The Canon 70D and 80D are two popular DSLR cameras from Canon’s EOS lineup, designed for enthusiasts and semi-professionals. While the Canon 70D was a groundbreaking camera in its time, the 80D offers several upgrades and improvements. If you’re a Canon 70D user, you might be wondering whether it’s worth upgrading to the 80D. In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between the two cameras, exploring their features, performance, and value for money.
Introduction to the Canon 70D and 80D
The Canon 70D, released in 2013, was a significant improvement over its predecessor, the 60D. It featured a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, and improved autofocus capabilities. The camera was well-received by critics and users alike, praised for its excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and robust feature set.
The Canon 80D, launched in 2016, built upon the success of the 70D, offering several key upgrades. It boasts a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, enhanced autofocus capabilities, and improved video recording features. The 80D also features a more advanced 45-point all-cross-type AF system, which provides faster and more accurate focusing.
Key Differences Between the Canon 70D and 80D
When considering an upgrade from the Canon 70D to the 80D, it’s essential to understand the key differences between the two cameras. Some of the most notable upgrades include:
The 80D’s 24.2-megapixel sensor, which provides a higher resolution than the 70D’s 20.2-megapixel sensor. This increase in resolution results in more detailed images, particularly when cropping or enlarging photos.
The 45-point all-cross-type AF system in the 80D, which offers faster and more accurate focusing than the 70D’s 19-point AF system. This advanced autofocus system is particularly useful for capturing moving subjects, such as wildlife or sports.
The 80D’s improved video recording capabilities, including the ability to record 1080p video at 60fps, compared to the 70D’s 30fps. This makes the 80D a better choice for videographers and those who want to capture smooth, high-quality footage.
Autofocus and Metering
The Canon 80D’s autofocus system is one of its most significant upgrades. The 45-point all-cross-type AF system provides faster and more accurate focusing, particularly in low-light conditions. The 80D also features a 7560-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor, which offers more advanced metering capabilities than the 70D’s 63-zone dual-layer metering sensor.
In contrast, the Canon 70D’s 19-point AF system, while still effective, can struggle with fast-moving subjects or in low-light conditions. The 70D’s metering sensor is also less advanced, which can result in less accurate exposures in certain situations.
Image Quality and Performance
Both the Canon 70D and 80D are capable of producing excellent image quality, but the 80D has a slight edge due to its higher resolution sensor and improved autofocus system. The 80D’s 24.2-megapixel sensor provides more detailed images, particularly when cropping or enlarging photos.
In terms of noise performance, the 80D is slightly better than the 70D, particularly at higher ISOs. The 80D’s expanded ISO range, which includes ISO 100-16000, also provides more flexibility when shooting in low-light conditions.
Video Recording and Features
The Canon 80D is a better choice for videographers due to its improved video recording capabilities. The camera can record 1080p video at 60fps, compared to the 70D’s 30fps. The 80D also features HDR movie mode, which allows for the capture of high-contrast scenes with more detail in both bright and dark areas.
The 80D also includes dual-pixel CMOS AF, which provides fast and smooth autofocus during video recording. This feature is particularly useful for capturing moving subjects or when using the camera’s vari-angle touchscreen LCD to compose shots.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The Canon 80D features Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, making it easy to transfer images to a smartphone or tablet. The camera also includes a built-in headphone jack, which is useful for monitoring audio during video recording.
In terms of battery life, the 80D has a slightly longer battery life than the 70D, with up to 960 shots per charge compared to the 70D’s 920 shots.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Upgrading from the Canon 70D to the 80D is a worthwhile investment for those who want to take advantage of the 80D’s improved autofocus system, higher resolution sensor, and enhanced video recording capabilities. While the 70D is still a capable camera, the 80D’s upgrades make it a better choice for enthusiasts and semi-professionals who want to produce high-quality images and videos.
