The Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Canon EOS 90D – Which Camera is Right for You?

Choosing the right DSLR can be a daunting task, especially when faced with two compelling options like the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Canon EOS 90D. Both cameras boast impressive features and performance, making them popular choices for photographers of various skill levels. This in-depth comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and shooting style.

A Look at the Contenders: Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Canon EOS 90D

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II, released in 2014, has held its own as a powerful and versatile DSLR. It’s known for its impressive autofocus system, fast continuous shooting, and rugged build. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 90D, launched in 2019, boasts a newer sensor, improved autofocus, and a more advanced video recording system.

Image Quality: Pixel Power and Dynamic Range

The Canon EOS 90D takes the lead in image quality thanks to its 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor, offering a significant resolution advantage over the 7D Mark II’s 20.2MP sensor. This translates to sharper details, especially when cropping or printing large images. However, the 7D Mark II’s sensor still delivers excellent image quality, particularly in low-light conditions, due to its larger pixel size, which captures more light.
Both cameras exhibit good dynamic range, allowing you to recover details in highlights and shadows during post-processing. However, the 90D’s larger sensor gives it a slight edge in this aspect, offering a wider latitude for exposure adjustments.

Autofocus: Tracking Your Subjects with Precision

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II introduced a groundbreaking autofocus system with 65 cross-type points, offering exceptional subject tracking and accuracy. While the 90D boasts a newer 45-point all cross-type autofocus system, it’s worth noting that the 7D Mark II’s autofocus performance remains impressive, especially for fast-moving subjects like wildlife or sports.
The 90D’s autofocus system benefits from Canon’s latest Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, which offers smoother and more accurate autofocus during video recording. This feature is particularly valuable for videographers and those who frequently shoot moving subjects.

Continuous Shooting: Capturing the Action

Both cameras excel in continuous shooting, enabling you to capture rapid bursts of images. The 7D Mark II can shoot at a blistering 10fps, while the 90D can achieve a respectable 10fps with single-shot AF and a slightly slower 7fps with continuous AF.
The 7D Mark II‘s faster continuous shooting rate makes it a better choice for capturing fast-paced action, such as bird-in-flight photography or sports events. However, the 90D’s ability to maintain autofocus during continuous shooting gives it an edge for subjects with unpredictable movement.

Video Recording: A New Era of Cinematic Quality

The Canon EOS 90D outperforms the 7D Mark II in video recording capabilities. It offers 4K video recording at 30fps, while the 7D Mark II is limited to 1080p at 60fps. The 90D’s 4K video recording provides a significant upgrade for videographers, allowing them to create high-resolution footage with greater detail and clarity.
The 90D also incorporates Canon‘s Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology for video recording, resulting in smooth and accurate autofocus tracking. This feature is particularly valuable for videographers who need to maintain sharp focus on their subjects while shooting moving scenes.

Design and Ergonomics: Built for Comfort and Control

Both cameras feature robust and weather-sealed bodies designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. The 7D Mark II‘s design is slightly larger and heavier than the 90D, providing a more substantial feel in the hand. The 90D, on the other hand, offers a more compact and lightweight design, making it more portable for travel photography.
Both cameras offer a similar layout of controls, with dedicated dials for aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, providing quick and convenient adjustments. The 90D’s touchscreen interface adds an extra layer of control and navigation, making it easier to review images and adjust settings.

Battery Life: Powering Your Shooting Sessions

The Canon EOS 90D boasts a significant advantage in battery life, offering approximately 1300 shots per charge compared to the 7D Mark II‘s 600 shots. This extended battery life is crucial for photographers who plan on shooting for extended periods without access to power sources.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for You

Choosing between the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Canon EOS 90D ultimately depends on your specific needs and shooting style.
Here’s a breakdown of their strengths:
Canon EOS 7D Mark II:

• Stronger autofocus performance for fast-moving subjects
• Faster continuous shooting rate (10fps)
• Rugged and weather-sealed body
• Excellent low-light performance

Canon EOS 90D:

• Higher resolution (32.5MP) for sharper details
• Improved dynamic range
• 4K video recording with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Longer battery life
• More compact and lightweight design

The 7D Mark II remains a solid choice for photographers who prioritize speed, autofocus performance, and a rugged build. Its fast continuous shooting and exceptional autofocus make it an ideal camera for wildlife, sports, and action photography.
The 90D, on the other hand, offers a more modern and versatile option with its 4K video capabilities, improved image quality, and extended battery life. It’s a suitable choice for photographers who need a camera for a wide range of applications, including landscape, portrait, and video work.

Beyond the Specs: The Bigger Picture

While the technical specifications are important, it’s also essential to consider your personal preferences and shooting style. If you’re a seasoned photographer who prioritizes speed and performance, the 7D Mark II might be your ideal companion. If you’re looking for a versatile camera that can handle various genres and offers advanced video features, the 90D might be a better fit.
Ultimately, the best camera is the one that fits your needs and inspires you to create amazing images.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is generally considered a better choice for wildlife photography due to its faster continuous shooting rate and superior autofocus performance, especially for tracking fast-moving subjects.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS 90D offers significantly better video recording capabilities with its 4K video recording and Dual Pixel CMOS AF, making it a more suitable choice for videographers.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is generally more affordable than the Canon EOS 90D, especially on the used market.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Canon EOS 90D’s user-friendly interface and touchscreen controls might make it a slightly easier camera to learn.
Q: Which camera has a better battery life?
A: The Canon EOS 90D boasts a significantly longer battery life than the Canon EOS 7D Mark II.