What To Know
- The Canon EOS 60D with the EF-S 17-85mm lens and the Canon EOS R100 with the RF-S 18-45mm lens are both popular choices for beginner and intermediate photographers.
- The 60D is a seasoned DSLR, released in 2010, while the R100 is a newer mirrorless camera from Canon’s EOS R system, launched in 2022.
- 6 IS USM is a versatile zoom lens offering a focal length range ideal for everyday photography, from landscapes and portraits to travel and events.
Are you a budding photographer looking for a versatile and affordable camera kit? The Canon EOS 60D with the EF-S 17-85mm lens and the Canon EOS R100 with the RF-S 18-45mm lens are both popular choices for beginner and intermediate photographers. But which kit is the right fit for you?
This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two kits, exploring their key features, pros and cons, and ultimately helping you make an informed decision. We’ll analyze everything from image quality and autofocus performance to ergonomics and overall value, so you can confidently choose the perfect camera setup for your photographic journey.
A Look at the Contenders: Canon EOS 60D and Canon EOS R100
Both the Canon EOS 60D and Canon EOS R100 are fantastic cameras in their respective categories. The 60D is a seasoned DSLR, released in 2010, while the R100 is a newer mirrorless camera from Canon’s EOS R system, launched in 2022.
Canon EOS 60D: The Workhorse DSLR
The Canon EOS 60D is a well-established DSLR with a 18-megapixel APS-C sensor. It boasts a 9-point autofocus system, 1080p video recording at 30fps, and a 3-inch rotating LCD screen. The 60D is known for its robust build, reliable performance, and excellent image quality. However, its age is evident in the lack of modern features like 4K video recording, touchscreen interface, and in-body image stabilization.
Canon EOS R100: The Compact Mirrorless Marvel
The Canon EOS R100 is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera equipped with a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor. It features a 143-point autofocus system with eye detection, 4K video recording at 25fps, and a 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD. The R100 offers modern features like in-body image stabilization, electronic viewfinder, and seamless connectivity with smartphones.
Lens Showdown: EF-S 17-85mm vs. RF-S 18-45mm
The choice of lens plays a crucial role in determining the overall performance of a camera kit. Let’s compare the lenses bundled with the 60D and R100.
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM: A Versatile Zoom
The Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is a versatile zoom lens offering a focal length range ideal for everyday photography, from landscapes and portraits to travel and events. Its image stabilization system helps minimize camera shake, especially when shooting handheld. The lens’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and use.
Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM: Compact and Affordable
The Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM is a compact and lightweight zoom lens designed specifically for the EOS R system. It offers a slightly wider field of view compared to the EF-S 17-85mm, making it suitable for landscapes and everyday snapshots. The lens features in-built image stabilization and a stepping motor for smooth and near-silent autofocus.
Image Quality: A Detailed Comparison
Image quality is paramount for any photographer. Let’s examine the differences in image quality between the two kits.
Canon EOS 60D: Reliable Image Quality
The Canon EOS 60D delivers excellent image quality, especially in good lighting conditions. Its 18-megapixel sensor captures plenty of detail, and the images exhibit good dynamic range and color accuracy. However, the 60D’s performance in low light can be limited due to its older sensor technology.
Canon EOS R100: Advanced Image Quality
The Canon EOS R100 boasts a higher resolution sensor with 24.2 megapixels, resulting in sharper and more detailed images. The R100’s sensor technology allows for better low light performance, capturing more detail and reducing noise in dimly lit environments.
Autofocus Performance: Tracking the Action
Autofocus is essential for capturing sharp images, especially when shooting fast-moving subjects. Let’s compare the autofocus systems of the 60D and R100.
Canon EOS 60D: Reliable but Limited
The Canon EOS 60D’s 9-point autofocus system is reliable and accurate but limited in its coverage area. It struggles with tracking fast-moving subjects, making it less ideal for sports or wildlife photography.
Canon EOS R100: Advanced Autofocus
The Canon EOS R100 features a 143-point autofocus system with eye detection, offering significantly improved tracking capabilities. This system excels at tracking moving subjects, including people and animals, ensuring sharp focus even in challenging situations.
Ergonomics and Usability: A User-Friendly Experience
The ergonomics and usability of a camera are crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable shooting experience. Let’s compare the handling of the 60D and R100.
