Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS 700D vs. Canon EOS Rebel T6i – Which Camera Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the DSLR arena are the Canon EOS 700D and the Canon EOS Rebel T6i, both often paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of each camera, comparing their features, performance, and suitability for different photography styles. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which camera best suits your needs and aspirations.

A Glimpse into the Past: Canon EOS 700D

The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, was a game-changer for aspiring photographers. It offered an impressive blend of affordability and performance, making it a popular choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Let’s explore its key features:

• 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor: The 700D boasts a sensor capable of capturing detailed images with vibrant colors and excellent dynamic range.
• 9-point autofocus system: While not the most advanced, the 700D’s autofocus system is reliable and efficient, ensuring sharp focus in various shooting scenarios.
• 3-inch rotating touchscreen: The touchscreen interface revolutionized the way users interacted with their cameras, making navigation and menu access intuitive and user-friendly.
• Full HD video recording: The 700D can record 1080p video at 30fps, allowing you to capture high-quality moving images.
• Built-in Wi-Fi: Connect your camera to your smartphone or tablet for easy image sharing and remote control.

Stepping into the Future: Canon EOS Rebel T6i

The Canon EOS Rebel T6i, released in 2015, built upon the foundation laid by the 700D, introducing several significant improvements. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

• 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor: The T6i boasts a higher resolution sensor, resulting in even greater detail and clarity in your images.
• 19-point autofocus system: The T6i’s autofocus system is significantly enhanced, providing faster and more accurate focusing, especially in low-light conditions.
• Touchscreen with Live View shooting: The T6i’s touchscreen interface is more responsive and allows for intuitive live view shooting, where you can compose your shots directly on the screen.
• Continuous shooting at 5 fps: The T6i can capture up to 5 frames per second, allowing you to capture fast-paced action.
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC: The T6i offers seamless connectivity with your mobile devices, making image sharing and remote control easier than ever.

The Lens That Complements: Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM

Both the 700D and the T6i are often paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. This versatile lens offers a wide zoom range, covering everything from wide-angle landscapes to telephoto portraits. Here’s what makes it a great companion:

• Wide zoom range: The 18-135mm focal length covers a wide range of shooting scenarios, making it ideal for everyday photography.
• Image stabilization: The lens’s optical image stabilization helps minimize camera shake, ensuring sharp images even in low-light conditions.
• STM motor: The stepping motor ensures smooth and silent autofocus, making it perfect for video recording.
• Compact and lightweight: The lens is relatively compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.

Comparing the Giants: A Head-to-Head Analysis

Now that we’ve explored the individual features of each camera, let’s compare them side-by-side to determine their strengths and weaknesses:
Image Quality: While both cameras produce excellent image quality, the T6i’s higher resolution sensor gives it an edge, capturing more detail and offering greater flexibility in cropping.
Autofocus: The T6i’s 19-point autofocus system is significantly faster and more accurate than the 700D’s 9-point system, especially in low-light conditions.
Video Recording: Both cameras offer full HD video recording, but the T6i’s improved autofocus and continuous shooting capabilities make it a better choice for capturing dynamic video footage.
Ergonomics and Design: The T6i features a more refined design with a deeper grip and improved button layout, making it more comfortable to hold and operate.
Connectivity: Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, but the T6i’s NFC feature makes pairing with mobile devices even faster and more convenient.

Who Wins the Battle: Deciding the Right Camera for You

Choosing between the Canon EOS 700D and the Canon EOS Rebel T6i ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.
The Canon EOS 700D is a solid choice for:

• Budget-conscious photographers: The 700D is a more affordable option, making it a great entry point into the world of DSLR photography.
• Beginners: The 700D’s user-friendly interface and intuitive controls are perfect for those new to DSLR photography.
• Occasional photographers: If you don’t shoot frequently, the 700D’s features will meet your needs without breaking the bank.

The Canon EOS Rebel T6i is a better option for:

• Serious enthusiasts: The T6i’s improved features and performance make it an excellent choice for photographers who want to take their photography to the next level.
• Frequent shooters: If you shoot regularly, the T6i’s advanced autofocus, continuous shooting, and video recording capabilities will be invaluable.
• Those prioritizing image quality: The T6i’s higher resolution sensor produces sharper images with greater detail, making it ideal for those who value image quality above all else.

The Final Verdict: Choosing Your Photography Companion

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Canon EOS Rebel T6i are capable cameras, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The 700D offers a great value proposition for budget-conscious beginners, while the T6i caters to more experienced photographers who demand advanced features and performance. Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that best suits your individual needs and shooting style.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Is the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens a good choice for both cameras?
A: Yes, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a versatile and well-regarded lens that complements both the 700D and the T6i. Its wide zoom range, image stabilization, and STM motor make it a great all-around lens for everyday photography.
Q: Can I upgrade the lens on either camera?
A: Absolutely! Both the 700D and the T6i accept a wide range of Canon EF and EF-S lenses, allowing you to expand your creative possibilities. You can choose from specialized lenses for specific photography genres, such as macro, portrait, or telephoto lenses.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS Rebel T6i offers better video recording capabilities due to its improved autofocus system, higher frame rate, and continuous shooting capabilities. However, both cameras can produce high-quality video footage.
Q: Is there a significant difference in battery life between the two cameras?
A: The Canon EOS Rebel T6i has a slightly better battery life than the Canon EOS 700D, but the difference is not substantial. Both cameras offer a reasonable amount of battery life for most shooting scenarios.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. However, the T6i’s touchscreen interface and advanced features can also be easily learned by beginners with a little effort.