What To Know
- If you’re considering a Canon DSLR for your photography journey, the Canon EOS 550D and Canon EOS 700D, both paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens, are popular choices.
- Now that we’ve explored the key features and differences between the Canon EOS 550D and Canon EOS 700D, let’s determine which camera is the right fit for you.
- While the 700D offers a slight edge in dynamic range and noise performance, the 550D still delivers excellent image quality for most photography needs.
Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. If you’re considering a Canon DSLR for your photography journey, the Canon EOS 550D and Canon EOS 700D, both paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens, are popular choices. While both cameras offer impressive features, understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision. This blog post will delve into the key aspects of each camera, comparing their performance, features, and overall value to help you determine which one aligns best with your needs and aspirations.
The Canon EOS 550D: A Solid Foundation
The Canon EOS 550D, released in 2010, was a game-changer for aspiring photographers. It offered a powerful combination of features and affordability, making it a popular choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Key Features of the Canon EOS 550D:
- 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor: This sensor provides excellent image quality, capturing detailed images with good dynamic range.
- 3.0 fps continuous shooting: While not the fastest, this rate is sufficient for capturing action shots, especially with the 18-135mm lens.
- 3-inch LCD screen with 920k dots: This screen offers a decent viewing experience for reviewing images and navigating the menu system.
- Full HD 1080p video recording at 20fps: This feature allows you to capture high-quality video footage, making it a versatile camera for both photos and videos.
- Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS lens: This versatile lens provides a wide zoom range, making it suitable for a variety of subjects, from landscapes to portraits.
The Canon EOS 700D: A Step Up in Performance
The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, was a significant upgrade over the 550D, offering enhanced features and performance. It solidified its position as a popular choice for photographers seeking a balance between affordability and advanced capabilities.
Key Features of the Canon EOS 700D:
- 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor: Similar to the 550D, this sensor delivers high-quality images with good detail and dynamic range.
- 4.0 fps continuous shooting: The faster continuous shooting rate allows you to capture more action and movement in your images.
- 3-inch touchscreen LCD with 1.04 million dots: The touchscreen interface provides intuitive control and navigation, making it easier to adjust settings and review images.
- Full HD 1080p video recording at 30fps: The 700D offers smoother video recording at a higher frame rate, enhancing the overall video quality.
- Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens: This lens features a stepping motor (STM) for quieter and smoother autofocus, especially beneficial for video recording.
Performance Comparison: A Detailed Look
Image Quality: Both cameras deliver excellent image quality, especially considering their price point. The 700D might have a slight edge in terms of dynamic range and noise performance, particularly at higher ISO settings. However, the differences are subtle and often negligible for everyday photography.
Autofocus: The 700D’s STM lens provides faster, quieter, and more accurate autofocus, particularly noticeable during video recording. The 550D’s lens, while capable, can be a bit noisy and less responsive in low-light conditions.
Continuous Shooting: The 700D’s faster continuous shooting rate (4 fps vs 3 fps) is a significant advantage for capturing action shots. This difference becomes more noticeable when shooting fast-moving subjects like sports or wildlife.
Video Recording: The 700D’s 30fps video recording and STM lens offer a smoother, quieter, and more professional video experience compared to the 550D.
Ergonomics and Features: Both cameras offer comfortable grips and intuitive button layouts. However, the 700D’s touchscreen interface provides a more modern and user-friendly experience, particularly for navigating menus and adjusting settings.
Deciding Which Camera Suits You Best
Now that we’ve explored the key features and differences between the Canon EOS 550D and Canon EOS 700D, let’s determine which camera is the right fit for you:
Choose the Canon EOS 550D if:
- You’re on a tight budget: The 550D is a more affordable option, making it an excellent entry point into DSLR photography.
- You prioritize image quality over speed: While the 700D offers a slight edge in dynamic range and noise performance, the 550D still delivers excellent image quality for most photography needs.
- You’re primarily interested in still photography: If you’re not planning to shoot much video, the 550D’s video capabilities are sufficient, and its lower price point is a significant advantage.
Choose the Canon EOS 700D if:
- You’re willing to invest a bit more for enhanced features: The 700D offers a noticeable upgrade in performance and features, making it a more versatile camera for a wider range of photographic endeavors.
- You prioritize speed and responsiveness: The 700D’s faster continuous shooting rate and STM lens provide a significant advantage for capturing action and movement.
- You’re interested in video recording: The 700D’s smoother video recording and quieter autofocus make it a better choice for capturing high-quality video footage.
Beyond the Specs: Understanding Your Needs
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Your photography style: What kind of subjects do you typically photograph? Do you need a fast continuous shooting rate for action shots, or are you primarily interested in landscapes and portraits?
- Your budget: How much are you willing to spend on a camera and lens?
- Your level of experience: Are you a beginner, an enthusiast, or a seasoned photographer?
The Verdict: A Balanced Perspective
Both the Canon EOS 550D and Canon EOS 700D are excellent cameras that offer a solid foundation for your photography journey. The 550D is a more affordable option that delivers excellent image quality, while the 700D provides enhanced features and performance for those seeking a more versatile and advanced camera.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider your budget, photography style, and level of experience to make an informed decision.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I upgrade the Canon EOS 550D’s lens to the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens?
A: Yes, you can upgrade the Canon EOS 550D to the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. This will give you the benefits of the STM motor for smoother and quieter autofocus, especially during video recording.
Q: What are the main differences between the 550D and 700D in terms of image quality?
A: While both cameras offer excellent image quality, the 700D might have a slight edge in terms of dynamic range and noise performance, particularly at higher ISO settings. However, the differences are subtle and often negligible for everyday photography.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is a better choice for video recording due to its smoother 30fps recording and the STM lens, which provides quieter and more accurate autofocus.
Q: Can I use the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens on both the 550D and 700D?
A: Yes, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is compatible with both the Canon EOS 550D and Canon EOS 700D.
Q: What are some other alternatives to consider in this price range?
A: Some other alternatives to consider in this price range include the Canon EOS 600D, the Nikon D5300, and the Pentax K-50. However, the Canon EOS 550D and Canon EOS 700D remain excellent choices for their price and performance.
