Is the Canon 550D Better than the Canon 700D?
When choosing a Canon DSLR, deciding between the entry-level Canon 550D and its slightly newer successor, the Canon 700D, can be confusing. Let's break it down and find out which one might be the best fit for you.
Focusing on Shooting Video
Video has become an essential part of photography. The Canon 700D offers in-camera HDR, which allows for capturing high dynamic range video by combining multiple exposures. This feature is not available on the Canon 550D.
Comparison of Features
No vs Yes - Multiple Cross-Type Focus Points
The Canon 700D boasts many more cross-type focus points, specifically 9, compared to the single cross-type point of the Canon 550D. This makes it much easier to grab focus in difficult situations, improving overall shooting speed and accuracy.
No vs Yes - Touchscreen and Flip-Out Screen
The 700D has a highly responsive touchscreen and a flip-out screen, making it much easier to interact with the camera menus and composing tricky shots or taking movies. The Canon 550D lacks these features, making it less user-friendly for some users.
Speed and Battery Life
Another key difference is shooting speed. The Canon 700D can shoot at 5 fps, while the Canon 550D shoots at 3.7 fps. This results in around 40 faster continuous shooting, which can be a game-changer for action photography. Additionally, the Canon 700D offers a longer battery life, capturing up to 550 shots on a single charge, compared to the 440 shots of the Canon 550D.
Pros and Cons of the Canon 700D
The Canon 700D is very user-friendly, especially with its touchscreen interface, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those who prefer a more hands-on approach. However, it's important to note that the Canon 700D is not a radical shift from the 550D and comes with a higher price tag.
Choosing Between the 550D and 700D
Ultimately, the choice between the Canon 550D and 700D depends on your specific needs. The 550D, being fairly old but solid, remains a reliable option when paired with the right lenses. Excellent prime lenses and professional telephoto zooms with an aperture of f/2.8 can make a significant difference in your photography. Shooting in RAW format will also help you capture the best quality images possible.
Conclusion
Both the Canon 550D and 700D have their strengths. The 700D is better equipped for video shooting and offers more features, while the 550D is still a solid choice for those looking for a reliable camera at a lower price point. Decide based on your priorities and budget, and get the best lenses to elevate your photography experience.