If you’re considering a Canon DSLR camera, you may have come across the Canon T7i and T8i models, both offering advanced features and capabilities. In this article, we will delve into the key differences between these two cameras, the Canon T7i vs T8i, and explore their respective strengths and weaknesses. From image quality and autofocus performance to video capabilities and connectivity options, let’s dive into the world of Canon DSLR cameras and find out which one is the perfect fit for you.
Canon T7i standout features
Capturing the Essence of Photography
The Canon T7i, also known as the EOS 800D, is a mid-range DSLR camera that boasts a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, DIGIC 7 image processor, and an optical viewfinder for a classic photography experience. One of the standout features of the T7i is its excellent autofocus performance, thanks to its 45-point all cross-type autofocus (AF) system, which allows for precise subject tracking and focus acquisition. This makes it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as wildlife or sports photography.
Another notable feature of the T7i is its versatile articulating touchscreen LCD, which allows for easy and intuitive control of camera settings, as well as convenient framing from various angles, including low-angle and high-angle shots. The T7i also offers a built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, enabling seamless transfer of images to your smart devices for quick sharing or remote control of the camera.
Canon T8i: standout features
Elevating Photography to New Heights
The Canon T8i, also known as the EOS 850D, is a step up from the T7i, offering even more advanced features and capabilities. One of the standout features of the T8i is its improved image processor – the DIGIC 8 – which delivers faster and more efficient performance, resulting in improved image quality, low-light performance, and faster burst shooting. With a 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor and the DIGIC 8 processor, the T8i delivers stunning image quality with rich details and accurate colors.
The T8i also boasts an impressive Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which provides precise and fast autofocus performance, even in Live View mode or during video recording. This makes it ideal for vlogging, video production, and other situations where reliable autofocus is crucial. In addition, the T8i offers 4K video recording, a notable feature for videographers, allowing for high-quality and detailed video footage.
Enhanced connectivity options are another standout feature of the T8i. It offers built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless image transfer, remote control, and sharing options. This makes it easy to connect and control your camera using your smartphone or other smart devices, offering greater convenience and versatility in your photography workflow.
Canon T7i vs T8i key differences
Image Quality:
When it comes to image quality, both the Canon T7i and T8i excel in capturing stunning photos with their 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensors. However, the T8i takes a slight advantage with its newer DIGIC 8 image processor, offering improved noise reduction and better image processing capabilities compared to the T7i’s DIGIC 7 processor. This translates to better overall image quality, especially in low-light conditions, where the T8i produces cleaner and more detailed images.
Additionally, the T8i also boasts a wider ISO range of 100-25600, compared to the T7i’s range of 100-12800, providing more flexibility in various lighting situations.
Autofocus Performance:
Both the Canon T7i and T8i come with advanced autofocus systems, but the T8i takes a leap forward with its more sophisticated Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, offering 45 cross-type AF points for precise and fast autofocus performance.
The T7i, on the other hand, features a 45-point all-cross-type AF system, which is also highly capable but lacks the dual pixel technology found in the T8i. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system in the T8i not only provides faster and more accurate autofocus for stills, but also delivers smooth and precise autofocus performance in video recording, making it an ideal choice for vloggers and videographers.
Video Capabilities:
If you’re into videography, the video capabilities of a DSLR camera play a crucial role in your decision-making process. Both the Canon T7i and T8i offer excellent video capabilities, but the T8i stands out with its 4K video recording option at 24p and 30p, compared to the T7i’s maximum video resolution of 1080p.
The T8i also comes with a 4K time-lapse movie mode, which adds an extra layer of creativity to your videography. Additionally, the T8i offers improved autofocus performance in video recording, thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which allows for smooth and accurate autofocus tracking during video shooting, making it a better choice for serious videographers.
LCD Screen and Controls
Both the Canon T7i and T8i feature a 3.0″ vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which allows for easy framing and reviewing of images and videos from different angles. The touchscreen interface provides intuitive control over settings and menu options, making it convenient to navigate through the camera’s functions.
In terms of controls, both cameras have similar layouts and button placements, with dedicated buttons for key functions such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. However, the Canon T8i has a few additional controls compared to the T7i, such as a dedicated AF-ON button for quick autofocus activation, which can be beneficial for those who frequently use back-button focus technique. The T8i also has a larger mode dial that includes a dedicated Movie mode, making it easy to switch between different shooting modes, including video recording.
Connectivity Options:
In today’s digital world, connectivity options are essential for seamless camera operation and sharing of images. Both the Canon T7i and T8i offer built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, allowing for easy transfer of images to smart devices and remote control of the camera through a smartphone or tablet.
