Quick answer

Choose the pre-owned Canon EOS 850D if you want modern resolution and 4K video; choose the EOS 1000D only if your budget is tight and you shoot stills exclusively.

Why the 850D costs more—and when that matters

The EOS 850D carries a much higher catalog price than the 1000D, but that gap buys you a 24.1MP APS-C sensor, 4K video, and a more recent design. If you plan to crop images, print large, or shoot video, the 850D's advantages justify the extra cost. If you only share photos online and never record video, the 1000D's lower price may be the smarter entry point.

The 1000D's video limitation is a dealbreaker for some

The Canon EOS 1000D does not have video recording. That is a hard limit, not a minor omission. If you want to experiment with moving images, even casually, you will need a different camera. For stills-only photographers, the lack of video is irrelevant and keeps the price low.

Autofocus and screen differences that affect daily use

The 1000D uses a 7-point autofocus system and a 2.5-inch LCD, which can feel basic when tracking moving subjects or reviewing shots outdoors. The 850D's newer autofocus and larger screen make framing and playback easier, especially for beginners. Neither specification guarantees perfect focus in every situation, but the 850D is more forgiving.

Decision rules for buying a pre-owned Canon DSLR

  • If video is on your list: Choose the EOS 850D. The EOS 1000D cannot record video at all, so any interest in filming rules out the 1000D. Confirm the camera records the video resolution you need before buying.
  • If your budget is under $2000: Choose the EOS 1000D. It costs significantly less and still delivers a functional DSLR experience for stills. Set a hard budget and stick to it; the 1000D leaves more room for a memory card and bag.
  • If you plan to crop or print large: Choose the EOS 850D. Its 24.1MP sensor gives more detail for cropping and larger prints than the 1000D's 10.1MP sensor. Check the sensor resolution if you often enlarge photos.
  • If you want a simple stills camera for learning: Either camera works, but the 1000D is cheaper and simpler. The 850D adds complexity and cost you may not need. Match the camera to your actual shooting habits, not to hypothetical future needs.

Product facts

  • Canon EOS 850D DSLR Camera with 18-55mm IS STM Lens pre-owned: 24.1MP CMOS APS-C sensor and 4K video. High resolution gives cropping flexibility, and 4K video covers both stills and motion without needing a second camera.

    Canon EOS 850D DSLR Camera with 18-55mm IS STM Lens pre-owned

    Canon EOS 850D DSLR Camera with 18-55mm IS STM Lens pre-owned

  • Canon EOS 1000D with 18-55mn lens Pre-owned: 10.1MP APS-C sensor, DIGIC III processor, 7-point autofocus, 2.5-inch LCD, no video recording. This is a stills-only camera with modest resolution; it suits tight budgets but limits cropping and video work.

    Canon EOS 1000D with 18-55mn lens Pre-owned

    Canon EOS 1000D with 18-55mn lens Pre-owned

Who should buy which

Best for

  • Beginners who want 4K video and room to crop (EOS 850D)
  • Stills-only shooters on a tight budget (EOS 1000D)

Not for

  • Videographers considering the EOS 1000D—it has no video mode
  • Photographers who need high resolution on a low budget—consider other options