Canon EOS 7D vs EOS 7D Mark II Comparison
Canon EOS 7D
Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS 7D | EOS 7D Mark II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2009 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 01, 2009 | September 15, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
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The Canon EOS 7D Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 7D with a score of 60/100 compared to 45/100. Both cameras are DSLR types, announced in September, with the 7D released in 2009 and the 7D Mark II in 2014. They share similar dimensions, with the 7D measuring 148 x 111 x 74mm and weighing 860g, while the 7D Mark II is slightly larger and heavier at 149 x 112 x 78mm and 910g.
The 7D Mark II has a lower launch price of $1800, making it more affordable than the 7D’s initial price of $1974. Despite the lower price, the 7D Mark II’s higher score indicates it offers better performance and features.
The Canon EOS 7D, however, still has its merits. It is lighter and slightly more compact than the Mark II, which might be preferable for some users.
Taking all factors into account, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II is the better option due to its improved performance, features, and affordability. The Canon EOS 7D may still be suitable for those who value a lighter and more compact camera.
Canon EOS 7D vs EOS 7D Mark II Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in optics with a score of 61/100 compared to the 7D’s 43/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as an APS-C sensor size, CMOS sensor type, Canon EF-S lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.
The 7D Mark II surpasses the 7D in several aspects. It has a higher megapixel count of 20.2 compared to the 7D’s 18, allowing for greater image resolution. The shooting speed is also faster at 10 frames per second (fps) compared to the 7D’s 8 fps, enabling the capture of fast-moving subjects with more precision. Additionally, the 7D Mark II features a more advanced processor, the Dual Digic 6, which results in improved image processing and overall performance. The DXOMARK score for the 7D Mark II’s sensor is 70, which is higher than the 7D’s score of 66, indicating better image quality.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D does not offer any significant advantages over the 7D Mark II in terms of optics. Both cameras have the same lens mount and lack image stabilization, which means that the choice of lenses and the need for a steady hand or tripod will be the same for both models.
Considering the higher score and superior specifications of the Canon EOS 7D Mark II, it is the better choice in terms of optics. The increased megapixel count, faster shooting speed, advanced processor, and higher DXOMARK sensor score make it a more powerful and versatile camera compared to the Canon EOS 7D.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 7D
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 18 MP | 20.2 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. | 5184 x 3456 px | 5472 x 3648 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. | 14.9 x 22.3 mm | 15 x 22.4 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. | 8 fps | 10 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. | Dual Digic 4 | Dual Digic 6 | |
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. | 6,400 | 16,000 | |
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. | 12800 | 51200 | |
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. | 0 | 65 | |
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 7D vs EOS 7D Mark II Video Performance
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II wins in the video capabilities comparison, scoring 56/100, while the Canon EOS 7D scores 43/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including Full HD video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, there are notable differences that make the Canon EOS 7D Mark II a superior choice for video recording.
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II’s higher score is due to its improved video performance, particularly the maximum video frame rate of 60fps. This allows for smoother video playback and the potential for slow-motion footage. In contrast, the Canon EOS 7D has a maximum video frame rate of 30fps, which is half the performance of the 7D Mark II. This difference gives the 7D Mark II a clear advantage in capturing fast-moving subjects or scenes with more fluid motion.
Despite the lower score and frame rate, the Canon EOS 7D still delivers Full HD video quality, making it a suitable option for casual videographers or those on a budget. However, for users seeking improved video capabilities, the 7D Mark II’s higher frame rate offers a significant advantage.
Neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality, which may be a downside for some users. However, this can be addressed with external intervalometers or software solutions.
Comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 7D and the Canon EOS 7D Mark II, the latter emerges as the superior choice due to its higher frame rate. While both cameras provide Full HD video quality, the 7D Mark II’s 60fps offers smoother playback and greater flexibility in capturing motion. The Canon EOS 7D remains a viable option for those seeking Full HD video on a budget, but the 7D Mark II is the clear winner for users prioritizing video performance.
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Video
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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. | 1921 x 1080 px | 1920 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 | 60 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, MP4 |
Canon EOS 7D vs EOS 7D Mark II Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is the winner in the features comparison, scoring 57/100, while the Canon EOS 7D scores 54/100. Both cameras have a 3-inch screen size, no touchscreen, and no flip screen. However, the 7D Mark II has a higher screen resolution at 1,040,000 dots compared to the 7D’s 920,000 dots, providing a clearer and more detailed display.
The 7D Mark II also has GPS and WIFI capabilities, allowing for easier geotagging and sharing of photos, while the 7D lacks these features. Both cameras do not have Bluetooth connectivity. The 7D Mark II’s additional features contribute to its higher score and make it a more versatile camera.
The Canon EOS 7D, despite having a lower feature score, still offers a solid performance. Its 3-inch screen size and 920,000-dot resolution provide a good display for reviewing photos. However, it lacks GPS and WIFI, which may be important features for some users. The 7D’s absence of these features does not make it a bad camera, but it does limit its versatility compared to the 7D Mark II.
In comparing the features of the Canon EOS 7D and the Canon EOS 7D Mark II, the 7D Mark II is the superior camera due to its higher screen resolution, GPS, and WIFI capabilities. The Canon EOS 7D is still a good camera, but the 7D Mark II offers a more versatile and convenient experience for photographers.
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Features
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Canon EOS 7D
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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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. | 920,000 dots | 1,040,000 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 7D vs EOS 7D Mark II Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in storage and battery, scoring 65/100 compared to the 7D’s 35/100. Both cameras share the same battery type (LP-E6) and lack USB charging capabilities. However, the 7D Mark II has an edge with its dual memory card slots, accepting both SD/SDHC/SDXC and Compact Flash cards. This feature allows for more storage options and backup possibilities.
In terms of battery life, the Canon EOS 7D surprisingly surpasses the 7D Mark II, offering 800 shots per charge compared to the 7D Mark II’s 670 shots. This advantage gives the 7D users more time to capture images without needing to recharge or replace the battery.
Despite the 7D’s longer battery life, the 7D Mark II’s dual memory card slots make it the better choice for photographers seeking more storage flexibility and backup options. However, those prioritizing battery life may still find the Canon EOS 7D to be a suitable option.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Memory Card | Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | LP-E6N | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 800 shots | 670 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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 bits | 22.4 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.' | 11.7 EVs | 11.8 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' | 854 | 1082 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 7D
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Alternatives to the Canon EOS 7D and EOS 7D Mark II
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 7D or the Canon EOS 7D Mark II:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 7D
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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B&H photo video |
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