The Canon EOS 70D and 80D are two highly regarded DSLR cameras that have been popular among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike. While the 70D was a groundbreaking camera in its time, the 80D offers several significant upgrades that may make it an attractive option for those looking to upgrade. In this article, we will delve into the key differences between the two cameras and help you decide whether upgrading from the 70D to the 80D is the right decision for you.
Introduction to the Canon EOS 70D and 80D
The Canon EOS 70D was released in 2013 and was praised for its excellent autofocus system, impressive video capabilities, and robust feature set. The camera features a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a 19-point autofocus system, and the ability to shoot full HD video at 1080p. The 70D was also one of the first cameras to feature Canon’s Dual Pixel AF technology, which provides fast and accurate autofocus during live view and video recording.
The Canon EOS 80D, on the other hand, was released in 2016 and builds upon the success of the 70D. The camera features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a 45-point autofocus system, and the ability to shoot full HD video at 1080p. The 80D also features an improved version of Canon’s Dual Pixel AF technology, which provides even faster and more accurate autofocus performance.
Key Differences Between the 70D and 80D
So, what are the key differences between the 70D and 80D that may make upgrading worthwhile? Some of the most significant differences include:
The 80D’s higher resolution sensor, which provides more detailed images and better cropability.
The 80D’s more advanced autofocus system, which features 45 autofocus points compared to the 70D’s 19 points.
The 80D’s improved weather sealing, which provides better protection against dust and moisture.
The 80D’s faster burst mode, which allows for up to 7 frames per second compared to the 70D’s 7 frames per second.
The 80D’s improved video capabilities, which include the ability to shoot in HDR and time-lapse modes.
Autofocus System
One of the most significant upgrades in the 80D is its autofocus system. The camera features a 45-point autofocus system, which provides more precise and accurate focusing, especially when tracking moving subjects. The 80D’s autofocus system is also more sensitive, with a rating of -3 EV compared to the 70D’s -0.5 EV. This means that the 80D can focus in lower light conditions, making it a better choice for photographers who often shoot in dimly lit environments.
Image Quality
The 80D’s higher resolution sensor also provides better image quality, with more detailed images and better cropability. The camera’s sensor is also more sensitive, with a native ISO range of 100-16000 compared to the 70D’s 100-12800. This means that the 80D can produce cleaner images in low light conditions, with less noise and better dynamic range.
Should You Upgrade from the 70D to the 80D?
So, should you upgrade from the 70D to the 80D? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences as a photographer. If you are a professional photographer or an enthusiast who demands the best image quality and autofocus performance, the 80D may be a worthwhile upgrade. The camera’s higher resolution sensor, more advanced autofocus system, and improved weather sealing make it a better choice for photographers who need a reliable and high-performance camera.
However, if you are a casual photographer who is happy with the image quality and performance of the 70D, upgrading to the 80D may not be necessary. The 70D is still a capable camera that can produce excellent images, and the cost of upgrading to the 80D may not be justified.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
To help you decide whether upgrading to the 80D is worth the investment, let’s consider the cost-benefit analysis. The 80D is generally priced higher than the 70D, with a current market price of around $1000 compared to the 70D’s $800. However, the 80D’s improved image quality, autofocus performance, and weather sealing may be worth the extra cost for some photographers.
Additionally, the 80D’s improved video capabilities and faster burst mode may also be worth considering for photographers who specialize in these areas. The camera’s ability to shoot in HDR and time-lapse modes, for example, may be a major advantage for landscape and wildlife photographers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, upgrading from the Canon EOS 70D to the 80D is a personal decision that depends on your specific needs and preferences as a photographer. While the 80D offers several significant upgrades, including a higher resolution sensor, more advanced autofocus system, and improved weather sealing, the cost of upgrading may not be justified for casual photographers. However, for professional photographers or enthusiasts who demand the best image quality and performance, the 80D may be a worthwhile investment.
It’s also worth considering that the 80D is an older camera model, and newer models like the Canon EOS 90D may offer even more advanced features and better performance. Ultimately, the decision to upgrade to the 80D or any other camera model should be based on your specific needs and budget, and it’s recommended that you research and compares different models before making a decision.
| Camera Model | Resolution | Autofocus Points | Weather Sealing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canon EOS 70D | 20.2 megapixels | 19 points | Basic weather sealing |
| Canon EOS 80D | 24.2 megapixels | 45 points | Improved weather sealing |
By considering the key differences between the 70D and 80D, as well as your specific needs and budget, you can make an informed decision about whether upgrading to the 80D is the right choice for you. Remember to research and compare different camera models, and don’t hesitate to read reviews and ask for advice from other photographers to help you make the best decision.
What are the key differences between the Canon EOS 70D and 80D?
The Canon EOS 70D and 80D are both high-quality DSLR cameras, but they have some key differences. The EOS 80D has a 45-point all-cross-type AF system, which provides more precise and faster autofocus compared to the 70D’s 19-point all-cross-type AF system. Additionally, the 80D has a higher ISO range of 100-16000, which can be expanded to 25600, whereas the 70D has an ISO range of 100-12800, which can be expanded to 25600. The 80D also has improved video capabilities, with the ability to shoot 1080p at 60fps, while the 70D can only shoot 1080p at 30fps.
The EOS 80D also has a more advanced metering system, with a 7560-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor, which provides more accurate exposure readings. Furthermore, the 80D has a more durable and weather-sealed body, with a magnesium alloy chassis and improved sealing around the buttons and dials. The 80D also has a faster burst mode, with the ability to shoot up to 7fps, while the 70D can only shoot up to 7fps in burst mode. Overall, the EOS 80D has several significant upgrades over the 70D, making it a more capable and versatile camera.
