Shoot Like a Pro: Canon EOS 60D vs Canon EOS 700D – Which Camera is Worth Your Investment?

Choosing the right DSLR camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices among beginners and enthusiasts alike are the Canon EOS 60D paired with the EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens and the Canon EOS 700D bundled with the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two setups, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Canon EOS 60D: A Powerful Performer with Advanced Features

The Canon EOS 60D was a flagship model in its time, offering a range of professional-grade features that set it apart from its contemporaries. It boasts a 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, capable of capturing high-quality images with excellent detail and dynamic range. The 60D also features a 9-point cross-type autofocus system, ensuring accurate and reliable focusing even in challenging lighting conditions.
Here’s a breakdown of the key features of the Canon EOS 60D:

• 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor: Provides excellent image quality with rich detail and vibrant colors.
• 9-point cross-type autofocus system: Delivers fast and accurate autofocus performance, especially in low light.
• 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD screen: Offers flexibility for different shooting angles and live view composition.
• Full HD video recording at 30fps: Allows you to capture high-quality videos with impressive detail and smooth motion.
• Built-in stereo microphone: Ensures clear and crisp audio recordings for your videos.
• Advanced shooting modes: Features various creative modes, including aperture-priority, shutter-priority, manual, and bulb modes.
• Compact and lightweight design: Makes it easy to carry and use for extended periods.

Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens: Versatility and Image Stabilization

The EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens is a popular choice for everyday photography, offering a versatile focal length range that covers a wide variety of subjects. From landscapes and portraits to close-ups and action shots, this lens can handle it all. The lens features Canon’s Image Stabilizer (IS) technology, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in low light or when using slower shutter speeds.
Key features of the Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens:

• Wide zoom range: Covers a versatile range from 17mm wide-angle to 85mm telephoto, making it suitable for various shooting scenarios.
• Image Stabilization (IS): Effectively reduces camera shake, allowing for sharper images, especially in low light.
• Ultrasonic Motor (USM): Provides fast and silent autofocus performance for capturing fleeting moments.
• Compact and lightweight design: Makes it easy to carry and use for extended periods.

Canon EOS 700D: A User-Friendly Option with Excellent Image Quality

The Canon EOS 700D was a popular entry-level DSLR that offered a balance of features and affordability. It features a 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, similar to the 60D, but with a slightly different processing engine. The 700D also offers a 9-point autofocus system, although it’s not as advanced as the 60D’s cross-type system.
Key features of the Canon EOS 700D:

• 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor: Delivers excellent image quality with vibrant colors and good detail.
• 9-point autofocus system: Provides reliable focusing for most shooting scenarios.
• 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD: Allows for intuitive navigation and composition, especially for selfies and video recording.
• Full HD video recording at 30fps: Enables you to capture high-quality videos with smooth motion.
• Built-in stereo microphone: Ensures clear audio recording for your videos.
• Creative Auto mode: Simplifies shooting with automatic settings for different scenes.
• Compact and lightweight design: Makes it easy to carry and use for everyday photography.

Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM Lens: Affordable and Compact

The EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is the standard kit lens that often comes bundled with the Canon EOS 700D. It offers a versatile focal length range that’s suitable for a wide variety of subjects, but its aperture range is slightly less forgiving than the 17-85mm lens. However, the STM (Stepping Motor) technology provides smooth and silent autofocus, making it ideal for video recording.
Key features of the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens:

• Standard zoom range: Covers a versatile range from 18mm wide-angle to 55mm telephoto, suitable for everyday photography.
• Image Stabilization (IS): Helps to reduce camera shake for sharper images, especially in low light.
• Stepping Motor (STM): Offers smooth and silent autofocus performance, ideal for video recording.
• Compact and lightweight design: Makes it easy to carry and use for extended periods.

Comparing the Two Setups: Performance and Features

Now, let’s compare the Canon EOS 60D with EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM and the Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM based on their performance and features:
Image Quality: Both cameras offer excellent image quality with vibrant colors and good detail. The 60D’s sensor and processing engine may provide slightly better dynamic range and low-light performance, but the 700D is still capable of producing impressive results.
Autofocus: The 60D’s 9-point cross-type autofocus system offers faster and more accurate focusing, especially in low light and for tracking moving subjects. The 700D’s 9-point system is reliable but not as advanced.
Video Recording: Both cameras support Full HD video recording at 30fps, but the 60D offers greater control over video settings and manual adjustments. The 700D’s touchscreen interface makes video recording more intuitive.
Features: The 60D boasts a wider range of advanced features, including creative filters, custom white balance settings, and more shooting modes. The 700D is more user-friendly with its touchscreen interface and Creative Auto mode.
Lens: The EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens offers a wider zoom range and better image quality compared to the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. However, the STM lens is more affordable and compact.
Price: The Canon EOS 60D with EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM lens is typically more expensive than the Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens.

Which Camera is Right for You?

The choice between the Canon EOS 60D with EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM and the Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Canon EOS 60D with EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is ideal for:

• Serious photographers looking for advanced features and performance: The 60D’s professional-grade features and excellent image quality make it suitable for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
• Those who need a more versatile lens: The 17-85mm lens offers a wider zoom range, making it suitable for a wider variety of subjects.
• Photographers who prioritize image quality and low-light performance: The 60D’s sensor and autofocus system excel in low-light conditions.

Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is ideal for:

• Beginners and casual photographers: The 700D’s user-friendly interface and affordable price make it an excellent choice for those new to DSLR photography.
• Those who want a compact and lightweight setup: The 700D and its kit lens are smaller and lighter than the 60D and its lens.
• Photographers who prioritize video recording: The 700D’s touchscreen interface and STM lens make video recording smooth and intuitive.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right DSLR for Your Journey

Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that best suits your needs and budget. The Canon EOS 60D with EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM offers advanced features and excellent image quality, while the Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM provides a user-friendly experience at an affordable price. Consider your shooting style, budget, and future aspirations when making your decision.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I upgrade the lens on the Canon EOS 700D later?
A: Yes, you can upgrade the lens on the Canon EOS 700D later. The 700D accepts both EF and EF-S lenses, providing a wide range of options for expanding your photography capabilities.
Q: Is the Canon EOS 60D still a good camera in 2023?
A: While the Canon EOS 60D is an older model, it’s still a capable camera. Its image quality, autofocus performance, and advanced features make it a solid choice for many photographers. However, newer models offer improved features and better video capabilities.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is generally considered a better choice for beginners due to its user-friendly interface, touchscreen navigation, and affordable price. However, the 60D can also be a good option for beginners who are willing to learn more about camera settings and features.
Q: What are the main differences between the EF-S 17-85mm and the EF-S 18-55mm lenses?
A: The EF-S 17-85mm lens offers a wider zoom range, better image quality, and image stabilization. The EF-S 18-55mm lens is more affordable and compact, with smooth and silent autofocus for video recording.