The Canon EOS 500 is a single lens reflex camera from 1993 and is the predecessor of the Canon EOS 500N. The Canon EOS 500 was also sold under the name “Canon EOS Rebel XS” on the American market. In Japan, Canon’s home market, there was a similar model as EOS Kiss.
The lenses of the Canon EOS 500 can be exchanged. Lenses with an EF bayonet can be used. In many cases the camera comes with the Canon EF 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 II USM. The camera has an autofocus.
For photography the Canon EOS 500 has an exposure meter. It is designed for films in a range from ISO 6 to ISO 6400. The camera determines the correct film speed via the DX code. The correct exposure is measured through the lens. The Canon EOS 500 has an automatic exposure control and sets aperture and exposure time automatically if desired. The aperture and exposure time can also be set by the photographer.
The camera comes with a bulb mode. There is a built-in flash for taking pictures in low light conditions, which ensures clear pictures. With a sensitivity of ISO 100 it reaches up to 12 meters. The use of an external flash is possible via the hot shoe. In the Canon EOS 500 a thread for a tripod is built in. There is also a self-timer.
The dimensions of the 35 mm camera are 14.5 x 9.2 x 6.2 cm according to the operating instructions. It weighs 370 grams. The power source of the 35mm camera are two CR123A batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Canon EOS 500
The Canon EOS 500 is equipped with 35mm film. The 35mm format is very common, therefore there are still some manufacturers and many development laboratories. A possible film for color pictures is the Kodak Gold 200*, a possibility for b/w pictures is the AgfaPhoto APX 400*.
The development process for color film is the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab. You can hand in your films at most drugstore chains in Germany.
A motor is built into the camera for winding the film. With the prewinding system, the entire roll is first wound onto the take-up spool. Each time a picture is taken, the exposed frame rewinds into the cassette.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Canon EF mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/2000 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 6 to 6400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 2EV (0,5EV to) |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/90 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x CR123A batteries |
| Size | 14,5 x 9,2 x 6,2 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.71 x 3.62 x 2.44 inches |
| Weight | 370 Grams |
| Estimated value / Used price | 35,92 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 100 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 44,03 Euro (47.63 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 48,92 Euro (51.96 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 37,00 Euro (40.05 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Canon EOS 500
Is this camera from Canon good for beginners?
The Canon EOS 500 is a great entry-level SLR. It's easy to use, has automatic settings, and it's quite affordable now as a used camera. It's a good way to learn the basics of photography.
What kind of film does the camera use?
The Canon EOS 500 uses 35mm film. This is a common and widely available film format, making it easy to find different types like color or black and white.
Does this camera have a flash?
Yes, the Canon EOS 500 has a built-in flash for low-light photography. It also has a hot shoe for using external flashes if you need more power.
Can I use different lenses with the 35mm camera?
Yes, the EOS 500 uses interchangeable lenses. It's compatible with Canon's EF-mount lenses, offering a wide variety of options for different photographic situations.
How do I power the device?
The Canon EOS 500 runs on two CR123A batteries. These are readily available at most electronics stores or online.