Canon keeps the dSLR market lively with its latest midrange shooter. Sporting 8 million pixels along with a 5fps continuous shooting buffer, this replacement shares much of its technology with its pro-oriented sibling, the EOS-1D Mark II SLR. It is also the first model to pull ahead of its 5- or 6-megapixel competitors.

What's New
One of the most noticeable improvements is the new sensor. The EOS 20D may sport an 8-megapixel CMOS sensor, but it's not the same one taken from the 1D Mark II. The EOS 20D's sensor is approximately the same size as its predecessor's, and is smaller than the 1D Mark II's. However, the good thing about the sensor is not the higher resolution but the technology employed by Canon to improve on ISO performance. Canon has integrated new microlenses and a new on-chip "noise elimination circuit", delivering clean images that rival its more expensive sibling.

There's also the EF-S mount that debuted with--strangely enough--Canon's entry-level dSLR, the 300D. With the 20D, Canon has basically affirmed its dSLR line to three different levels: A full-frame option for professionals that require them; a 1.3 crop factor dSLR with a professional body; and a 1.6 crop factor for the midrange and budget models. In line with the 20D's launch, Canon has also announced two new EF-S lenses, addressing one of the biggest qualms with the Canon system--wide-angle shooting capability.

Other obvious improvements include faster shutter speeds (1/8,000 versus 1/4,000 of the 10D), flash X-sync (1/250 versus 1/200 of the 10D), and Canon's DIGIC II processor that was introduced by the 1D Mark II.

In Use
In terms of layout and design, the EOS 20D keeps most of the digital EOS design traits. The large thumbwheel remains but there's also a new joystick for navigation. In any case, the body feels comfortable in the hands and most users won't have a problem with the slightly smaller form factor. However, it may feel a little tight if you have larger digits.

In terms of weight, the EOS 20D is noticeably lighter than its predecessor. With the 18-55 EF-S kit lens, the EOS 20D is barely heavier than the plastic-bodied 300D. We reckon the body will feel well-balanced with most lenses, with the exception of the longer telephoto glasses. The optional battery grip may help to serve as a counterweight there.

If you have used SLRs for a fair bit, one of the annoying things you'll find with the EOS 20D is the lack of spot metering--a feature that's found on its competitors' entry-level range. Thankfully, for most intent and purposes, the partial metering mode on this shooter will suffice.

In terms of speed and performance, this EOS blitzes its competition. Startup times have vastly improved over the 10D--almost instantaneous compared with the 2 or so seconds it used to take. Paired with a large-capacity and fast CF card, you'll also be able to take high-quality JPEGs at 5fps for about 30 shots. We're inclined to say that that's more than anyone really needs--especially if you're not a professional. Autofocus (AF) performance is also good and the nine-point system is arranged in a diamond formation, making it easy to focus and compose for occasions when the Rule of Thirds is required.

The best thing about the 20D has to be its impressive showing with high ISO sensitivity settings. If low-light photography is an absolute must for you, it's hard to think of another dSLR that comes close. We have no hesitation printing out 4R photos with ISO set at Hi (ISO 3200 equivalent). Depending on how you configure your color parameters, the images produced can vary from natural to vivid, and automatic white balance tends to yield good results, too. Still, there are Canon's characteristically warm pictures under indoor lighting.

Verdict
There is no doubt that the EOS 20D is a great camera. The improved responsiveness over the 10D is welcomed. However, if you don't require the 5fps continuous shooting rate nor do a lot of low-light shooting there's really no need to upgrade from the 10D or even abandon your Nikon glasses. The Nikon D70 is just as responsive--although you do have to go through menus to get to change some shooting functions like AF modes. The higher 8-megapixel rating shouldn't be a big consideration as it's only a 17 percent increase in both horizontal and vertical resolution--not the 33 percent increase that the raw megapixel figures suggest.