SINGAPORE — Ideal for amateur photographers, the new Canon EOS 1200D does a decent job of producing quality images as an entry-level camera and retails at a competitive price of S$759.

Replacing its three-year-old predecessor, the 1200D features the most notable upgrade in its 18-mega-pixel sensor resolution — a leap from the EOS 1100D’s 12.2 megapixels.

The unintimidating 1200D is designed for entry-level users and, despite resembling a toy camera, is sturdy and ergonomic. Powered by Canon’s DIGIC 4 image processor, the device has an impressive nine-point Auto Focus system that locks in on subjects at a rapid speed and retains focus well.

However, it shoots only at a slow three frames per second (fps) and the buffer fills up quickly when you hold down the shutter. The three-inch LCD monitor also lacks touchscreen functionality and cannot be tilted.

The camera has an ISO range of 100 to 6,400 (which is expandable to 12,800). Performance below ISO 1,600 produces sharp, quality images, but noise noticeably increases beyond that.

Video enthusiasts would be pleased to note that the 1200D has full manual video capabilities. You can shoot videos in a variety of recording sizes and at various frame rates (such as full 1080HD up to 30fps).

The device is also equipped with a useful Video Snapshot mode, in which you can capture stills or four-second videos while recording a video.

However, you will have to depend on the camera’s built-in microphone as it does not come with a port for an external microphone.

The real oomph of the 1200D lies in its slew of features available for first-timers. These intuitive functions, helpful tips and hints act as a reassuring set of training wheels, weaning first-time users off their smartphones and compact cameras and helping them adapt to DSLRs.

Auto modes, such as Basic+, Scene Intelligent Auto and Creative Auto, include some nifty features to make things easier for amateurs.

Its in-built Feature Guide is also packed with descriptions of modes, settings and recommendations that help first-time users with the operation and comprehension of EOS settings.

The cherry on top: An EOS companion mobile app that offers a walkthrough of the 1200D’s key functions, tutorials, tips and advice, as well as exercises and challenges users can take up.

While the camera is not a stunner, it is eager to make up for its drawbacks. It lacks features found in its bigger brothers and competitors, but all this is made up for with its price.

The 1200D with an EF S18-55mm IS II lens kit is available at Canon authorised dealers at S$759.