Capture the World in Stunning Detail: A Comprehensive Comparison of Canon EOS 700D and Olympus Pen E-P5
What To Know
- The E-P5’s electronic viewfinder (EVF) is a departure from the optical viewfinder of the 700D, offering a digital preview of your shot with real-time exposure and focus adjustments.
- While smaller than the APS-C sensor in the 700D, the E-P5’s sensor boasts impressive low-light performance and a wide dynamic range.
- If you’re looking for a budget-friendly DSLR with a versatile lens, the Canon EOS 700D is an excellent choice.
Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the realm of photography are the Canon EOS 700D with its versatile Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Olympus PEN E-P5, a compact and stylish mirrorless camera. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two cameras, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for different photography needs.
Design and Ergonomics: Compact vs. Traditional
The Canon EOS 700D is a traditional DSLR with a familiar design and comfortable grip. Its larger body and viewfinder provide a more substantial feel in hand, appealing to photographers who prefer a traditional shooting experience. The Olympus PEN E-P5, on the other hand, boasts a compact and stylish mirrorless design. Its smaller size and lightweight construction make it incredibly portable, ideal for travel and street photography.
The E-P5’s electronic viewfinder (EVF) is a departure from the optical viewfinder of the 700D, offering a digital preview of your shot with real-time exposure and focus adjustments. While the EVF can be advantageous for certain situations, some photographers might find the optical viewfinder of the 700D more intuitive and natural.
Image Quality: Pixel Power vs. Micro Four Thirds
The Canon EOS 700D features an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, delivering high-resolution images with excellent detail and dynamic range. The included Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens offers a versatile zoom range, suitable for a wide variety of subjects.
The Olympus PEN E-P5 utilizes a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor. While smaller than the APS-C sensor in the 700D, the E-P5’s sensor boasts impressive low-light performance and a wide dynamic range. The Micro Four Thirds system also allows for a wider selection of lenses, offering greater flexibility and creative potential.
Autofocus and Performance: Speed and Accuracy
The Canon EOS 700D features a 9-point autofocus system, providing reliable and accurate focusing in various lighting conditions. The included STM lens enables smooth and silent autofocus, particularly beneficial for shooting video.
The Olympus PEN E-P5 boasts a contrast-detection autofocus system with 81 focus points, delivering fast and precise focusing. While the E-P5’s autofocus might not be as fast as a dedicated phase-detection system, its accuracy and responsiveness are commendable.
Video Capabilities: Full HD vs. 4K Resolution
Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-P5 offer excellent video capabilities. The 700D can record Full HD (1080p) videos at 30fps, while the E-P5 can record Full HD videos at 30fps and also offers 4K video recording at 30fps. The E-P5’s 4K video capability gives it an edge in terms of video resolution and versatility.
Battery Life and Connectivity: Power and Sharing
The Canon EOS 700D boasts a respectable battery life, allowing for extended shooting sessions. The E-P5, on the other hand, has a slightly shorter battery life, which might necessitate carrying an extra battery for longer outings.
Both cameras offer Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling easy sharing of images and videos to smartphones and tablets. The E-P5 also features NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, allowing for quick and seamless pairing with compatible devices.
Price and Value: Budget-Friendly vs. Premium
The Canon EOS 700D, with its included lens, is a more affordable option compared to the Olympus PEN E-P5. The E-P5, while more expensive, offers advanced features and a premium build quality.
Choosing between these two cameras ultimately boils down to your budget and specific needs. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly DSLR with a versatile lens, the Canon EOS 700D is an excellent choice. If you prioritize portability, advanced features, and 4K video recording, the Olympus PEN E-P5 might be a better fit.
Who Should Choose the Canon EOS 700D with Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM?
The Canon EOS 700D is an ideal choice for:
- Beginner photographers: Its intuitive controls and traditional DSLR design make it easy to learn and use.
- Hobbyists seeking versatility: The included 18-135mm lens covers a wide range of focal lengths, suitable for various subjects.
- Budget-conscious photographers: The 700D offers excellent value for money, especially with its included lens.
Who Should Choose the Olympus PEN E-P5?
The Olympus PEN E-P5 is an excellent choice for:
- Experienced photographers: Its advanced features and compact design appeal to those who want more control over their photography.
- Travel photographers: Its lightweight and compact design make it ideal for taking on trips.
- Video enthusiasts: The E-P5’s 4K video recording capability opens up new creative possibilities.
The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job
The Canon EOS 700D with its Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Olympus PEN E-P5 are both fantastic cameras, offering excellent image quality and features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability, versatility, and a traditional shooting experience, the Canon EOS 700D is a solid option. However, if you desire portability, advanced features, and 4K video capabilities, the Olympus PEN E-P5 is a compelling choice.
Information You Need to Know
Q: What is the difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?
A: A DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera uses a mirror to reflect light through the viewfinder, providing a live optical view of the scene. A mirrorless camera, on the other hand, uses an electronic viewfinder (EVF) that displays a digital representation of the scene.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: While both cameras perform well in low light, the Olympus PEN E-P5 generally offers better low-light performance due to its smaller sensor size and advanced noise reduction algorithms.
Q: What are the advantages of the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens?
A: The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a versatile zoom lens that offers a wide range of focal lengths, making it suitable for various subjects, from landscapes to portraits. It also features image stabilization (IS) for sharper images in low light and a stepping motor (STM) for smooth and silent autofocus.
Q: What are the advantages of the Micro Four Thirds system?
A: The Micro Four Thirds system offers a number of advantages, including smaller and lighter lenses, a wider selection of lenses from different manufacturers, and a shallower depth of field compared to APS-C cameras.
Q: Which camera is better for shooting video?
A: The Olympus PEN E-P5 offers better video capabilities due to its 4K video recording capability and advanced video features. However, the Canon EOS 700D is still a capable video camera, offering smooth and silent autofocus thanks to its STM lens.