The Canon T5i, also known as the EOS 700D, is a popular entry-level DSLR camera that has been widely used for both photography and videography. Released in 2013, the T5i has been a favorite among beginners and hobbyists due to its affordability, ease of use, and impressive features. However, with the rapid advancement of technology, many are left wondering if the Canon T5i is still good for video production. In this article, we will delve into the camera’s video capabilities, exploring its strengths and weaknesses, and provide an honest assessment of its suitability for videography.
Key Features and Specifications
Before we dive into the camera’s video performance, let’s take a look at its key features and specifications:
- 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- DIGIC 5 image processor
- 1080p Full HD video recording at 30fps
- 720p HD video recording at 60fps
- 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD
- 9-point autofocus system
- ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable to 25600)
- Built-in stereo microphone
- HDMI output
Video Recording Capabilities
The Canon T5i is capable of recording Full HD videos at 1080p resolution and 30fps. It also features a 720p HD mode that can record at 60fps, making it suitable for capturing fast-paced action and slow-motion footage. The camera’s DIGIC 5 image processor ensures that video files are processed quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of lag and artifacts.
One of the standout features of the T5i is its vari-angle touchscreen LCD. This 3-inch screen allows for easy framing and focusing, even in tight spaces or unusual angles. The touchscreen interface also enables users to adjust camera settings, such as exposure compensation and white balance, on the fly.
Autofocus and Tracking
The Canon T5i features a 9-point autofocus system, which is relatively basic compared to modern cameras. However, it still provides accurate and reliable focusing, especially in good lighting conditions. The camera also features a continuous autofocus mode, which allows it to track moving subjects and adjust focus accordingly.
Image Stabilization and Lens Compatibility
The Canon T5i does not feature built-in image stabilization, which can be a drawback for handheld shooting or low-light conditions. However, many Canon EF-S lenses, such as the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM, feature optical image stabilization, which can help reduce camera shake and blur.
The T5i is compatible with a wide range of Canon EF-S lenses, including prime lenses, zoom lenses, and macro lenses. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those who want to experiment with different lenses and techniques.
Video Quality and Performance
So, how does the Canon T5i perform in terms of video quality? In general, the camera produces excellent video footage, with good color accuracy, contrast, and detail. The 1080p Full HD mode is particularly impressive, with a high level of sharpness and clarity.
However, there are some limitations to be aware of. The T5i’s video mode is limited to 30fps, which can make fast-paced footage appear slightly choppy. Additionally, the camera’s autofocus system can struggle in low-light conditions, leading to occasional focus hunting and artifacts.
Low-Light Performance
The Canon T5i’s low-light performance is a mixed bag. While it can produce excellent results in bright lighting conditions, it can struggle in low-light environments. The camera’s ISO range is limited to 12800 (expandable to 25600), which can lead to noise and artifacts in low-light footage.
However, the T5i’s low-light performance can be improved with the use of external lighting, such as LED panels or softboxes. Additionally, the camera’s lens compatibility means that users can experiment with different lenses and apertures to achieve better low-light results.
Comparison to Other Cameras
So, how does the Canon T5i compare to other cameras in its class? Here’s a brief comparison with some of its closest competitors:
- Nikon D5300: The Nikon D5300 is a similar entry-level DSLR that features 1080p Full HD video recording, built-in Wi-Fi, and a 24.2-megapixel sensor. While it has some advantages over the T5i, such as built-in GPS and a higher-resolution sensor, it lacks the T5i’s vari-angle touchscreen LCD.
