Capturing Perfection: Canon EOS 700D vs Canon EOS 70D – The Ultimate Lens Test

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices for enthusiasts and beginners are the Canon EOS 700D paired with the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Canon EOS 70D coupled with the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens. This blog post will delve into the key differences between these two setups, helping you determine which one best suits your photographic needs and aspirations.

The Canon EOS 700D: A Solid Entry-Level DSLR

The Canon EOS 700D, also known as the Rebel T5i in some regions, is a popular choice for photographers venturing into the world of DSLRs. It boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, offering decent image quality and a wide dynamic range. The 700D’s autofocus system, featuring nine cross-type points, provides reliable focus accuracy, making it suitable for capturing various subjects, from portraits to landscapes.
The 700D’s key features include:

• 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• 3-inch Vari-angle touchscreen LCD
• 9-point autofocus system with cross-type points
• Full HD video recording at 30fps
• Built-in flash
• Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity

The Canon EOS 70D: Stepping Up the Game

The Canon EOS 70D is a more advanced DSLR, offering a range of features designed to appeal to more experienced photographers. It boasts a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, delivering excellent image quality and detail. The 70D’s autofocus system is a standout feature, featuring 19 cross-type points and a powerful Dual Pixel CMOS AF system. This system offers exceptional speed and accuracy, particularly when shooting video.
Here are some of the 70D’s key features:

• 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• 3-inch Vari-angle touchscreen LCD
• 19-point autofocus system with cross-type points and Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Full HD video recording at 60fps
• Built-in flash
• Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
• Continuous shooting up to 7fps

The Lenses: 18-55mm vs. 55-250mm

The choice of lens significantly impacts the type of photography you can pursue. The 18-55mm lens is a versatile standard zoom, ideal for everyday shooting, landscapes, and portraits. The 55-250mm lens, on the other hand, is a telephoto zoom, perfect for capturing distant subjects like wildlife, sports, and events.
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM:

• Focal length: 18-55mm (29-88mm equivalent on a full-frame camera)
• Maximum aperture: f/3.5-5.6
• Image stabilization: Yes
• Autofocus motor: Stepping motor (STM)

Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM:

• Focal length: 55-250mm (88-400mm equivalent on a full-frame camera)
• Maximum aperture: f/4-5.6
• Image stabilization: Yes
• Autofocus motor: Stepping motor (STM)

Which Camera is Right for You?

Now, let’s break down the pros and cons of each setup to help you decide which one is better suited for your needs:

Canon EOS 700D with 18-55mm:

Pros:

• Affordable: This setup is a great entry point into the world of DSLRs, offering excellent value for money.
• Versatile lens: The 18-55mm lens is a versatile standard zoom, suitable for a wide range of subjects.
• Good image quality: The 18-megapixel sensor delivers satisfactory image quality for most everyday photography.
• User-friendly: The 700D is known for its user-friendly interface and controls, making it easy for beginners to learn.

Cons:

• Limited reach: The 18-55mm lens doesn’t offer much reach, making it less ideal for capturing distant subjects.
• Basic autofocus: The autofocus system is decent but not as advanced as the 70D’s.

Canon EOS 70D with 55-250mm:

Pros:

• Superb autofocus: The 70D’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system offers exceptional speed and accuracy, particularly for video recording.
• Excellent image quality: The 20.2-megapixel sensor delivers high-resolution images with rich detail.
• Reach for distant subjects: The 55-250mm lens offers significant reach, perfect for wildlife, sports, and events.
• Advanced features: The 70D includes features like continuous shooting at 7fps and a built-in stereo microphone, making it more appealing to advanced photographers.

Cons:

• Higher price: This setup is more expensive than the 700D with the 18-55mm lens.
• Limited versatility: The 55-250mm lens is specialized for telephoto photography and may not be suitable for everyday shooting.

Final Note: Finding the Perfect Fit

The decision between the Canon EOS 700D with 18-55mm and the Canon EOS 70D with 55-250mm ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re a beginner looking for a versatile and affordable DSLR, the 700D with the 18-55mm lens is a great choice. However, if you’re seeking a more advanced camera with exceptional autofocus performance and a lens that excels at capturing distant subjects, the 70D with the 55-250mm lens is the better option.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Canon EOS 70D with the 55-250mm lens is a better choice for wildlife photography due to its reach and advanced autofocus system.
Q: Which camera is better for portrait photography?
A: Both cameras can be used for portrait photography, but the 700D with the 18-55mm lens offers a more versatile focal range for portraits.
Q: Can I upgrade the lenses on these cameras?
A: Yes, both the 700D and the 70D are compatible with a wide range of Canon EF and EF-S lenses, allowing you to upgrade your lens selection as your needs evolve.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS 70D with its Dual Pixel CMOS AF system offers superior video recording capabilities, including smooth autofocus and higher frame rates.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its user-friendly interface and controls.