Why the Canon EOS 700D Canon EF S 18-55mm f 3.5-5.6 IS STM is a Game-Changer vs Sony SLT A35K and Sony DT 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 SAM

Choosing your first DSLR camera can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Two popular contenders in the entry-level DSLR market are the Canon EOS 700D with the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Sony SLT-A35K with the Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which camera is the perfect fit for your photographic journey.

A Quick Overview of the Contenders

Canon EOS 700D
The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, is a versatile DSLR known for its user-friendly interface and excellent image quality. It boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a 9-point autofocus system, and a 3-inch rotating touchscreen LCD. The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a popular choice for beginners, offering a versatile focal range and image stabilization.
Sony SLT-A35K
The Sony SLT-A35K, launched in 2011, is an innovative DSLR that features a translucent mirror system, allowing for continuous live view and faster autofocus. It comes equipped with a 16.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a 15-point autofocus system, and a 2.7-inch tilting LCD. The Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens is a compact and lightweight lens that provides a standard zoom range.

Image Quality: Capturing the Details

Canon EOS 700D: The Canon EOS 700D delivers excellent image quality, thanks to its 18-megapixel sensor. It produces vibrant colors, sharp details, and good dynamic range. The camera’s DIGIC 5 image processor ensures efficient noise reduction, resulting in clean images even in low-light conditions.
Sony SLT-A35K: While the Sony SLT-A35K’s 16.2-megapixel sensor might seem slightly less powerful, it still produces impressive images. The camera offers good color reproduction, sharp details, and decent dynamic range. The SLT-A35K’s translucent mirror system allows for continuous live view, which can be beneficial for video recording and shooting in challenging lighting conditions.
Verdict: Both cameras deliver excellent image quality, but the Canon EOS 700D edges out slightly with its higher resolution and slightly better noise performance. However, the Sony SLT-A35K’s translucent mirror system provides unique advantages for certain shooting scenarios.

Autofocus: Locking onto the Action

Canon EOS 700D: The Canon EOS 700D features a 9-point autofocus system, which is sufficient for most everyday photography. The camera’s autofocus system is known for its accuracy and speed, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. The STM (Stepping Motor) technology in the 18-55mm lens ensures smooth and silent autofocus, particularly during video recording.
Sony SLT-A35K: The Sony SLT-A35K boasts a 15-point autofocus system, offering wider coverage than the Canon EOS 700D. The camera’s translucent mirror system allows for continuous live view autofocus, which is faster and more responsive than traditional DSLRs. However, some users have reported that the autofocus system can be less accurate in low-light conditions.
Verdict: The Sony SLT-A35K’s translucent mirror system provides a significant advantage in terms of autofocus speed and responsiveness. While the Canon EOS 700D’s autofocus is reliable, it might struggle to keep up with fast-moving subjects in low-light situations.

Video Recording: Capturing Moments in Motion

Canon EOS 700D: The Canon EOS 700D is a capable video camera, offering 1080p Full HD video recording at 30fps. The camera’s STM lens ensures smooth and silent autofocus during video recording, making it ideal for capturing videos with minimal distractions. The 700D also offers manual audio controls and a headphone jack for monitoring sound levels.
Sony SLT-A35K: The Sony SLT-A35K also offers 1080p Full HD video recording at 30fps. The camera’s translucent mirror system allows for continuous live view autofocus, which can be beneficial for tracking moving subjects in video recordings. However, the SLT-A35K’s autofocus system can sometimes be noisy during video recording, which might be distracting for some users.
Verdict: The Canon EOS 700D is generally considered to be a better choice for video recording due to its smoother and quieter autofocus. However, the Sony SLT-A35K’s continuous live view autofocus can be helpful for tracking moving subjects.