- Sony Alpha a58: The Sony Alpha a58 is a mirrorless camera that features 1080p Full HD video recording, built-in Wi-Fi, and a 20.1-megapixel sensor. While it has some advantages over the T5i, such as faster autofocus and built-in image stabilization, it lacks the T5i’s lens compatibility and vari-angle touchscreen LCD.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Canon T5i is still a good camera for video production, despite its age. Its excellent video quality, vari-angle touchscreen LCD, and lens compatibility make it an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists. However, its limitations, such as its 30fps frame rate and limited low-light performance, may make it less suitable for professional videographers or those who require more advanced features.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly camera for video production, the Canon T5i is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re looking for a more advanced camera with features like 4K resolution, slow-motion recording, or built-in image stabilization, you may want to consider other options.
Recommendations and Tips
If you’re planning to use the Canon T5i for video production, here are some recommendations and tips to keep in mind:
- Invest in a good quality lens: The Canon T5i is compatible with a wide range of lenses, so invest in a good quality lens that suits your needs.
- Use external lighting: The T5i’s low-light performance can be improved with the use of external lighting, such as LED panels or softboxes.
- Experiment with different modes: The T5i features a range of video modes, including manual mode, aperture priority mode, and shutter priority mode. Experiment with different modes to achieve the desired effect.
- Use a tripod: A tripod can help reduce camera shake and blur, especially in low-light conditions.
- Invest in a good quality microphone: The T5i’s built-in microphone is decent, but investing in a good quality external microphone can improve audio quality significantly.
By following these tips and recommendations, you can get the most out of your Canon T5i and produce high-quality video footage.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the Canon T5i is a good camera for video production, despite its age. Its excellent video quality, vari-angle touchscreen LCD, and lens compatibility make it an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists. While it has some limitations, such as its 30fps frame rate and limited low-light performance, it is still a great option for those on a budget or looking for a entry-level camera.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive review of the Canon T5i’s video capabilities and helped you make an informed decision about whether it’s the right camera for your needs.
Is the Canon T5i suitable for professional video production?
The Canon T5i is a versatile camera that can be used for various types of video production, including professional projects. It features an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, which provides excellent image quality, and it can record full HD video at 1080p resolution. Additionally, the camera has a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which makes it easy to compose shots and adjust settings. The T5i also has a built-in stereo microphone and supports external microphones, allowing for high-quality audio capture.
However, while the Canon T5i is capable of producing professional-looking video, it may not be the best choice for high-end productions that require advanced features such as 4K resolution, slow-motion recording, or advanced autofocus capabilities. The camera’s autofocus system, for example, can be slow and may not be able to keep up with fast-moving subjects. Furthermore, the T5i’s video recording time is limited to 29 minutes and 59 seconds, which may not be sufficient for longer productions. Nevertheless, for smaller-scale professional projects or for those on a budget, the Canon T5i can be a good option.
What are the key features of the Canon T5i that make it good for video?
The Canon T5i has several key features that make it well-suited for video production. One of its standout features is its vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which allows for easy composition and adjustment of settings. The camera also has a built-in stereo microphone and supports external microphones, making it easy to capture high-quality audio. Additionally, the T5i features a range of manual controls, including exposure compensation, ISO settings, and white balance, which give users a high degree of creative control over their video footage. The camera also has a range of frame rates and resolutions to choose from, including 1080p at 30fps and 720p at 60fps.
The Canon T5i also has a number of other features that make it useful for video production, including a range of autofocus modes, including continuous autofocus and face detection. The camera also has a built-in video snapshot feature, which allows users to capture short video clips and combine them into a single video. Furthermore, the T5i supports the use of Canon’s EF-S lenses, which provide a range of focal lengths and aperture settings. Overall, the Canon T5i’s combination of manual controls, high-quality audio, and versatile autofocus system make it a great choice for a wide range of video production applications.
How does the Canon T5i compare to other cameras in its class for video?
The Canon T5i is a mid-range DSLR camera that competes with other cameras in its class, such as the Nikon D5300 and the Sony Alpha a58. In terms of video capabilities, the T5i is generally considered to be one of the best cameras in its class, with its vari-angle touchscreen LCD, built-in stereo microphone, and range of manual controls making it well-suited for a wide range of video production applications. However, the T5i’s video capabilities are not significantly better than those of its competitors, and some cameras, such as the Nikon D5300, may offer slightly better image quality or more advanced autofocus features.
