Canon EOS 70D vs EOS 7D Comparison
Canon EOS 70D
Canon EOS 7D
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Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS 70D | EOS 7D | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 | 2009 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 02, 2013 | September 01, 2009 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 70D emerges as the winner with a score of 60/100, while the Canon EOS 7D scores 45/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2013 and 2009, respectively. They share similarities in their general specifications, such as camera size and weight.
The 70D has the advantage of being lighter, weighing 755g compared to the 7D’s 860g. With a smaller body (139 x 104 x 79mm), it is also more compact than the 7D (148 x 111 x 74mm). This makes the 70D a more convenient option for photographers who value portability.
The 7D, on the other hand, was initially more expensive with a launch price of $1974, while the 70D debuted at $1199. This price difference does not necessarily translate to better quality, as the 7D has a lower score.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 70D is the better choice due to its lighter weight, more compact size, and higher score. The Canon EOS 7D, while more expensive, does not offer any clear advantages over its counterpart.
Canon EOS 70D vs EOS 7D Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 70D emerges as the winner in this optics comparison, with a score of 58/100 compared to the Canon EOS 7D’s score of 43/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, Canon EF-S lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization.
The Canon EOS 70D outperforms the 7D in some critical areas. Firstly, it has a higher megapixel count at 20.2, allowing for more detailed images. Secondly, the EOS 70D is equipped with the Digic 5+ processor, which is an improvement over the 7D’s Dual Digic 4 processor. This results in better image processing and overall performance. Additionally, the EOS 70D has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 68, compared to the 7D’s score of 66, implying superior image quality.
However, the Canon EOS 7D does have an advantage in one area: shooting speed. The 7D can capture images at a rate of 8 frames per second (fps), while the 70D’s shooting speed is 7 fps. This makes the 7D slightly better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife photography.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 70D has a clear edge in terms of optics, thanks to its higher megapixel count, advanced processor, and better sensor performance. The Canon EOS 7D, on the other hand, is more suitable for photographers who prioritize fast shooting speeds. While both cameras are reliable options, potential buyers should consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing between the two.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 70D
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Canon EOS 7D
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.2 MP | 18 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5472 x 3648 px | 5184 x 3456 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
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 22.5 mm | 14.9 x 22.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7 fps | 8 fps | |
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-S | Canon 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 5+ | Dual Digic 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. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 12,800 | 6,400 | |
Minimum 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. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum 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. | 25600 | 12800 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 8000 s | |
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. | 19 | 0 | |
In-body Stabilization 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) |
Canon EOS 70D vs EOS 7D Video Performance
When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 70D and the Canon EOS 7D, both cameras have the same score of 43/100. This indicates that their video performance is quite similar. Both cameras share key specifications, such as Full HD maximum video resolution and 1920 x 1080 maximum video dimensions. Additionally, both cameras have a maximum video frame rate of 30fps and lack built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite having the same score, the Canon EOS 70D has some advantages over the 7D. The 70D features a touchscreen, which makes it easier to navigate menus and adjust settings while shooting video. The 70D also has a higher resolution sensor, which can result in better image quality in certain situations.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D also offers some advantages. The 7D has a more rugged build, making it more suitable for outdoor use and harsh conditions. Additionally, the 7D has a slightly higher maximum video dimension of 1921 x 1080, although this difference is minimal and may not have a significant impact on video quality.
Taking these factors into consideration, both the Canon EOS 70D and 7D are solid options for capturing video. The choice between the two cameras ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user. If a touchscreen and higher resolution sensor are important, the 70D may be the better choice. However, if a rugged build and slightly higher video dimensions are more important, the 7D could be the preferred option.
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Video
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Canon EOS 70D
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Canon EOS 7D
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD | Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions 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. | 1920 x 1080 px | 1921 x 1080 px | |
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. | 30 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse 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. | MOV | MOV |
Canon EOS 70D vs EOS 7D Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 70D emerges as the winner in the features comparison with a score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS 7D scores 54/100. Both cameras share some common specifications such as a 3-inch screen size and the absence of GPS and Bluetooth capabilities.
The EOS 70D offers superior features, including a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots compared to the 7D’s 920,000 dots. This results in a clearer and more detailed display for better image review and menu navigation. Additionally, the 70D is equipped with a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and efficient in selecting focus points and navigating through settings. The 70D also has a flip screen, providing greater flexibility in capturing images from different angles and aiding in self-portraits or vlogging. Furthermore, the 70D comes with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easy sharing of photos and videos and remote control of the camera using a compatible smartphone or tablet.
On the other hand, the EOS 7D lacks some of the advanced features found in the 70D. It does not have a touchscreen, flip screen, or built-in Wi-Fi. However, it is important to note that these features may not be essential for every photographer, and the 7D still performs well in other aspects. For instance, the 7D’s lower screen resolution may not significantly impact the overall shooting experience for some users.
Considering the differences in features, the Canon EOS 70D is the better camera due to its higher-resolution touchscreen, flip screen, and Wi-Fi capabilities. The EOS 7D, while lacking these features, remains a solid option for photographers who do not require these additional functionalities.
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Features
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Canon EOS 70D
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Canon EOS 7D
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | LCD | LCD | |
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 Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,040,000 dots | 920,000 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS 70D vs EOS 7D Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 70D outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in storage and battery with a score of 37/100, compared to the 7D’s 35/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot, and neither offers USB charging. They also share the same battery type, the LP-E6.
The 70D’s advantage comes from its battery life and memory card compatibility. With 920 shots per charge, the 70D lasts longer than the 7D, which offers 800 shots. Additionally, the 70D uses SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, which are more common and versatile than the 7D’s Compact Flash, UDMA, and Microdrive cards.
The 7D does not have a distinct advantage in storage and battery. However, users who prefer Compact Flash cards may still find it suitable.
Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 70D proves to be a better choice in terms of storage and battery, with a longer battery life and more versatile memory card options. The Canon EOS 7D falls short in these aspects, making the 70D the clear winner in this comparison.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 70D
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Canon EOS 7D
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | LP-E6 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 920 shots | 800 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 70D
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Canon EOS 7D
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 22.5 bits | 22 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 11.6 EVs | 11.7 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 926 | 854 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 70D
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Canon EOS 7D
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Alternatives to the Canon EOS 70D and EOS 7D
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 70D or the Canon EOS 7D:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 70D
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Canon EOS 7D
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B&H photo video |
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