Choosing Between Canon 7D Mark II 18-135mm Kit Lens and 7D 24-105mm f/4L
Deciding between the Canon 7D Mark II with an 18-135mm kit lens and the original Canon 7D with a 24-105mm f/4L lens depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider:
Canon 7D Mark II with 18-135mm Kit Lens
Sensor and Performance: The 7D Mark II has a newer sensor with better high ISO performance and improved autofocus capabilities. It features a 65-point AF system, which is beneficial for fast action and low-light conditions. Burst Rate: The camera offers a higher continuous shooting speed of 10 fps, making it better for capturing fast-moving subjects. Video Capabilities: Enhanced video features include Dual Pixel AF for smoother focusing during video recording. Connectivity: The camera has built-in Wi-Fi and GPS for easier sharing and geotagging.Canon 7D with 24-105mm f/4L Lens
Lens Quality: The 24-105mm f/4L is a high-quality lens known for its sharpness and build quality. It offers a constant f/4 aperture, providing consistent exposure and depth of field control. Versatility: The 24-105mm range is versatile for various shooting scenarios, including landscapes, portraits, and events. Build Quality: The original 7D is rugged and weather-sealed, making it ideal for outdoor shooting.Conclusion
If you prioritize:
Performance: Go for the 7D Mark II. Lens Quality: Opt for the 7D with the 24-105mm f/4L. Overall Performance and Features: The 7D Mark II is the better choice, especially in terms of newer technology and continuous shooting speeds.However, if you value lens quality and versatility for different types of photography, the 7D with the 24-105mm might be more appealing. It offers a well-rounded set of features that can cater to a wide range of shooting scenarios.
Practical Considerations for Camera and Lens Selection
When selecting the right camera and lens, it's important to consider practical factors as well. The conventional measures of “goodness” may not always align with your personal needs. For instance, choosing a more budget-friendly option like the 18-135mm kit lens or the 7D could be smarter if your requirements are more straightforward.
For those who value detail and quality, the 300mm f/2.8 L is a top-tier lens, but its specialized nature may not be suitable for all photographers. A balanced option like the 24-70 f/2.8 L offers good resolution and weather sealing, albeit without image stabilization.
The flagship lens in this range, the 24-105mm f/4L, is an excellent choice. It is well-regarded for its build quality, resolution, and consistency. However, its limitations include the absence of image stabilization and the fact that it is not weather sealed, which can be a drawback for outdoor use.
Canon’s 35mm f/2 IS, while lacking the full aperture of the 35mm f/1.4 L, offers IS and is still an excellent option. The 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM is also a solid choice, especially for its price and quality, while the Tamron SP 35mm f/1.8 Di VC HSM is a versatile low-light lens with superb performance.
Ultimately, the choice between the 7D Mark II 18-135mm kit and the 7D with 24-105mm f/4L depends on your specific requirements and usage scenarios. Consider what type of photography you plan to do, the conditions under which you will work, and your budget. Each lens and camera has its strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different contexts and needs.