mikeinctown Offline Upload & Sell: Off
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wmb7 wrote:
I haven't really thought about buying used because, unlike lenses, cameras have a shorter life span. However, several people have mentioned it. What risks are involved in buying a used 7D? Anything to look for? How many actuations should I be looking at?
The risks of buying used are just like lenses. Might work today but not tomorrow. Unless you can hold it or test it out you have to trust the seller. Based on my limited purchasing experiences for photographic equipment, sellers in general on this board and on POTN underestimate the appearance of their stuff. I've bought 4 things used so far and not a single item looks like it has ever been used. So, assuming someone told me a camera was in good working order, I would trust them, especially if their feedback warranted the trust.
All that said, I have seen a LOT of 7Ds being sold for less than $1100 with well under 10-20,000 actuations. I think Canon gives it a 75,000 lifespan and the 5Dii a 150,000 lifespan. (the 5Dii can be had for $1,600 all day long near new) The cheapest I have seen a 7D body go for was $950 shipped, though there may be some better deals. If you are worried about a warranty, check out the CLP. (Canon Loyalty Program) The CLP allows you to trade in an old camera for 20% off the price of a refurbished unit from the Canon store. Can be any old Canon digital and if you don't have one people will sell them cheap all the time. I think I paid $12 for mine a few weeks back to use on my next purchase. With the CLP, the 7D is less than $1100 plus tax and shipping AND if you have the funds, you may be able to purchase a refurb lens at a discounted rate at the same time. There are only certain bodies that they do this with, so I can't guarantee 100%. With the refurb unit, you get a 90 day warranty through Canon. The nice thing about their refurb units is that they appear new in every respect. My T3i had a 0 shutter count and was packed with everything as it would be from the factory, just in a white box.
Good luck with your purchase and I am sure you will love the upgrade.
They upgraded the 5D, 1D, and T series this year, so you may very well see some new bodies in the xx and 7 series next year.
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