The Ultimate Camera Showdown: Canon EOS 700D Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM vs Sony SLT A55 vs Sony DT 18-55mm F3

Choosing your first DSLR can be an exciting, yet daunting, task. With a plethora of options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Today, we’re diving deep into a popular head-to-head battle: the Canon EOS 700D Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM versus the **Sony SLT-A55 Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM**. These two cameras, released in 2013, were once considered titans in the entry-level DSLR arena, and they still hold their own against newer models. Let’s break down their key features, performance, and overall value to help you decide which one is the perfect fit for your photographic journey.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

Both cameras boast APS-C sensors, offering a decent balance between image quality and affordability. The Canon EOS 700D boasts an 18-megapixel sensor, while the Sony SLT-A55 utilizes a 16.2-megapixel sensor. While the Canon edges out in terms of resolution, the Sony’s sensor is known for its excellent dynamic range, capturing detail in both highlights and shadows.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Sensor: 18MP APS-C CMOS
• Image Quality: Known for vibrant colors and good detail, especially in well-lit conditions.
• Dynamic Range: Average, performs well in mid-tones but struggles in extreme highlights and shadows.

Sony SLT-A55:

• Sensor: 16.2MP APS-C CMOS
• Image Quality: Delivers excellent dynamic range, capturing detail in both highlights and shadows.
• Dynamic Range: Above average, excels in handling high contrast scenes.

Autofocus: Speed and Accuracy

Autofocus (AF) is crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects. The Canon EOS 700D employs a 9-point AF system, while the Sony SLT-A55 utilizes a 15-point AF system. The Sony’s larger AF point count gives it a slight advantage in terms of coverage, but both cameras offer quick and accurate focusing.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Autofocus System: 9-point AF
• Performance: Fast and accurate, especially in good lighting conditions.
• Continuous AF: Handles moving subjects well, but struggles in low light.

Sony SLT-A55:

• Autofocus System: 15-point AF
• Performance: Offers wider AF coverage and generally performs well.
• Continuous AF: Faster and more reliable than the Canon, especially in low light.

Shooting Speed: Capturing the Moment

For capturing action, shooting speed is paramount. The Canon EOS 700D offers a continuous shooting rate of 4 frames per second (fps), while the Sony SLT-A55 boasts a faster 10 fps rate. This makes the Sony a clear winner for capturing fast-paced action, such as sports or wildlife photography.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Continuous Shooting: 4 fps
• Buffer Depth: Limited buffer size, which can slow down continuous shooting.

Sony SLT-A55:

• Continuous Shooting: 10 fps
• Buffer Depth: Larger buffer size, allowing for longer bursts of continuous shooting.

Video Capabilities: Beyond Stills

Both cameras offer Full HD video recording at 1080p, making them suitable for amateur videography. The Canon EOS 700D features a dedicated movie button and supports manual audio level control, making it a more user-friendly option for video recording. The Sony SLT-A55, however, offers a wider range of frame rates, including 25p and 50p, which are ideal for smoother slow-motion footage.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Video Resolution: 1080p Full HD
• Frame Rates: 30p, 25p, 24p
• Features: Dedicated movie button, manual audio control

Sony SLT-A55:

• Video Resolution: 1080p Full HD
• Frame Rates: 60i, 50i, 25p, 24p, 50p
• Features: Wide range of frame rates, including slow-motion options

Ergonomics and Design: Comfort in Your Hands

Both cameras offer a comfortable grip and a well-designed layout. The Canon EOS 700D features a classic DSLR design with a large, bright viewfinder. The Sony SLT-A55, on the other hand, utilizes a translucent mirror system, which provides a live view through the electronic viewfinder (EVF). This EVF offers a more responsive and accurate representation of the final image, but may take some getting used to.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Design: Traditional DSLR design with a bright optical viewfinder.
• Ergonomics: Comfortable grip and well-placed controls.

Sony SLT-A55:

• Design: Unique translucent mirror system with an electronic viewfinder (EVF).
• Ergonomics: Comfortable grip, but EVF may take some time to adjust to.

Lens Options: Expanding Your Creative Horizons

Both cameras offer a wide range of compatible lenses, both from their respective brands and third-party manufacturers. The Canon EOS 700D utilizes the Canon EF and EF-S lens mount, while the Sony SLT-A55 uses the Sony Alpha mount. This opens up a world of possibilities for photographers looking to specialize in areas like portraiture, landscape, or macro photography.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Lens Mount: Canon EF and EF-S
• Lens Options: Vast selection of lenses, including both Canon and third-party options.

Sony SLT-A55:

• Lens Mount: Sony Alpha
• Lens Options: Good selection of lenses, including Sony and third-party options.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance

In terms of price, both the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony SLT-A55 are now considered budget-friendly options, available for under $400. While the Canon EOS 700D was initially priced slightly higher, the Sony SLT-A55 has seen a steeper price drop.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Price: Around $300-$400 (body only)
• Value: Good value for money, especially for those seeking a traditional DSLR experience.

Sony SLT-A55:

• Price: Around $250-$350 (body only)
• Value: Excellent value for money, offering a unique blend of features and affordability.

The Verdict: Which DSLR Wins?

Choosing the best DSLR ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Canon EOS 700D:

• Best For: Beginners looking for a traditional DSLR experience with a bright optical viewfinder and user-friendly video recording features.
• Strengths: Good image quality, comfortable ergonomics, user-friendly interface, wide range of lenses.
• Weaknesses: Slower continuous shooting speed, limited buffer depth, average dynamic range.

Sony SLT-A55:

• Best For: Photographers seeking a fast-shooting camera with excellent dynamic range and a responsive electronic viewfinder.
• Strengths: Fast continuous shooting, excellent dynamic range, wider AF coverage, unique translucent mirror system, affordable price.
• Weaknesses: EVF may take some getting used to, limited lens selection compared to Canon.

The Final Word: Beyond the Specs

While both the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony SLT-A55 offer impressive features, the best camera for you will depend on your individual needs and shooting style. Consider your budget, your preferred shooting style, and the type of photography you plan to pursue.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right camera is to get your hands on both and see which one feels more comfortable and intuitive to use. Don’t be afraid to experiment and explore different models to find the perfect fit for your photographic journey.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are great for beginners, but the Canon EOS 700D offers a more traditional DSLR experience with a bright optical viewfinder and user-friendly controls.
Q: Which camera is better for action photography?
A: The Sony SLT-A55 is better for action photography due to its faster continuous shooting speed and larger AF point count.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is a better choice for video recording due to its dedicated movie button and manual audio control.
Q: Which camera offers better value for money?
A: Both cameras offer excellent value for money, but the Sony SLT-A55 is slightly more affordable and offers a unique blend of features.
Q: Is it worth buying a used Canon EOS 700D or Sony SLT-A55?
A: Both cameras are still capable performers and can be found at very affordable prices in the used market. However, it’s important to ensure the camera is in good condition and comes with a warranty.