What To Know
- Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony A560 are designed with beginner photographers in mind, offering a comfortable grip and intuitive controls.
- The Canon EOS 700D features a classic DSLR design with a deep grip that provides a secure hold, even for users with larger hands.
- The Canon EOS 700D features an SD card slot for storing your photos and videos, while the Sony A560 offers both SD and Memory Stick Pro slots.
Choosing your first DSLR can be an exciting but daunting task. With so many options available, it’s easy to get lost in the technical jargon and specifications. Two popular contenders in the entry-level DSLR market are the Canon EOS 700D paired with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Sony A560 DSLR with the Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens. Both kits offer a compelling combination of affordability, user-friendliness, and decent image quality, but which one comes out on top?
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and overall value of each camera and lens combination, helping you make an informed decision for your photographic journey.
Design and Handling: Ergonomics and Comfort
Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony A560 are designed with beginner photographers in mind, offering a comfortable grip and intuitive controls. The Canon EOS 700D features a classic DSLR design with a deep grip that provides a secure hold, even for users with larger hands. The Sony A560, on the other hand, boasts a more compact and lightweight build, making it easier to carry around.
In terms of controls, both cameras offer a similar layout with dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO settings. The Canon EOS 700D features a top-mounted LCD screen for quickly checking settings, while the Sony A560 utilizes a more traditional viewfinder.
Image Quality: A Battle of Sensors and Lenses
The image quality of a DSLR is largely determined by the sensor and lens used. The Canon EOS 700D sports an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Sony A560 features a 16.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. In terms of resolution, the Canon EOS 700D offers a slight advantage, capturing more detail in your images.
The bundled lenses, the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM, are both standard kit lenses designed for versatility. The Canon lens boasts a quieter and smoother autofocus system thanks to its STM (Stepping Motor) technology, making it ideal for shooting videos. The Sony lens, while not as quiet, still provides decent autofocus performance.
Autofocus Performance: Capturing the Moment
Both cameras offer decent autofocus performance for general photography. The Canon EOS 700D utilizes a 9-point autofocus system, while the Sony A560 features a 15-point autofocus system. In practice, both systems are capable of locking focus quickly and accurately in most situations. However, the Sony A560’s wider autofocus coverage might provide a slight advantage in tracking moving subjects.
Video Recording: From Stills to Motion
The Canon EOS 700D and Sony A560 both offer Full HD video recording capabilities at 30fps. The Canon EOS 700D’s STM lens provides smoother and quieter autofocus performance during video recording, making it a preferred choice for videographers. Additionally, the Canon EOS 700D offers a dedicated microphone input for better audio quality.
Battery Life and Connectivity: Staying Powered and Connected
Both cameras offer decent battery life, allowing you to shoot several hundred images on a single charge. The Canon EOS 700D features an SD card slot for storing your photos and videos, while the Sony A560 offers both SD and Memory Stick Pro slots.
In terms of connectivity, both cameras offer HDMI and USB ports for transferring images and connecting to external devices. The Canon EOS 700D also features built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer and remote control capabilities.
Features and Functionality: Beyond the Basics
Both cameras offer a range of features to enhance your photography experience. The Canon EOS 700D boasts a built-in HDR mode for creating high dynamic range images, capturing more detail in both highlights and shadows. The Sony A560, on the other hand, offers a unique “Sweep Panorama” mode for capturing wide-angle panoramic shots.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for You
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Canon EOS 700D excels in video recording, offering quieter autofocus and a dedicated microphone input. Its slightly higher resolution sensor also provides a slight edge in image detail.
The Sony A560 is a more compact and lightweight option, making it easier to carry around. Its wider autofocus coverage might be beneficial for tracking moving subjects, and its unique “Sweep Panorama” mode offers a creative advantage.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs
While the specifications and features are important considerations, it’s crucial to consider your personal shooting style and budget. If you prioritize video recording and image detail, the Canon EOS 700D might be the better choice. If you value portability and unique features like “Sweep Panorama,” the Sony A560 could be a more suitable option.
Ultimately, the best camera is the one that you’ll use the most. Don’t be afraid to research, read reviews, and even try out both cameras before making your final decision.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which camera has better low-light performance?
A: The Canon EOS 700D generally performs slightly better in low-light conditions due to its larger sensor size and higher resolution.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners, offering intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces. The Canon EOS 700D might be slightly easier to navigate due to its top-mounted LCD screen.
Q: What are the pros and cons of each camera?
Canon EOS 700D:
- Pros: Excellent video recording capabilities, higher resolution sensor, good low-light performance, built-in HDR mode, Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Cons: Slightly bulkier and heavier than the Sony A560.
Sony A560:
- Pros: Compact and lightweight design, wider autofocus coverage, unique “Sweep Panorama” mode, dual memory card slots.
- Cons: Lower resolution sensor, less impressive video recording capabilities.
Q: Are there any other cameras I should consider in this price range?
A: Yes, there are other excellent entry-level DSLR options available, such as the Nikon D3300 and the Pentax K-50. It’s always wise to compare multiple models before making a decision.
