Canon EOS 700D vs. Panasonic Lumix DMC GX85: The Ultimate Showdown for Photography Enthusiasts

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. In this comprehensive comparison, we pit two popular contenders against each other: the Canon EOS 700D bundled with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens against the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85. Both cameras offer compelling features and cater to different photographic needs. Let’s delve into their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Sensor and Image Quality

The Canon EOS 700D boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 features a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor. While the Canon offers a higher megapixel count, the Panasonic’s sensor is smaller, leading to a shallower depth of field and a higher crop factor.
Canon EOS 700D: The 18-megapixel sensor delivers excellent image quality, particularly in well-lit conditions. Its dynamic range is decent, allowing for some post-processing flexibility. However, noise becomes more noticeable at higher ISOs.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85: The 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor produces sharp images with good detail retention. Its smaller size allows for smaller and lighter lenses, making it a more portable option. The GX85’s sensor performs well in low light, with less noise than the 700D at higher ISOs.

Autofocus and Performance

The Canon EOS 700D relies on a 9-point autofocus system, which is a bit dated compared to the Panasonic’s contrast-detection autofocus system. While the 700D’s autofocus is reliable for still subjects, it struggles with fast-moving objects.
Canon EOS 700D: The 9-point autofocus system is relatively slow and less accurate compared to newer models. Continuous autofocus performance is also limited, making it less ideal for capturing fast-paced action.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85: The Panasonic GX85 utilizes a contrast-detection autofocus system with a fast and accurate performance. It excels in tracking moving subjects and delivers reliable autofocus in low light.

Video Capabilities

The Canon EOS 700D can record 1080p videos at 30fps, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 offers 4K video recording at 30fps. Both cameras offer decent video quality, but the Panasonic’s 4K recording capability provides a significant edge for videographers.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D’s video capabilities are decent for basic recording, but its lack of 4K resolution and limited manual controls make it less appealing for serious videographers.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85: The GX85 excels in video recording with its 4K resolution and a variety of manual controls. It offers various frame rates and shooting options, making it a versatile choice for videography.

Design and Ergonomics

The Canon EOS 700D is a traditional DSLR with a comfortable grip and a dedicated viewfinder. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85, on the other hand, is a mirrorless camera with a more compact size and a tilting touchscreen LCD.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D’s design is familiar and comfortable for DSLR users. The dedicated viewfinder provides a clear and bright image. However, its larger size and weight can be a disadvantage for portability.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85: The GX85’s compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable. The tilting touchscreen LCD offers flexibility for shooting from different angles. However, some users may find the lack of a dedicated viewfinder a drawback.

Features and Connectivity

Both cameras offer a range of features, including Wi-Fi connectivity and built-in flash. The Panasonic GX85 boasts a few additional features, such as 4K photo mode and a built-in intervalometer.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D offers basic features like Wi-Fi connectivity, a built-in flash, and a few shooting modes.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85: The GX85 includes additional features like 4K photo mode, a built-in intervalometer, and a variety of shooting modes. It also features a more advanced menu system and a better selection of customization options.

Battery Life and Portability

The Canon EOS 700D offers a longer battery life compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85. However, the GX85’s smaller size and lighter weight make it a more portable option for travel and everyday use.
Canon EOS 700D: The 700D’s battery life is longer, allowing for extended shooting sessions. However, its larger size and weight can be a burden for carrying around.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85: The GX85’s compact size and lightweight design make it a highly portable camera. However, its battery life is shorter compared to the 700D.

The Verdict: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Canon EOS 700D if:

• You prefer a traditional DSLR design and a dedicated viewfinder.
• You prioritize longer battery life.
• You need a camera with a larger sensor for shallower depth of field.

Choose the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 if:

• You value portability and a compact design.
• You prioritize 4K video recording and advanced features.
• You want a camera with better autofocus performance and low-light capability.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring the Potential of Both Cameras

While both cameras offer a solid foundation for photography, their strengths extend beyond the core features. The Canon EOS 700D shines in its versatility for capturing everyday moments, landscapes, and portraits. Its larger sensor provides a wider dynamic range, which is beneficial for post-processing. However, its outdated autofocus system and lack of 4K video capabilities might limit its appeal for more demanding photographers.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85, on the other hand, excels in its ability to capture stunning video footage. Its 4K video recording, combined with its compact size, makes it a compelling choice for vloggers and filmmakers. Its advanced features and intuitive controls allow for creative exploration, while its smaller sensor may necessitate a different approach to shooting landscapes and portraits.

Beyond the Specs: The Joy of Photography

Ultimately, the best camera is the one that inspires you to capture the world around you. Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 offer unique advantages and cater to different photographic styles. Don’t get bogged down in specs and numbers; instead, explore the possibilities each camera presents and discover the one that sparks your creativity.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q1: What are the key differences between an APS-C sensor and a Micro Four Thirds sensor?
A1: The APS-C sensor, found in the Canon EOS 700D, is larger than the Micro Four Thirds sensor in the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85. This larger sensor size allows for better light gathering, resulting in improved image quality, especially in low light. However, it also means larger and heavier lenses. The Micro Four Thirds sensor is smaller and lighter, leading to more compact and affordable lenses.
Q2: What is the benefit of 4K video recording?
A2: 4K video recording offers significantly higher resolution than 1080p, resulting in sharper and more detailed footage. This allows for greater flexibility in editing and cropping, as well as the ability to capture more detail in the final image.
Q3: Which camera is better for beginners?
A3: Both cameras are suitable for beginners. The Canon EOS 700D offers a more traditional DSLR experience, which may be appealing to those familiar with older camera models. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85, being smaller and more compact, is a good choice for those looking for a more portable and user-friendly option.
Q4: Can I use different lenses with both cameras?
A4: Yes, both cameras allow you to use a variety of lenses. The Canon EOS 700D uses Canon EF and EF-S lenses, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 uses Micro Four Thirds lenses. There are numerous lens options available for both systems, catering to various photographic needs.