What To Know
- The Canon EOS 90D, on the other hand, boasts a faster burst rate of 10 fps, with a buffer capacity of 40 JPEGs or 25 RAW images.
- The Canon EOS 90D, while not as rugged as the K-70, is still a well-built camera with a polycarbonate body.
- The K-70 offers a more affordable option for those on a budget, while the 90D provides a more premium experience with advanced features.
In the realm of digital photography, two formidable contenders emerge: the Pentax K-70 and the Canon EOS 90D. Both cameras offer an array of features and capabilities, catering to the needs of both amateur and seasoned photographers alike. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of each camera, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and how they stack up against each other.
Image Quality
Sensor Size and Resolution
The Pentax K-70 boasts a 24.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Canon EOS 90D houses a 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. While the higher resolution of the 90D may suggest superior image quality, the K-70’s sensor is renowned for its low noise levels and excellent dynamic range.
Image Stabilization
Both cameras feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), allowing for steadier handheld shots. However, the K-70’s IBIS system is more advanced, providing up to 4.5 stops of stabilization, compared to the 90D’s 5-axis system with 3.5 stops of stabilization.
Autofocus Performance
Phase and Contrast Detection
The Pentax K-70 utilizes a hybrid autofocus system that combines 11 phase-detection and 9 contrast-detection points. The Canon EOS 90D, on the other hand, employs a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system with 45 cross-type phase-detection points, offering faster and more accurate focusing.
Tracking and Eye Detection
The 90D excels in tracking moving subjects with its advanced subject tracking algorithm and eye detection capabilities. The K-70 also offers tracking modes, but its performance is not as refined as that of the 90D.
Burst Shooting and Buffer
Frames per Second and Buffer Capacity
The Pentax K-70 can shoot at up to 6 frames per second (fps), with a buffer capacity of 23 JPEGs or 10 RAW images. The Canon EOS 90D, on the other hand, boasts a faster burst rate of 10 fps, with a buffer capacity of 40 JPEGs or 25 RAW images.
Video Capabilities
Resolution and Frame Rates
The Pentax K-70 supports video recording at up to 1080p resolution at 30 fps. The Canon EOS 90D offers a wider range of video options, including 4K resolution at 30 fps and Full HD at up to 120 fps.
External Microphone Input
Both cameras offer external microphone inputs, allowing for improved audio quality when recording videos.
Weather Sealing and Durability
Weather-Resistant Construction
The Pentax K-70 is renowned for its exceptional weather sealing, making it an ideal choice for outdoor photography in inclement conditions. The Canon EOS 90D, while not as weather-resistant as the K-70, still offers some degree of protection against dust and moisture.
Ruggedness and Durability
The Pentax K-70 is built with a rugged magnesium alloy body, ensuring durability and longevity. The Canon EOS 90D, while not as rugged as the K-70, is still a well-built camera with a polycarbonate body.
Ergonomics and Handling
Grip and Buttons
The Pentax K-70 features a comfortable grip and well-placed buttons, providing intuitive handling. The Canon EOS 90D also offers a comfortable grip, but its buttons may require some adjustment for those accustomed to the K-70’s layout.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
Both cameras feature a pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage. The 90D’s viewfinder offers a slightly larger magnification of 0.95x compared to the K-70’s 0.92x magnification. The 90D also has a larger and higher-resolution LCD screen (3.2 inches, 1.04 million dots) than the K-70 (3 inches, 921,000 dots).
Lens Compatibility
Mount Type and Lens Selection
The Pentax K-70 utilizes the Pentax K-mount, which provides access to a wide range of third-party lenses. The Canon EOS 90D uses the Canon EF/EF-S mount, offering an even wider selection of lenses, including Canon’s extensive line of L-series lenses.
Price and Value
Price Comparison
At the time of writing, the Pentax K-70 is priced around $700, while the Canon EOS 90D retails for approximately $1,200. The K-70 offers a more affordable option for those on a budget, while the 90D provides a more premium experience with advanced features.
Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera
The Pentax K-70 and Canon EOS 90D are both excellent cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. The K-70 is an ideal choice for those seeking a weather-resistant, durable, and affordable camera with excellent image quality. The 90D, on the other hand, excels in autofocus performance, video capabilities, and lens compatibility, making it a more suitable option for professional photographers and enthusiasts who demand the highest levels of performance.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which camera has better image quality at high ISO settings?
A: The Pentax K-70 generally has an advantage in image quality at high ISO settings due to its lower noise levels.
Q: Is the Canon EOS 90D better for sports photography?
A: Yes, the 90D’s faster burst rate, more advanced autofocus system, and subject tracking capabilities make it better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Q: Can I use Canon EF lenses on the Pentax K-70?
A: No, the Pentax K-70 uses the Pentax K-mount, while Canon EF lenses are designed for the Canon EF/EF-S mount. However, there are adapters available that allow Canon EF lenses to be used on Pentax K-mount cameras.