Is the Canon EOS 80D a significant upgrade over the 70D for still photography?
The Canon EOS 80D is a significant upgrade over the 70D for still photography, thanks to its improved autofocus system, higher ISO range, and more advanced metering system. The 80D’s 45-point all-cross-type AF system provides more precise and faster autofocus, which is particularly useful for capturing moving subjects or shooting in low-light conditions. Additionally, the 80D’s higher ISO range and improved noise reduction capabilities make it better suited for shooting in low-light conditions, such as indoors or at night.
The 80D’s improved metering system also provides more accurate exposure readings, which can help to reduce the need for post-processing corrections. Furthermore, the 80D’s faster burst mode and improved buffer capacity make it better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in continuous mode. Overall, the EOS 80D is a more capable and versatile camera for still photography, and is well-suited for a wide range of applications, from portrait and landscape photography to sports and wildlife photography.
Does the Canon EOS 80D offer improved video capabilities compared to the 70D?
The Canon EOS 80D offers improved video capabilities compared to the 70D, thanks to its ability to shoot 1080p at 60fps, as well as its improved autofocus system and more advanced metering system. The 80D’s 45-point all-cross-type AF system provides more precise and faster autofocus, which is particularly useful for capturing moving subjects or shooting in low-light conditions. Additionally, the 80D’s improved metering system provides more accurate exposure readings, which can help to reduce the need for post-processing corrections.
The 80D also has a number of other features that make it well-suited for video production, including a headphone jack, a microphone input, and a variety of frame rates and resolutions to choose from. Furthermore, the 80D’s improved weather sealing and more durable body make it better suited for shooting in a variety of conditions, from rain and snow to dust and extreme temperatures. Overall, the EOS 80D is a more capable and versatile camera for video production, and is well-suited for a wide range of applications, from documentary and event videography to music videos and commercials.
Is the Canon EOS 80D worth the investment for existing 70D owners?
The Canon EOS 80D is worth the investment for existing 70D owners who are looking to upgrade their camera and take advantage of the latest technology and features. The 80D’s improved autofocus system, higher ISO range, and more advanced metering system make it a more capable and versatile camera, and its improved video capabilities and faster burst mode make it well-suited for a wide range of applications. Additionally, the 80D’s more durable and weather-sealed body make it better suited for shooting in a variety of conditions, and its improved ergonomics and user interface make it more comfortable and intuitive to use.
However, for 70D owners who are on a tight budget or who are not looking to upgrade their camera, the 80D may not be worth the investment. The 70D is still a high-quality camera that is capable of producing excellent images and video, and it may be more cost-effective to stick with the 70D and invest in other equipment, such as lenses or accessories, instead. Ultimately, the decision to upgrade to the 80D will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the photographer, and it is recommended that 70D owners carefully consider their options and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Can I use my existing lenses and accessories with the Canon EOS 80D?
The Canon EOS 80D is compatible with a wide range of EF and EF-S lenses, including those that are currently available for the 70D. This means that 70D owners can use their existing lenses and accessories with the 80D, without having to purchase new equipment. Additionally, the 80D has the same EF mount as the 70D, which means that it can use the same lenses and accessories as the 70D, including teleconverters, extension tubes, and macro lenses.
However, it’s worth noting that some lenses may not be optimized for the 80D’s improved autofocus system, and may not be able to take full advantage of its capabilities. Additionally, some accessories, such as battery grips and remote shutter releases, may not be compatible with the 80D, and may need to be replaced. It’s recommended that 70D owners check the compatibility of their lenses and accessories with the 80D before making a purchase, to ensure that they can use their existing equipment with the new camera.
How does the Canon EOS 80D compare to other cameras in its class?
The Canon EOS 80D is a high-quality DSLR camera that compares favorably to other cameras in its class. Its improved autofocus system, higher ISO range, and more advanced metering system make it a more capable and versatile camera, and its improved video capabilities and faster burst mode make it well-suited for a wide range of applications. Additionally, the 80D’s more durable and weather-sealed body make it better suited for shooting in a variety of conditions, and its improved ergonomics and user interface make it more comfortable and intuitive to use.
Compared to other cameras in its class, such as the Nikon D7500 and the Sony Alpha a77 II, the 80D has a number of advantages, including its improved autofocus system and more advanced metering system. However, it also has some disadvantages, such as its lower resolution sensor and lack of 4K video capabilities. Ultimately, the decision to purchase the 80D will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the photographer, and it is recommended that they carefully consider their options and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
What are the potential drawbacks of upgrading to the Canon EOS 80D?
One potential drawback of upgrading to the Canon EOS 80D is the cost, as it is a relatively expensive camera. Additionally, the 80D may not be a significant enough upgrade for some 70D owners, particularly those who are not looking to take advantage of its improved autofocus system or video capabilities. Furthermore, the 80D’s improved features and capabilities may require a learning curve, particularly for those who are not familiar with its new menu system and user interface.
Another potential drawback of upgrading to the 80D is that it may not be compatible with all existing lenses and accessories, particularly those that are older or less common. Additionally, the 80D’s improved autofocus system and more advanced metering system may require more power, which can reduce its battery life and require more frequent charging. Overall, while the 80D is a high-quality camera with a number of significant upgrades, it may not be the best choice for every photographer, and it is recommended that 70D owners carefully consider their options and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.