CameraReview

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D780 — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
Canon
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
DSLR · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
59
SCORE
$709.95
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D780
Nikon
Nikon D780
DSLR · 25 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
81
SCORE
$1,746.95
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General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS Rebel T8i / 850DD780
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
12/02/202012/02/2020
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 131 x 103 x 76 mm144 x 116 x 76 mm
Camera weight 515 g850 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP05025 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006048 x 4024
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.
14.9 x 22.323.9 x 35.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
7.5 fps04512 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/EF-SNikon F
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Expeed 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.
3:23:2
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.
256003003280000512003003280000
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.
5120030032800002048003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
304408090044080
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.
400080032000800080032000
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.
450300510300
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 (pentamirror)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.
4K4K
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.
3840 x 21603840 x 2160
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.
60 fps120 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.
MPEG-4MPEG-4, MOV
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 LCDTFT 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"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000023590001150001500000
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 SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E17EN-EL15b
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
800 shots15050002260 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D780 emerges as the winner with a score of 81/100, outperforming the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D, which scored 59/100. Both cameras are DSLRs released in 2020, with the Canon T8i having a launch price of $750 and the Nikon D780 priced at $2299. They share similar dimensions, with the Canon T8i measuring 131 x 103 x 76mm and the Nikon D780 at 144 x 116 x 76mm. However, the Nikon D780 is heavier, weighing 850g compared to the Canon T8i’s 515g.

The Nikon D780’s higher score reflects its superior performance and features, justifying its higher price. On the other hand, the Canon T8i’s lower score and price make it a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a capable DSLR camera. Each camera offers distinct advantages, depending on the user’s needs and preferences.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D780 Video Performance

The Nikon D780 outperforms the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D in video capabilities, earning a score of 91 out of 100, compared to the Canon’s 83. Both cameras share several video specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, they both have built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Nikon D780 surpasses the Canon T8i in its maximum video frame rate, offering a remarkable 120fps, while the Canon T8i reaches only 60fps. This higher frame rate allows the Nikon D780 to capture smoother slow-motion footage, providing more creative options for videographers.

Although the Canon T8i’s video capabilities are not as advanced as the Nikon D780’s, it still offers respectable performance for its class with a 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, its lower video frame rate of 60fps may limit its appeal for those seeking to capture high-quality slow-motion footage.

When comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D780 and the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D, the Nikon D780’s higher video score and superior frame rate make it the clear winner for videographers seeking advanced features and performance. The Canon T8i, while still offering 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality, falls short due to its lower maximum frame rate, making it less suitable for those focused on slow-motion video capture.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D780 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D780 outperforms the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D with a feature score of 87/100, compared to the Canon’s 70/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, neither camera offers GPS functionality.

The Nikon D780 surpasses the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D in terms of screen size and screen resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen, the D780 provides a larger display than the Canon’s 3-inch screen. Additionally, the Nikon D780’s screen resolution is significantly higher at 2,359,000 dots, compared to the Canon T8i’s 1,040,000 dots. This results in a sharper and clearer image preview on the Nikon D780.

Despite the lower feature score, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D still has its advantages. It is a lighter and more compact camera, making it more convenient to carry and handle during photography sessions. Additionally, the Canon T8i is generally more affordable than the Nikon D780, making it a more budget-friendly option for those who prioritize cost over certain features.

After examining the differences in features between the Nikon D780 and the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D, the Nikon D780 emerges as the superior camera in terms of screen size and resolution. However, the Canon T8i remains a viable option for those seeking a lighter, more compact, and budget-friendly camera. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the photographer’s individual preferences and priorities.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D780 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D780 outperforms the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D in storage and battery, scoring 97/100 compared to Canon’s 35/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the Nikon D780 is compatible with faster UHS-II cards, while the Canon T8i supports only UHS-I cards. Additionally, the Nikon D780 features two memory card slots, doubling the Canon T8i’s single slot.

The Nikon D780’s battery life is significantly longer, offering 2260 shots per charge compared to the Canon T8i’s 800 shots. The D780 also benefits from USB charging, which the T8i lacks. The Canon T8i uses an LP-E17 battery, while the D780 relies on an EN-EL15b battery.

Despite the lower score, the Canon T8i still provides adequate storage and battery life for casual users. However, the Nikon D780 is the clear winner in this category, offering superior storage options, battery life, and charging capabilities. Its advantages make it the ideal choice for photographers who need longer shooting sessions and faster data transfer speeds.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D780 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D780 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 Rebel T8i / 850D or the Nikon D780: