The Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS 7D Mark II vs Canon EOS 90D for Wildlife Photography with the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when considering the vast array of options available. If you’re a passionate photographer looking for a powerful DSLR to capture stunning wildlife, action-packed sports, or captivating landscapes, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Canon EOS 90D are both excellent contenders. But which one is right for you? This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between these two cameras, along with the versatile EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens, helping you make an informed decision.

A Quick Overview of the Contenders

Canon EOS 7D Mark II: Released in 2014, the 7D Mark II is a seasoned veteran known for its exceptional autofocus performance, high-speed continuous shooting, and rugged build. It boasts a 20.2MP APS-C sensor and a 10fps burst rate, making it a popular choice for wildlife and sports photographers.
Canon EOS 90D: Released in 2019, the 90D is a newer model with a more advanced 32.5MP APS-C sensor, a 10fps burst rate, and an improved autofocus system. It also features 4K video recording at 30fps, making it a versatile option for both stills and video.
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens: This lens is a popular choice for photographers seeking a versatile telephoto zoom lens for wildlife, sports, and travel photography. Its 4.5x zoom range and image stabilization make it ideal for capturing distant subjects with clarity.

Image Quality: Resolution and Detail

The 90D takes the lead in terms of resolution with its 32.5MP sensor, offering more detail and the ability to crop images more aggressively without sacrificing quality. The 7D Mark II, with its 20.2MP sensor, still delivers excellent image quality, but it falls short in detail when compared to the 90D.
However, the 7D Mark II’s lower resolution can be an advantage in certain scenarios. The smaller file sizes make it faster to process and upload images, and it may be less demanding on your computer’s resources.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

Both the 7D Mark II and the 90D feature impressive autofocus systems. The 7D Mark II boasts a 65-point all cross-type autofocus system, renowned for its speed and accuracy, especially in low light. The 90D, on the other hand, features a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system with improved tracking capabilities, making it a strong contender for fast-moving subjects.
In practice, both cameras deliver excellent autofocus performance, but the 7D Mark II might have a slight edge in low light and for tracking unpredictable movement.

Continuous Shooting: Capturing Action

Both cameras offer a respectable 10fps continuous shooting rate. The 7D Mark II can capture up to 190 JPEGs or 100 RAW images in a single burst, while the 90D can capture up to 140 JPEGs or 100 RAW images. This performance makes them ideal for capturing fast-paced action, such as sporting events or wildlife photography.

Video Capabilities: A Versatile Tool

The 90D emerges as the winner in the video department. It offers 4K video recording at 30fps with a variety of frame rates and codecs, making it a more versatile option for filmmaking and video blogging. The 7D Mark II, while capable of recording 1080p video, lacks the 4K resolution and advanced features of the 90D.

Ergonomics and Design: Comfort and Control

Both cameras are designed with professional photographers in mind. The 7D Mark II features a deep grip, a variety of customizable buttons, and a bright LCD screen. The 90D also offers a comfortable grip, a well-designed button layout, and a touchscreen LCD for intuitive control.
The 7D Mark II’s more robust build and weather sealing might appeal to photographers who work in demanding environments. However, the 90D’s smaller size and lighter weight might be more appealing for travel photography or everyday use.

The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM Lens: Versatility and Affordability

The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is a great companion for both the 7D Mark II and the 90D. It offers a versatile zoom range, making it ideal for capturing distant subjects like wildlife, birds, and landscapes. The lens’s image stabilization helps to minimize camera shake, resulting in sharper images, especially in low light. The STM motor provides smooth and quiet autofocus, making it suitable for video recording.

Choosing the Right Camera: A Decision Based on Your Needs

So, which camera is right for you? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Choose the Canon EOS 7D Mark II if:

• You prioritize autofocus performance and high-speed shooting.
• You need a rugged and weather-sealed camera.
• You prefer a camera with a more traditional button layout.

Choose the Canon EOS 90D if:

• You value high resolution and image detail.
• You need a camera with advanced video capabilities.
• You prefer a smaller, lighter camera for travel photography.

The EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is a great addition to either camera, providing a versatile telephoto zoom range for a variety of subjects.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Match

Ultimately, the best camera is the one that fits your style, budget, and intended use. Both the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Canon EOS 90D are excellent cameras that can deliver stunning results. By considering your needs and comparing their features, you can make the right choice for your photographic journey.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What is the difference in price between the Canon EOS 7D Mark II and the Canon EOS 90D?
A: The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is typically more affordable than the Canon EOS 90D, reflecting its older release date. However, prices can fluctuate depending on retailer and availability.
Q: Is the Canon EOS 7D Mark II still a good camera in 2023?
A: Yes, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II remains a capable camera in 2023. Its autofocus performance and high-speed continuous shooting are still highly regarded, and it’s a great option for photographers who prioritize these features.
Q: Is the Canon EOS 90D worth the extra cost compared to the Canon EOS 7D Mark II?
A: The decision depends on your individual needs. If you prioritize high resolution, advanced video capabilities, and a newer camera with improved autofocus, the Canon EOS 90D may be worth the extra cost. However, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II still offers excellent performance at a lower price point.
Q: Can I use the Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens on other Canon cameras?
A: The Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is compatible with Canon cameras that have an APS-C sensor and EF-S lens mount. This includes the Canon EOS 7D Mark II, Canon EOS 90D, and other similar cameras.