The Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS R100 vs Canon EOS Rebel T7i with Canon RF S 18-45mm F 4-5.6 3 IS STM vs Canon EF S 18-135mm F 3.5-5.6 IS STM Lenses

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the entry-level to mid-range segment are the Canon EOS R100 with its RF-S 18-45mm lens and the Canon EOS Rebel T7i with its EF-S 18-135mm lens. Both cameras offer excellent features and image quality, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which camera best suits your photographic journey.

The Mirrorless Revolution: Canon EOS R100 with RF-S 18-45mm

The Canon EOS R100 marks Canon‘s foray into the mirrorless world for entry-level photographers. Its compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly portable, ideal for travel and everyday photography. The camera boasts a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, capable of producing high-quality images with vibrant colors and excellent detail. The RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens is a versatile kit lens that provides a wide-angle to standard zoom range, perfect for capturing landscapes, portraits, and everyday scenes.
Key Features:

• Mirrorless design: Offers a compact and lightweight form factor.
• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor: Delivers high-resolution images with excellent detail and color.
• RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens: Versatile zoom range for everyday photography.
• 4K video recording: Capture stunning video footage with smooth transitions.
• Eye detection autofocus: Ensures sharp focus on the subject’s eyes.

The DSLR Legacy: Canon EOS Rebel T7i with EF-S 18-135mm

The Canon EOS Rebel T7i is a DSLR camera that continues the legacy of Canon’s renowned Rebel series. It features a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, similar to the R100, offering excellent image quality and dynamic range. The EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens provides a wider zoom range, covering from wide-angle to telephoto, making it suitable for a wider variety of subjects, including wildlife and sports.
Key Features:

• DSLR design: Offers a traditional viewfinder experience with optical viewfinder.
• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor: Delivers high-resolution images with excellent detail and color.
• EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens: Wider zoom range for versatility in various photographic scenarios.
• 4K video recording: Capture high-quality video footage with a variety of frame rates.
• Continuous shooting at 6fps: Capture fast-moving action with ease.

Image Quality: A Close Contender

Both the Canon EOS R100 and the Canon EOS Rebel T7i share the same sensor size and resolution, resulting in very similar image quality. Both cameras produce vibrant colors, excellent detail, and impressive dynamic range. However, the R100’s RF-S 18-45mm lens might produce slightly sharper images than the Rebel T7i’s EF-S 18-135mm lens, especially at wider apertures.

Autofocus: The Mirrorless Advantage

The Canon EOS R100’s mirrorless design gives it a significant advantage in autofocus performance. The R100 utilizes Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which offers fast and accurate autofocus, especially for tracking moving subjects. The Rebel T7i, while equipped with a good autofocus system, might struggle to keep up with fast-moving subjects, especially in low-light conditions.

Video Capabilities: A Tie for the Win

Both cameras offer 4K video recording at 30fps, allowing you to capture stunning video footage. However, the R100’s electronic viewfinder (EVF) provides a more stable and accurate view while recording, especially in bright daylight. The Rebel T7i’s optical viewfinder can be challenging to use during video recording, as it doesn’t provide a live preview of the scene.

Ergonomics and Design: A Matter of Preference

The Canon EOS R100’s compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly portable and easy to handle. The camera’s controls are well-placed and accessible, making it user-friendly for both beginners and experienced photographers. The Rebel T7i, while slightly larger and heavier, offers a more traditional DSLR feel with its grip and button layout.

Lens System: Exploring the Possibilities

The Canon EOS R100 utilizes the RF-S lens mount, which offers a growing range of lenses specifically designed for APS-C mirrorless cameras. The RF-S lenses are known for their excellent image quality and compact size. The Rebel T7i uses the EF-S lens mount, which offers a vast selection of lenses, including telephoto lenses that are not yet available for the R100.

The Verdict: Finding the Perfect Fit

Choosing between the Canon EOS R100 and the Canon EOS Rebel T7i ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

• For photographers who prioritize portability and autofocus performance: The Canon EOS R100 is the clear winner. Its compact size, lightweight design, and advanced autofocus system make it ideal for travel, street photography, and capturing fast-moving subjects.

• For photographers who value a traditional DSLR experience and a wider zoom range: The Canon EOS Rebel T7i is a solid choice. Its optical viewfinder, comfortable grip, and versatile 18-135mm lens make it suitable for a wider range of photographic scenarios.

Beyond the Camera: A Look at the Ecosystem

The choice between the Canon EOS R100 and the Canon EOS Rebel T7i extends beyond the camera itself. The R100 is part of Canon’s growing mirrorless ecosystem, while the Rebel T7i is part of the established DSLR system.
The Mirrorless Advantage:

• Smaller and lighter lenses: The RF-S lenses designed for the R100 are generally smaller and lighter than their EF-S counterparts, making them more portable and easier to handle.
• Advanced technology: Mirrorless cameras like the R100 often feature advanced technology like in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which helps to reduce camera shake and improve image sharpness.
• Future-proof: The mirrorless system is considered the future of photography, with continuous development and innovation.

The DSLR Legacy:

• Wider lens selection: The EF-S lens mount offers a vast selection of lenses, including telephoto lenses that are not yet available for the R100.
• Lower cost: DSLR cameras and lenses are generally more affordable than mirrorless cameras and lenses.
• Familiarity: DSLR cameras have been around for decades, and many photographers are familiar with their design and operation.

The Final Word: A Journey of Discovery

Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that fits your style, needs, and budget. Both the Canon EOS R100 and the Canon EOS Rebel T7i are excellent cameras that offer a great balance of features and image quality. By carefully considering your photographic goals and preferences, you can choose the camera that will empower your creative vision and take your photography to the next level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners. The Canon EOS R100’s user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it a good choice for those new to photography. The Canon EOS Rebel T7i’s traditional DSLR design might be more familiar to some beginners.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: Both cameras offer 4K video recording, but the Canon EOS R100’s electronic viewfinder provides a more stable and accurate view while recording.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS R100’s advanced autofocus system performs better in low-light conditions than the Canon EOS Rebel T7i.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Canon EOS Rebel T7i’s wider zoom range and availability of telephoto lenses make it a better choice for wildlife photography.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Canon EOS Rebel T7i is generally more affordable than the Canon EOS R100.