Which Wins? Canon EOS 1000D vs. 700D with EF-S 18-55mm & 18-135mm Lenses: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the perfect camera can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’re diving into the world of Canon DSLRs, specifically comparing the Canon EOS 1000D paired with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens against the Canon EOS 700D bundled with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. Both are popular choices for beginners and enthusiasts, but which one reigns supreme? Let’s explore their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
The Canon EOS 1000D, also known as the Rebel XS, is an entry-level DSLR that was released in 2009. While it’s older, it’s still a capable camera for those starting their photography journey. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

• 10.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor: This sensor captures images with decent detail, suitable for everyday photography and printing up to A4 size.
• 3.0″ LCD Screen: The fixed screen provides a clear view of your images, but lacks the flexibility of tilting screens found in newer models.
• DIGIC 4 Image Processor: This processor enables fast processing speeds and delivers good image quality.
• Built-in Flash: The integrated flash is handy for low-light situations but lacks the power and control of external flashes.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: The EOS 1000D is comfortable to hold and easy to carry around.

The bundled Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens is a versatile kit lens that offers a standard zoom range, ideal for capturing various subjects. It features image stabilization for sharper images in low-light conditions.

The Canon EOS 700D: A Step Up in Performance and Features

The Canon EOS 700D, also known as the Rebel T5i, is a more advanced DSLR released in 2013. It offers a significant upgrade over the EOS 1000D in terms of features, performance, and image quality. Let’s delve into its key attributes:

• 18 Megapixel CMOS Sensor: This sensor captures sharper images with greater detail, perfect for larger prints and cropping.
• 3.0″ Touchscreen LCD: The tilting touchscreen offers a more intuitive way to navigate the menus and compose shots.
• DIGIC 5 Image Processor: This powerful processor delivers faster processing speeds, improved noise reduction, and enhanced image quality.
• Continuous Shooting at 4 fps: Capture fast-moving subjects with ease thanks to the improved continuous shooting rate.
• Full HD Video Recording: The EOS 700D allows you to record high-quality videos with impressive detail and smooth motion.
• Built-in Wi-Fi: Share your images wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet for easy sharing and backup.

The bundled Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens offers a wider zoom range compared to the 18-55mm lens, making it suitable for a greater variety of subjects, including portraits, landscapes, and wildlife. The STM motor ensures quiet and smooth autofocus for both photos and videos.

Key Differences: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Now that we’ve explored the individual features of each camera, let’s compare them side-by-side to highlight their key differences:
Image Quality: The EOS 700D boasts a larger sensor and a more advanced image processor, resulting in superior image quality with more detail, better dynamic range, and lower noise levels.
Autofocus: The EOS 700D features a more advanced autofocus system with 9 cross-type points, providing faster and more accurate autofocus performance, especially in low-light conditions.
Video Capabilities: The EOS 700D offers Full HD video recording at 30fps, while the EOS 1000D is limited to 720p video recording. The EOS 700D also features a dedicated movie button and manual audio control for better video recording capabilities.
Features: The EOS 700D comes equipped with a touchscreen LCD, built-in Wi-Fi, and a higher continuous shooting rate, making it a more versatile and feature-rich camera.
Price: The EOS 1000D is significantly cheaper than the EOS 700D, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers.

Canon EOS 1000D Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II: Who is it for?

The Canon EOS 1000D with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens is an excellent choice for:

• Complete beginners: If you’re new to DSLR photography and want a budget-friendly option to learn the ropes, the EOS 1000D is a great starting point.
• Casual photographers: If you’re looking for a camera for everyday snapshots, family gatherings, and occasional travel photography, the EOS 1000D’s simplicity and affordability make it a good choice.
• Those on a tight budget: If you’re working with a limited budget, the EOS 1000D offers a good balance of features and price.

Canon EOS 700D Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: Who is it for?

The Canon EOS 700D with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a better fit for:

• Enthusiast photographers: If you’re looking for a camera that offers more advanced features and better image quality, the EOS 700D is a solid choice.
• Those who want to shoot video: The EOS 700D’s Full HD video recording capabilities and features like manual audio control make it a good option for video enthusiasts.
• Travel photographers: The wider zoom range of the 18-135mm lens is ideal for capturing a variety of subjects while traveling.
• Those who want to experiment with different photography styles: The EOS 700D’s touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity offer greater flexibility and creative control.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Lens Options and Accessories

While the kit lenses are a good starting point, both cameras offer the opportunity to expand your creative possibilities with a wider range of lenses and accessories.
Lenses: You can explore specialized lenses for different photography styles, such as portrait lenses for flattering portraits, macro lenses for capturing close-up details, or wide-angle lenses for expansive landscapes.
Accessories: Other accessories like external flashes, tripods, remote triggers, and filters can enhance your photography experience and allow you to capture more creative shots.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and photography goals.
If you’re a complete beginner on a tight budget, the Canon EOS 1000D with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens is a great starting point. It’s easy to use, affordable, and provides decent image quality for everyday photography.
If you’re looking for a more advanced camera with better image quality, more features, and video recording capabilities, the Canon EOS 700D with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a solid choice. Its wider zoom range, touchscreen LCD, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Full HD video recording make it a versatile camera for a wide range of photography styles.

Moving Forward: The Future of DSLR Photography

While the Canon EOS 1000D and EOS 700D are great cameras, the landscape of photography is constantly evolving. Mirrorless cameras are gaining popularity due to their compact size, advanced features, and excellent image quality. If you’re looking for a camera with the latest technology and a more compact design, exploring mirrorless options from Canon or other brands might be worth considering.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What about the image quality difference between the two cameras?
A: The EOS 700D offers significantly better image quality thanks to its larger sensor and more advanced image processor. You’ll notice sharper details, better dynamic range, and lower noise levels, especially in low-light situations.
Q: Can I use the same lenses on both cameras?
A: Yes, both cameras use the Canon EF and EF-S lens mount, so you can use the same lenses on both. However, the EOS 700D has a more advanced autofocus system, so some lenses might perform better on it.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The EOS 700D is a better choice for video recording due to its Full HD video capabilities, dedicated movie button, and manual audio control.
Q: Is the EOS 1000D still a good camera to buy in 2023?
A: While the EOS 1000D is an older camera, it can still be a good option for beginners on a tight budget. However, newer cameras offer significant improvements in image quality, features, and performance.
Q: Which camera is more suitable for beginners?
A: Both cameras are relatively beginner-friendly, but the EOS 1000D’s simpler design and more affordable price make it a more accessible option for those starting their photography journey.