Canon EOS RP vs Sony SLT A33: The Ultimate Camera Showdown with EF 24-105mm and DT 18-55mm Lenses!

Choosing the right camera system can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with two popular options like the Canon EOS RP with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Sony SLT-A33 with the Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens. Both systems offer compelling features and cater to different shooting styles.
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each system, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences. We’ll explore the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, lens, and overall system, providing a detailed analysis to guide you towards the perfect fit for your photographic journey.

The Contenders: A Closer Look

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

• Canon EOS RP: This full-frame mirrorless camera boasts a 26.2MP sensor, 4K video recording, and a compact design. Its advanced autofocus system and in-body image stabilization make it a versatile choice for various photography genres.
• Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: This popular kit lens offers a versatile zoom range, making it ideal for landscapes, portraits, and everyday photography. Its image stabilization and smooth autofocus contribute to sharp and clear images.

Sony SLT-A33 with Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM:

• Sony SLT-A33: This APS-C DSLR features a 16.2MP sensor, a unique translucent mirror system for continuous autofocus during live view, and 720p video recording.
• Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM: This kit lens provides a wide-angle to standard zoom range, suitable for a variety of subjects. Its compact size and lightweight design make it convenient for everyday use.

Image Quality: A Battle of Sensors and Lenses

Canon EOS RP: The EOS RP’s full-frame sensor offers superior low-light performance and shallower depth of field compared to the APS-C sensor in the SLT-A33. This translates to greater detail and better image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The Canon EF 24-105mm lens delivers sharp and well-balanced images with good color rendition.
Sony SLT-A33: While the SLT-A33’s APS-C sensor produces images with good detail, it falls short of the full-frame sensor in the EOS RP, especially in low light. The Sony DT 18-55mm lens delivers decent image quality, but it may struggle in low light and exhibit some softness at the edges of the frame.

Autofocus and Performance: Speed and Precision

Canon EOS RP: The EOS RP features a fast and reliable autofocus system with 47 cross-type points covering a wide area of the sensor. This ensures accurate and quick focus acquisition, even in low light. The camera’s continuous autofocus performance is also impressive, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Sony SLT-A33: The SLT-A33 utilizes a unique translucent mirror system for continuous autofocus during live view. This system offers a faster autofocus experience than traditional DSLRs, but it may not be as accurate or as fast as the EOS RP‘s system.

Video Recording: Quality and Features

Canon EOS RP: The EOS RP offers 4K video recording at 25fps, providing high-quality footage for professional and amateur videographers. Its advanced video features include log recording, time-lapse, and slow-motion, offering creative flexibility.
Sony SLT-A33: The SLT-A33 records video at 720p resolution, which is lower than the EOS RP’s 4K capability. While it offers decent video quality for its time, it lacks the advanced features found in the EOS RP.

Ergonomics and Design: Comfort and Usability

Canon EOS RP: The EOS RP boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. Its intuitive controls and menu system are user-friendly, even for beginners.
Sony SLT-A33: The SLT-A33 is a relatively compact DSLR, but it can feel a bit bulky compared to the mirrorless EOS RP. Its controls are functional, but some users may find them less intuitive than those on the EOS RP.

Lens Options: A World of Creative Possibilities

Canon EOS RP: The EOS RP benefits from Canon’s extensive EF lens lineup, offering a wide range of choices for various photographic needs. From wide-angle and telephoto lenses to macro and specialty lenses, Canon’s system provides incredible flexibility.
Sony SLT-A33: Sony’s lens lineup for its APS-C cameras is also impressive, providing a good selection of lenses for different genres. However, it may not be as extensive as Canon’s EF system.

Price and Value: Finding the Best Deal

Canon EOS RP: The EOS RP with the Canon EF 24-105mm lens is priced in the mid-range category, offering excellent value for its features and performance.
Sony SLT-A33: The SLT-A33 with the Sony DT 18-55mm lens is typically priced at a more budget-friendly level, making it an attractive choice for entry-level photographers.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right System

The choice between the Canon EOS RP Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the Sony SLT-A33 Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Canon EOS RP if:

• You prioritize image quality and low-light performance.
• You need 4K video recording with advanced features.
• You prefer a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera.
• You want access to Canon’s extensive EF lens lineup.

Choose the Sony SLT-A33 if:

• You’re on a budget and need a good entry-level DSLR.
• You desire a faster autofocus experience during live view.
• You’re comfortable with a more traditional DSLR design.

Beyond the Cameras: A Look at the Future

While the SLT-A33 is a capable camera, it has been discontinued by Sony. This means that you won’t be able to find new units, and finding used ones may be challenging. The EOS RP, on the other hand, is still a current model and continues to receive support from Canon.
This makes the EOS RP a more future-proof choice, as you’ll have access to newer lenses and firmware updates for years to come.

The Final Word: Embracing Your Photographic Journey

Ultimately, the best camera system for you is the one that best suits your shooting style, budget, and creative vision. Both the Canon EOS RP and the Sony SLT-A33 offer unique advantages and drawbacks. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and embark on your photographic journey with confidence.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Are the lenses included in the price of the camera bodies?
A: Yes, both systems include the kit lens in the price. The Canon EOS RP comes bundled with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens, while the Sony SLT-A33 includes the Sony DT 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 SAM lens.
Q: What are the main differences between the Canon EF and Sony DT lens mounts?
A: The Canon EF mount is a full-frame mount, while the Sony DT mount is designed for APS-C cameras. This means that EF lenses can be used on both full-frame and APS-C Canon cameras, while DT lenses are only compatible with APS-C Sony cameras.
Q: Which camera system is better for beginners?
A: Both systems can be great for beginners, but the Canon EOS RP might be slightly easier to learn due to its intuitive controls and menu system.
Q: Is the Sony SLT-A33 still a good camera in 2023?
A: While the SLT-A33 was a good camera for its time, it’s now outdated and lacks the features found in newer models. If you’re looking for a camera for 2023, there are better options available from both Canon and Sony.