Canon EOS 50D EF 50mm f/1.4 USM vs Canon EOS 700D: Which Camera Reigns Supreme for Professional Photography? Find Out Now!

Choosing the perfect camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’ll be diving into the world of Canon DSLRs, comparing the seasoned veteran Canon EOS 50D paired with the renowned EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens against the more modern Canon EOS 700D. This battle of the titans will explore their strengths and weaknesses, helping you decide which camera best suits your photographic aspirations.

The Contenders: A Brief Overview

Canon EOS 50D: Released in 2009, the EOS 50D was a powerhouse in its time. It boasted a 15.1MP APS-C sensor, 9-point autofocus system, and a 3fps shooting rate. While it might seem dated compared to newer models, the 50D still holds its own with its robust build and impressive image quality.
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM: This legendary lens is a favorite among portrait photographers. Its wide aperture allows for shallow depth of field, isolating subjects and creating stunning bokeh. The USM (Ultrasonic Motor) ensures fast and silent autofocus, making it ideal for capturing fleeting moments.
Canon EOS 700D: Released in 2013, the EOS 700D was a popular choice for enthusiasts and beginners. It features an 18MP APS-C sensor, 9-point autofocus, and a 4fps shooting rate. Its user-friendly interface and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity made it a hit among those stepping into the world of DSLRs.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The 50D’s 15.1MP sensor delivers excellent image quality, particularly in low light. Its dynamic range is impressive, allowing you to recover detail in highlights and shadows. However, the 700D’s 18MP sensor offers a slight edge in resolution, capturing more detail, especially when printing large images.
Both cameras produce vibrant and accurate colors, but the 700D benefits from Canon’s newer image processing engine, which results in slightly better noise performance at higher ISOs. This means you can shoot in lower light conditions with less noise.

Autofocus: Speed and Accuracy

The 50D’s 9-point autofocus system is reliable and accurate, but it can struggle in low light situations. The 700D, on the other hand, features a more advanced 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors in the center. This translates to faster and more precise focusing, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
While both cameras benefit from the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM’s fast and silent autofocus, the 700D’s improved autofocus system gives it a slight edge in capturing fast-moving subjects.

Shooting Performance: Frames Per Second and Buffer

The 50D shoots at a respectable 3fps, while the 700D offers a faster 4fps shooting rate. This means you can capture more action shots per second with the 700D. However, the 50D’s buffer size is larger, allowing you to shoot more frames in a burst before it starts slowing down.

Features and Connectivity: Modern vs. Traditional

The 700D boasts a modern feature set, including built-in Wi-Fi for easy image sharing and remote control. It also features a touchscreen interface, making navigating menus and selecting focus points a breeze.
The 50D, while lacking these modern conveniences, still offers a robust set of features, including a dedicated ISO dial and a top-mounted LCD screen for quick access to shooting information.

Build and Ergonomics: A Matter of Preference

Both cameras are built to last, with durable magnesium alloy bodies. The 50D feels slightly heavier and more substantial in your hands, while the 700D is more compact and lightweight. The 50D’s deeper grip provides a more secure hold, especially when using larger lenses. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and shooting style.

The EF 50mm f/1.4 USM: A Lens That Stands the Test of Time

The EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is a classic lens that continues to impress. Its wide aperture allows for stunning shallow depth of field, creating beautiful bokeh and isolating subjects. The USM motor ensures fast and silent autofocus, making it ideal for capturing portraits, street photography, and even low-light scenes.
While newer lenses offer more advanced features like image stabilization, the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM’s sharpness, character, and affordability make it a timeless choice.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

So, which camera reigns supreme? The answer depends on your individual needs and priorities.
If you prioritize image quality and low-light performance, the Canon EOS 50D with EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is a solid choice. Its robust build, reliable autofocus, and impressive image quality make it a capable camera for a wide range of subjects.
If you value modern features, ease of use, and a faster shooting rate, the Canon EOS 700D is the better option. Its touchscreen interface, built-in Wi-Fi, and improved autofocus system make it a user-friendly camera that’s ideal for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Beyond the Specs: Finding Your Photographic Voice

Ultimately, the best camera is the one that allows you to express your artistic vision. Don’t get caught up in the numbers and specs; instead, focus on the camera that feels most comfortable in your hands and inspires you to create.
Whether you choose the seasoned veteran Canon EOS 50D or the modern Canon EOS 700D, both cameras offer a solid foundation for capturing stunning images. It’s up to you to explore their capabilities and find your own photographic voice.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens on the Canon EOS 700D?
A: Yes, the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens is compatible with the Canon EOS 700D and all other Canon DSLRs with an EF lens mount.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its user-friendly interface, built-in Wi-Fi, and touchscreen navigation.
Q: What are the main differences between the Canon EOS 50D and Canon EOS 700D?
A: The main differences lie in their sensor resolution, autofocus system, shooting rate, and features. The 700D offers higher resolution, faster autofocus, and a more modern feature set, while the 50D boasts better low-light performance and a more robust build.
Q: Is the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens worth the price?
A: Absolutely! This lens is a classic for a reason. Its sharpness, character, and wide aperture make it an excellent choice for a variety of photographic styles, especially portraiture.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS 50D generally performs better in low light due to its larger pixels and slightly better dynamic range. However, the 700D’s newer image processing engine helps reduce noise at higher ISOs.