What To Know
- The 7D Mark II has a dedicated AF-On button and a larger grip, providing excellent control over focusing and camera operation.
- However, the 7D Mark II has a slightly larger lens mount, which allows it to use older FD and FL lenses with an adapter.
- However, if you are on a tighter budget or prioritize affordability, the 80D is still a great option that will produce stunning wildlife images.
Wildlife photography is a thrilling and rewarding genre that requires specialized equipment capable of capturing the beauty and majesty of the animal kingdom. Two of the most popular cameras among wildlife photographers are the Canon 7D Mark II and the 80D. In this blog post, we will compare these two cameras in-depth to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Canon 7D Mark II features a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the 80D boasts a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. Both sensors offer excellent image quality with sharp details, accurate colors, and low noise, even at high ISO settings. However, the 80D’s slightly higher resolution may provide a marginal advantage in terms of capturing finer details.
Autofocus System
Autofocus performance is crucial for wildlife photography, especially when capturing fast-moving subjects. The 7D Mark II excels in this area, featuring a 65-point all cross-type autofocus system that delivers lightning-fast and precise focusing. The 80D, on the other hand, has a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system that is still capable but may struggle slightly with rapidly moving animals.
Burst Shooting and Buffer Capacity
Wildlife photography often involves capturing sequences of rapid shots to capture the perfect moment. The 7D Mark II boasts an impressive burst shooting rate of 10 frames per second (fps), while the 80D can shoot at 7 fps. Additionally, the 7D Mark II has a larger buffer capacity, allowing you to shoot more consecutive shots before the camera needs to buffer.
Weather Sealing and Durability
Wildlife photography often takes place in challenging outdoor conditions, so weather sealing is essential. The 7D Mark II is weather-sealed, making it resistant to dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. The 80D, while not as extensively weather-sealed, still offers some protection against the elements.
Ergonomics and Handling
Both the 7D Mark II and 80D are designed for comfortable and intuitive handling. The 7D Mark II has a dedicated AF-On button and a larger grip, providing excellent control over focusing and camera operation. The 80D has a smaller grip but still offers a comfortable hold.
Lens Compatibility
Both cameras are compatible with Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses, giving you a wide range of options to choose from. However, the 7D Mark II has a slightly larger lens mount, which allows it to use older FD and FL lenses with an adapter.
Price and Value
The Canon 7D Mark II is typically more expensive than the 80D. However, it offers a more advanced autofocus system, higher burst shooting rate, and better weather sealing. The 80D is a more affordable option that still delivers excellent image quality and performance for wildlife photography.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The choice between the Canon 7D Mark II and 80D depends on your specific needs and budget. If you need the most advanced autofocus performance, high burst shooting rate, and weather sealing, the 7D Mark II is the clear choice. However, if you are on a tighter budget or prioritize affordability, the 80D is still a great option that will produce stunning wildlife images.
Alternatives to Consider
If neither the 7D Mark II nor the 80D meet your specific requirements, here are some alternative cameras to consider:
- Canon EOS R5: A full-frame mirrorless camera with a 45-megapixel sensor and advanced autofocus capabilities.
- Nikon D500: A DX-format DSLR with a 20.9-megapixel sensor and a fast and precise autofocus system.
- Sony Alpha 1: A full-frame mirrorless camera with a 50.1-megapixel sensor and exceptional autofocus performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has better image stabilization?
A: Neither the 7D Mark II nor the 80D has built-in image stabilization.
Q: Can I use both cameras with telephoto lenses for wildlife photography?
A: Yes, both cameras are compatible with telephoto lenses, which are essential for wildlife photography.
Q: Which camera is more suitable for low-light photography?
A: Both cameras perform well in low light, but the 7D Mark II has a slightly higher ISO range.
Q: Can I use both cameras for video recording?
A: Yes, both cameras can record high-quality videos, but the 80D offers slightly more video features and higher resolution.
Q: Which camera is more compact and lightweight?
A: The 80D is slightly more compact and lightweight than the 7D Mark II.
