What To Know
- On the other hand, the Sony SLT-A77 II, introduced in 2014, brought a unique twist to the table with its Translucent Mirror Technology (TLM).
- The Canon EOS 700D relies on a 9-point autofocus system, which is reliable but not as advanced as the Sony SLT-A77 II’s 79-point autofocus system.
- The Canon EOS 700D features a more traditional DSLR design with a comfortable handgrip and a well-placed control layout.
Choosing the right DSLR can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options from different manufacturers. Two popular choices that often come up in discussions are the Canon EOS 700D and the Sony SLT-A77 II. Both cameras boast impressive features and offer a compelling blend of affordability and performance. But which one emerges as the victor in this head-to-head battle? Let’s delve into their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
A Look at the Contenders: Canon EOS 700D and Sony SLT-A77 II
The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, was a popular choice for enthusiasts and beginners alike. It offered a user-friendly interface, a capable 18MP APS-C sensor, and impressive video recording capabilities. On the other hand, the Sony SLT-A77 II, introduced in 2014, brought a unique twist to the table with its Translucent Mirror Technology (TLM). This innovative system allowed for continuous autofocus during live view and video recording, a feature that was uncommon at the time.
Image Quality: Capturing the Essence of Your Moments
Both cameras excel in capturing high-quality images, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Canon EOS 700D’s 18MP APS-C sensor delivers excellent color reproduction and dynamic range, making it a solid choice for landscapes and portraits. However, the Sony SLT-A77 II, equipped with a 24MP APS-C sensor, boasts a higher resolution, allowing for greater detail and more cropping flexibility. This makes it a better option for photographers who frequently need to crop their images or print large-sized prints.
Autofocus Performance: A Focus on Speed and Accuracy
Autofocus performance is crucial for capturing fleeting moments and fast-moving subjects. The Canon EOS 700D relies on a 9-point autofocus system, which is reliable but not as advanced as the Sony SLT-A77 II’s 79-point autofocus system. The Sony camera’s TLM technology allows for continuous autofocus during live view and video recording, making it a better choice for tracking moving subjects. This feature proved to be a game-changer for photographers who wanted the convenience of autofocus during live view.
Video Recording: Bringing Your Stories to Life
Both cameras offer decent video recording capabilities, but the Sony SLT-A77 II edges out the Canon EOS 700D in this department. The Sony camera boasts Full HD video recording at 60fps, providing smoother playback and allowing for slow-motion effects. It also offers advanced video features like Picture Profiles and Zebra pattern, giving users more control over their video footage. The Canon EOS 700D, while capable of recording Full HD video, lacks the same level of video-centric features as the Sony SLT-A77 II.
Ergonomics and Design: A Comfortable Grip on Creativity
The Canon EOS 700D and Sony SLT-A77 II offer different ergonomic designs catered to different user preferences. The Canon EOS 700D features a more traditional DSLR design with a comfortable handgrip and a well-placed control layout. This makes it easy to navigate menus and adjust settings. The Sony SLT-A77 II, however, has a more compact design and a slightly different control layout. While it might take some getting used to, its smaller size and lighter weight might be appealing to some photographers.
Connectivity and Features: Expanding Your Creative Horizons
Both cameras offer a decent selection of connectivity options and features. The Canon EOS 700D includes built-in Wi-Fi for easy image sharing and remote control capabilities. It also features a built-in flash and a microphone input for audio recording. The Sony SLT-A77 II, on the other hand, boasts a built-in GPS module for geotagging your images. It also offers a hot shoe for external flash compatibility and a headphone jack for audio monitoring.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for You
The choice between the Canon EOS 700D and Sony SLT-A77 II ultimately comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize a user-friendly interface, excellent image quality, and affordability, the Canon EOS 700D is a solid choice. However, if you demand advanced autofocus capabilities, excellent video recording features, and a higher resolution sensor, the Sony SLT-A77 II is the better option.
Beyond the Comparison: A Final Thought
While both cameras are excellent choices for photographers of different skill levels, the landscape of photography has evolved significantly since their release. Newer models with more advanced features and technologies are now available. If you’re looking for a modern DSLR, it’s worth considering newer alternatives from both Canon and Sony.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both the Canon EOS 700D and Sony SLT-A77 II are suitable for beginners. The Canon EOS 700D offers a more user-friendly interface and a more traditional DSLR design, making it easier to learn the basics of photography.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Sony SLT-A77 II offers superior video recording capabilities with its Full HD video recording at 60fps, advanced video features, and continuous autofocus during live view recording.
Q: Which camera has better autofocus performance?
A: The Sony SLT-A77 II boasts a more advanced 79-point autofocus system with continuous autofocus during live view and video recording, making it a better choice for tracking moving subjects.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is generally more affordable than the Sony SLT-A77 II.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Sony SLT-A77 II has the edge in wildlife photography due to its faster continuous autofocus performance and higher resolution sensor.