Design and Ergonomics: Finding the Perfect Grip

Canon EOS 700D: The Canon EOS 700D features a compact and lightweight body, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The camera’s grip is well-designed, providing a secure hold even with larger lenses. The 700D’s 3-inch rotating touchscreen LCD makes navigating menus and reviewing images a breeze.
Sony SLT-A35K: The Sony SLT-A35K is a slightly larger and heavier camera than the Canon EOS 700D. However, it still offers a comfortable grip and well-placed controls. The camera’s 2.7-inch tilting LCD provides flexibility for shooting from different angles.
Verdict: The Canon EOS 700D is a more compact and lightweight camera, making it more portable and comfortable to use for extended periods. However, the Sony SLT-A35K’s tilting LCD provides greater flexibility for shooting from various angles.

Connectivity and Features: Staying Connected

Canon EOS 700D: The Canon EOS 700D offers a range of connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and a microphone jack. The camera also features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to wirelessly transfer images to your smartphone or tablet. The 700D supports Canon‘s Creative Filters, enabling you to add artistic effects to your photos.
Sony SLT-A35K: The Sony SLT-A35K also comes equipped with HDMI, USB, and a microphone jack. The camera features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for wireless image transfer and remote control using a smartphone app. The SLT-A35K offers various shooting modes, including a panorama mode and a bracketing mode for capturing HDR images.
Verdict: Both cameras offer similar connectivity options and features. The Canon EOS 700D’s Creative Filters and the Sony SLT-A35K’s panorama mode are unique features that might appeal to different users.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera

Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony SLT-A35K are excellent entry-level DSLRs, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Canon EOS 700D if:

• You prioritize image quality and noise performance.
• You need smooth and silent autofocus for video recording.
• You value a compact and lightweight design.
• You want a user-friendly interface and a touchscreen LCD.

Choose the Sony SLT-A35K if:

• You need fast and responsive autofocus.
• You want continuous live view for shooting and video recording.
• You prefer a tilting LCD for shooting from different angles.
• You’re interested in exploring advanced features like panorama mode and HDR bracketing.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony SLT-A35K are excellent choices, there are other cameras worth considering in the entry-level DSLR market. Here are a few alternatives:

• Canon EOS Rebel T6: A successor to the EOS 700D, the T6 offers improved autofocus and video capabilities.
• Nikon D3300: A popular Nikon DSLR known for its affordability and excellent image quality.
• Pentax K-50: A weather-sealed DSLR that offers excellent value for money.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: What is the difference between the Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens?
A: The Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens features STM (Stepping Motor) technology, which provides smooth and silent autofocus, particularly during video recording. The Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens uses SAM (Smooth Autofocus Motor) technology, which also offers smooth and silent autofocus. However, the STM technology in the Canon lens is generally considered to be more advanced and provides a more refined autofocus experience.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony SLT-A35K are user-friendly cameras that are suitable for beginners. The Canon EOS 700D offers a more intuitive interface and a touchscreen LCD, which can be helpful for navigating menus and reviewing images. The Sony SLT-A35K’s translucent mirror system might require some getting used to, but its faster autofocus can be beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Q: Can I upgrade the lenses on these cameras?
A: Yes, both the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony SLT-A35K accept a wide range of lenses. You can upgrade to more advanced lenses as your skills and needs evolve.
Q: Is the Canon EOS 700D or the Sony SLT-A35K better for wildlife photography?
A: For wildlife photography, a longer telephoto lens is recommended. Both cameras can accommodate telephoto lenses, but the Sony SLT-A35K’s faster autofocus and continuous live view might be advantageous for tracking fast-moving wildlife subjects.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS 700D generally offers slightly better noise performance in low-light conditions. However, the Sony SLT-A35K’s continuous live view autofocus can be helpful for focusing in challenging lighting situations. Ultimately, both cameras can produce good results in low-light, but the Canon EOS 700D has a slight edge in terms of image quality.
This comprehensive comparison should provide you with a clear understanding of the key differences between the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony SLT-A35K. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering your shooting style, budget, and desired features, you can choose the perfect DSLR to capture your photographic journey.