Canon's first video-capable Rebel DSLR — 15.1MP APS-C with Full HD recording, a milestone for Canon.
The Canon EOS 500D (marketed as the Rebel T1i in North America and Kiss X3 in Japan) was released in April 2009 as the first consumer-level Canon DSLR to offer 1080p video — though it followed the professional EOS 5D Mark II (September 2008) which introduced Canon DSLR video. The 15.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor pairs with DIGIC 4. Burst rate is 3.4fps. At approximately 480g with battery and card.
The 15.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor pairs with DIGIC 4. 9-point AF with centre cross-type. 3.4fps continuous burst. Video: 1080p at 20fps and 720p at 30fps. No weather sealing. LP-E5 battery. Body weight approximately 480g with battery and card. Single SD/SDHC card slot.
The 1080p at 20fps is the notable video limitation: the 20fps cap was a technical constraint of the first-generation Canon DSLR video implementation, not a deliberate restriction — contemporaries expected 24fps as the minimum. The 720p at 30fps is the practical video mode for smooth motion. The LP-E5 battery is shared with the 450D and 1000D, making cross-body battery management practical for Canon entry-tier shooters of the era.
On the used market the Canon EOS 500D is very affordable as a vintage entry-level Canon APS-C DSLR. Condition checks: shutter count via EXIF, LP-E5 battery health (specific to the 500D/450D/1000D — not shared with LP-E17 or LP-E6 series), and single SD slot. Video limited to 1080/20fps. Compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses.