Hands-on Canon 80D Review vs the 70D, a6300 and more

I have been using the 80D for the last 30 days and I am now ready to share my opinion of Canon's successor to the popular 70D. You want to know - what’s changed, do I recommend upgrading from the 70D to the 80D and how does this camera hold up in a crowded field of DSLRS and mirrorless cameras like the a6300, D7200, D500, GH4 - etc. Link for more informationhttps://youtu.be/tLQI_Jba3pMQuick reminder of my opinion on the Canon 70D- I loved the dual pixel AF, it tracked so well - even without STM lenses - that coupled with the very nice articulating touchscreen made this camera super easy to use for video and that articulating touchscreen is useful for photos as well. 70D Image and video quality are very good and at the time of release very similar to other cameras on the market.Buy the Canon 80D from B&H Photo and support this website.  Your use of these links allows me to continue to review gear (and have health insurance) Thanks!

What has changed with the Canon 80D vs the 70D

• 24MP sensor vs 20MP in the 70D
• 45 Cross type points vs 19 in the 70D, 27 of those AF points work at f/8 - this is important and helpful to photographers working with longer telephoto lenses and teleconverters and makes it even better than the 7D Mark II when using longer lenses with teleconverters.
• Improved low light focusing capabilities
• 100% viewfinder coverage vs 98%
• A deeper buffer (70d buffer already was decent)
• Flicker detection like the 7D mark II and D500 for more consistent exposures in gyms/arena etc
• 1080p 60fps!!! The 70D only offered 60fps at 720 and you have Mp4 format now too
• The ability to control the speed of auto focus in movies.
• Intervalometer AND time lapse movie mode!
• A headphone jack!! And it is positioned to not block the rotating screen
• NFC AND WIFI while the 70D only had Wifi and the 80D wifi allows control during video - something not possible with the 70D - you also have the option of adding
• Two custom modes on the dial

No other camera provides this level of performance while remaining so easy to use.

So what does all that translate to in real world use? The Canon 80D is a very good camera that is incredibly user friendly with an approachable menu system. No other camera provides this level of performance while remaining so easy to use. I am talking about really using the camera - not just leaving it on auto. Any camera is easy to use on auto. This sounds great? Right?  Frustratingly Canon sensor tech is still behind the competitors, despite all the buzz from the increased dynamic range. Yes it is better but still behind the competitors in dynamic range, high iso and overall image quality. The 80D just does not match up against the current Nikons (or even last years d7200) or the Sony a6300. And it lacks many of the more pro level video features you find in the Sony a6300 and Panasonic Gh4 like focus peaking, slog format and 4k video.  About 4k - some of you will be angry that it isn’t included in a camera that clearly is proud of it’s video features and some of you are angry that people are angry it wasn’t included, a few of you just don't care. Just recognize that not everyone uses cameras these days for just photos and despite the fact that you might not know anyone with a 4K TV - it can still be useful to have a camera that shoots 4K and many do mid-2016.

Who cares about 4k Video?

So I set you up - a great camera that is really easy to use BUT doesn't match the competition in image quality or features.  Just keep in mind that for the most part that quality difference isn’t huge and for the vast majority of us - the image or video quality provided by the Canon 80D isn’t going to hold us back. You can make fantastic images and video with this camera.  Another advantage of the 80D is the Canon ecosystem - your lens selection is HUGE with loads of affordable options. This is something Sony hasn’t matched yet and even Nikon doesn’t have quite the same affordable selection. Though at the pro level I will call them tied. I do want to give a special shoutout to the 55-250 STM, this really is such a nice lens and an awesome value. Not only a good telephoto, also useable as a macro!  I would recommend you pick up the Canon 80D with the 18-55 and 55-250 STM unless you want power zooming that the new 18-135 nano USM lens provides when paired with the PZ-E1 adapter and you can even zoom via the canon app.  And remember that vs Nikon - Canon's dual pixel AF provides smooth and silent autofocus during video.  Nikon has introduced some new lenses to try and match but the underlying tech still makes nikon DSLR focus slow and distracting when used during filming.

The perfect camera for...

