CameraReview

Canon EOS 40D vs Canon EOS 60D — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS 40D
Canon
Canon EOS 40D
DSLR · 10.1 MP · APS-C
42
SCORE
$87.36
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✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 60D
Canon
Canon EOS 60D
DSLR · 18 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
47
SCORE
$213.36
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General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS 40DEOS 60D
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20072010
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
20/08/200726/08/2010
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 146 x 108 x 74 mm145 x 106 x 79 mm
Camera weight 822 g755 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
10.1 MP05018 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
3888 x 25925184 x 3456
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
15 x 2214.9 x 22.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6.5 fps0455.3 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EF-SCanon EF-S
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic IIIDigic 4
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
16003003280000128003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
100302005030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
32003003280000128003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000800080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
9030090300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
N/AFull HD
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
N/A1920 x 1080
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
N/A30 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
N/AMOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
230000115000150000010400001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card Compact Flash (Type I or II)SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type BP-511LP-E6
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
800 shots15050001100 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 60D edges out the Canon EOS 40D with a score of 47/100 compared to 42/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2010 and 2007, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the 60D being slightly lighter at 755g compared to the 40D’s 822g.

The 60D’s higher score means it is a better camera than the 40D. It offers advantages such as a newer release year and a lighter weight, making it more comfortable to carry around. However, the 40D has a lower launch price of $899, which might appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 60D is the better choice for those seeking a superior camera, while the Canon EOS 40D could be suitable for those on a tighter budget.

Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 60D Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 40D wins in the optics comparison, scoring 45/100, while the Canon EOS 60D scores 43/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Canon EF-S lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization.

The 40D is superior to the 60D in terms of shooting speed, offering 6.5 frames per second (fps) compared to the 60D’s 5.3 fps. Faster shooting speed allows the photographer to capture more images in a shorter time, making the 40D better for action photography or situations where rapid image capture is crucial.

On the other hand, the 60D has an advantage in megapixels, with 18 compared to the 40D’s 10.1. Higher megapixel count provides greater detail and resolution in images, which can be beneficial for large prints or cropping. The 60D also has a slightly better DXOMARK sensor score of 66, compared to the 40D’s 64. This suggests that the image quality from the 60D may be marginally better, particularly in terms of dynamic range and low-light performance.

The 40D features the Digic III processor, while the 60D has the more advanced Digic 4. Although the 60D’s processor is newer, it does not contribute to a significant advantage in the optics comparison, as evidenced by the close scores.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 40D is the winner in the optics comparison for its faster shooting speed, while the Canon EOS 60D offers some advantages in terms of image resolution and sensor performance. Photographers should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras.

Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 60D Video Performance

When comparing the Canon EOS 40D and Canon EOS 60D, it is important to note that the EOS 40D does not have video functionality. As a result, this comparison will focus solely on the video capabilities of the EOS 60D.

The Canon EOS 60D has a video score of 43 out of 100, which may not be the highest score, but it does offer some video features. The camera is capable of recording Full HD video with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080. This provides users with the ability to capture clear and detailed video footage. Additionally, the EOS 60D supports a maximum video frame rate of 30 frames per second (fps), which is suitable for most casual video recording needs.

Unfortunately, the Canon EOS 60D does not have built-in time-lapse functionality. This means that users who are interested in creating time-lapse videos will need to find alternative methods or invest in additional equipment to achieve this effect.

Taking the video capabilities of both cameras into account, it is clear that the Canon EOS 60D is the superior choice for those interested in capturing video content. While the EOS 40D lacks video functionality altogether, the EOS 60D offers Full HD video recording and a decent frame rate, making it a more versatile choice for photographers who also want to record video.

Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 60D Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 60D wins the features comparison with a score of 57/100, while the Canon EOS 40D scores 36/100. Both cameras share several specifications in common, such as a 3-inch screen size, lack of touchscreen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth.

The EOS 60D outperforms the EOS 40D in screen resolution and flip screen availability. The 60D’s screen resolution is 1,040,000 dots, significantly higher than the 40D’s 230,000 dots. This higher resolution provides clearer and more detailed image previews and menu navigation. Moreover, the 60D has a flip screen, which the 40D lacks. The flip screen allows for more flexible shooting angles and is particularly useful for capturing images and videos in challenging positions.

The EOS 40D does not have any specific features that make it better than the EOS 60D. It shares the same limitations as the 60D, such as the lack of touchscreen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth. However, the 40D may be more suitable for those who prefer simpler camera models without the need for a flip screen and higher screen resolution.

Considering the differences in feature scores and the advantages of the 60D, it is clear that the Canon EOS 60D is the superior camera in terms of features. Its higher screen resolution and flip screen make it a more versatile and user-friendly option. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 40D may be suitable for those who prefer a simpler camera without the added benefits of a flip screen and higher resolution.

Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 60D Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 60D outperforms the Canon EOS 40D in storage and battery with a score of 45/100 compared to the 40D’s 35/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot; however, the 60D accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, while the 40D only accepts Compact Flash (Type I or II) cards. This gives the 60D a broader range of compatibility with memory cards.

The 60D also boasts a longer battery life with 1100 shots per charge using the LP-E6 battery type, compared to the 40D’s 800 shots with its BP-511 battery. Neither camera supports USB charging. While the 40D falls short in battery life and memory card compatibility, it still offers a decent performance with 800 shots per charge and the use of Compact Flash cards.

In comparing storage and battery capabilities, the Canon EOS 60D proves to be the superior choice with its wider memory card compatibility and longer battery life. The Canon EOS 40D remains a viable option for those who prefer Compact Flash cards and can manage with a slightly shorter battery life.

Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 60D – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 60D Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 40D or the Canon EOS 60D: