What To Know
- If you’re considering a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-P2 are two popular contenders.
- The Olympus PEN E-P2 also records Full HD videos at 30fps, but it goes a step further by offering a selection of frame rates, including 24fps for a cinematic look.
- The Olympus PEN E-P2, on the other hand, has a longer battery life, allowing you to capture more photos on a single charge.
Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. If you’re considering a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-P2 are two popular contenders. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, but they cater to different types of photographers. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camera, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Ergonomics: A Tale of Two Styles
The Canon EOS 700D boasts a classic DSLR design, with a large, comfortable grip and a well-placed viewfinder. Its robust construction and familiar layout make it ideal for photographers who prefer a traditional shooting experience. On the other hand, the Olympus PEN E-P2 embraces a more compact and stylish design. Its smaller size and lightweight body make it incredibly portable and easy to carry around. The electronic viewfinder (EVF) offers a clear and detailed view of your composition, but it’s not as immersive as an optical viewfinder.
Image Quality: A Battle of Sensors and Processing
The Canon EOS 700D utilizes an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which delivers impressive image quality with good dynamic range and low-light performance. Its DIGIC 5 image processor ensures fast and efficient processing, resulting in vibrant and detailed images. The Olympus PEN E-P2, on the other hand, features a 12.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor. While it may have fewer megapixels, its sensor size is smaller, leading to a shallower depth of field and a more compact design. The TruePic V image processor provides excellent image quality, particularly in terms of color accuracy and detail retention.
Autofocus: Speed and Accuracy in Focus
The Canon EOS 700D offers a 9-point autofocus system, which is reliable and accurate for general photography. Its continuous autofocus (AF) performance is adequate, but it might struggle in fast-paced situations. The Olympus PEN E-P2, however, utilizes a contrast-detection autofocus system. While it may not be as fast as phase-detection AF, it’s incredibly accurate and reliable, especially for still subjects. Its continuous AF performance is also commendable, making it a viable option for capturing moving subjects.
Video Capabilities: A Glimpse into the World of Motion
The Canon EOS 700D allows you to record Full HD videos at 30fps, offering good quality and decent audio capture. Its manual controls give you flexibility over exposure and other settings, making it suitable for more advanced videography. The Olympus PEN E-P2 also records Full HD videos at 30fps, but it goes a step further by offering a selection of frame rates, including 24fps for a cinematic look. Its video quality is excellent, with sharp details and accurate colors.
Lens Selection: A World of Possibilities
The Canon EOS 700D benefits from the extensive EF lens system, offering a vast array of choices for various photographic needs. From wide-angle to telephoto, macro to specialty lenses, there’s a lens for every occasion. The Olympus PEN E-P2 utilizes the Micro Four Thirds system, which also boasts a wide range of lenses. While not as extensive as the Canon EF system, it offers a good selection of compact and high-quality lenses, perfect for travel and everyday photography.
Battery Life: Staying Powered for Longer
The Canon EOS 700D offers a decent battery life, allowing you to capture a reasonable number of photos before needing to recharge. However, its battery life can be a limiting factor for photographers who shoot extensively. The Olympus PEN E-P2, on the other hand, has a longer battery life, allowing you to capture more photos on a single charge. This is particularly beneficial for travel photographers or those who spend extended periods shooting.
Connectivity: Sharing Your Work Seamlessly
Both the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-P2 offer various connectivity options, including HDMI, USB, and SD card slots. They also support wireless connectivity, allowing you to transfer photos and videos to your smartphone or computer wirelessly. This makes it easy to share your images with friends and family or back them up on the cloud.
In a nutshell: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Photography
The choice between the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-P2 ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences. The Canon EOS 700D excels in its traditional DSLR design, extensive lens selection, and impressive image quality. It’s a great option for photographers who prioritize familiar handling and a wide range of creative possibilities. The Olympus PEN E-P2, on the other hand, offers a compact and stylish design, excellent image quality, and a more portable form factor. It’s ideal for photographers who value portability, ease of use, and a more minimalist shooting experience.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Olympus PEN E-P2 might be slightly easier to learn due to its intuitive controls and user-friendly interface.
Q: Which camera is better for travel photography?
A: The Olympus PEN E-P2 is a better choice for travel photography due to its compact size, lightweight body, and excellent image quality.
Q: Which camera offers a wider selection of lenses?
A: The Canon EOS 700D benefits from the extensive EF lens system, offering a wider selection of lenses compared to the Olympus PEN E-P2.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS 700D offers slightly better low-light performance due to its larger sensor size and image processing capabilities.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Olympus PEN E-P2 is generally more affordable than the Canon EOS 700D, making it a more budget-friendly option.