I see the 80D really appealing to 

• Wildlife photographers on a budget - if offers excellent AF performance with longer lenses - pair it with the 55-250 STM and you do have one of the best all around performers (see below for additional lens recommendations)
• Youtubers/Amature videographers looking for good quality in an exceptionally easy to use package - Youtubers especially, this camera combined with the wifi app makes recording talking head videos like most of what is on my channel, extremely easy.
• Photographers looking for a decent all around camera that offers plenty of room to grow as a photographer and cover a variety of photographic needs.

See below for recommended lenses and accessories forThose who want the absolute best performance in low light and image/video quality should consider the a6300 (my review of the a6300) or Nikon D7200 or Nikon D500 (My Review - current king of APS-C cameras in terms of performance and focusing power)Those that want more serious video options should choose the a6300 or GH4Should Canon 70D users upgrade? While there are certainly improvements, better dynamic range at lower ISOs and less noise at higher ISOs - the differences are not massive and your money is better spent on a nice lens, especially a prime lens or saving for a future model or full frame. Exceptions to this, if you want to start using teleconverters with longer focal lengths or want the better video features and wifi app control over video.The best Canon 80D Package - 18-55 + 55-250 STM | Buy from B&H PhotoWildlife Photographers on a BudgetCanon 80D with 18-55 and 55-250 STM Or For massively more reach - Canon 80D with 18-55, Sigma 1.4x Converter and Sigma 150-600 C - Total potential zoom here is over 1300mm! YoutubersCanon 80D with Canon 10-18 for handheld, stabilized selfie video and a nice prime lens like the 40mm f/2.8 for pro looking videoGeneral PhotographyCanon 80D with 18-55 and 50mm f/1.8 STMRecommended Canon 80D Accessories

• Best SD Card for the Canon 80D: SanDisk 64GB Extreme
• Best Tripod: MeFOTO RoadTrip Aluminum Travel Tripod Kit
• Backpack: Think Tank Photo Perception 15 Backpack
• External Flash: Yongnuo Speedlite YN600EX-RT (how to use)

Would you like to have a detailed discussion about what gear is going to work best for you? I provide that in my support group.  Join for just $5/month - your contribution supports the work we do here and you get access to all the Lightroom videos, the support group and more. 

Canon 80D Officially Announced

The Canon 80D has now been officially announced- The leaked specs were extremely accurate - there is additional information to suggest that the dual pixel AF system has been improved and the kit lens is now upgraded to IS USM, no longer STM- read more below.  How does the 80D compare to the 70D and T6s? Watch the video below and visit 80D vs 70D vs T6s/T6i for more info.Preorder Available from B&H Photo  Expected at the End of March.Canon EOS 80D DSLR Camera with 18-135mm Lens $1,799Canon EOS 80D Body Only $1,199 

• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor (more than the 20MP from the 7D Mark II)
• DIGIC 6 Image Processor
• IMPROVED Dual pixel CMOS AF - noted as significantly better than 70D
• Continuous shooting 7 frames / sec - Live view 5 frames / sec. (AF tracking)
• AF 45 points (all points cross type) 7D mark II has 65 Cross type. 70D has 19.
• 7560 pixel RGB + IR metering sensor
• ISO 100-16000
• flickerless shooting (adopted from the 7D Mark II) - this enables more consistent exposures in gym/arena lighting
• Finder is 100% field of view - up from 98% with the 70D
• 3 inches vari-angle touch screen LCD monitor.- The same as 70D
• 1080p 60 fps - Up from 30fps with the 70D and on par with 7D Mark II
• Time-lapse movie & additional creative filters for video - Something Canon finally started adding with the 5DS series.
• Wi-Fi, NFC - remote shooting by smartphone - I doubt this will include video start and stop- probably only photo remote control as you can do now with 70D.

Dial of the 70D compared to the 80D - really the only exterior difference I can find other than the viewfinder upgrade.80D looks to add Custom 1 AND Custom 2 to the dial along with filters for video (possibly) (between SCN and C2)These look like decent upgrades - nothing ground breaking and compared to other options, like the newly announced a6300, this looks like Canon is still behind the curve but if you have a rebel, and a few canon lenses this does represent a decent upgrade and a solid hybrid camera - video and photo capable.The 80D will be bundled with a NEW 18-135 lens - no longer STM - But USM with a new designation of NANO USM. I suspect this allows for the continued smooth and silent focusing that STM provided but with additional speed to support the faster AF system in live view/dual pixel AF What do you think of these specs? Enough to warrant an upgrade from a 70D? How about T5i or even T6i/T6s owners?The battery grip offered on the page is the same as the 70D- as we suspected the body is identical and use of the 70D battery grip is possible.Preorder Available from B&H Photo  Expected at the end of March.Canon EOS 80D DSLR Camera with 18-135mm Lens $1,799Canon EOS 80D DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens $1,349Canon EOS 80D Body Only $1,199Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens $599And if you wished your DSLR was more like a camcorder you can addCanon PZ-E1 Power Zoom Adapter for just $149