However, the T8i takes a step further with its Bluetooth connectivity, which provides a more stable and energy-efficient connection, allowing for remote control and image transfer even when the camera is turned off. The T8i also offers compatibility with Canon’s Camera Connect app, which allows for advanced remote control features and image sharing options, making it a more convenient and versatile choice for wireless connectivity.
Battery life
Battery Capacity:
The Canon T7i is powered by a LP-E17 rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 1040mAh. This battery can last for approximately 600 shots per charge when using the viewfinder, which is quite decent for casual or hobbyist photographers. However, for more intensive shooting sessions, such as long events or extended outdoor sessions, you may need to carry additional spare batteries to ensure uninterrupted shooting.
On the other hand, the Canon T8i comes with a LP-E17 rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack as well, but with an increased capacity of 1390mAh. This means you can expect a longer battery life compared to the T7i. The T8i is capable of delivering approximately 800 shots per charge when using the viewfinder, making it a more suitable option for professional or avid photographers who require extended shooting capabilities without worrying about frequent battery changes.
Battery Performance:
While the battery capacity is an important factor, the overall battery performance also depends on the camera’s power management system and shooting conditions. The Canon T7i features an intelligent power management system that optimizes battery usage and extends battery life. It also has an Eco mode that conserves power by dimming the LCD screen after a certain period of inactivity.
On the other hand, the Canon T8i takes battery performance to the next level with its improved power management system. It utilizes the DIGIC 8 image processor, which is more power-efficient than the DIGIC 7 processor in the T7i. This allows the T8i to deliver longer battery life while maintaining high performance. The T8i also has an Auto Power Off feature that can be customized to automatically shut off the camera after a certain period of inactivity, conserving power during breaks in shooting.
Tips for Extending Battery Life:
While both the Canon T7i and T8i offer decent battery life, there are several tips and tricks you can follow to further extend the battery performance and get the most out of your camera:
- Use an optical viewfinder: When shooting with the viewfinder instead of the LCD screen, the camera uses less power, allowing you to capture more shots per charge.
- Turn off Wi-Fi and other connectivity options: Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth are power-hungry features that can drain your battery quickly. Disable them when not in use to conserve power.
- Lower LCD screen brightness: Reducing the brightness of the LCD screen can significantly extend battery life, especially when shooting in low-light conditions.
- Use a battery grip: Battery grips are available for some Canon DSLR models, including the T7i and T8i. They allow you to use multiple batteries simultaneously, effectively doubling the battery life.
Size and Weight
In terms of physical dimensions and weight, both the Canon T7i and T8i are quite similar. Both cameras have a compact and lightweight body design, with the T8i being slightly smaller and lighter than the T7i. The Canon T7i measures approximately 131 x 100 x 76 mm and weighs around 532 grams (body only), while the Canon T8i measures approximately 131 x 103 x 76 mm and weighs around 515 grams (body only).
The difference in size and weight between the two cameras is minimal, and both cameras are highly portable and easy to carry around for everyday photography or travel purposes.
Lens Compatibility
One of the significant advantages of Canon DSLR cameras is their extensive lens system. Both the Canon T7i and T8i come with an EF-S lens mount, which is compatible with Canon’s EF-S lenses, designed specifically for APS-C sensor cameras. This opens up a wide range of lens options for different types of photography, including wide-angle, telephoto, macro, and more.
Additionally, both cameras are also compatible with Canon’s EF lenses, designed for full-frame cameras, with a 1.6x crop factor applied to the APS-C sensor. This allows for even more lens choices, providing versatility and flexibility in lens selection for various shooting needs.
Canon T7i vs T8i Pros and Cons
Canon T7i Pros:
- Excellent Image Quality
- Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus
- Vari-angle Touchscreen LCD
- Beginner-friendly Features
Canon T7i Cons:
- Limited Connectivity Options
- Slightly Older Image Processor
- Limited Customization
Canon T8i Pros:
- Improved Image Processor
- Upgraded Autofocus System
- Enhanced Connectivity
- Creative Filter Options
Canon T8i Cons:
- Higher Price
- Similar Image Sensor
- Limited Customization
Verdict:
As a verdict, both the Canon T7i and T8i are powerful DSLR cameras that offer impressive features and performance. The T7i is ideal for beginners or those who are transitioning from a point-and-shoot camera to a DSLR, with its user-friendly interface and guidance features. On the other hand, the T8i is a step up in terms of image processing, autofocus system, and connectivity options, making it suitable for more advanced users who demand better performance and creative capabilities.
