Canon EOS 7D vs Nikon D5500 Comparison

The Nikon D5500 emerges as the winner with a score of 61/100, while the Canon EOS 7D trails behind at 45/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, announced in 2015 and 2009 respectively. They share similarities in their launch prices, with the Nikon D5500 priced at $900 and the Canon EOS 7D at $1974.

The Nikon D5500’s higher score is due to its smaller size (124 x 97 x 70mm) and lighter weight (420g), making it more portable and convenient. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D is heavier (860g) and larger (148 x 111 x 74mm), which may be a disadvantage for some users.

Despite the score difference, each camera has its strengths and weaknesses. The Canon EOS 7D may appeal to those who prefer a more robust and sturdy build, while the Nikon D5500 caters to those who prioritize portability and ease of use. Ultimately, the choice depends on the individual’s preferences and requirements.

Canon EOS 7D vs Nikon D5500 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D5500 emerges as the winner in the optics department, scoring 65/100 as opposed to the Canon EOS 7D’s score of 43/100, a difference of 22 points. Both cameras share several specifications, including having a CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, and no image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras use their respective brand’s lens mount: Canon EF-S for the 7D and Nikon F DX for the D5500.

The Nikon D5500 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in several aspects. With 24.2 megapixels, the D5500 offers a higher resolution than the 7D, which has 18 megapixels. This difference allows the D5500 to capture more detail in images. The D5500 also boasts a superior DXOMARK score for the sensor at 84, compared to the 7D’s score of 66, indicating better overall image quality. The Expeed 4 processor in the D5500 is more advanced than the Dual Digic 4 processor found in the 7D.

However, the Canon EOS 7D has its advantages as well. Its shooting speed of 8 frames per second is faster than the D5500’s 5 frames per second, making the 7D more suitable for action and sports photography where capturing fast-moving subjects is crucial.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Nikon D5500 is the better choice for those seeking higher resolution and better image quality, while the Canon EOS 7D is more suited for photographers who require a faster shooting speed.

The Nikon D5500 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in video capabilities, scoring 70 out of 100, while the Canon EOS 7D scores only 43. Both cameras have Full HD video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, the Nikon D5500 has a higher maximum video frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality, making it the superior choice for video recording.

The Nikon D5500’s maximum video frame rate is 60fps, which is twice the Canon EOS 7D’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother and more professional-looking videos, particularly when capturing fast-moving subjects or scenes. Additionally, the Nikon D5500’s built-in time-lapse functionality enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for external software or additional equipment.

While the Canon EOS 7D falls short in these aspects, it still offers Full HD video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1921 x 1080, ensuring that the videos captured are still of high quality. However, its lower maximum video frame rate and lack of built-in time-lapse functionality make it a less attractive option for those seeking a camera primarily for video recording.

Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, the Nikon D5500 emerges as the clear winner due to its higher maximum video frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality. While the Canon EOS 7D is still a capable camera, its video performance is not as strong as the Nikon D5500’s. Those seeking a camera with superior video capabilities should opt for the Nikon D5500.

The Nikon D5500 wins the feature comparison with a score of 59/100, while the Canon EOS 7D scores 54/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as a 3-inch screen size and the absence of GPS and Bluetooth capabilities. However, the Nikon D5500 outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in several aspects, making it the superior choice in terms of features.

The Nikon D5500 has a higher screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots compared to the Canon EOS 7D’s 920,000 dots, providing clearer and more detailed image previews. Additionally, the Nikon D5500 boasts a touchscreen, making it easier to navigate menus and control settings. The Canon EOS 7D lacks this feature. Furthermore, the Nikon D5500 has a flip screen, allowing for more versatile shooting angles and easier self-portraits. The Canon EOS 7D does not have this feature. Lastly, the Nikon D5500 includes Wi-Fi capability, enabling easy photo sharing and remote camera control. The Canon EOS 7D does not offer Wi-Fi functionality.

Despite its lower feature score, the Canon EOS 7D does not have any notable advantages over the Nikon D5500 in terms of features. Based on this comparison, the Nikon D5500 is the better choice for photographers seeking more advanced features and user-friendly functionality.

Considering the differences in features and the overall scores, the Nikon D5500 emerges as the superior camera in this comparison. Its higher screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, and Wi-Fi capabilities make it a more versatile and convenient option for photographers. The Canon EOS 7D falls short in these areas, making the Nikon D5500 the better choice for those prioritizing advanced features.

The Canon EOS 7D and Nikon D5500 share the same storage and battery score of 35/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and do not support USB charging. The Canon EOS 7D accepts Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive memory cards, while the Nikon D5500 uses SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.

The Nikon D5500 has a slight advantage in battery life, providing 820 shots compared to the Canon EOS 7D’s 800 shots. The Nikon uses an EN-EL14 battery type, whereas the Canon uses an LP-E6 battery type. This difference in battery life is minor but gives the Nikon D5500 an edge.

The Canon EOS 7D, on the other hand, has the benefit of accepting a wider range of memory cards, offering more flexibility in storage options. This advantage makes the Canon EOS 7D more versatile in terms of storage.

Despite their equal scores, the Nikon D5500 is marginally better in terms of battery life, while the Canon EOS 7D excels in storage flexibility. Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses in this category, making the choice between them dependent on the user’s priorities and preferences.

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