Canon EOS 60D: Understanding Its Sensor and Why It’s Not a Full-Frame Camera
The Canon EOS 60D is a popular entry-level DSLR camera known for its balance of features and affordability. Despite its widespread use, a common question arises: is the Canon EOS 60D a full-frame camera? The answer is no, and understanding why it’s not can help photographers make better decisions for their photographic needs.
Canon EOS 60D Specifications
The Canon EOS 60D is equipped with an 18 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which is smaller than a full-frame sensor. Here are its key specifications:
Resolution: 18 megapixels Sensor Type: APS-C CMOS ISO Range: 100-6400, expandable to 12800 : Optic pentaprism Continuous Shooting Rate: 5 fps Video: Full HD 1921080 at 30p Weight: 755g Dimensions: 145 x 106 x 79 mm Weather Sealed BodyWhat is an APS-C Sensor?
The APS-C sensor, also known as crop sensor, is a smaller image sensor that captures a different portion of the light compared to a full-frame sensor. This can affect the field of view and depth of field. The crop factor for the APS-C sensor in the Canon EOS 60D is approximately 1.6x. Here’s a detailed explanation:
When using a Canon EOS 60D with a lens, the effective focal length increases by a factor of 1.6. For example, a 50mm lens on a 60D would be roughly equivalent to an 80mm lens on a full-frame camera.
Comparison with Full-Frame Cameras
To put things into perspective, let's compare the Canon EOS 60D with other Canon full-frame cameras:
Canon EOS 6D: A full-frame 20 megapixel camera with weather sealing and a high-resolution viewfinder. Canon EOS 5D Mark III: Another full-frame 22 megapixel model with advanced features and an excellent image processor. Canon EOS 1D X: A professional-grade full-frame camera known for its speed and performance. Much older models like the EOS 1Ds EOS FD series: These too are full-frame cameras with very large sensors.The 60D, with its 18 megapixel APS-C sensor, is more comparable to other entry-level and mid-range cameras like the T2i, T3i, T4i, and T5i. These cameras also feature APS-C sensors, which makes the 60D a suitable choice for photographers who may not always need the full-frame capabilities.
Advantages and Drawbacks
The APS-C sensor in the Canon EOS 60D offers several advantages, including:
Lower cost compared to full-frame sensors Better crop factor, allowing for more telephoto shots with certain lenses Smaller and lighter camera bodyHowever, it also comes with some drawbacks, such as:
Reduced low-light performance compared to full-frame cameras Limited depth of field control compared to full-frame cameras Less noise in certain scenarios, but not as pronounced as full-frame camerasWhile the APS-C sensor is excellent for many photographers, particularly those starting out or looking for versatility, it’s not the best choice for every situation. Full-frame cameras offer superior low-light performance and more control over depth of field, making them the better option for professionals and those who require high dynamic range.
Conclusion
In summary, the Canon EOS 60D is not a full-frame camera, but rather an APS-C sensor camera. Understanding the differences between the two types of sensors can help you make the best choice for your photography needs. If you find yourself in situations where high light conditions and professional-level image quality are crucial, a full-frame camera might be the way to go. However, if you value portability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, the Canon EOS 60D is an excellent choice.