If you’re a Canon 70D user, consider the following factors when deciding whether to upgrade:
- Your current camera’s limitations: If you find that the 70D’s autofocus system or video recording capabilities are limiting your creative potential, the 80D may be a worthwhile upgrade.
- Your budget: The 80D is generally priced higher than the 70D, so consider whether the upgrades are worth the investment.
- Your needs and goals: If you’re primarily a stills photographer, the 70D may still be sufficient. However, if you’re interested in videography or want to take advantage of the 80D’s improved autofocus system, the upgrade may be justified.
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade from the Canon 70D to the 80D depends on your individual needs and goals. By considering the key differences between the two cameras and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that’s right for you.
What are the key differences between the Canon 70D and 80D cameras?
The Canon 70D and 80D are both high-quality DSLR cameras, but they have some key differences. The Canon 80D has a 45-point all-cross-type AF system, which provides more precise and faster autofocus compared to the 70D’s 19-point all-cross-type AF system. Additionally, the 80D has a higher ISO range of 100-16000, which can be expanded to 25600, whereas the 70D has an ISO range of 100-12800, which can be expanded to 25600. The 80D also has improved video capabilities, with the ability to shoot 1080p at 60fps, while the 70D can only shoot 1080p at 30fps.
The 80D also has a more advanced metering system, with a 7560-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor, which provides more accurate exposure readings. Furthermore, the 80D has a more durable and weather-sealed body, with a magnesium alloy construction and improved sealing around the buttons and dials. The 80D also has a faster burst mode, with the ability to shoot up to 7fps, while the 70D can only shoot up to 7fps in burst mode. Overall, the 80D has several significant upgrades over the 70D, making it a more capable and versatile camera.
Is the Canon 80D a significant upgrade over the 70D in terms of image quality?
The Canon 80D has several upgrades that improve image quality compared to the 70D. The 80D has a new 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which provides improved resolution and dynamic range compared to the 70D’s 20.2-megapixel sensor. The 80D also has a more advanced image processing engine, with the DIGIC 6 processor, which provides improved noise reduction and color accuracy. Additionally, the 80D has improved autofocus and metering systems, which help to ensure that images are sharp and well-exposed.
The 80D’s improved image quality is noticeable in several areas, including increased resolution, better low-light performance, and more accurate color rendition. The 80D’s sensor and image processing engine work together to provide improved detail and texture in images, especially in bright lighting conditions. Additionally, the 80D’s improved noise reduction capabilities help to minimize digital noise in low-light images, making it a better choice for photographers who shoot in a variety of lighting conditions. Overall, the 80D’s image quality upgrades make it a significant improvement over the 70D, especially for photographers who value high-resolution images with accurate color and low noise.
What are the benefits of upgrading to the Canon 80D for video shooters?
The Canon 80D has several benefits for video shooters, including improved video resolution and frame rates. The 80D can shoot 1080p at 60fps, which provides smoother motion and more detailed video compared to the 70D’s 1080p at 30fps. The 80D also has improved autofocus during video recording, with the ability to use phase-detection AF, which provides faster and more accurate focus. Additionally, the 80D has a headphone jack, which allows videographers to monitor audio in real-time, making it easier to capture high-quality sound.
The 80D also has improved video features, including the ability to shoot in MP4 format, which provides smaller file sizes and easier editing. The 80D also has a built-in time-lapse feature, which allows videographers to create stunning time-lapse sequences with ease. Furthermore, the 80D’s improved image stabilization system helps to reduce camera shake and blur during handheld video recording, making it easier to capture smooth and stable footage. Overall, the 80D’s video upgrades make it a more capable and versatile camera for videographers, providing improved image quality, faster autofocus, and more advanced features.
Is the Canon 80D worth the investment for photographers who already own the 70D?
