Unbelievable Comparison: Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM vs. Olympus Pen E-PL8 – You Won’t Believe the Results!

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. If you’re considering a versatile camera for capturing everyday moments, landscapes, and portraits, the Canon EOS 700D with Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the **Olympus PEN E-PL8** are two popular contenders. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two cameras, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Ergonomics

The Canon EOS 700D is a classic DSLR with a familiar and comfortable grip. Its larger body provides a solid feel and a comfortable hold, especially for users with larger hands. The Olympus PEN E-PL8, on the other hand, is a mirrorless camera with a compact and lightweight design. Its smaller size makes it incredibly portable, ideal for travel and everyday carry. While it lacks the traditional DSLR grip, its design is still comfortable and well-suited for one-handed operation.

Image Quality and Sensor

The Canon EOS 700D boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, offering excellent image quality with good detail and dynamic range. The Olympus PEN E-PL8 features a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is smaller than the APS-C sensor in the Canon. While the smaller sensor size might seem like a disadvantage, the Olympus sensor excels in low-light performance and delivers excellent image quality, especially when paired with Olympus’s renowned lens lineup.

Autofocus and Performance

The Canon EOS 700D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system, which is reliable and accurate but not as advanced as the hybrid autofocus system found in modern DSLRs. The Olympus PEN E-PL8, however, features a fast and accurate contrast-detection autofocus system that excels in both speed and accuracy, particularly for continuous shooting and tracking moving subjects.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras offer decent video recording capabilities. The Canon EOS 700D can shoot 1080p video at 30 frames per second, while the Olympus PEN E-PL8 can record 1080p video at 30 or 60 frames per second. The Olympus PEN E-PL8 also boasts advanced video features like in-camera slow-motion recording and a built-in microphone for better audio quality.

Lens Options and Versatility

The Canon EOS 700D is compatible with a vast range of Canon EF and EF-S lenses, offering a plethora of options for different shooting scenarios. The kit lens, Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, provides a versatile zoom range suitable for various subjects. The Olympus PEN E-PL8 utilizes the Micro Four Thirds system, which offers a wide selection of lenses from Olympus and other third-party manufacturers. The Micro Four Thirds system is known for its excellent lens quality and compact size, making it ideal for travel and everyday photography.

Connectivity and Features

Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for easy image sharing and remote control capabilities. The Canon EOS 700D features a built-in flash unit, while the Olympus PEN E-PL8 utilizes a pop-up flash. The Olympus PEN E-PL8 also boasts an electronic viewfinder, which can be beneficial for shooting in bright sunlight.

Battery Life

The Canon EOS 700D offers a decent battery life, while the Olympus PEN E-PL8 has a slightly better battery performance. Both cameras utilize rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, and their battery life can vary depending on usage patterns.

Price and Value

The Canon EOS 700D with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is generally more affordable than the Olympus PEN E-PL8. However, the value proposition of each camera depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Choosing the Right Camera for You

Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:
Choose the Canon EOS 700D with Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM if:

• You prefer a traditional DSLR with a comfortable grip and larger body.
• You need a camera with an extensive lens selection.
• You’re on a tighter budget.

Choose the Olympus PEN E-PL8 if:

• You value portability and compact size.
• You prioritize fast and accurate autofocus performance.
• You’re interested in advanced video features and an electronic viewfinder.
• You’re willing to invest in a camera with a slightly higher price tag.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs

While the technical specifications provide valuable insights, the best camera for you goes beyond just numbers. Consider your shooting style, budget, and future aspirations. The Canon EOS 700D offers a classic DSLR experience with a vast lens ecosystem, while the Olympus PEN E-PL8 provides a compact and feature-rich mirrorless option. Both cameras are capable of capturing stunning images and videos, so ultimately, the choice is yours.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are excellent choices for beginners. The Canon EOS 700D’s DSLR interface might feel more familiar to some, while the Olympus PEN E-PL8’s intuitive menu system and advanced features are also beginner-friendly.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Olympus PEN E-PL8 generally performs better in low-light conditions due to its smaller sensor size and advanced image processing capabilities.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Olympus PEN E-PL8 offers more advanced video features, including 60fps recording, in-camera slow-motion, and a built-in microphone.
Q: Which camera is better for travel photography?
A: The Olympus PEN E-PL8’s compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for travel photography.
Q: Which camera is better for portraits?
A: Both cameras can capture excellent portraits. The Canon EOS 700D’s larger sensor might provide slightly better detail and dynamic range, but the Olympus PEN E-PL8’s excellent autofocus system can help capture sharp and focused images.