metering circle, exposure warning, AEB. Flash information: Flash ready, high-speed sync, FE lock, flash exposure compensation, red-eye reduction light. Image information: White balance correction, SD card information, monochrome shooting, maximum burst (1 digit display), Highlight tone priority (D+) Alternative firmware Though not endorsed by Canon, the firmware of the camera allows for the installation of third-party custom firmware, altering the features of the camera. One example of such firmware is Magic Lantern. Reception The Canon EOS 500D received favorable reviews on its release. IT Reviews gave the camera a Recommended Award, and concluded: "Canon's DSLR range continues to go from strength to strength with this considerably enhanced upgrade of the EOS 450D, which manages to keep almost all of the previous physical features while improving the processor and the ISO range and adding a new Full HD video facility". Digital Photography Review said: "For anybody buying their first DSLR the 500D is an easy recommendation but you might want to have a look at the Nikon D5000 as well. It comes with a similar feature set to the 500D ('only' 720P video though) and performs slightly better in low light". Alternatives and comparisons Alternative cameras to the Canon EOS 500D: Sony Alpha 380 Digital SLR Camera Sony Alpha 35 Digital SLT Camera Olympus E-420 Digital SLR Camera Nikon D90 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 Micro Four-Thirds Camera Pentax K-x Digital SLR Camera Next level upgrade cameras from the Canon EOS 500D: Canon EOS Rebel T2i (550D) Digital SLR Camera Panasonic DMC-GH1 Digital SLR Camera Economical alternatives to the Canon EOS 500D: Canon Rebel XSi (450D) Digital SLR Camera Nikon D5000 Digital SLR Camera References Sources Canon EOS Rebel T1i (500D) Digital SLR Kit w/EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens & Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS Autofocus Lens Reviews External links Product Page EOS 500D in the UK 500D Live-preview digital cameras