Unleash Your Photography Skills: Canon EOS 700D vs Nikon DL24-85 – Which One Reigns Supreme?

Choosing your first DSLR can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. Two popular contenders often top the list for beginners: the Canon EOS 700D with its kit lens, the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, and the Nikon D3400 with its AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR.
This blog post will delve into a head-to-head comparison of these two camera and lens combinations to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore their key features, performance, pros and cons, and ultimately, which one might be the better choice for your needs.

Image Quality and Sensor

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Nikon D3400 offer excellent image quality for their respective price points. The Canon EOS 700D boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D3400 features a 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor.
Canon EOS 700D:

• 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor: This sensor produces detailed images with good dynamic range, particularly in low-light conditions.
• DIGIC 5 Image Processor: The DIGIC 5 image processor ensures fast processing speeds and delivers accurate colors and natural skin tones.

Nikon D3400:

• 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor: The D3400’s higher resolution sensor captures more detail, especially when printing large images or cropping.
• EXPEED 4 Image Processor: Nikon’s EXPEED 4 image processor is known for its efficient performance, enabling fast shooting speeds and high-quality image output.

While the Nikon D3400 offers a higher resolution, the Canon EOS 700D excels in low-light performance due to its larger pixel size. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities. If you prioritize detail and large prints, the D3400’s higher resolution is advantageous. However, if you frequently shoot in low-light situations, the EOS 700D’s larger pixel size might be preferable.

Autofocus and Performance

Both cameras offer reliable autofocus systems, but with slightly different approaches.
Canon EOS 700D:

• 9-point autofocus system: The EOS 700D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system, with a cross-type sensor in the center for increased accuracy.
• Continuous shooting speed of 5 fps: This allows for capturing fast-moving subjects, though it’s not as fast as some newer models.

Nikon D3400:

• 11-point autofocus system: The D3400 boasts an 11-point autofocus system, offering more coverage and potentially faster focusing.
• Continuous shooting speed of 5 fps: Similar to the EOS 700D, the D3400 can shoot at 5 frames per second, enabling capturing moving subjects.

Both cameras deliver decent performance for general photography, but the D3400’s slightly more advanced autofocus system might provide an edge in capturing fast-moving subjects. However, in practice, both cameras perform adequately for everyday use.

Video Capabilities

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Nikon D3400 offer Full HD video recording capabilities, but with some key differences.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Full HD video recording at 30 fps: The EOS 700D can record Full HD videos at 30 frames per second, suitable for most casual videographers.
• Built-in stereo microphone: The EOS 700D features a built-in stereo microphone, allowing for basic audio recording.

Nikon D3400:

• Full HD video recording at 25/30/50/60p: The D3400 offers more flexibility with its various frame rates, including 60p for smoother slow-motion footage.
• Built-in mono microphone: The D3400 includes a built-in mono microphone, providing basic audio recording but with a more limited soundstage compared to stereo.

While both cameras offer Full HD video recording, the Nikon D3400 provides more flexibility with its frame rate options. If you plan to shoot more serious videos, the D3400’s versatility might be more appealing. However, for casual videographers, the EOS 700D’s built-in stereo microphone could be a valuable feature.

Design and Features

Both cameras offer a comfortable and user-friendly design.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Lightweight and ergonomic design: The EOS 700D is known for its comfortable grip and lightweight design, making it easy to handle for extended periods.
• Vari-angle LCD screen: The EOS 700D’s vari-angle LCD screen allows for flexible shooting angles, ideal for selfies or low-angle shots.
• Built-in Wi-Fi: The EOS 700D features built-in Wi-Fi, enabling easy wireless image transfer to your smartphone or tablet.

Nikon D3400:

• Durable and compact design: The D3400 boasts a durable build and compact size, making it ideal for travel photography.
• Fixed LCD screen: The D3400 features a fixed LCD screen, which might limit flexibility compared to the EOS 700D’s vari-angle screen.
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC: The D3400 includes both Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing for easy wireless image transfer and pairing with compatible devices.

The EOS 700D’s vari-angle LCD screen offers greater flexibility, but the D3400’s compact size and built-in NFC might be appealing for some users. Ultimately, the choice depends on your individual preferences.

Kit Lenses: Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM vs Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR

The kit lenses included with both cameras offer a versatile focal range for general photography.
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM:

• Smooth and quiet autofocus: The STM motor provides silent and fast autofocus, ideal for shooting videos or capturing subjects without disturbing them.
• Image stabilization: The IS (Image Stabilization) system helps reduce camera shake, leading to sharper images, especially in low-light conditions.

Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR:

• Fast and accurate autofocus: The AF-P motor delivers fast and accurate autofocus, particularly for moving subjects.
• Vibration Reduction: The VR (Vibration Reduction) system helps minimize camera shake, resulting in sharper images.

Both lenses offer a similar focal range and image quality, with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM excelling in silent autofocus for video recording. The Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR might be slightly faster for capturing moving subjects.

Which Camera is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Pros:
• Excellent low-light performance
• Vari-angle LCD screen for flexible shooting
• Smooth and silent autofocus for video recording
• Built-in Wi-Fi for easy image sharing

• Cons:
• Lower resolution compared to the D3400
• Older model with limited features compared to newer cameras

Nikon D3400:

• Pros:
• Higher resolution for more detail
• Faster autofocus for capturing moving subjects
• More versatile video recording options
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy connectivity

• Cons:
• Fixed LCD screen might be less flexible
• No built-in microphone for video recording

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

• For low-light photography and videography: The Canon EOS 700D is a strong contender thanks to its larger pixel size and silent autofocus.
• For higher resolution and detail: The Nikon D3400 offers a significant advantage with its 24.2-megapixel sensor.
• For capturing fast-moving subjects: The Nikon D3400’s autofocus system might be slightly faster and more responsive.
• For video recording flexibility: The Nikon D3400 provides more frame rate options, including 60p for smoother slow-motion footage.
• For travel photography: The Nikon D3400’s compact size and durable build make it an excellent travel companion.
• For easy image sharing: Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi, but the Nikon D3400’s NFC adds an extra layer of convenience.

The Final Verdict: A Tie?

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Nikon D3400 are excellent entry-level DSLRs with their own strengths and weaknesses. While the Nikon D3400 boasts higher resolution and faster autofocus, the Canon EOS 700D excels in low-light performance and video recording.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider your shooting style, budget, and desired features before making your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which camera has better battery life?
A: The Nikon D3400 generally has better battery life, with an estimated 1,200 shots per charge compared to the Canon EOS 700D’s 500 shots.
Q: Are there any other cameras I should consider?
A: While the Canon EOS 700D and Nikon D3400 are excellent choices, you might also want to explore newer models like the Canon EOS Rebel T7i or the Nikon D5600. These cameras offer improved features and performance.
Q: Can I upgrade the lenses on these cameras?
A: Yes, both cameras allow you to upgrade to different lenses based on your needs. You can explore a wide range of lenses from both Canon and Nikon to enhance your photography.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are excellent for beginners, but the Canon EOS 700D might be slightly easier to use due to its user-friendly interface and vari-angle LCD screen. However, the Nikon D3400’s more advanced features might appeal to users who want to learn more about photography.