Canon EOS 700D with EF-S 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM vs. Sony A7 II with FE 28-70mm F3.5-5.6 OSS: Which is Best for You?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Canon EOS 700D with its accompanying Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Sony A7 II paired with the Sony FE 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens. Both cameras cater to different needs and preferences, making it crucial to understand their strengths and weaknesses before making a decision. This comprehensive comparison aims to guide you through the key features, performance, and overall value proposition of each camera, helping you determine which one aligns better with your photographic aspirations.

A Glimpse into the Contenders: Canon EOS 700D and Sony A7 II

The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, is a popular DSLR camera known for its user-friendliness and decent image quality. It features an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, a 9-point autofocus system, and a 3-inch LCD screen. The bundled Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens provides a versatile focal range suitable for various subjects.
The Sony A7 II, released in 2014, is a mirrorless camera that boasts a full-frame sensor, offering superior image quality and low-light performance compared to the Canon EOS 700D. It features a 24.3-megapixel sensor, a 117-point autofocus system, and a 3-inch tilting LCD screen. The included Sony FE 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens offers a wider field of view and a slightly faster aperture than the Canon lens.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The image quality of a camera is a crucial factor to consider, and the two contenders showcase distinct characteristics. The Canon EOS 700D’s 18-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers good image quality in well-lit conditions, but it may struggle in low-light situations due to its smaller sensor size. The Sony A7 II, with its full-frame sensor, excels in low-light photography, producing cleaner images with less noise. The larger sensor also allows for shallower depth of field, resulting in more pleasing background blur.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

The autofocus performance of a camera is critical for capturing fast-moving subjects. The Canon EOS 700D’s 9-point autofocus system is relatively basic and may not be as responsive as more advanced systems. The Sony A7 II, on the other hand, boasts a 117-point autofocus system that offers faster and more accurate focusing, particularly for tracking moving subjects.

Video Capabilities: A Look at the Recording Options

Both cameras offer decent video recording capabilities. The Canon EOS 700D can record 1080p video at 30fps, while the Sony A7 II can record 1080p video at 60fps, providing smoother and more detailed footage. The Sony A7 II also offers a wider range of video recording options, including 4K video at 30fps, making it a more versatile choice for videographers.

Ergonomics and Handling: Comfort and Control

The Canon EOS 700D is a comfortable camera to hold and use, with a traditional DSLR design that features a deep grip and well-placed controls. The Sony A7 II, being a mirrorless camera, is smaller and lighter, making it more portable but potentially less comfortable to hold for extended periods. The control layout of the Sony A7 II may take some time to get used to, as it utilizes a combination of buttons and dials.

Battery Life: Powering Your Photographic Adventures

The Canon EOS 700D offers a decent battery life, allowing for approximately 500 shots on a single charge. The Sony A7 II, however, has a shorter battery life, lasting around 350 shots on a single charge. This difference is partly due to the full-frame sensor’s higher power consumption.

Connectivity and Features: Staying Connected and Creative

Both cameras offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing you to share your images wirelessly. The Canon EOS 700D also features built-in GPS, allowing you to tag your photos with location data. The Sony A7 II, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive set of features, including a built-in electronic viewfinder, a tilting LCD screen, and a variety of shooting modes, including intervalometer and time-lapse.

Lens Selection: Expanding Your Creative Horizons

The Canon EOS 700D benefits from a vast selection of EF and EF-S lenses, offering a wide range of focal lengths and apertures to choose from. The Sony A7 II, although having a smaller lens selection compared to Canon, still offers a growing range of E-mount lenses, including some impressive prime and zoom lenses.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance

The Canon EOS 700D is generally more affordable than the Sony A7 II, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. The Sony A7 II, while pricier, offers a significant upgrade in image quality, autofocus performance, and overall features.

Weighing the Pros and Cons: Choosing the Best Fit

Canon EOS 700D:
Pros:

• Affordable price
• Comfortable design
• Wide lens selection
• Decent image quality

Cons:

• Limited autofocus system
• Smaller sensor size
• Less video recording options

Sony A7 II:
Pros:

• Full-frame sensor
• Excellent image quality
• Advanced autofocus system
• Versatile video recording capabilities

Cons:

• Higher price
• Shorter battery life
• Smaller lens selection

The Verdict: Which Camera Wins the Battle?

The choice between the Canon EOS 700D and Sony A7 II ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you are looking for an affordable DSLR with a comfortable design and a wide lens selection, the Canon EOS 700D is a good option. However, if you prioritize image quality, autofocus performance, and a wider range of features, the Sony A7 II is the clear winner, despite its higher price.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon EOS 700D and Sony A7 II are excellent cameras, it’s essential to consider other options in the market. Newer models from both Canon and Sony have been released since these cameras, offering improved features and performance. It’s always a good idea to research and compare different cameras before making a decision.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What are the main differences between DSLR and mirrorless cameras?
A: DSLR cameras use a mirror to reflect light onto the viewfinder, while mirrorless cameras use an electronic viewfinder. This difference affects the size, weight, and performance of the cameras. DSLR cameras are typically larger and heavier, but they offer a more traditional shooting experience. Mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter, but they may have a slightly slower autofocus performance.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both the Canon EOS 700D and Sony A7 II can be suitable for beginners, but the Canon EOS 700D might be more user-friendly due to its familiar DSLR design and intuitive controls.
Q: What are the best lenses to use with the Canon EOS 700D and Sony A7 II?
A: The best lenses for each camera depend on your shooting style and budget. For the Canon EOS 700D, the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is a versatile zoom lens, while the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is a popular prime lens for portrait photography. For the Sony A7 II, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM is a high-quality zoom lens, while the Sony FE 35mm f/1.8 is a sharp and affordable prime lens.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Sony A7 II is better for low-light photography due to its full-frame sensor, which captures more light and produces cleaner images with less noise.
Q: Can I upgrade the lens on these cameras?
A: Yes, you can upgrade the lens on both the Canon EOS 700D and Sony A7 II. Both cameras accept a wide range of lenses, allowing you to customize your setup based on your shooting needs.