Discover the Ultimate Camera Showdown: Canon EOS 90D vs Canon EOS RP – Which One is Right for You?

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with two popular and versatile options like the Canon EOS 90D with the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Canon EOS RP with the EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. Both offer excellent image quality and features, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This blog post will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each combination, helping you make an informed decision for your photography journey.

Camera Body Comparison: DSLR vs. Mirrorless

The first major difference lies in the camera body type: the Canon EOS 90D is a DSLR, while the EOS RP is a mirrorless camera. This distinction influences various aspects of their performance and handling.
Canon EOS 90D:

• DSLR: Offers an optical viewfinder for a direct view of your subject, making it ideal for fast-paced action photography.
• Pros:
• Familiar feel for users accustomed to traditional DSLRs.
• Faster burst shooting speeds (up to 10 frames per second).
• Deeper grip for better handling.
• Cons:
• Larger and heavier than mirrorless cameras.
• Viewfinder can be slightly less bright than EVFs.
• Limited live view functionality compared to mirrorless.

Canon EOS RP:

• Mirrorless: Uses an electronic viewfinder (EVF) for a digital preview of the scene.
• Pros:
• Compact and lightweight design, making it more portable.
• Excellent EVF for seeing the final image accurately.
• Silent shooting for discreet photography.
• Cons:
• Can be slower for burst shooting (up to 5 frames per second).
• May require adaptation for users accustomed to DSLRs.
• Battery life can be shorter than DSLRs.

Lens Comparison: Reach vs. Perspective

The lens choices for each camera also play a crucial role in the overall experience.
Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM on the EOS 90D:

• Reach: Offers a wider zoom range, covering focal lengths from 18mm to 135mm (equivalent to 29mm to 216mm on a full-frame camera).
• Pros:
• Versatile for a wide range of subjects, from landscapes to portraits.
• Good for wildlife photography with its extended reach.
• Cons:
• Slightly slower aperture than the EF 24-105mm.
• Not compatible with full-frame Canon cameras.

Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM on the EOS RP:

• Perspective: Offers a slightly wider starting angle (24mm) compared to the EF-S 18-135mm.
• Pros:
• Compatible with all Canon EF and EF-S lenses.
• Offers a wider perspective for landscapes and architecture.
• Slightly faster aperture than the EF-S 18-135mm.
• Cons:
• Less reach than the EF-S 18-135mm.
• May not be suitable for wildlife photography.

Image Quality: A Detailed Look

Both camera and lens combinations deliver impressive image quality, but there are subtle differences to consider.
Canon EOS 90D with EF-S 18-135mm:

• Sensor: 22.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor, known for its dynamic range and low noise performance.
• Image Quality: Offers vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent low-light performance.
• File Formats: JPEG, RAW (CR2).

Canon EOS RP with EF 24-105mm:

• Sensor: 26.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor, providing a larger surface area for capturing light.
• Image Quality: Exhibits exceptional detail, excellent dynamic range, and superior low-light performance.
• File Formats: JPEG, RAW (CR3).

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

Autofocus is crucial for capturing sharp images, especially for moving subjects. Both cameras offer impressive autofocus systems, but with different strengths.
Canon EOS 90D:

• Autofocus System: 45-point all cross-type autofocus system.
• Performance: Fast and accurate autofocus for tracking moving subjects.
• Features: Continuous autofocus (AF) in live view mode.

Canon EOS RP:

• Autofocus System: Dual Pixel CMOS AF with 4779 selectable autofocus points.
• Performance: Excellent autofocus performance, especially in live view and video recording.
• Features: Eye detection autofocus for portraits.

Video Capabilities: A Comparison of Features

Both cameras offer excellent video capabilities, but their features cater to different needs.
Canon EOS 90D:

• Video Resolution: 4K at 30fps.
• Features: Internal recording, 1080p slow-motion recording, and headphone jack.
• Strengths: Good for documentary-style filmmaking.

Canon EOS RP:

• Video Resolution: 4K at 25/24p.
• Features: Internal recording, 1080p slow-motion recording, headphone jack, and microphone input.
• Strengths: Suitable for cinematic-style video recording.

Which Camera and Lens Combination is Right For You?

Canon EOS 90D with EF-S 18-135mm:

• Best for:
• Photographers who prioritize speed and reach.
• Sports, wildlife, and action photography.
• Users who prefer a DSLR with a familiar feel.

Canon EOS RP with EF 24-105mm:

• Best for:
• Photographers seeking excellent image quality and portability.
• Landscape, portrait, and travel photography.
• Users who prefer a mirrorless camera with a modern design.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Perfect Fit

Ultimately, the best camera and lens combination depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed, reach, and a traditional DSLR feel, the Canon EOS 90D with EF-S 18-135mm is an excellent choice. However, if portability, image quality, and a mirrorless experience are your priorities, the Canon EOS RP with EF 24-105mm is a strong contender.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Is the Canon EOS 90D better for beginners than the EOS RP?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the EOS 90D might feel more familiar to those transitioning from point-and-shoot cameras due to its DSLR design. However, the EOS RP’s intuitive menu system and excellent EVF make it user-friendly as well.
Q: Which camera has better low-light performance?
A: The EOS RP with its full-frame sensor offers superior low-light performance, capturing more detail and producing less noise in low-light conditions.
Q: What is the difference in battery life between the two cameras?
A: The EOS 90D generally has a longer battery life than the EOS RP. However, both cameras offer good battery performance for a day of shooting.
Q: Can I use the EF 24-105mm lens on the EOS 90D?
A: No, the EF 24-105mm lens is designed for full-frame cameras and is not compatible with the EOS 90D’s APS-C sensor.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: Both cameras offer excellent video features, but the EOS RP has a slight edge in cinematic video recording due to its full-frame sensor and 4K 25/24p video capabilities.