The Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS 700D vs Samsung Galaxy NX – Who Will Be the Champion of Mirrorless Cameras?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices that often come up in discussions are the Canon EOS 700D with its accompanying Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Samsung Galaxy NX mirrorless camera with its 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. Both cameras offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making it crucial to understand their strengths and weaknesses before making a decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each camera, helping you determine which one aligns better with your photographic aspirations.

Canon EOS 700D: A Reliable DSLR Workhorse

The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, is a versatile DSLR designed for both beginners and seasoned photographers. Its 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor captures detailed images, while its renowned Canon DIGIC 5 image processor ensures excellent image quality and fast processing. The 700D boasts a 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors in the center, providing accurate and reliable focusing, particularly in low-light conditions.

Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: A Versatile Companion

The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a perfect match for the 700D, offering a versatile focal range suitable for various subjects, from landscapes to portraits. Its image stabilization system helps reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images, especially in low-light scenarios. The STM (Stepping Motor) technology ensures smooth and silent autofocus operation, making it ideal for video recording.

Samsung Galaxy NX: Bridging the Gap Between DSLR and Mirrorless

The Samsung Galaxy NX, launched in 2013, is a unique camera that blends the features of a DSLR with the compactness and portability of a mirrorless camera. It boasts a 20.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and a powerful Samsung DRIMe IV image processor, delivering impressive image quality and fast performance. The Galaxy NX’s hybrid autofocus system combines phase detection and contrast detection, providing quick and accurate focusing in various situations.

18-55mm f/3.5-5.6: A Standard Zoom Lens

The 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens bundled with the Galaxy NX is a standard zoom lens that offers a versatile focal range for everyday photography. While it’s not as advanced as the Canon EF-S 18-135mm lens, it still provides decent image quality and is a good starting point for exploring different photographic genres.

Key Differences: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Sensor Size and Resolution

Both cameras feature APS-C sensors, but the Galaxy NX boasts a slightly higher resolution with 20.3 megapixels compared to the 700D’s 18 megapixels. While higher resolution offers greater detail, it can also lead to larger file sizes and potentially more noise in low-light conditions.

Autofocus System

The Canon 700D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors in the center, offering accurate and reliable focusing. The Samsung Galaxy NX, on the other hand, employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase detection and contrast detection, providing faster and more accurate focusing in various situations.

Viewfinder and LCD

The Canon 700D features an optical viewfinder that offers a clear and direct view of the scene, while the Samsung Galaxy NX relies on an electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a tilting LCD screen. The EVF provides a real-time preview of the image, but it can sometimes have a slight lag or be less vibrant than an optical viewfinder.

Connectivity and Features

The Samsung Galaxy NX stands out with its advanced connectivity features, including Wi-Fi, NFC, and even the ability to connect to a smartphone via an app. This allows for seamless sharing of images and remote control of the camera. The Canon 700D also offers Wi-Fi connectivity, but lacks the advanced features of the Galaxy NX.

Canon EOS 700D: Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Reliable autofocus system: The 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors in the center provides accurate and reliable focusing.
• Optical viewfinder: The optical viewfinder offers a clear and direct view of the scene, making it ideal for composing shots and tracking moving subjects.
• Wide range of lenses: Canon’s extensive EF and EF-S lens system offers a wide range of options to choose from, catering to various photographic needs.
• Affordable price: The Canon 700D is a relatively affordable DSLR, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers.

Weaknesses

• Limited connectivity: The Canon 700D lacks the advanced connectivity features of the Samsung Galaxy NX, such as NFC and smartphone app control.
• No touchscreen interface: The Canon 700D does not have a touchscreen interface, which can make navigating menus and adjusting settings less intuitive.

Samsung Galaxy NX: Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Advanced connectivity: The Galaxy NX boasts Wi-Fi, NFC, and smartphone app control, enabling seamless image sharing and remote camera operation.
• Hybrid autofocus system: The hybrid autofocus system combines phase detection and contrast detection, providing fast and accurate focusing in various situations.
• Compact and portable: The Galaxy NX is smaller and lighter than a traditional DSLR, making it more portable and easier to carry around.
• Touchscreen interface: The Galaxy NX features a touchscreen interface, allowing for intuitive navigation and control.

Weaknesses

• Electronic viewfinder: The EVF can sometimes have a slight lag or be less vibrant than an optical viewfinder, which can be a drawback for some photographers.
• Limited lens selection: Samsung’s lens system for the Galaxy NX is not as extensive as Canon’s, offering fewer options for photographers.
• Higher price: The Samsung Galaxy NX is generally more expensive than the Canon 700D.

Which Camera Is Right for You?

The choice between the Canon EOS 700D and the Samsung Galaxy NX ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.

• For photographers who prioritize affordability and a traditional DSLR experience, the Canon EOS 700D is a solid choice. Its reliable autofocus system, optical viewfinder, and extensive lens selection make it a versatile camera for various photographic genres.

• For photographers who value advanced connectivity, a compact design, and a touchscreen interface, the Samsung Galaxy NX is a compelling option. Its hybrid autofocus system, Wi-Fi, NFC, and smartphone app control make it a convenient and modern camera.

Final Verdict: Embracing Your Photographic Journey

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Samsung Galaxy NX offer unique advantages and cater to different photographic styles. Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that aligns with your needs, budget, and photographic aspirations. Consider your priorities, weigh the pros and cons, and choose the camera that empowers you to capture stunning images and embark on an exciting photographic journey.

Questions You May Have

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, while a mirrorless camera uses an electronic viewfinder (EVF). DSLRs typically have larger bodies and more advanced features, while mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and more portable.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS 700D has a slightly better low-light performance due to its lower resolution sensor, which generally produces less noise in low-light conditions. However, both cameras offer decent low-light performance with their respective image stabilization features.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: Both cameras offer decent video recording capabilities, but the Canon EOS 700D has a slight edge with its STM lens, which provides smoother and quieter autofocus operation for video recording.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Canon EOS 700D might be slightly easier to learn due to its more traditional DSLR interface and extensive online resources available for beginners.
Q: What are some other cameras to consider in this price range?
A: Some other cameras to consider in the same price range as the Canon EOS 700D and the Samsung Galaxy NX include the Nikon D5300, the Sony Alpha 6000, and the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II.