What To Know
- It boasts a 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, a 9-point autofocus system, and a 3.
- It has a large grip and a plethora of buttons and dials, providing a lot of control over camera settings.
- The EOS 60D is a great option for budget-conscious photographers who are comfortable with a DSLR design.
Choosing the right camera kit can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the vast array of options available. Today, we’re diving into a classic showdown: the Canon EOS 60D paired with the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS against the newer **Canon EOS RP with the RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM**. Both are popular choices for enthusiasts and beginners alike, offering versatility and affordability. But which kit emerges as the victor? Let’s break down their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Body: A Clash of Generations
The Canon EOS 60D, released in 2010, represents the older generation of DSLRs. It boasts a 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, a 9-point autofocus system, and a 3.0-inch LCD screen. The EOS RP, on the other hand, is a mirrorless camera launched in 2019. It features a 26.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, a 4779-point autofocus system, and a 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen.
EOS 60D:
- Pros: Affordable, familiar DSLR design, good image quality for its time.
- Cons: Older technology, limited autofocus points, no touchscreen.
EOS RP:
- Pros: Full-frame sensor, advanced autofocus, touchscreen, smaller and lighter.
- Cons: More expensive, newer technology may be intimidating for some.
Lens: A Tale of Two Systems
The EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS is a versatile zoom lens designed for APS-C cameras. Its wide-angle to telephoto range makes it suitable for various subjects, from landscapes to portraits. The RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM is a newer lens designed for Canon’s RF mirrorless system. It offers a slightly wider field of view than the EF-S 18-135mm, but its maximum aperture is narrower.
EF-S 18-135mm:
- Pros: Affordable, versatile focal range, image stabilization.
- Cons: Slower aperture, not compatible with full-frame bodies.
RF 24-105mm:
- Pros: Compatible with full-frame, good image quality, image stabilization.
- Cons: More expensive, slower aperture than some RF lenses.
Image Quality: A Clear Winner?
While the EOS 60D’s 18-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers decent image quality, the EOS RP’s 26.2-megapixel full-frame sensor takes the lead in terms of detail and dynamic range. The full-frame sensor allows for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field, resulting in more pleasing bokeh effects.
EOS 60D:
- Pros: Good image quality for its time.
- Cons: Limited dynamic range, lower resolution compared to the EOS RP.
EOS RP:
- Pros: Excellent image quality, better low-light performance, higher resolution.
- Cons: Requires more careful handling due to the larger sensor.
Autofocus: A World Apart
The EOS RP‘s autofocus system is significantly more advanced than the EOS 60D. The 4779-point Dual Pixel CMOS AF provides accurate and fast focusing, even in challenging lighting conditions. The EOS 60D’s 9-point system is slower and less reliable, particularly in low light.
EOS 60D:
- Pros: Decent autofocus for its time.
- Cons: Limited autofocus points, struggles in low light.
EOS RP:
- Pros: Advanced autofocus system, fast and accurate focusing.
- Cons: Not as user-friendly as the EOS 60D’s cross-type sensor.
Video Capabilities: A Modern Edge
The EOS RP offers superior video capabilities compared to the EOS 60D. It can record 4K video at 25fps, while the EOS 60D is limited to 1080p at 30fps. The EOS RP also benefits from features like Canon Log and HDR video recording, making it a more versatile option for filmmakers.
EOS 60D:
- Pros: Basic video recording capabilities.
- Cons: Limited resolution and frame rate.
EOS RP:
- Pros: Advanced video recording capabilities, 4K resolution, Canon Log and HDR.
- Cons: Not as user-friendly for video recording as dedicated video cameras.
Ergonomics and Design: A Matter of Preference
The EOS 60D’s DSLR design is familiar and comfortable for many photographers. It has a large grip and a plethora of buttons and dials, providing a lot of control over camera settings. The EOS RP, being a mirrorless camera, is smaller and lighter, making it more portable. It also features a touchscreen interface, which can be more intuitive for some users.
EOS 60D:
- Pros: Familiar DSLR design, comfortable grip, plenty of buttons and dials.
- Cons: Larger and heavier than the EOS RP.
EOS RP:
- Pros: Smaller and lighter, touchscreen interface, more portable.
- Cons: Fewer physical controls, some users may find the design less intuitive.
The Verdict: Finding the Right Fit
Choosing between the Canon EOS 60D & EF-S 18-135mm and the EOS RP & RF 24-105mm ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
The EOS 60D is a great option for budget-conscious photographers who are comfortable with a DSLR design. Its image quality is still decent, and the EF-S 18-135mm lens provides a versatile zoom range. However, its autofocus system and video capabilities are limited compared to the EOS RP.
The EOS RP is the more modern and versatile option, offering a full-frame sensor, advanced autofocus, and superior video capabilities. It’s a great choice for photographers who want the best image quality and are willing to invest in a newer camera system. However, it’s more expensive and might be more intimidating for beginners.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring the Ecosystem
The choice between these kits extends beyond the camera and lens. Consider the entire ecosystem:
- Canon’s EF-S lens lineup: The EOS 60D is compatible with a wide range of EF-S lenses, offering flexibility for various shooting styles.
- Canon’s RF lens lineup: The EOS RP is compatible with Canon’s growing RF lens lineup, which includes high-performance lenses for various genres.
- Mirrorless vs. DSLR: The choice between mirrorless and DSLR depends on your preferences. Mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and lighter, while DSLRs often offer more physical controls.
The Final Word: Embrace Your Creative Vision
Ultimately, the best camera kit is the one that fits your needs and workflow. Both the Canon EOS 60D & EF-S 18-135mm and the EOS RP & RF 24-105mm offer their unique advantages. By carefully considering your budget, shooting style, and future aspirations, you can make an informed decision that empowers you to capture stunning images and tell compelling stories.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: Is the EOS RP worth the extra cost compared to the EOS 60D?
A: The EOS RP offers significant advantages over the EOS 60D, including a full-frame sensor, advanced autofocus, and superior video capabilities. If you’re looking for the best image quality and are willing to invest in a newer camera system, the EOS RP is a worthwhile choice.
Q2: Which lens is better: EF-S 18-135mm or RF 24-105mm?
A: Both lenses offer versatility, but the RF 24-105mm is generally considered to be a better lens in terms of image quality and sharpness. However, it’s also more expensive.
Q3: What are the advantages of using a mirrorless camera like the EOS RP?
A: Mirrorless cameras offer several advantages, including smaller size and weight, advanced autofocus systems, and electronic viewfinders that provide real-time image preview.
Q4: Can I use EF-S lenses on the EOS RP?
A: No, the EOS RP is only compatible with Canon’s RF lenses. You’ll need an adapter to use EF-S lenses on the EOS RP.
