Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Canon EOS 700D with Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM – Find Out the Winner!

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when considering the vast array of options available. This is particularly true for Canon users, who have a wide range of cameras catering to different needs and budgets. Two popular models often considered by photographers are the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 700D, both known for their versatility and image quality.
But which camera is the right fit for you? This comprehensive comparison delves into the key features, performance, and pros and cons of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 700D, along with the popular Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. We’ll analyze their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision based on your photographic goals and budget.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II: A Professional Workhorse

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II, released in 2008, was a game-changer in the full-frame camera market. It brought professional-grade features and image quality to a more accessible price point, making it a popular choice for both professionals and enthusiasts.
Key Features:

• Full-frame 21.1MP CMOS sensor: Delivers exceptional image quality, low noise, and wide dynamic range.
• 3.0 fps continuous shooting: Enables capturing fast-paced action, though not as rapid as newer models.
• 1080p video recording at 24fps: Offers decent video capabilities for its time, but limited compared to newer models.
• 9-point autofocus system: Provides reliable autofocus performance for various shooting scenarios.
• Built-in flash and hot shoe: Allows for flexibility in lighting conditions.

Pros:

• Exceptional image quality: The full-frame sensor delivers outstanding detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
• Durable construction: Built to withstand professional use.
• Wide lens compatibility: Supports both EF and EF-S lenses, offering a vast selection of options.
• Established reputation: A well-respected camera with a strong track record.

Cons:

• Older technology: Compared to modern cameras, the 5D Mark II lacks features like 4K video, advanced autofocus, and touch screen interface.
• Slow continuous shooting: With 3.0 fps, it struggles to capture fast-moving subjects.
• Limited video capabilities: 1080p recording at 24fps is outdated by today’s standards.
• No Wi-Fi or GPS: Lacks modern connectivity features.

The Canon EOS 700D: An Affordable and User-Friendly Option

The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, is an entry-level DSLR designed for beginners and enthusiasts. It offers a blend of affordability, ease of use, and decent image quality.
Key Features:

• 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor: Delivers good image quality and performance for its price point.
• 4.0 fps continuous shooting: Enables capturing moderate action, slightly faster than the 5D Mark II.
• 1080p video recording at 30fps: Offers better video capabilities than the 5D Mark II, with a higher frame rate.
• 9-point autofocus system: Provides reliable autofocus performance for general shooting.
• Built-in flash and hot shoe: Offers flexibility in lighting conditions.
• Vari-angle touchscreen LCD: Facilitates easy composition and viewing.

Pros:

• Affordable price: Offers excellent value for money.
• User-friendly interface: Easy to learn and operate, ideal for beginners.
• Vari-angle touchscreen LCD: Provides flexible composition and playback options.
• Decent image quality: The APS-C sensor delivers good results for everyday photography.
• Good video capabilities: 1080p video recording at 30fps is suitable for various purposes.

Cons:

• Smaller sensor: Compared to the 5D Mark II’s full-frame sensor, the 700D’s APS-C sensor has a smaller image area, resulting in less light gathering and shallower depth of field.
• Limited dynamic range: The 700D’s sensor has less dynamic range compared to the 5D Mark II, making it less forgiving in high-contrast situations.
• Less robust build: Not as durable as the 5D Mark II, making it less suitable for professional use.
• Limited lens compatibility: Only supports EF-S lenses, limiting the lens selection compared to the 5D Mark II.

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM Lens: A Versatile Companion

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a popular choice for both the 700D and 5D Mark II. It offers a versatile focal range, making it suitable for various subjects, from landscapes to portraits.
Key Features:

• 18-135mm focal length: Covers a wide range of shooting scenarios, from wide-angle to telephoto.
• f/3.5-5.6 aperture: Provides decent depth of field control and low-light performance.
• Image Stabilizer (IS): Helps to reduce camera shake, allowing for sharper images in low-light conditions.
• STM (Stepping Motor): Provides smooth and quiet autofocus, ideal for video recording.

Pros:

• Versatile focal range: Covers a wide range of shooting needs.
• Image Stabilizer: Helps to reduce camera shake, leading to sharper images.
• Quiet autofocus: Ideal for video recording and discreet shooting.
• Affordable price: Offers good value for money.

Cons:

• Limited maximum aperture: The f/3.5-5.6 aperture restricts depth of field control and low-light performance.
• Not as sharp as higher-end lenses: While delivering decent sharpness, it falls short of the quality of professional-grade lenses.

Choosing the Right Camera: Factors to Consider

Now that we’ve explored the key features and pros and cons of each camera, let’s consider the factors that should influence your decision:

• Budget: The 700D is significantly more affordable than the 5D Mark II.
• Image quality: The 5D Mark II offers superior image quality due to its full-frame sensor, providing greater detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
• Video capabilities: The 700D offers better video features with 1080p recording at 30fps, while the 5D Mark II is limited to 24fps.
• Ease of use: The 700D is designed for beginners and features a user-friendly interface, while the 5D Mark II is more geared towards experienced users.
• Connectivity: The 700D offers Wi-Fi and GPS connectivity, while the 5D Mark II lacks these features.
• Lens compatibility: The 5D Mark II supports both EF and EF-S lenses, while the 700D is limited to EF-S lenses.

The Verdict: Which Camera is Right for You?

The best camera for you depends on your specific needs and budget.
If you prioritize image quality, low-light performance, and professional-grade features, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the better choice. Its full-frame sensor delivers exceptional results, and its robust build makes it suitable for demanding use.
If you’re a beginner or on a tight budget, the Canon EOS 700D offers a great starting point. It’s affordable, user-friendly, and delivers good image quality for everyday photography.
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a versatile companion for both cameras. It provides a wide focal range and useful features like image stabilization and quiet autofocus.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and Canon EOS 700D are excellent choices, it’s worth considering other options depending on your specific needs.
For those seeking a more modern full-frame experience, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II or the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV offer updated features like 4K video, advanced autofocus, and improved connectivity.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option with a full-frame sensor, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a great choice. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV offers a significant upgrade in terms of features and performance but comes at a higher price point.
For those seeking a more compact and lightweight option, the Canon EOS M series mirrorless cameras offer a good alternative. They provide high image quality and advanced features in a smaller form factor.

Concluding Thoughts: Your Photographic Journey Begins Here

Choosing the right camera is a crucial step in your photographic journey. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and the features of each camera, you can find the perfect tool to capture your vision. Whether you choose the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, the Canon EOS 700D, or another camera altogether, remember that the most important factor is your passion for photography.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I still buy the Canon EOS 5D Mark II?
A: While the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is no longer in production, you can still find used models available online. However, it’s important to ensure the camera is in good condition and comes with a warranty.
Q: What are the best lenses for the Canon EOS 700D?
A: The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is a versatile option for the 700D. Other popular choices include the Canon EF-S 24mm f/2.8 STM, the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM, and the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM.
Q: Is the Canon EOS 5D Mark II still relevant in 2023?
A: While the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is an older model, it can still produce excellent image quality. However, it lacks modern features like 4K video and advanced autofocus, making it less appealing for some photographers.
Q: Can I upgrade the Canon EOS 5D Mark II to 4K video?
A: Unfortunately, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II cannot be upgraded to 4K video. It’s a hardware limitation, and there are no software solutions available.
Q: What are the differences between the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM?
A: The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM features a stepping motor (STM) for smooth and quiet autofocus, making it ideal for video recording. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM, on the other hand, uses a ring-type ultrasonic motor (USM) for faster and more precise autofocus, but it can be noisier during video recording.