Shutterbugs Rejoice: Canon EOS R100 vs. Sony SLT A37 with Canon RF S 18-45mm F 4-5.6 3 IS STM – Which Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of options. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison of two popular cameras: the Canon EOS R100 with its accompanying Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens, and the Sony SLT-A37. These cameras cater to different needs and target audiences, making this comparison even more intriguing.
The Canon EOS R100 is a mirrorless camera designed for beginner and enthusiast photographers looking to enter the world of mirrorless technology. It features a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor and a powerful DIGIC 8 image processor, delivering high-quality images and video. The bundled Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens offers a versatile focal range for everyday photography.
On the other hand, the Sony SLT-A37 is a DSLR camera with a 16.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor and a Bionz processor. It boasts a unique translucent mirror technology that allows for continuous autofocus during live view and video recording.
This blog post will delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of both cameras, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.

Image Quality: A Detailed Comparison

Canon EOS R100: The Canon EOS R100 delivers impressive image quality with excellent dynamic range and low noise performance. Its 24.2MP sensor captures plenty of detail, even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera’s DIGIC 8 processor ensures efficient image processing and fast performance.
Sony SLT-A37: The Sony SLT-A37, while offering decent image quality, falls slightly behind the Canon EOS R100 in terms of detail and dynamic range. Its 16.2MP sensor captures images with good sharpness, but may struggle in low-light situations compared to the Canon.
Verdict: The Canon EOS R100 wins this round with its superior image quality, thanks to its higher resolution sensor and powerful image processor.

Autofocus Performance: A Race Against Time

Canon EOS R100: The Canon EOS R100 boasts a fast and reliable autofocus system with 143 cross-type points covering a large portion of the sensor. This enables accurate subject tracking and rapid focusing, especially during action photography.
Sony SLT-A37: The Sony SLT-A37’s translucent mirror technology allows for continuous autofocus during live view and video recording, which is a significant advantage over traditional DSLRs. However, its autofocus performance is not as fast or precise as the Canon EOS R100, particularly in low-light conditions.
Verdict: While the Sony SLT-A37’s continuous autofocus is a notable feature, the Canon EOS R100’s superior autofocus system, with its faster and more accurate performance, makes it the winner in this category.

Video Capabilities: Recording Your Memories

Canon EOS R100: The Canon EOS R100 excels in video recording, offering 4K video capture at 25/30p and 1080p at up to 60p. It features Canon’s renowned Dual Pixel CMOS AF, providing smooth and accurate autofocus during video recording.
Sony SLT-A37: The Sony SLT-A37 can record 1080p video at up to 60p, with continuous autofocus enabled. While it lacks 4K video recording capabilities, its video quality is still decent for everyday use.
Verdict: The Canon EOS R100 takes the lead with its superior 4K video recording capabilities and advanced autofocus system, making it a better choice for videographers and those who want to capture high-quality footage.

Design and Ergonomics: Finding the Right Fit

Canon EOS R100: The Canon EOS R100 features a compact and lightweight design, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. Its intuitive layout and well-placed buttons offer a user-friendly experience.
Sony SLT-A37: The Sony SLT-A37 is a slightly larger and heavier camera, which might feel bulky for some users. Its button layout and ergonomics are decent, but some users might find them less intuitive compared to the Canon EOS R100.
Verdict: The Canon EOS R100 emerges as the winner in this category, with its more compact and lightweight design, along with its user-friendly interface and comfortable grip.

Connectivity and Features: Staying Connected

Canon EOS R100: The Canon EOS R100 offers a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB-C. It also supports in-camera charging, making it convenient for travelers.
Sony SLT-A37: The Sony SLT-A37 features Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, enabling wireless image transfer and remote control. However, it lacks USB-C and in-camera charging, which can be a disadvantage for some users.
Verdict: The Canon EOS R100 wins this round with its more comprehensive connectivity options, including USB-C and in-camera charging, providing greater versatility and convenience.

Battery Life: Powering Your Photography

Canon EOS R100: The Canon EOS R100 has a decent battery life, rated for approximately 380 shots per charge. It also supports USB charging, which can be helpful when you’re on the go.
Sony SLT-A37: The Sony SLT-A37 has a slightly lower battery life compared to the Canon EOS R100, rated for approximately 340 shots per charge. It does not support USB charging, requiring a separate charger.
Verdict: The Canon EOS R100 emerges as the winner, with its slightly longer battery life and USB charging capability, offering greater convenience and flexibility.

Price and Value: Finding the Best Deal

Canon EOS R100: The Canon EOS R100 is priced competitively, offering a good balance of features and performance for its price point.
Sony SLT-A37: The Sony SLT-A37 is generally more affordable than the Canon EOS R100, making it a budget-friendly option. However, it lacks some of the advanced features found in the Canon EOS R100.
Verdict: The Sony SLT-A37 wins this round, offering a more affordable price point, although it may lack some of the features and performance of the Canon EOS R100.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Ideal Camera

Both the Canon EOS R100 and the Sony SLT-A37 offer unique advantages and cater to different needs. The Canon EOS R100 is a great choice for photographers seeking superior image quality, advanced autofocus, and excellent video capabilities. Its compact design and user-friendly interface make it a great option for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
The Sony SLT-A37, with its more affordable price and unique translucent mirror technology, is a suitable option for budget-conscious photographers who value continuous autofocus during live view and video recording.
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Consider your photography style, desired features, and budget to make an informed decision.

Questions You May Have

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS R100 is a great choice for beginners, thanks to its user-friendly design, intuitive controls, and excellent image quality. It offers a smooth learning curve and is well-suited for those new to photography.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS R100 excels in video recording, offering 4K video capture and advanced autofocus capabilities. It is a better choice for videographers and those who want to capture high-quality footage.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Sony SLT-A37 is generally more affordable than the Canon EOS R100, making it a budget-friendly option.
Q: Which camera has better autofocus?
A: The Canon EOS R100 has a superior autofocus system, with faster and more accurate performance, especially in low-light conditions.
Q: Which camera is better overall?
A: Both cameras offer excellent value for their respective price points. The Canon EOS R100 offers superior image quality, advanced features, and excellent video capabilities, making it a more versatile and high-performance option. The Sony SLT-A37 is a budget-friendly alternative, with its unique translucent mirror technology and continuous autofocus during live view and video recording.