Shocking Comparison: Canon EOS Rebel T6 vs Olympus Pen E PL2 – Which Camera Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices for beginners and enthusiasts alike are the Canon EOS Rebel T6 and the **Olympus PEN E-PL2**. Both cameras offer impressive features and affordability, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each camera to help you make an informed decision.

Sensor Size and Image Quality

The Canon EOS Rebel T6 boasts a larger APS-C sensor, measuring 22.3 x 14.9mm, compared to the Olympus PEN E-PL2’s smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor (17.3 x 13mm). This size difference plays a significant role in image quality.
Larger sensors generally capture more light, resulting in better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range. The Rebel T6 excels in low-light situations, producing cleaner images with less noise. The E-PL2, while capable, may struggle in dimly lit environments.
However, the E-PL2’s smaller sensor offers a unique advantage: smaller size and weight. This makes it more portable and convenient for travel photography.

Autofocus and Performance

Both cameras offer decent autofocus systems, but the Rebel T6 takes the lead. It features a 9-point autofocus system, including a cross-type sensor in the center, providing faster and more accurate focusing. The E-PL2’s contrast-detect autofocus system, while reliable, can be slower, especially in low-light conditions.
The Rebel T6 also boasts a faster continuous shooting speed of 3 frames per second compared to the E-PL2’s 3 frames per second. This advantage can be crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Video Recording Capabilities

Both cameras offer video recording capabilities, but the Rebel T6 offers a more versatile experience. It can capture Full HD 1080p video at 30fps, while the E-PL2 is limited to 720p resolution. The Rebel T6 also features a dedicated microphone input, allowing for better audio quality.

Design and Ergonomics

The Canon EOS Rebel T6 adopts a traditional DSLR design with a large handgrip and a viewfinder, providing a comfortable and familiar shooting experience. The Olympus PEN E-PL2, on the other hand, features a smaller, more compact design with a tilting touchscreen LCD. This makes it more portable and easier to use for street photography or vlogging.

Lens Selection and Compatibility

The Rebel T6 uses Canon’s EF lens mount, offering a vast and diverse range of lenses to choose from. This gives you immense flexibility in capturing various subjects and styles. The E-PL2 utilizes the Micro Four Thirds system, which also boasts a wide selection of lenses, including compact and affordable options. However, the selection is generally smaller compared to Canon’s EF system.

Battery Life and Connectivity

The Canon EOS Rebel T6 boasts a longer battery life, allowing you to capture more photos before needing to recharge. The E-PL2, while not as impressive, still provides decent battery performance.
Both cameras offer Wi-Fi connectivity for easy sharing of photos and videos to your smartphone or computer.

Price and Value

The Canon EOS Rebel T6 is generally more affordable than the Olympus PEN E-PL2, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious photographers. However, the E-PL2’s compact design and unique features may justify the slightly higher price for some users.

The Verdict: Which Camera Wins?

The choice between the Canon EOS Rebel T6 and the **Olympus PEN E-PL2** ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize image quality, low-light performance, and a wider lens selection, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is the better choice. It offers a more traditional DSLR experience with superior image quality and a vast lens ecosystem.
However, if portability, compact design, and a touchscreen interface are your top priorities, the Olympus PEN E-PL2 might be a better fit. Its smaller size and lighter weight make it ideal for travel and street photography.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring the E-PL2’s Unique Features

The Olympus PEN E-PL2 stands out with its unique features, making it a compelling choice for specific types of photography.
1. Creative Control Dial: The E-PL2 features a dedicated control dial for adjusting aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, providing a more intuitive and hands-on shooting experience.
2. Art Filters: The E-PL2 offers a range of artistic filters that can be applied in real-time, allowing you to experiment with different creative effects.
3. Live Composite Mode: This unique feature allows you to capture long exposures with multiple exposures, creating stunning light trails and other artistic effects.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Photography Journey

Ultimately, the best camera is the one that fits your needs and inspires you to capture the world around you. Whether you choose the Canon EOS Rebel T6 or the Olympus PEN E-PL2, both cameras offer a fantastic starting point for your photography journey.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are excellent choices for beginners. The Canon EOS Rebel T6 offers a more traditional DSLR experience, while the Olympus PEN E-PL2 provides a more compact and user-friendly interface.
Q: Which camera is better for travel photography?
A: The Olympus PEN E-PL2’s compact size and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for travel photography.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS Rebel T6 offers superior low-light performance due to its larger sensor size.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS Rebel T6 offers better video recording capabilities with Full HD 1080p resolution and a dedicated microphone input.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Canon EOS Rebel T6 is a better choice for wildlife photography due to its faster autofocus system and wider lens selection.