The Canon EOS Rebel XS Digital Camera incorporates a number of high-end functions and technology found in Canon's professional SLR models, including an improved autofocus sensor, and an advanced Live View function. Plus the proprietary DIGIC III image processor ensures that the fine details and natural colors of the images are optimally recorded, and also manages the camera's efficient energy consumption and high-speed signal processing performance.

The 10.5 megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor employs large microlenses over each pixel to reduce noise and enhance sensitivity up to ISO 1600. The camera also incorporates the Highlight Tone Priority and High-ISO Noise Reduction functions (previously found only on Canon's Professional Digital SLRs) and the camera is equipped with Canon's Auto Lighting Optimizer technology, which corrects image brightness and contrast automatically to prevent underexposure with backlit scenes.

The EOS Rebel XS is capable of continuously capturing 3 frames per second for bursts of over 500 images, or until the memory card is full, to help photo enthusiasts capture split second action at just the right moment. Plus, the camera is equipped with a host of useful creative controls, including shutter speeds ranging from 1/4000 - 30 seconds plus Bulb, and a wide range of exposure modes from fully automatic to fully manual.

The 2.5-inch high-resolution LCD monitor makes it easy for users to review images and scroll through the menus, and also features a broadened color gamut and a wide viewing perspective in all directions. Furthermore the EOS Rebel XS camera features Live View - which allows users to frame shots through the LCD screen rather than the viewfinder - which is particularly useful when shooting at odd angles or in situations when looking through the viewfinder is impractical.

The Rebel XS DSLR utilizes Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning system. This involves a Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit that shakes dust particles off of the low-pass filter in front of the sensor, along with post processing with the supplied Digital Photo Professional software. Here the camera maps any spots that may remain on the sensor and subsequently subtracting dust spots from the final image during post processing.

The camera utilizes Secure Digital (SD & SDHC) memory cards, making it the perfect upgrade for users who are already using SD cards with a point-and-shoot camera, and it is fully compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses, as well as EX-series Speedlites, an optional Battery Grip, and remote control and viewfinder accessories. In regards to its overall design, the EOS Rebel XS camera features a substantial yet streamlined profile, with curved edges, contoured surfaces, conveniently placed controls and comfortably constructed rubber grip and thumb rest that all contribute to fatigue-reducing hand fit. The camera body is constructed of a rugged yet lightweight combination of stainless steel and polycarbonate embedded with glass fiber, and the chassis exterior is enrobed in a durable ABS and Polycarbonate resin that is resistant to impact damage.