The decision to upgrade to the Canon 80D from the 70D depends on several factors, including the photographer’s needs and budget. For photographers who are happy with the 70D’s performance and features, it may not be worth the investment to upgrade to the 80D. However, for photographers who need improved autofocus, better low-light performance, and more advanced video features, the 80D may be a worthwhile upgrade. Additionally, photographers who shoot in a variety of lighting conditions or need improved weather sealing may find the 80D to be a more reliable and capable camera.
The 80D’s improved features and performance come at a cost, and photographers who are on a budget may not find it to be a worthwhile investment. However, for photographers who are serious about their craft and need a camera that can keep up with their demands, the 80D may be a worthwhile investment. Additionally, photographers who plan to use their camera for an extended period may find that the 80D’s improved durability and weather sealing make it a more cost-effective option in the long run. Ultimately, the decision to upgrade to the 80D depends on the photographer’s individual needs and priorities.
Can the Canon 80D be used for professional photography applications?
The Canon 80D is a high-quality DSLR camera that can be used for a variety of professional photography applications, including portrait, landscape, and sports photography. The 80D’s improved autofocus and metering systems, combined with its high-resolution sensor and advanced image processing engine, make it a capable camera for capturing high-quality images in a variety of lighting conditions. Additionally, the 80D’s weather-sealed body and improved durability make it a reliable choice for photographers who need to shoot in challenging environments.
The 80D’s features and performance make it a suitable camera for professional photographers who need a versatile and reliable camera for a variety of applications. The 80D’s improved video features, including 1080p at 60fps and phase-detection AF, also make it a capable camera for videographers who need to capture high-quality footage. However, professional photographers who need the absolute best image quality and features may find that the 80D is not sufficient for their needs, and may prefer a full-frame camera such as the Canon 5D or 6D. Ultimately, the 80D is a high-quality camera that can be used for a variety of professional photography applications, but its suitability depends on the individual photographer’s needs and requirements.
How does the Canon 80D compare to other cameras in its class?
The Canon 80D is a high-quality DSLR camera that compares favorably to other cameras in its class, including the Nikon D7500 and the Sony Alpha a77 II. The 80D’s improved autofocus and metering systems, combined with its high-resolution sensor and advanced image processing engine, make it a capable camera for capturing high-quality images in a variety of lighting conditions. Additionally, the 80D’s weather-sealed body and improved durability make it a reliable choice for photographers who need to shoot in challenging environments.
The 80D’s features and performance make it a competitive camera in its class, with several advantages over its competitors. For example, the 80D’s 45-point all-cross-type AF system is more advanced than the Nikon D7500’s 51-point AF system, and its 1080p at 60fps video capabilities are superior to the Sony Alpha a77 II’s 1080p at 60fps capabilities. However, the 80D’s image quality and features are not significantly better than its competitors, and photographers who are already invested in another camera system may not find it to be a worthwhile upgrade. Ultimately, the 80D is a high-quality camera that compares favorably to other cameras in its class, but its suitability depends on the individual photographer’s needs and requirements.
What are the potential drawbacks of upgrading to the Canon 80D from the 70D?
The potential drawbacks of upgrading to the Canon 80D from the 70D include the cost of the new camera, as well as the potential for compatibility issues with existing lenses and accessories. The 80D is a more advanced camera than the 70D, and it may require photographers to learn new features and techniques in order to get the most out of it. Additionally, the 80D’s improved autofocus and metering systems may require photographers to adjust their shooting style and techniques in order to take full advantage of the camera’s capabilities.
The 80D’s improved features and performance also come with some potential drawbacks, including increased complexity and a steeper learning curve. The 80D has a more advanced autofocus system, which can be more difficult to use and adjust, especially for photographers who are not familiar with the camera’s features and settings. Additionally, the 80D’s improved video features may require photographers to invest in additional equipment, such as external microphones and monitors, in order to get the most out of the camera’s video capabilities. Overall, the potential drawbacks of upgrading to the 80D from the 70D are relatively minor, but they should be carefully considered by photographers who are thinking of making the switch.