What To Know
- Both cameras offer continuous shooting capabilities, with the 700D capable of shooting at 4 frames per second and the A550 at 7 frames per second.
- The Sony A550, on the other hand, does not have Wi-Fi, but it does offer a remote control option via a dedicated app.
- However, the 700D offers a more modern design, better image quality, and more advanced features, making it a good value for the price.
Choosing your first DSLR camera can be an overwhelming experience. With so many options available, it’s hard to know where to start. Two popular choices for beginners are the Canon EOS 700D with its kit lens, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, and the Sony A550 DSLR paired with the Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens. Both cameras offer a decent range of features and are known for their user-friendliness. This blog post compares these two cameras to help you make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.
Body and Design
The Canon EOS 700D boasts a sleek, lightweight design. It features a comfortable grip and well-placed buttons, making it easy to handle. The large, clear LCD screen provides a good view of your images, while the optical viewfinder offers a more traditional shooting experience. The Sony A550, on the other hand, has a slightly bulkier design, but it’s still relatively comfortable to hold. The LCD screen is smaller than the 700D’s, but it’s still bright and clear. The A550 also features a unique translucent mirror system that allows for continuous shooting and live view.
Image Quality
Both cameras are capable of producing high-quality images, but there are some subtle differences. The Canon EOS 700D features a 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the Sony A550 has a 16.2-megapixel APS-C sensor. The 700D generally produces images with slightly more detail and a wider dynamic range, especially in low-light conditions. However, the A550’s images are still very good and offer a more vibrant color palette.
Autofocus and Performance
The Canon EOS 700D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors in the center. The autofocus system is fast and accurate, especially in good lighting conditions. The Sony A550 features a 15-point autofocus system with contrast detection. While it’s not as fast as the 700D’s system, it’s still capable of delivering decent performance. Both cameras offer continuous shooting capabilities, with the 700D capable of shooting at 4 frames per second and the A550 at 7 frames per second.
Video Recording
Both cameras offer decent video recording capabilities. The Canon EOS 700D can record 1080p video at 30 frames per second, while the Sony A550 can record 720p video at 30 frames per second. The 700D’s video quality is slightly better, with better detail and color accuracy. However, the A550 offers a wider range of recording modes, including slow motion and time-lapse.
Kit Lenses
The Canon EOS 700D comes bundled with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, while the Sony A550 comes with the Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens. Both lenses are versatile and offer a good range of focal lengths for everyday photography. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens features a smoother focusing mechanism thanks to the STM technology, making it ideal for shooting videos. The Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens is also a decent performer, but it’s not as smooth or quiet as the Canon lens.
Battery Life
The Canon EOS 700D offers a longer battery life than the Sony A550. The 700D can typically take around 500 shots on a single charge, while the A550 can only manage around 300 shots. This can be a significant difference for photographers who are shooting for extended periods.
Connectivity and Features
Both cameras offer a range of connectivity options, including USB, HDMI, and SD card slots. The Canon EOS 700D features built-in Wi-Fi for easy image transfer to smartphones and tablets. The Sony A550, on the other hand, does not have Wi-Fi, but it does offer a remote control option via a dedicated app. Both cameras offer a range of features, including in-camera editing, scene modes, and creative filters.
Price and Value
The Canon EOS 700D is generally more expensive than the Sony A550, especially when considering the bundled lenses. However, the 700D offers a more modern design, better image quality, and more advanced features, making it a good value for the price. The Sony A550, while less expensive, may be a better choice for budget-conscious photographers who are willing to sacrifice some features and performance.
Choosing the Right Camera
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- Canon EOS 700D: Choose this camera if you prioritize image quality, autofocus speed, and a comfortable design. The 700D also offers a longer battery life and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Sony A550: Choose this camera if you’re on a tighter budget and prefer a more compact design. The A550 also offers a faster continuous shooting rate and a unique translucent mirror system.
The Final Verdict: A Picture-Perfect Choice
Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony A550 are excellent entry-level DSLRs that offer a good balance of features and performance. The Canon EOS 700D is a more advanced camera with better image quality, autofocus, and battery life. However, the Sony A550 is a more affordable option with a faster shooting rate and a unique translucent mirror system. The best choice for you will depend on your budget, shooting needs, and personal preferences.
Popular Questions
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are great for beginners. The Canon EOS 700D is slightly easier to use due to its intuitive controls and clear menu system. However, the Sony A550 is still a good choice for beginners, especially those who are interested in exploring more advanced features like the translucent mirror system.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS 700D offers better video quality, with 1080p resolution and smoother autofocus. The Sony A550, while offering a wider range of recording modes, produces 720p video.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS 700D generally delivers better low-light performance due to its larger sensor and more advanced image processing capabilities.
Q: Is it worth upgrading from the Sony A550 to the Canon EOS 700D?
A: If you’re looking for a significant upgrade in image quality, autofocus speed, and battery life, then the Canon EOS 700D is a worthwhile investment. However, if you’re satisfied with the Sony A550’s performance, then you might not see a significant improvement with the 700D.
