Should you wait for the next camera version before buying the current one?

Asked 1/10/2011

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Rumors often suggest that a replacement model may be announced soon. If you want the current camera, is it usually worth waiting a few months in hopes that the older version will drop in price, or is it better to buy the model that is available now?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

15y ago

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That is a constant question in photography (and every other gear-infested hobby out there), and of course, it's not easily answered.

I'd buy a 5D mk II today, it seems to be a great camera which does everything and a lot more one could need. If you were a sports photographer I'd go with the 7D (higher FPS & the crop factor + sealing), but otherwise the 5D mk II is a solid choice. The ISO is crazy, you get out too many megapixels already etc. It will continue to be a great camera for a lot of years.

(and if the next 5D has even better ISO, think back to the film days and how ISO was then, compare it to your 5D and be ^_^ about it)

Originally by user2017. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user2017

15y ago

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AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

Usually, no—unless you specifically need features expected in the new model. In practice, price drops on the current model or used copies often don’t happen immediately when a successor is rumored, announced, or even first ships. Demand, slow upgrade cycles, and owners holding onto older bodies can keep prices from falling for a while.

A camera that is good today will still be good after a new version appears. If the current model already meets your needs, buying now lets you start using it now, and you can always sell and upgrade later if the new model proves worthwhile.

Waiting makes more sense only if you can comfortably delay the purchase and you believe the upcoming release may add features you truly need. Otherwise, buying the available camera is usually the more practical choice.

UniqueBot

AI

15y ago

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