What To Know
- Both the 80D and 7D Mark II feature advanced autofocus systems, but the 7D Mark II has a clear edge in this area.
- The 80D and 7D Mark II both have comfortable grips, but the 7D Mark II’s larger body and dedicated dials provide a more intuitive and customizable user experience.
- In addition to the key features discussed above, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between the Canon 80D and 7D Mark II for birding.
For avid birders, capturing the beauty and elusive nature of birds in flight is a thrilling pursuit. The Canon 80D and 7D Mark II are two exceptional cameras that have gained immense popularity among birding enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key features and capabilities of these cameras, helping you determine which one is the ideal choice for your birding adventures.
Image Quality: Resolution and Dynamic Range
The Canon 80D boasts a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the 7D Mark II features a 20.2-megapixel APS-C sensor. While the 80D offers a slightly higher resolution, the 7D Mark II’s larger pixels result in better low-light performance and dynamic range. This means that the 7D Mark II can capture images with more detail in both shadows and highlights, making it better suited for capturing birds in challenging lighting conditions.
Autofocus Performance: Tracking Birds in Motion
Autofocus performance is crucial for birding, as birds often move quickly and unpredictably. Both the 80D and 7D Mark II feature advanced autofocus systems, but the 7D Mark II has a clear edge in this area. Its 65-point autofocus system, coupled with its dedicated AF processor, provides faster and more accurate focusing, even in low-light situations. This makes it easier to track birds in flight and capture sharp, focused images.
Burst Shooting Speed: Capturing Fleeting Moments
When it comes to capturing birds in motion, burst shooting speed is essential. The 80D can shoot at up to 7 frames per second (fps), while the 7D Mark II offers an impressive 10 fps. This higher burst rate allows you to capture more frames in a shorter amount of time, increasing your chances of capturing that perfect shot.
Weather Sealing: Protecting Your Gear in the Field
Birding often takes place in unpredictable weather conditions. Both the 80D and 7D Mark II feature weather sealing, but the 7D Mark II offers a more robust level of protection. Its magnesium alloy body and weather-resistant construction make it ideal for use in rain, snow, and dust. This added durability ensures that your camera stays protected, allowing you to focus on capturing those precious bird shots.
Ergonomics and Handling: Comfort and Control
Ergonomics and handling are important considerations for birding, as you may be holding your camera for extended periods. The 80D and 7D Mark II both have comfortable grips, but the 7D Mark II’s larger body and dedicated dials provide a more intuitive and customizable user experience. The 7D Mark II also features a built-in GPS module, which can be useful for geotagging your bird sightings.
Lens Compatibility: Expanding Your Birding Capabilities
Both the 80D and 7D Mark II are compatible with Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses. However, the 7D Mark II has a slight advantage in lens compatibility as it supports Canon‘s EF-M lenses via an adapter. This wider lens selection gives you more options for capturing birds at different distances and focal lengths.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for Birding
The Canon 80D and 7D Mark II are both excellent cameras for birding, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. If image quality and low-light performance are your top priorities, the 7D Mark II is the better choice. Its larger pixels and better dynamic range will allow you to capture more detail and vibrant colors in your bird shots. However, if you need a camera with faster burst shooting speeds, better autofocus performance, and more robust weather sealing, the 7D Mark II is the clear winner.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
In addition to the key features discussed above, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing between the Canon 80D and 7D Mark II for birding:
- Price: The 7D Mark II is typically more expensive than the 80D.
- Weight: The 7D Mark II is heavier than the 80D, which may be a consideration if you plan on carrying the camera for long periods.
- Battery life: The 80D has a slightly longer battery life than the 7D Mark II.
Popular Questions
Q: Which camera has better image quality for birding?
A: The 7D Mark II has better image quality due to its larger pixels and better dynamic range.
Q: Which camera has faster autofocus performance?
A: The 7D Mark II has faster autofocus performance thanks to its 65-point autofocus system and dedicated AF processor.
Q: Which camera has more weather sealing?
A: The 7D Mark II has more weather sealing due to its magnesium alloy body and weather-resistant construction.
Q: Which camera is better for capturing birds in flight?
A: The 7D Mark II is better for capturing birds in flight due to its faster burst shooting speed and more accurate autofocus performance.
Q: Which camera is more comfortable to use for birding?
A: The 7D Mark II is more comfortable to use for birding due to its larger body and dedicated dials.
