Got this camera?
Sell it with us.
Free appraisal in 24 h, payment in 48 h and free shipping. We inspect it, refurbish it and give it a second life.
Inspected at 28 points by our technicians. Every unit is unique. More details
Subscribe and save on your order
Get a discount code by email.
Thanks for subscribing.
Use the code at checkout:
CAMERAMARKET10
Protect your purchase for longer.
Your camera ships with 6 months of coverage included. Extend it if you want professional photographer peace of mind.
Units sold for parts do not qualify for extended warranty.
View warranty terms and conditionsThe Canon EOS 550D (known as the Rebel T2i in North America and EOS Kiss X4 in Japan) was announced in February 2010 as the most feature-packed entry-level DSLR in the Rebel lineup at the time. Its big selling point was inheriting the 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and video system almost directly from the prosumer EOS 7D, something unprecedented in a beginner body. That's why it became one of the most popular DSLRs for those who wanted to learn photography with full manual controls and, above all, record Full HD 1080p video with manual exposure and an external microphone input, features that made it very popular among video enthusiasts.
It is designed for the beginner or hobbyist looking for an affordable, lightweight (~530 g) DSLR with access to the huge catalog of Canon EF and EF-S lenses. It lets you shoot in RAW, control ISO, shutter speed, and aperture, and experiment with video. It's technology from about fifteen years ago: its 9-point autofocus and 3.7 fps burst rate fall short for sports or action, and it lacks in-body stabilization and Wi-Fi. Even so, it remains an honest and very affordable gateway into the DSLR world.
Read more Read less
The CANON EOS 550D is a digital SLR camera from the EOS series, originally launched in 2010 as one of the most popular SLRs for advanced amateurs. Featuring an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor and EF/EF-S mount, this model represents an excellent entry point into the Canon system, offering remarkable image quality for its time and very intuitive handling.
Key Features
- 18-megapixel CMOS sensor (APS-C format) for detailed and versatile photos.
- Canon EF/EF-S mount, compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses.
- Full HD 1080p video recording at 30 fps, one of the first SLRs to offer this feature.
- 3-inch LCD screen with 1,040,000 dots for sharp viewing.
- Storage on SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, flexible and accessible.
- Lightweight and compact build, ideal for travel or long sessions.
Ideal for
Perfect for enthusiasts looking to step up to an SLR without complications, or as a starter camera for learning photography and video. It is also a solid choice for travelers seeking reliable and lightweight gear.
Condition
Second-hand product reviewed by Camera Market. Includes standard 6-month warranty and 24-48h shipping from Barcelona.
What lenses are compatible with the Canon EOS 550D?
It uses the Canon EF and EF-S mount, so it accepts all Canon EF (for full frame) and EF-S (APS-C specific) lenses, as well as third-party ones like Sigma or Tamron with that mount. You can see the full range at Canon EF mount lenses. Note: it does NOT accept RF lenses (those are for modern mirrorless cameras), although with a cheap adapter it accepts old manual lenses like M42.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is one of the most recommended entry-level DSLRs of its time. It has automatic modes to start with and full manual controls (ISO, shutter speed, aperture) to learn gradually, plus RAW shooting. It is lightweight and easy to handle.
How does it perform for video?
It records Full HD 1080p at 24/25/30p and 720p at 50/60p, with manual exposure control and an external microphone input, which is highly valued. Limitations: it doesn't reach 1080p at 60 fps, autofocus in video is slow, and the screen is fixed (not tilting), making difficult angles tricky. Also, it records in clips (it cuts off at 4 GB or about 12 minutes), not in one long take.
What battery does it use and how long does it last?
It uses the battery Canon LP-E8, the same as the 600D, 650D, and 700D, so there are cheap replacements and compatible ones. CIPA battery life is about 440 shots per charge; using Live View or recording video drains it much faster (less than an hour of video total with a full battery, and also recording in clips of about 12 minutes, not in a continuous take).
Does it have image stabilization?
Not in the body. Stabilization depends on the lens: Canon marks it as IS. Many are sold with the 18-55mm IS kit lens, which does stabilize. If you mount a lens without IS, you won't have stabilization.
Is it reliable to buy a 15-year-old second-hand one?
It can be if it's well cared for. The part that wears out most is the shutter; it's advisable to ask for the shutter count, which can be read with software like EOSInfo or Magic Lantern. As a rough reference (not officially guaranteed by Canon), these bodies usually last around 100,000 actuations. Being a very common model, its second-hand price is low and should reflect age and wear.
What should I check when buying it used?
Check the shutter count, that the sensor has no dust spots (take a photo at f/16 of a plain sky) or fungus, and that it shoots and focuses without strange noises or 'Err' errors on the screen. Verify that the battery holds a good charge and, if it includes the kit lens, that the IS and focus motor work. If it has Magic Lantern installed, it's not a fault, but it's good to know.
To complete it, take a look at replacement batteries, memory cards, or camera bags.
Full condition scale
Each unit is inspected at 28 points and graded honestly. Here's how we translate each level so you know what to expect:
Barely any signs of use. Almost flawless aesthetics and perfect operation.
Light marks from normal use. Optically clean and fully functional.
Visible signs of use (scuffs, marks, brassing). Works perfectly.
Not guaranteed for use: sold for parts or repair.
Why buy used?
Depreciation is already absorbed: the same gear for much less than new.
Many classics and discontinued gems only exist today on the used market.
28-point inspection and 6-month warranty included on every unit.
Extending the life of a camera avoids manufacturing and transporting a new one.
