Canon EOS 700D vs. Olympus Pen EP7: A Battle of the Lenses: Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM

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 paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Olympus PEN E-P7. Both cameras offer unique features and cater to different photographic needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual requirements.

Image Quality and Sensor Performance

The Canon EOS 700D boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, known for its excellent image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. The camera captures vibrant colors, sharp details, and a wide dynamic range. On the other hand, the Olympus PEN E-P7 features a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, smaller in size compared to the Canon’s APS-C sensor. Despite the smaller sensor, the PEN E-P7 delivers impressive image quality, with excellent detail and color reproduction.
While the Canon EOS 700D might have a slight edge in terms of resolution, the Olympus PEN E-P7 compensates with its superior dynamic range and low-light performance. The smaller sensor size of the PEN E-P7 allows for a shallower depth of field, enhancing subject isolation and creating a pleasing bokeh effect.

Autofocus and Performance

The Canon EOS 700D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system, which is reliable and accurate but lacks the advanced features of newer Canon models. The camera performs well in most shooting scenarios, but it might struggle in low-light conditions or with fast-moving subjects. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, paired with the 700D, incorporates a stepping motor for smooth and silent autofocus, a feature particularly beneficial for video recording.
The Olympus PEN E-P7, on the other hand, features a contrast-detection autofocus system, known for its speed and accuracy, especially in continuous shooting modes. The PEN E-P7’s autofocus system is highly responsive and excels in tracking moving subjects, making it an excellent choice for capturing fast-paced action.

Design and Ergonomics

The Canon EOS 700D is a traditional DSLR, offering a comfortable grip and a familiar layout. The camera features a large, clear viewfinder and a well-placed control dial, making it easy to navigate and adjust settings.
The Olympus PEN E-P7, however, adopts a more compact and minimalist design, resembling a rangefinder camera. Its lightweight body and sleek profile make it highly portable and easy to carry around. The PEN E-P7 features a tilting touchscreen, allowing for intuitive control and creative shooting angles. While the touchscreen offers a modern approach, some users might prefer the traditional dial and button controls of the EOS 700D.

Video Recording Capabilities

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-P7 offer full HD video recording capabilities. The Canon EOS 700D can record 1080p videos at 30 frames per second, while the PEN E-P7 can record at 30 or 60 frames per second, offering smoother playback and better slow-motion capabilities. The PEN E-P7 also boasts advanced video features like in-camera time-lapse and slow-motion recording.
The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, with its stepping motor, ensures smooth and silent autofocus during video recording, making it ideal for capturing professional-looking footage.

Connectivity and Features

The Canon EOS 700D offers standard connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and a microphone jack. The camera also supports remote control via a dedicated app.
The Olympus PEN E-P7 provides a wider range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth. The camera’s built-in Wi-Fi allows for seamless image transfer to smartphones or tablets, while NFC enables quick pairing with compatible devices. The PEN E-P7 also features a built-in electronic viewfinder, offering a more immersive shooting experience.

Lens Options and System Compatibility

The Canon EOS 700D is part of the extensive Canon EF lens system, providing a vast selection of lenses to choose from. The camera is compatible with both EF and EF-S lenses, offering a wide range of focal lengths and aperture options to suit various photographic needs.
The Olympus PEN E-P7 is part of the Micro Four Thirds system, which offers a growing range of lenses from Olympus and other manufacturers. While the Micro Four Thirds system might not be as extensive as the Canon EF system, it still provides a diverse selection of lenses for different photographic styles.

Price and Value

The Canon EOS 700D, while no longer in production, can be found at a very affordable price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. The Olympus PEN E-P7, on the other hand, is a more premium camera with a higher price tag.
The value proposition of each camera depends on individual needs and priorities. If affordability is a primary concern, the Canon EOS 700D offers excellent value for its price. However, if you’re looking for a compact, feature-rich camera with advanced capabilities, the Olympus PEN E-P7 might be the better choice, even though it comes with a higher price tag.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Canon EOS 700D with its Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a traditional DSLR experience with a wide range of lens options and reliable image quality. It’s an affordable option for those starting out in photography or looking for a versatile camera.
The Olympus PEN E-P7, on the other hand, is a more compact and modern camera with advanced features like a touchscreen interface, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, and excellent video recording capabilities. It’s an ideal choice for photographers who prioritize portability, versatility, and advanced features.

What You Need to Learn

Q1: What is the best camera for beginners?
A: Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-P7 are great choices for beginners. The Canon EOS 700D offers a traditional DSLR experience with a familiar layout and a wide range of lens options. The Olympus PEN E-P7, however, is more compact and user-friendly, with its touchscreen interface and intuitive controls. Ultimately, the best camera for beginners depends on individual preferences and learning styles.
Q2: Which camera is better for travel photography?
A: The Olympus PEN E-P7 is generally considered a better choice for travel photography due to its compact size and lightweight body. Its portability and advanced features, such as built-in Wi-Fi and a tilting touchscreen, make it a convenient and versatile camera for capturing travel memories.
Q3: What are the main differences between the two cameras?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is a traditional DSLR, while the Olympus PEN E-P7 is a mirrorless camera. The Canon EOS 700D offers a larger sensor and a wider range of lens options, while the Olympus PEN E-P7 is more compact and portable, with advanced features like a touchscreen interface and built-in Wi-Fi.
Q4: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: Both cameras perform well in low-light conditions, but the Canon EOS 700D has a slight edge due to its larger sensor size. The larger sensor allows for better light gathering, resulting in less noise and better image quality in low-light situations.
Q5: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Olympus PEN E-P7 offers more advanced video recording capabilities, including 60 frames per second recording, in-camera time-lapse, and slow-motion recording. However, the Canon EOS 700D, paired with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, provides smooth and silent autofocus, making it an excellent choice for capturing professional-looking footage.