Why the Canon EOS 77D with EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Stands Out Against Fujifilm GFX100S

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a decision between two very different beasts like the Canon EOS 77D with its trusty EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens and the Fujifilm GFX 100S, a powerhouse in the medium format world. Both cameras cater to different needs and offer unique advantages, making the decision a matter of personal preference and intended use.
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each camera, helping you make an informed choice.

A Tale of Two Formats: APS-C vs Medium Format

The core difference between the Canon EOS 77D and the Fujifilm GFX 100S lies in their sensor sizes. The Canon EOS 77D utilizes an APS-C sensor, while the Fujifilm GFX 100S boasts a significantly larger medium format sensor. This fundamental difference has far-reaching implications for image quality, depth of field, and overall performance.
APS-C (Canon EOS 77D):

• Smaller sensor: Offers a more compact and lightweight camera body.
• Crop factor: 1.6x crop factor compared to full-frame, meaning your lenses will have a narrower field of view.
• Affordable: Generally more affordable than medium format cameras.
• Faster autofocus: APS-C cameras tend to have faster autofocus systems.

Medium Format (Fujifilm GFX 100S):

• Larger sensor: Captures more light, resulting in better image quality, particularly in low light and with high ISO settings.
• Shallow depth of field: Creates beautiful background blur with greater ease, ideal for portraits and product photography.
• Exceptional image detail: Produces images with remarkable sharpness and detail.
• Higher resolution: Offers significantly higher resolution compared to APS-C cameras.
• Premium price: Medium format cameras come at a premium price, making them a significant investment.

Image Quality: A Clear Winner?

The Fujifilm GFX 100S emerges as the clear winner in terms of image quality. Its larger medium format sensor captures more light, resulting in exceptional dynamic range, low noise performance, and stunning detail. The images produced by the GFX 100S are remarkably sharp, with vibrant colors and subtle nuances that are often lost in smaller sensor cameras.
The Canon EOS 77D, while producing decent images, falls behind in terms of overall image quality. Its APS-C sensor, while capable, cannot match the dynamic range and low-light performance of the GFX 100S. However, the EOS 77D still offers excellent image quality for everyday photography and is more than capable of producing high-quality prints.

Autofocus: Speed vs Accuracy

The Canon EOS 77D boasts a fast and reliable autofocus system, making it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects. Its 45 cross-type autofocus points cover a large portion of the sensor, allowing for quick and accurate focusing.
The Fujifilm GFX 100S, while not as fast as the EOS 77D, offers precise and reliable autofocus, especially when shooting static subjects. Its autofocus system is designed for accuracy rather than speed, making it ideal for landscape and portrait photography.

Ergonomics and Handling: Comfort and Control

Both the Canon EOS 77D and the Fujifilm GFX 100S offer comfortable and intuitive handling. The EOS 77D is a compact and lightweight camera that feels comfortable in the hand, while the GFX 100S, despite its larger size, is well-balanced and offers a solid grip.
The EOS 77D features a dedicated dial for ISO and exposure compensation, making adjustments quick and easy. The GFX 100S relies on a combination of buttons and menus for adjustments, which can take some time to get used to.

Features and Versatility: Beyond the Basics

The Canon EOS 77D offers a range of features, including built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, 4K video recording, and a variety of shooting modes. Its compact size and versatility make it a great choice for everyday photography, travel, and even some video work.
The Fujifilm GFX 100S, while not as feature-rich as the EOS 77D, offers a unique set of features tailored for professional photographers. Its film simulation modes allow you to recreate the look and feel of classic film stocks, while its advanced shooting modes provide greater control over your images.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

The choice between the Canon EOS 77D and the Fujifilm GFX 100S ultimately boils down to your individual needs and priorities.
Canon EOS 77D:

• Ideal for: Everyday photography, travel, budget-conscious photographers, those seeking a lightweight and versatile camera with fast autofocus.

Fujifilm GFX 100S:

• Ideal for: Professional photographers, landscape and portrait photographers, those seeking exceptional image quality, photographers willing to invest in a premium camera.

The Final Word: Beyond the Specs

While the technical specifications paint a clear picture, the final decision often comes down to personal preference and shooting style. The Canon EOS 77D is a capable and affordable camera that excels in versatility and speed, while the Fujifilm GFX 100S is a powerhouse that delivers exceptional image quality and creative control.
Ultimately, the best camera is the one that fits your needs and inspires you to create beautiful images.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What is the main difference between the Canon EOS 77D and the Fujifilm GFX 100S?
A: The primary difference is their sensor size. The Canon EOS 77D uses an APS-C sensor, while the Fujifilm GFX 100S has a larger medium format sensor. This impacts image quality, depth of field, and overall performance.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 77D is generally considered more beginner-friendly due to its intuitive controls, fast autofocus, and user-friendly interface.
Q: Is the Fujifilm GFX 100S worth the price?
A: The Fujifilm GFX 100S is a significant investment, but for professional photographers seeking the highest image quality and creative control, it can be a worthwhile purchase.
Q: Which camera is better for landscape photography?
A: The Fujifilm GFX 100S excels in landscape photography due to its exceptional image quality, shallow depth of field, and ability to capture intricate details.
Q: Can I shoot video with the Fujifilm GFX 100S?
A: Yes, the Fujifilm GFX 100S can shoot video, but its video capabilities are not as advanced as the Canon EOS 77D. The EOS 77D offers 4K video recording at 30fps, while the GFX 100S is limited to 1080p video recording.