THE 12.2-megapixel EOS450D may be built solidly but its smooth plastic gives it a look that is less appealing than the D60 and K10D's subtle textures.

The power switch, however, is refreshingly large. And the 18-55mm (28-90mm equivalent) kit lens has built-in image stabilisation.

The 450D is the lightest of the four at just over 730g.

With nine focus points, the autofocus, even with the kit lens, snaps into place very quickly.

Exposure is mostly accurate with its 35-zone metering. The 450D is the first in its series to offer live view shooting using the LCD.

The grip is deep but it's a little narrow. It has a large and bright viewfinder. The 3-inch, 230,000-pixel LCD is the largest in the group and makes for pleasing viewing and menu changes.

At 3.5fps, the 450D can lay claim to being the current speed champion among entry-level DSLRs.

The dedicated ISO switch is a winner.

Snappy and light but the priciest among this quartet.