Should you get a full-frame dSLR?

There are two distinct categories of dSLRs--full-frame and non-full-frame. The difference lies in the size of the image sensor in the camera, with the former measuring 36 x 24mm. Non-full-frame models have sensors which range from 23.6 x 15.8mm to 22.3 x 14.9mm. The smaller sensors produce a crop factor of 1.3x to 1.6x, which gives wide-angle lenses a narrower view, but this characteristic benefits telephoto optics as it gives it a longer reach. To resolve this problem for wide-angle lenses, dSLR manufacturers have created specialized lenses such as Canon's EF-S series glasses for use with snappers sporting smaller sensors. See the picture below for an example.

An example of how different crop factors affect your shot. (Credit: Canon)

	1.	Canon EOS 5D Mark II          CNET Asia rating: 8.2 out of 10 The good: Full HD-video recording; impressive image quality even at high ISO; solid feel from camera body; clever technology used in battery. The bad: No HDMI cable supplied; zooming in on images in playback mode needs to be faster; position of power switch. The bottom line: The EOS 5D Mark II is a very good camera for enthusiasts who are looking for a full-frame option, and has all the bells and whistles which makes this shooter not only a decent still image shooter, but also an industry grade video camera, too, as long as you have proper equipment. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	2.	Nikon D700       CNET Asia rating: 8.5 out of 10 The good: Excellent photo quality as high as ISO 6,400; fast focus and shooting even in low light; first-rate build quality and control layout. The bad: Relatively heavy; low resolution for its class; viewfinder provides only 95 percent coverage and lacks interchangeable focusing screens; occasional issues with automatic white balance under artificial light. The bottom line: As long as you don't need seriously high-resolution photos, video capture or machine gun-fast sports shooting, the Nikon D700 has everything in a pro full-frame camera for a reasonable price. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	3.	Sony Alpha DSLR-A900   CNET Asia rating: 7.4 out of 10 The good: High resolution; in-body image stabilization; nice viewfinder; great accessory system. The bad: Can't lock focus-point selector; Intelligent Preview button much too easy to hit accidentally; some subpar aspects of performance; no Live View; loud mirror. The bottom line: A good first try at a pro-level camera, the Sony Alpha DSLR-A900 has the high resolution but unfortunately lacks some of the performance and usability you would expect from a model in its price range. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	4.	Canon EOS 5D       CNET Asia rating: 7.9 out of 10 The good: Top-notch, high-resolution images; 35mm-size sensor obviates focal-length conversions; big 2.5-inch LCD; unmatched low-noise images at ISO 1,600 and 3,200. The bad: Overall build quality and performance typical of much cheaper cameras; no constant ISO display; images show occasional red fringing around highlight transitions; automatic white balance occasionally inconsistent. The bottom line: A decent midrange digital SLR camera built around a superb sensor, the Canon EOS 5D delivers great images and the familiar 35mm-film-format shooting experience for a comparatively low (though still hefty) price. Review | See full specs | Rate this