Unveiling the Truth: Canon EOS 700D vs. Olympus OM-D E-M5 – Which Camera Offers Better Value?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often find themselves in the spotlight: the Canon EOS 700D with its accompanying Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Olympus OM-D E-M5. Both cameras cater to photography enthusiasts, offering a blend of affordability, versatility, and image quality. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key features and performance aspects of these two cameras, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: A Tale of Two Formats

The Canon EOS 700D boasts an APS-C sensor, a popular choice for entry-level and enthusiast cameras. This sensor size offers a good balance between image quality and affordability. The Olympus OM-D E-M5, on the other hand, utilizes a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is smaller than APS-C but still capable of delivering impressive results.
Canon EOS 700D: The APS-C sensor captures more light, resulting in better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. The 18-megapixel resolution provides ample detail for prints and digital enlargements.
Olympus OM-D E-M5: Despite its smaller sensor, the E-M5 packs a punch with its 16.1-megapixel resolution. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor excels in image stabilization, achieving impressive results in low-light conditions. The in-body image stabilization system (IBIS) effectively compensates for camera shake, allowing for sharper handheld shots, especially in low light.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed and Precision

Both cameras offer reliable autofocus systems, but their performance varies. The Canon EOS 700D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 features a 35-point contrast-detection autofocus system.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D’s autofocus system is adequate for general photography, but it can struggle in low light and fast-paced action.
Olympus OM-D E-M5: The E-M5’s autofocus system, while not as fast as some of its competitors, is accurate and reliable. It excels in low-light situations and provides a faster shooting experience compared to the 700D.

Lens Options: A World of Creative Possibilities

The Canon EOS 700D benefits from the extensive Canon EF and EF-S lens ecosystem, offering a wide range of choices to suit various photographic styles. The Olympus OM-D E-M5, while boasting a smaller lens selection, still has a respectable range of Micro Four Thirds lenses available, including some excellent prime lenses.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D’s lens selection is one of its biggest strengths. From wide-angle to telephoto, macro to specialty lenses, the Canon system offers unparalleled flexibility.
Olympus OM-D E-M5: The E-M5’s Micro Four Thirds lens selection, while smaller, includes some highly regarded prime lenses. These lenses are known for their sharpness, compact size, and excellent image quality.

Design and Ergonomics: A Comfortable Grip on Creativity

Both cameras offer a comfortable and user-friendly design. The Canon EOS 700D features a traditional DSLR design with a large grip and a dedicated mode dial. The Olympus OM-D E-M5, on the other hand, adopts a more compact and lightweight design, resembling a rangefinder camera.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D’s design is familiar to DSLR users, offering a comfortable grip and a well-placed button layout. The large viewfinder provides a clear and bright image.
Olympus OM-D E-M5: The E-M5’s compact size and lightweight body make it easy to carry and shoot. Its electronic viewfinder (EVF) is sharp and responsive, offering a real-time preview of the final image.

Video Capabilities: Capturing Motion in High Definition

Both cameras offer video recording capabilities, but their features and performance differ. The Canon EOS 700D can record 1080p video at 30fps, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 can record 1080p video at 30fps and 60fps.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D’s video quality is good, but it lacks advanced features like manual audio control.
Olympus OM-D E-M5: The E-M5’s video capabilities are more advanced, offering manual audio control, time-lapse recording, and a higher frame rate for smoother slow-motion footage.

Features and Connectivity: Expanding Your Creative Horizons

Both cameras offer a range of features and connectivity options to enhance your photographic experience. The Canon EOS 700D features built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 offers both Wi-Fi and NFC for seamless connectivity.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D’s built-in Wi-Fi enables wireless image transfer to smart devices. It also includes features like Creative Filters and Scene Modes for added versatility.
Olympus OM-D E-M5: The E-M5 boasts a comprehensive set of features, including in-camera RAW processing, multiple shooting modes, and advanced image stabilization. Its Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity options make it easy to share images wirelessly.

The Verdict: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Photographic Journey

Choosing between the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Canon EOS 700D excels with its larger sensor, extensive lens selection, and familiar DSLR design. On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 offers a compact and lightweight design, impressive in-body image stabilization, and advanced video recording capabilities.
Canon EOS 700D: Ideal for photographers who prioritize image quality, lens versatility, and a traditional DSLR experience.
Olympus OM-D E-M5: Perfect for photographers who value portability, advanced features, and exceptional image stabilization.

Beyond the Comparison: A Glimpse into the Future

While both the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 have been replaced by newer models, they still remain popular choices in the used camera market. If you’re considering purchasing either of these cameras, it’s worth exploring their newer counterparts, such as the Canon EOS 800D and the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. These newer models offer improved features, performance, and image quality.

What People Want to Know

Q: What are the key differences between the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus OM-D E-M5?
A: The Canon EOS 700D offers a larger sensor, a more extensive lens selection, and a traditional DSLR design. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 features a compact and lightweight design, impressive in-body image stabilization, and advanced video recording capabilities.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Olympus OM-D E-M5 excels in low-light photography due to its in-body image stabilization system, which effectively compensates for camera shake.
Q: Which camera is more suitable for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is a good choice for beginners as it offers a familiar DSLR design and a wide range of user-friendly features.
Q: What are the pros and cons of each camera?
A:
Canon EOS 700D:

• Pros: Larger sensor, extensive lens selection, good image quality, familiar DSLR design.
• Cons: Slower autofocus, limited video features, larger and heavier than the E-M5.

Olympus OM-D E-M5:

• Pros: Compact and lightweight, excellent image stabilization, advanced video features, good image quality.
• Cons: Smaller sensor, limited lens selection compared to Canon, higher price tag.

Q: Which camera is better for travel photography?
A: The Olympus OM-D E-M5’s compact and lightweight design makes it an excellent choice for travel photography. Its in-body image stabilization also ensures sharp images even in challenging conditions.