DSLR: XS vs XSi + lens question

[Onita]

I'll be buying my SO a DSLR for the holidays. I've got a few options on them w/ pricing, etc. and would like some input from someone who has a clue.

I have an old Canon I can trade in for a refurb from Canon. I could get an XS with 18-55 for $319.00, or an XSi with 18-55 for $399.00. These cameras have a 90 day warranty.

Or, I could buy from Amazon, get an XS with 18-55, 25-250, and 58mm UV filter for $510.00, new with 1 year warranty.

Finally, I could wait and see what the deals that will be coming out on black friday will be.

Could I please get some input from someone who is knowledgeable?

 

[AkumaX]

that Amazon deal is a slickdeal, not to mention its new and not a refurb

however, Canon has a strict quality checking process, and it should come w/ a decent warranty

i guess it depends if you feel the advantages of the XSi over the XS is enough to warrant paying the extra $80. that 55-250mm lens is fun though.. would you be willing to pay for it separate?

here's a site that had comparisons between the 2:
http://www.dpnotes.com/canon-xsi-450d-vs-canon-xs-1000d/

 

[Onita]

I think I'd rather go with the XS over XSi. Since it will be for a new user, I don't think all of the "upgrades" are worthwhile at this point. Now I just need to decided if $190.00 is worth it for the 25-250 and filter.

Suggestions?

 

[twistedlogic]

I'd say the Xsi is defiantly worth the difference in price for the Viewfinder Alone.

0.81x magnification (Xs) vs 0.87x magnification (Xsi)

The XSi also offers spot metering, I believe the first rebel to offer this.

 

[Onita]

I guess my problem is, I don't know what the hell any of this means lol. That's why I came to the infinite knowledge of AT!