• Provides Electronic Zooming Control
• Smoother Zoom Movements for Video
• Zoom Mode and Speed Settings Switches
• Integrated Locking Mechanism

The 80D - Rumored Specs

The 80D will be announced VERY soon - Digicame has the spec list and I believe it to be 100% correct

• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor (more than the 20MP from the 7D Mark II)
• Dual pixel CMOS AF
• Continuous shooting 7 frames / sec - Live view 5 frames / sec. (AF tracking)
• AF 45 points (all points cross type) 7D mark II has 65 Cross type. 70D has 19.
• 7560 pixel RGB + IR metering sensor
• ISO 100-16000
• flickerless shooting (adopted from the 7D Mark II) - this enables more consistent exposures in gym/arena lighting
• finder is 100% field of view - up from 98% with the 70D
• 3 inches vari-angle touch screen LCD monitor.- The same as 70D
• 1080p 60 fps - Up from 30fps with the 70D and on par with 7D Mark II
• Time-lapse movie - Something Canon finally started adding with the 5DS series.
• Wi-Fi, NFC - remote shooting by smartphone - I doubt this will include video start and stop- probably only photo remote control as you can do now with 70D.

Dial of the 70D compared to the 80D - really the only exterior difference I can find other than the viewfinder upgrade.80D looks to add Custom 1 AND Custom 2 to the dial along with filters (between SCN and C2)These look like decent upgrades - nothing ground breaking and compared to other options, like the newly announced a6300, this looks like Canon is still behind the curve but if you have a rebel, and a few canon lenses this does represent a decent upgrade and a solid hybrid camera - video and photo capable.Note: It is interesting to me that we are getting the 80D without a single firmware update to the 70D.  So different from almost all the rest of the manufacturers that release at least some additional modest functionality via firmware.What do you think of these specs? Enough to warrant an upgrade from a 70D? How about T5i or even T6i/T6s owners?

Hack your Camera with an Axe?

Youtuber Casey Neistat uses a Canon 70D(among other cameras) to record his popular daily vlogs - They regularly reach several hundred thousand views each day. On a recent blog he got the error "Movie recording has stopped automatically" with his 70D And according to Casey- he get's this often even though he uses a fast card.  His method of dealing with the error is. . well you can guess from the title and you can watch the video below. I have it queued up for you to start right before the camera violence.https://youtu.be/dK9SSu3uZ2Q?t=4m21sI have shot with lots of Canon cameras and have a 70D, and we have two 5D Mark III that we regularly use (see what's in our bag) and the ONLY time I get that error is when I am using a card that is slow or bad.  Before smashing a camera I would highly recommend trying a different card. He shows the card he uses, they are actually on sale today at Amazon, and even though it states it is a fast card and I have never had an issue with Transcend cards - they can and will go bad or even arrive bad.   Also he smashes the lens too which clearly is not part of the problem - it's his gear, he can do what he want but it certainly feels wasteful.    

760D and 750D - Why?

DPReview has an opinion piece on Canon's decision to run two very similar models of Rebels that differ in price by just 8%.  Read the article The gist of the article -

• The lower end, T6i gives the big box retailers a cheaper camera to sell in large volume.
• The T6s will sell better at the camera stores where employees will have an easier time explaining why the top LCD and other features make it worth spending more and thus make a better margin per camera

It is an interesting idea but I would love to see some numbers about these little camera shops and how much inventory they actually move compared to something like Amazon or B&H Photo. I suspect it is small. I know my local shop struggles to carry many Canon DSLRs as they force shp owners to buy larger amount of inventory than Nikon or Pentax.I do agree that the T6s is a clear winner between these two and in my mind worth the extra money.  Beyond the top LCD you get manual movie mode, Digital zoom in movie mode,  Servo AF in live view and the eye sensor.  See my complete write up on the T6i and T6s for more information.What are your thoughts? Any reason to go with the T6i? The difference is about the cost of the 50mm f/1.8 lens. 

