverage at 18mm (28.8mm full-frame equivalent)
Standard to short telephoto at 55mm (88mm full-frame equivalent)
Perfect for landscapes, portraits, street photography, and general use

Technical Features:

Image Stabilization (IS) for sharper handheld shots
STM (Stepping Motor) technology for smooth, silent autofocus
Compact and lightweight design matching the 100D’s portability
7-blade aperture for pleasing bokeh

Canon EF-S 55-250mm IS STM: Extending Your Reach

The 55-250mm telephoto lens transforms your 100D into a powerful tool for distant subjects. Canon’s EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM is the one for you when looking for entry-level telephoto performance.

Telephoto Advantages:

Four-stop image stabilization for sharp telephoto shots
Ideal for wildlife, sports, and portrait photography
High maximum magnification ratio for a non-macro lens

Why This Lens Pairing Works:

Complete focal length coverage from 18-250mm (28.8-400mm equivalent)
Consistent STM autofocus technology across both lenses
Matching build quality and design aesthetics
Affordable way to cover most photography situations

Real-World Performance with the 18-55mm and 55-250mm Setup

Portrait Photography

The 18-55mm at its longer end (55mm) provides natural-looking portraits with pleasant background blur, while the 55-250mm allows for head-and-shoulders portraits with beautiful bokeh and subject isolation from greater distances.

Travel Photography

This lens combination is a travel photographer’s dream. The compact 100D body with the 18-55mm handles landscapes, architecture, and street scenes, while the 55-250mm captures distant landmarks, wildlife, and candid moments without disturbing subjects.

Wildlife and Nature

The 55-250mm’s 400mm equivalent reach brings distant subjects closer, while the 4-stop image stabilization helps maintain sharpness even in challenging lighting conditions. The 100D’s quiet operation doesn’t spook wildlife.

Everyday Photography

From family gatherings (18-55mm) to school sports events (55-250mm), this combination handles daily photography needs without requiring multiple camera systems.

Advantages of the Canon EOS 100D System

Portability Without Compromise

Create superb 18 megapixel images with a fully-featured, responsive DSLR that’s small enough to take everywhere. The 100D with either lens remains remarkably portable compared to larger DSLR systems.

User-Friendly Operation

Scene Intelligent Auto analyses the conditions and picks the optimal camera settings, making it perfect for beginners while offering manual controls for advanced users.

Touch Screen Interface

Compose using an optical viewfinder or a large Clear View LCD II Touch screen, providing modern usability in a traditional DSLR package.

Build Quality and Reliability

Canon’s reputation for durability extends to the 100D, ensuring your investment will serve you well for years of photography adventures.

Who Should Choose the Canon EOS 100D with 18-55mm and 55-250mm?

Perfect for:

DSLR beginners who want room to grow
Travel photographers prioritizing portability
Casual enthusiasts seeking versatility without bulk
Parents documenting family life and activities
Students learning photography fundamentals
Backup camera users for professional photographers

Consider Alternatives If:

You need the latest autofocus technology (consider newer Canon models)
Low-light performance is critical (look at full-frame options)
You require professional video features
Weather sealing is essential for your shooting conditions

Tips for Maximizing Your Canon EOS 100D Experience

Lens Selection Strategy

Start with the 18-55mm for general shooting and add the 55-250mm when you find yourself wishing for more reach. This two-lens system covers 90% of photography situations most users encounter.

Camera Settings Optimization

Use Scene Intelligent Auto for quick shooting
Experiment with Creative Auto for more control
Learn Manual mode gradually for complete creative control
Take advantage of the touch screen for quick setting adjustments

Accessories Worth Considering

Extra batteries: The compact size means smaller battery capacity
UV filters: Protect your lens investments
Camera bag: A compact bag that fits the 100D and both lenses
Tripod: Essential for telephoto work and low-light situations

Comparison with Modern Alternatives

vs. Mirrorless Cameras

While mirrorless cameras have largely taken over the compact camera market, the 100D still offers advantages:

Longer battery life than most mirrorless systems
Optical viewfinder experience
Extensive, affordable lens selection
Familiar DSLR ergonomics

vs. Smartphone Cameras

For serious photography beyond social media sharing:

Interchangeable lenses provide true versatility
Much larger sensor for better image quality
Manual controls for creative expression
Better performance in challenging conditions

Conclusion: Is the Canon EOS 100D Right for You?

The Canon EOS 100D paired with the 18-55mm and 55-250mm lenses creates a remarkably capable and portable photography system. While it may not have the latest features found in newer cameras, it delivers excellent image quality, user-friendly operation, and unmatched compactness in the DSLR world.

Key Strengths:

World’s smallest DSLR form factor
Excellent image quality from 18MP sensor
Perfect lens pairing for versatile shooting
User-friendly for beginners
Great value, especially in used market
Reliable Canon build quality

Minor Limitations:

Older autofocus system compared to current models
Limited low-light performance vs. newer sensors
Smaller battery capacity due to compact size
No weather sealing

For photographers who value portability without sacrificing the DSLR experience, the Canon EOS 100D with the 18-55mm and 55-250mm lens combination remains a compelling choice. Whether you’re starting your photography journey or need a compact backup system, this setup delivers professional-quality results in an amazingly small package.

The combination of Canon’s smallest DSLR with these two complementary lenses proves that good things really do come in small packages. For anyone seeking DSLR quality with mirrorless-like portability, the EOS 100D system deserves serious consideration.

Looking to dive into DSLR photography with the perfect portable setup? The Canon EOS 100D with 18-55mm and 55-250mm lenses offers an unbeatable combination of quality, versatility, and compactness for photographers of all skill levels.