Canon 550d and Kiss X4 Differences

[Twincharged]

Just a quick query; does anyine know the difference between the Canon EOS 550d and the Japanese Version, the Kiss X4?

From what I can tell, it's only that the latter only has Japanese and English Menus and is cheaper to buy (it is possible to get one with a warranty).

[RobDickinson]

There the same physical camera arnt they?

[Twincharged]

Yeah, from what I can tell. Just makes me wonder why the price difference, and if I bought the Kiss X4 would I be missing out?

[XG332]

canon name their csmeras different for the american, european and asian markets. Why? No idea, maybe to track where they are from.
Same camera, different languages and a different name on the side.

If its cheaper and you want to risk it, go for it.

[RobDickinson]

Its more likely down to being a home market product they can price in Yen and not have to worry about currency fluctuations.

You know you wont get the manufacturers warrenty on it tho.

[Twincharged]

I'd thought as much.
Canon don't offer their own warranty on it, but the company selling (called DigitalRev) offer their own equivalent warranty on it (which means you can get it sorted out locally).

[RobDickinson]

Ah DigitalRev are fine, very well known.

You may get stung for customs tho?

Edited by RobDickinson on Monday 16th August 22:16

[Twincharged]

Had forgotten about that- will investigate further

[markmullen]

I may be wrong but if you get one with Japanese firmware would you not be able to just update it with UK firmware when you get it?

[Poledriver]

I got the Kiss version £670 with 18-55mm 55-250mm lenses +8GB memory card including shipping. Canon say they will honour warranty. Sending company declared it as a gift with value £300, no duty charged!