Is the Canon EOS 60D with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM Better Than the EOS R with RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro? Find Out Now!

Choosing the right camera and lens combo can be a daunting task, especially for photographers venturing into the world of Canon. With a plethora of options available, it’s crucial to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each system. This blog post will delve into a head-to-head comparison between two popular setups: the Canon EOS 60D with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the **Canon EOS R with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro**. We’ll explore their features, performance, and suitability for different photography styles.

The Canon EOS 60D and Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: A Versatile Beginner’s Choice

The Canon EOS 60D, a seasoned DSLR, has been a popular choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Coupled with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM kit lens, this combo offers a versatile and affordable entry point into the world of photography.
Key Features:

• 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor: Provides good image quality for a range of subjects.
• 9-point cross-type autofocus: Offers reliable focusing, especially in good lighting conditions.
• 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD screen: Allows for flexible shooting angles.
• Full HD video recording at 30fps: Enables capturing moving moments.
• EF-S lens compatibility: Opens up a wide range of affordable and high-quality lenses.
• 18-55mm kit lens: Provides a versatile focal range for everyday photography.

Strengths:

• Affordable: This combo is budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for those starting their photography journey.
• Versatile: The kit lens offers a decent focal range for various scenarios, from landscapes to portraits.
• Good image quality: The 18MP sensor delivers sharp and detailed images, especially in good lighting.
• Easy to use: The EOS 60D features a user-friendly interface, making it simple to navigate and operate.

Weaknesses:

• Limited autofocus performance: The 9-point autofocus system can struggle in low-light or fast-paced situations.
• No 4K video: The 60D only supports Full HD video recording, which may be limiting for modern video needs.
• Older technology: Compared to newer cameras, the EOS 60D lags in features and performance.

The Canon EOS R and Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro: A Modern Mirrorless Powerhouse

The Canon EOS R, a mirrorless full-frame camera, represents a significant leap forward in technology and performance. Paired with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens, this combo offers exceptional image quality, advanced features, and a compact form factor.
Key Features:

• 30.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor: Delivers exceptional image quality with high dynamic range and low noise.
• 4779-point Dual Pixel CMOS AF: Offers fast and accurate autofocus, even in challenging conditions.
• 3.15-inch vari-angle touchscreen: Provides intuitive control and clear image review.
• 4K video recording at 30fps: Captures stunning video footage with high resolution and detail.
• RF lens compatibility: Opens up a growing ecosystem of high-performance lenses.
• 35mm prime lens: Offers a versatile focal length suitable for portraits, street photography, and everyday use.

Strengths:

• Exceptional image quality: The full-frame sensor delivers stunning images with rich detail, vibrant colors, and low noise.
• Fast and accurate autofocus: The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system ensures sharp focus in various shooting situations.
• 4K video capability: The EOS R offers 4K video recording, making it an excellent choice for videographers.
• Compact and lightweight: The mirrorless design and prime lens make this combo highly portable.
• Advanced features: The EOS R boasts features like in-body image stabilization, electronic viewfinder, and customizable controls.

Weaknesses:

• Higher price: The EOS R and RF 35mm f/1.8 lens combo comes at a premium compared to the EOS 60D and kit lens.
• Limited lens selection: The RF lens system is still developing, with fewer lens options compared to the EF system.

Comparing the Two Combos: A Detailed Look

Image Quality: The EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 lens offers superior image quality due to the larger full-frame sensor. The images are sharper, have higher dynamic range, and exhibit less noise, especially in low-light conditions.
Autofocus: The EOS R’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system outperforms the EOS 60D’s 9-point autofocus in terms of speed, accuracy, and coverage. The EOS R can lock focus quickly and reliably in various situations, making it ideal for fast-moving subjects.
Video: The EOS R wins in video recording capabilities with its 4K video support, while the EOS 60D is limited to Full HD. The EOS R also offers advanced video features like 4K time-lapse and slow-motion recording.
Portability: The EOS R and RF 35mm f/1.8 lens combo is more compact and lightweight than the EOS 60D and kit lens, making it easier to carry around.
Price: The EOS 60D and kit lens are significantly more affordable than the EOS R and RF 35mm f/1.8 lens combo. This cost difference is a major factor to consider, especially for budget-conscious photographers.

Who Should Choose the Canon EOS 60D and Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM?

The Canon EOS 60D with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is an excellent choice for:

• Beginners: It provides a budget-friendly entry point into DSLR photography with a versatile kit lens.
• Casual photographers: For everyday snapshots, travel photography, and basic portraiture, this combo is sufficient.
• Those on a tight budget: The affordability of this combo makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers.

Who Should Choose the Canon EOS R and Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro?

The Canon EOS R with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro is ideal for:

• Serious photographers: It offers exceptional image quality, advanced features, and a compact form factor, making it suitable for professional-level photography.
• Videographers: The 4K video recording capabilities make it an excellent choice for capturing high-quality video content.
• Those seeking the latest technology: The EOS R represents the cutting edge of mirrorless technology, with features and performance that surpass traditional DSLRs.
• Photographers who prioritize image quality: The full-frame sensor and RF lens deliver exceptional image quality that is unmatched by the EOS 60D.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring the Advantages of Each System

Canon EOS 60D and Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM:

• Extensive lens selection: The EOS 60D benefits from the vast EF and EF-S lens ecosystem, offering a wide range of choices for different photography styles.
• Affordable lens options: The EF and EF-S lens system offers a wide range of affordable lenses, making it easy to expand your kit without breaking the bank.
• Familiar DSLR design: The EOS 60D’s DSLR design provides a familiar and comfortable shooting experience for those accustomed to traditional cameras.

Canon EOS R and Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro:

• Compact and lightweight: The mirrorless design and prime lens make this combo highly portable, ideal for travel and street photography.
• Fast and responsive autofocus: The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system delivers exceptional autofocus performance, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
• Advanced features: The EOS R boasts features like in-body image stabilization, electronic viewfinder, and customizable controls, providing greater flexibility and control.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera and Lens Combo

Ultimately, the best camera and lens combo for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and photography style. If you’re a beginner or on a tight budget, the Canon EOS 60D with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM offers a solid starting point with a versatile kit lens and a familiar DSLR design. However, if you’re a serious photographer seeking exceptional image quality, advanced features, and a compact form factor, the **Canon EOS R with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** is the clear winner.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring the Future of Canon

Both the Canon EOS 60D and Canon EOS R represent different points on the Canon camera timeline. The EOS 60D, while a capable camera, is a product of a past era. The EOS R, on the other hand, is a testament to Canon’s commitment to innovation and its vision for the future of photography. As Canon continues to develop its mirrorless system, we can expect even more advanced features, improved performance, and a wider selection of lenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Canon EOS R compatible with EF lenses?
A: Yes, the Canon EOS R is compatible with EF lenses using an optional adapter. However, some features like autofocus and image stabilization might not function as smoothly as with native RF lenses.
Q: Can I use the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens on the Canon EOS 60D?
A: No, the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens is designed for Canon EOS R and other RF-mount cameras and is not compatible with the Canon EOS 60D.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro offers better low-light performance due to its full-frame sensor and faster aperture lens.
Q: What are the key differences between DSLR 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 faster autofocus, and have more advanced video capabilities.
Q: Is the Canon EOS R worth the extra cost compared to the Canon EOS 60D?
A: The decision depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize exceptional image quality, advanced features, and compact portability, the EOS R is worth the investment. However, if you’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability, the EOS 60D might be a better choice.