Despite this, the Canon T5i remains a popular choice among videographers due to its combination of image quality, manual controls, and affordability. The camera’s EF-S lens mount also provides access to a wide range of lenses, including some high-quality options from Canon and third-party manufacturers. Additionally, the T5i’s touchscreen interface and built-in video features, such as video snapshot and autofocus, make it easy to use and provide a high degree of creative control. Overall, while the Canon T5i may not be the absolute best camera in its class for video, it is a solid choice that offers a great balance of features, image quality, and price.
Can the Canon T5i shoot in 4K resolution?
The Canon T5i is not capable of shooting in 4K resolution. The camera’s maximum video resolution is 1080p at 30fps, and it does not have the ability to record video in 4K. This may be a limitation for some users who require high-resolution video for their projects. However, it’s worth noting that 4K resolution is not always necessary, and the T5i’s 1080p video is still of very high quality. Additionally, the camera’s smaller sensor size and lower resolution may actually be beneficial in certain situations, such as in low-light environments or when shooting with a shallow depth of field.
If 4K resolution is a requirement, there are other cameras available that may be more suitable. For example, the Canon EOS 80D and the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV both offer 4K video recording capabilities, although they are more expensive than the T5i. It’s also worth noting that 4K video requires a significant amount of storage space and processing power, so it may not be practical for all users. In general, the Canon T5i’s 1080p video capabilities are still more than sufficient for most video production applications, and the camera’s other features, such as its vari-angle touchscreen LCD and built-in stereo microphone, make it a great choice for a wide range of users.
Is the Canon T5i good for vlogging and YouTube videos?
The Canon T5i is a great choice for vlogging and YouTube videos due to its compact size, vari-angle touchscreen LCD, and high-quality video capabilities. The camera’s built-in stereo microphone and support for external microphones also make it easy to capture high-quality audio, which is essential for vlogging and YouTube videos. Additionally, the T5i’s autofocus system and face detection feature make it easy to capture sharp, in-focus video, even when moving or in low-light environments. The camera’s compact size and lightweight design also make it easy to carry around, making it a great choice for vloggers who need to shoot on the go.
The Canon T5i also has a number of other features that make it well-suited for vlogging and YouTube videos, including its range of manual controls and creative filters. The camera’s video snapshot feature also allows users to capture short video clips and combine them into a single video, making it easy to create engaging and dynamic content. Furthermore, the T5i’s EF-S lens mount provides access to a wide range of lenses, including some high-quality options from Canon and third-party manufacturers. Overall, the Canon T5i is a great choice for vloggers and YouTubers who need a compact, easy-to-use camera that can capture high-quality video and audio.
How does the Canon T5i’s autofocus system perform for video?
The Canon T5i’s autofocus system is generally good for video, with a range of autofocus modes, including continuous autofocus and face detection. The camera’s autofocus system is also relatively fast and accurate, making it easy to capture sharp, in-focus video. However, the T5i’s autofocus system can be slow in low-light environments or when tracking fast-moving subjects, which may be a limitation for some users. Additionally, the camera’s autofocus system can be prone to hunting or pulsing, particularly when using continuous autofocus, which can be distracting and may require additional editing in post-production.
Despite these limitations, the Canon T5i’s autofocus system is still relatively good for video, and the camera’s range of autofocus modes and manual focus options provide a high degree of creative control. The T5i’s face detection feature is also particularly useful for vlogging and YouTube videos, as it allows the camera to automatically focus on the subject’s face, even when moving or in low-light environments. Additionally, the camera’s touchscreen interface makes it easy to adjust autofocus settings and select focus points, which can be useful for more advanced users. Overall, while the Canon T5i’s autofocus system may not be perfect, it is still a great choice for a wide range of video production applications.