Canon EOS 60D: Familiar and Comfortable
The Canon EOS 60D offers a familiar and comfortable grip, thanks to its DSLR design. The camera’s controls are well-placed and easy to access, making it intuitive to use. However, the lack of a touchscreen interface can be a drawback for some users.
Canon EOS R100: Modern and Intuitive
The Canon EOS R100 boasts a modern and sleek design. Its compact size and lightweight body make it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The touchscreen interface provides a more intuitive and responsive user experience.
Video Capabilities: Capturing Motion
Both cameras offer video recording capabilities, but with different features and limitations.
Canon EOS 60D: Basic Video Recording
The Canon EOS 60D can record 1080p videos at 30fps. While the video quality is decent, the lack of 4K resolution and advanced features like slow-motion recording makes it less appealing for serious videographers.
Canon EOS R100: Enhanced Video Features
The Canon EOS R100 offers 4K video recording at 25fps, providing higher resolution and more detail. It also includes features like slow-motion recording and digital image stabilization, making it a more versatile option for video enthusiasts.
Connectivity: Staying Connected
Modern cameras offer various connectivity options for easy sharing and transferring of images. Let’s compare the connectivity features of the 60D and R100.
Canon EOS 60D: Limited Connectivity
The Canon EOS 60D offers basic connectivity options, including USB and HDMI ports. It lacks built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, making it less convenient for wireless image transfer and remote control.
Canon EOS R100: Enhanced Connectivity
The Canon EOS R100 features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless wireless image transfer and remote control via a smartphone app. This makes it easier to share your photos and videos on social media or backup your images to cloud storage.
Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance
The price of a camera kit is an important factor for many photographers. Let’s compare the affordability of the 60D and R100.
Canon EOS 60D: Affordable Option
The Canon EOS 60D is a more affordable option compared to the R100. Its lower price point makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious photographers. However, its age and lack of modern features make it less future-proof.
Canon EOS R100: Premium Choice
The Canon EOS R100 is a premium choice with a higher price tag compared to the 60D. However, its advanced features, modern design, and excellent image quality justify the cost for photographers who prioritize performance and versatility.
Choosing the Right Kit for You: A Final Verdict
Choosing between the Canon EOS 60D + EF-S 17-85mm kit and the Canon EOS R100 + RF-S 18-45mm kit depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The Canon EOS 60D + EF-S 17-85mm kit is a great option for:
- Budget-conscious photographers: The 60D offers excellent value for the price.
- Those who prefer a familiar DSLR design: The 60D’s ergonomic design is comfortable for users accustomed to DSLRs.
- Photographers who prioritize image quality in good lighting conditions: The 60D delivers excellent image quality, especially in daylight.
The Canon EOS R100 + RF-S 18-45mm kit is a great option for:
- Photographers who want the latest technology: The R100 offers modern features like 4K video recording, in-body image stabilization, and touchscreen interface.
- Those who prioritize autofocus performance: The R100’s advanced autofocus system excels at tracking moving subjects.
- Photographers who value compact and lightweight design: The R100’s mirrorless design makes it easy to carry and use.
The Final Word: Adapting to Your Photographic Needs
Ultimately, the best camera kit for you depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re a beginner photographer on a budget, the Canon EOS 60D + EF-S 17-85mm kit is a great starting point. However, if you’re looking for a more modern and versatile camera with advanced features, the Canon EOS R100 + RF-S 18-45mm kit is a compelling choice.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use Canon EF lenses on the Canon EOS R100?
A: No, the Canon EOS R100 only accepts Canon RF lenses. You can use EF lenses with an adapter, but it will add bulk and cost.
Q: Which kit is better for shooting video?
A: The Canon EOS R100 offers better video capabilities with 4K resolution and advanced features like slow-motion recording and digital image stabilization.
Q: What are the key differences between DSLRs and mirrorless cameras?
A: DSLRs use a mirror to reflect light into the viewfinder, while mirrorless cameras use an electronic viewfinder. Mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and lighter, offer better autofocus performance, and have more advanced video features.
Q: Which lens is better for portraits?
A: The Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM offers a wider zoom range, making it suitable for various subjects, including portraits. However, for dedicated portrait photography, a prime lens with a wider aperture like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM might be a better choice.
