Canon EOS 700D vs Olympus Pen E-PL5: Unveiling the Best Camera for Your Photography Needs!

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often come up in conversations: the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-PL5. Both cameras cater to different needs and preferences, making the decision even more challenging. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, helping you make an informed choice for your photographic journey.

Unveiling the Contenders: Canon EOS 700D and Olympus PEN E-PL5

The Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-PL5 represent distinct approaches to photography. The Canon EOS 700D is a DSLR, boasting a larger sensor, advanced features, and a robust build. On the other hand, the Olympus PEN E-PL5 is a mirrorless camera, known for its compact size, stylish design, and intuitive controls.

Sensor Size: A Key Differentiator

One of the most significant differences between the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-PL5 lies in their sensor sizes. The Canon EOS 700D utilizes an APS-C sensor, larger than the Micro Four Thirds sensor found in the Olympus PEN E-PL5. This size disparity has a direct impact on image quality, particularly in low-light situations.
The larger APS-C sensor in the Canon EOS 700D allows for greater light gathering, resulting in better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range. This translates into cleaner images with less noise, even at higher ISO sensitivities. The Olympus PEN E-PL5, with its smaller sensor, struggles to match the Canon EOS 700D in low-light scenarios, often producing images with more noise and less detail.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

Both cameras offer reliable autofocus systems, but their performance varies. The Canon EOS 700D employs a 9-point autofocus system, while the Olympus PEN E-PL5 boasts a contrast-detection autofocus system with 35 focus points.
In terms of speed, the Canon EOS 700D generally outperforms the Olympus PEN E-PL5, thanks to its phase-detection autofocus system. This system excels in fast-paced action photography, allowing for quicker and more accurate focusing. The Olympus PEN E-PL5, relying on contrast-detection autofocus, can be slower in focusing, especially in low-light conditions.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The sensor size difference between the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-PL5 directly influences image quality. The Canon EOS 700D, with its larger APS-C sensor, delivers sharper images with richer detail and better color reproduction. The Olympus PEN E-PL5, while capable of producing decent images, often falls short in terms of sharpness and dynamic range, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Video Capabilities: Recording Your Memories

Both cameras offer video recording capabilities, but their features and performance differ. The Canon EOS 700D can record 1080p videos at 30fps, while the Olympus PEN E-PL5 can capture 1080p videos at 30fps and 25fps.
The Canon EOS 700D provides manual controls for video recording, giving you greater creative freedom. The Olympus PEN E-PL5, while offering automatic video recording options, lacks the same level of manual control.

Portability: Size and Weight Matter

The Olympus PEN E-PL5 emerges as the clear winner in terms of portability. Its compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal companion for travel and everyday photography. The Canon EOS 700D, being a DSLR, is bulkier and heavier, making it less convenient for on-the-go use.

User Interface: Navigating the Camera

Both cameras offer user-friendly interfaces, but their design philosophies differ. The Canon EOS 700D features a traditional DSLR layout with a dedicated dial and buttons for various settings. The Olympus PEN E-PL5, on the other hand, utilizes a touchscreen interface for navigating menus and adjusting settings.

Battery Life: Powering Your Shooting Spree

Battery life is an important consideration for any camera. The Canon EOS 700D boasts a longer battery life compared to the Olympus PEN E-PL5. This is due to the power-hungry nature of the DSLR’s larger sensor and optical viewfinder. The Olympus PEN E-PL5, with its smaller sensor and electronic viewfinder, has a shorter battery life, but it can still last for a decent number of shots.

Price Point: Value for Money

The Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-PL5 are priced differently, reflecting their features and capabilities. The Canon EOS 700D, being a more advanced camera, comes at a higher price point. The Olympus PEN E-PL5, with its more compact design and simplified features, is more budget-friendly.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera

The decision between the Canon EOS 700D and the Olympus PEN E-PL5 ultimately boils down to your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize image quality, low-light performance, and advanced features, the Canon EOS 700D is the better choice. Its larger sensor, faster autofocus system, and comprehensive manual controls provide a more professional experience.
If portability, ease of use, and a stylish design are your priorities, the Olympus PEN E-PL5 is a compelling option. Its compact size, intuitive touchscreen interface, and lightweight body make it ideal for travel and everyday photography.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners. The Canon EOS 700D offers more manual control, which can be challenging for novices, while the Olympus PEN E-PL5’s touchscreen interface and intuitive controls make it easier to learn.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS 700D performs better in low-light due to its larger sensor, which allows for better light gathering and less noise.
Q: Which camera is more portable?
A: The Olympus PEN E-PL5 is significantly more compact and lightweight than the Canon EOS 700D, making it ideal for travel and everyday use.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS 700D offers more manual control for video recording, giving you greater creative freedom. However, the Olympus PEN E-PL5 is still capable of recording decent quality videos.
Q: Which camera is better value for money?
A: The Olympus PEN E-PL5 is more budget-friendly, while the Canon EOS 700D offers more advanced features and capabilities at a higher price point.