What To Know
- The Canon EOS 700D is a DSLR camera that has been a popular choice for both beginners and enthusiasts.
- It features a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, a 3-inch touchscreen LCD, and a 4K video recording capability.
- The Micro Four Thirds sensor is smaller than the APS-C sensor in the Canon EOS 700D, which can result in slightly less detail and shallower depth of field.
Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the world 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-PL9, a compact mirrorless camera known for its image quality and user-friendliness. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two cameras, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different types of photography.
The Canon EOS 700D: A Reliable Workhorse
The Canon EOS 700D is a DSLR camera that has been a popular choice for both beginners and enthusiasts. It boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, a 9-point autofocus system, and a 3-inch LCD screen. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens offers a versatile zoom range, ideal for capturing a wide variety of subjects, from landscapes to portraits.
Advantages of the Canon EOS 700D:
- Large sensor size: The APS-C sensor provides better low-light performance and shallower depth of field compared to smaller sensors.
- Versatile lens: The 18-135mm lens covers a wide range of focal lengths, eliminating the need for frequent lens changes.
- Affordable price: The Canon EOS 700D is relatively budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for those starting their photography journey.
- Extensive lens system: Canon offers a wide range of EF and EF-S lenses, providing greater flexibility and creative possibilities.
- Familiar DSLR controls: The camera’s layout and controls are familiar to users accustomed to DSLRs, making it easy to use.
Disadvantages of the Canon EOS 700D:
- Bulky and heavy: The DSLR body, combined with the lens, can be somewhat bulky and heavy for travel or everyday use.
- Limited video capabilities: While capable of recording video, the 700D lacks advanced video features found in more modern cameras.
- Autofocus performance: The 9-point autofocus system can struggle in low-light conditions and with fast-moving subjects.
The Olympus PEN E-PL9: Compact Powerhouse
The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a mirrorless camera that prioritizes portability and image quality. It features a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, a 3-inch touchscreen LCD, and a 4K video recording capability. The camera’s compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for travel and everyday photography.
Advantages of the Olympus PEN E-PL9:
- Compact and lightweight: The E-PL9 is significantly smaller and lighter than the Canon EOS 700D, making it easier to carry around.
- Excellent image quality: The Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers impressive image quality, particularly in low-light conditions.
- Advanced video features: The camera offers 4K video recording at 30fps, along with various video recording modes and settings.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface: The touchscreen interface makes navigating menus and adjusting settings incredibly easy.
- Extensive lens selection: Olympus offers a wide range of Micro Four Thirds lenses, providing ample options for different types of photography.
Disadvantages of the Olympus PEN E-PL9:
- Smaller sensor size: The Micro Four Thirds sensor is smaller than the APS-C sensor in the Canon EOS 700D, which can result in slightly less detail and shallower depth of field.
- Limited autofocus performance: The E-PL9’s autofocus system is not as fast or accurate as some other mirrorless cameras.
- Higher price point: The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is generally more expensive than the Canon EOS 700D.
Choosing the Right Camera: A Matter of Preference
The choice between the Canon EOS 700D with its Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Olympus PEN E-PL9 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Canon EOS 700D: Ideal for:
- Beginners: The familiar DSLR layout and controls make it easy to learn and use.
- Photographers on a budget: The camera and lens are relatively affordable.
- Those who prioritize versatility: The 18-135mm lens covers a wide range of focal lengths.
- Photographers who value a large sensor: The APS-C sensor provides better low-light performance and shallower depth of field.
Olympus PEN E-PL9: Ideal for:
- Travel photographers: The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry on the go.
- Street photographers: The silent shutter mode allows for discreet shooting.
- Vloggers and videographers: The 4K video recording capability and advanced video features are ideal for creating high-quality content.
- Photographers who value image quality: The Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers excellent image quality.
Beyond the Basics: Features and Considerations
While the core features of these cameras provide a good starting point, there are other factors to consider that can influence your decision.
Image Stabilization:
Both cameras offer image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, particularly in low-light conditions. The Canon EOS 700D’s image stabilization is built into the lens, while the Olympus PEN E-PL9’s is integrated into the camera body.
Continuous Shooting:
The Canon EOS 700D can shoot at a continuous rate of 4 frames per second, while the Olympus PEN E-PL9 can shoot at 8 frames per second. This difference can be significant for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife.
Battery Life:
The Canon EOS 700D offers a longer battery life than the Olympus PEN E-PL9. This is a crucial consideration for photographers who plan to shoot for extended periods without access to power outlets.
Connectivity:
Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to transfer images to your smartphone or tablet wirelessly.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Cameras
Both the Canon EOS 700D with its Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Olympus PEN E-PL9 are capable cameras that offer a range of features and advantages. The Canon EOS 700D is a reliable workhorse that offers a familiar DSLR experience and a versatile lens. The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a compact powerhouse that prioritizes portability and image quality, making it ideal for travel and everyday photography.
The Final Word: Finding Your Photographic Companion
Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the types of photography you enjoy, and your personal shooting style when making your decision. Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-PL9 are excellent choices that can help you capture stunning images and unleash your creativity.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is a great choice for beginners due to its familiar DSLR layout and controls.
Q2: Which camera is better for travel photography?
A: The Olympus PEN E-PL9’s compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for travel photography.
Q3: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Olympus PEN E-PL9 offers 4K video recording capabilities and advanced video features, making it a better choice for video recording.
Q4: Which camera has a larger sensor?
A: The Canon EOS 700D has a larger APS-C sensor compared to the Olympus PEN E-PL9’s Micro Four Thirds sensor.
Q5: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is generally more affordable than the Olympus PEN E-PL9.
