Unleash Your Photography Skills: Canon EOS 700D vs Panasonic Lumix G85 – Which is Best?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when navigating the diverse landscape of DSLRs and mirrorless options. Two popular contenders often come up in discussions: the Canon EOS 700D paired with the **Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM** lens and the **Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85** with the **Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH POWER OIS** lens. This blog post aims to provide a detailed comparison between these two camera and lens combinations, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

A Glimpse into the Contenders:

Canon EOS 700D with Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: The Canon EOS 700D represents a classic DSLR offering, known for its user-friendly interface and reliable performance. The accompanying EF-S 18-135mm lens provides a versatile focal range, making it suitable for various photography styles.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 with Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH POWER OIS: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 is a mirrorless camera that boasts advanced features like 4K video recording and in-body image stabilization. The G Vario 12-60mm lens offers a similar zoom range as the Canon lens, but within a more compact form factor.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The heart of any camera lies in its sensor, and both the Canon EOS 700D and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 offer distinct approaches. The Canon EOS 700D utilizes an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, known for its good dynamic range and color reproduction. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 takes a different route with a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor. While the smaller sensor size might seem like a drawback at first glance, the Micro Four Thirds system often excels in low-light performance due to its smaller pixel size, leading to improved signal-to-noise ratios.

Autofocus: Speed and Accuracy

Both cameras offer reliable autofocus systems, albeit with different implementations. The Canon EOS 700D relies on a 9-point autofocus system, which is accurate and efficient but might struggle in low-light conditions. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85, on the other hand, boasts a contrast-detection autofocus system with 49 focus points, offering faster and more precise autofocus, especially in challenging lighting situations.

Video Capabilities: A Look at 4K Recording

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 shines in the video department, offering 4K video recording at 30fps, a feature that the Canon EOS 700D lacks. The 4K capability allows for stunning video footage with greater detail and flexibility in post-production. While the Canon EOS 700D can record 1080p video, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85’s 4K recording is a significant advantage for videographers.

Portability: The Mirrorless Advantage

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 clearly wins in terms of portability. Its mirrorless design allows for a significantly smaller and lighter body compared to the Canon EOS 700D. This makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 a more convenient option for travel photography and everyday use.

Battery Life: Powering Your Shooting Adventures

Battery life is a crucial factor for photographers on the go. The Canon EOS 700D boasts a longer battery life, typically lasting for around 500 shots on a single charge. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85, while offering a decent battery life, might require more frequent charging, especially when shooting video extensively.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit for Your Budget

The Canon EOS 700D with the EF-S 18-135mm lens typically comes at a lower price point compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 with the G Vario 12-60mm lens. However, it’s important to consider the value proposition. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85, despite its higher price, offers advanced features like 4K video recording and in-body image stabilization, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize these features.

The Verdict: Which Camera Reigns Supreme?

Choosing between the Canon EOS 700D and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Canon EOS 700D if:

• You prioritize a classic DSLR experience with a user-friendly interface.
• You value a longer battery life.
• You are on a tighter budget.

Choose the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 if:

• You desire a compact and lightweight camera for travel and everyday use.
• You prioritize 4K video recording and in-body image stabilization.
• You are willing to invest in a more advanced mirrorless camera.

The Journey Beyond the Camera: Exploring the World of Photography

The choice between the Canon EOS 700D and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 is just the beginning of your photographic journey. Whether you choose a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, remember that the most important factor is your passion for capturing moments and expressing yourself through the art of photography.

What You Need to Learn

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 onto the optical viewfinder, allowing you to see what the lens sees. A mirrorless camera does not have a mirror, so you view the scene through an electronic viewfinder (EVF) or the rear LCD screen.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 are suitable for beginners. The Canon EOS 700D offers a classic DSLR experience with a user-friendly interface, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 provides a more compact and modern approach with its mirrorless design.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 is the clear winner for video recording due to its 4K video capability, which the Canon EOS 700D lacks.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 generally performs better in low-light conditions due to its smaller sensor size, which leads to improved signal-to-noise ratios.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: Both cameras can be used for wildlife photography, but the Canon EOS 700D might be a better choice due to its wider selection of telephoto lenses available within the Canon EF-S system.