Canon 7D Mark II vs 70D Which is right for you?

Canon 7D Mark II and the Canon 70D - Which is right for you?I share my early opinion on the Canon 7D Mark II and outline the differences and similarities between the 70D and the new 7D Mark II.Corrections: 70D does allow some AF adjustments under custom functions.Buy the 7D Mark II from B&H Buy from AmazonBuy the Canon 70D from B&H Buy from AmazonAdd WiFI to your 7D Mark II via an Eye-Fi Card- Buy from Amazon | Buy from B&H Additional 7D Mark II Videos from Toby

Canon 6D vs 70D - Full Frame Sensor vs Crop Sensor

With recent price drops Canon’s “budget” full frame camera is close in price to the newer 70D.  At first glance they look pretty similar and size and shape and both offer 20MPs - but this is where I need to pause and remind everyone that a number like MP tells so little that it is often worthless to compare. IN a day when we have cell phones shooting 20-40 MP we must consider the size of the sensor and a full frame sensor is significantly bigger than the APS-C sensor found in the 70D.  Let's look at the similarities

• Both are about same size and weight - 6D is just a little heavier.
• Controls are very similar - top LCD and rows of buttons virtually identical
• Both have Wifi - remote triggering or connectiing to smartphone or laptop for downloading images.
• LCD Screen is same resolution

Differences

• 70D screen is touch sensitive and articulating - I find both to be extremely useful in a variety of situations and no i never accidentally trigger the touchscreen.
• 70D has a popup flash -nothing to get excited about but it is still nice to have and can trigger off camera flash using. You will need to buy an external flash for the 6D- best budget flash is Yongnuo $90 bucks which is going to give you much better results but it is something you need to buy and carry around
• 70D has a button near the shutter Af area selection - points to greater control over AF with better options vs the 6D
• 6D has just 11 AF points and only center is cross type vs 70D with 19 AF points all cross type.  It is important to note that the center AF point on the 6D is much better in low light.
• 6D has an additional custom mode on the dial (2 custom modes vs 1 C1 on the 70D)
• 6D has GPS - nice for traveling, can impact battery life negatively. 70D is compatible with external GPS Device 
• 70d can fire off 7.5 fps vs 6D is around 5 fps.
• 6D has a max shutter of 1/4000 and 70D 1/8000.
• Flash sync speed 1/180 on Canon 6D and 1/250 on Canon 70D - this isn’t anything to get hung up on but it is somewhat disappointing that Canon made this choice to limit the 6D in this way.

 Image Quality - The 6D with its full frame sensor really produces beautiful low noise high detail images, even at the upper range of the ISO limit.  70D is an excellent crop sensor camera but less detail in images and as light levels drop the noise does increase compared to the 6D.  Really it comes down to performance vs image quality. The 70D is fast, super user friendly and cheaper with cheaper lenses available.   The 6D is slow but produces lovely images - you pay more and you will pay more for lenses as the 6D needs EF lenses which typically are more expensive.Watch my 70D Review | Buy the Canon 70D from Amazon | Canon 70D from B&H Photo Watch my 6D Hands On | Buy the Canon 6D from Amazon | Canon 6D from B&H Photo  Watch my Canon 70D vs Canon 7D Mark II

DSLR Controller: Better Wifi for your 70D, 6D cameras

DSLR Controller is an Android App available for $7.99 on the Google Play store. It is well worth the cost giving you much greater control over your wifi connected Canon camera. 

$300 Savings on the Canon 70D and T5i Cameras

Amazon has dropped the price of the 70D and the T5i and with a little know-how (see the video below) you can pile on tons of free extras that are heavily discounted(many free after the discount) and end up with a camera and a load of goodies all for free. It is important to note that these items all need to be purchased from Amazon, not 2rd party vendors selling via Amazon. The complete shopping list is below the video70D Start Here -Add the 70D and desired Lens to Cart.Add  Canon 70D CameraAdd 18-55 Lens, The 18-135 STM does not give you as big a discounted bonus (which lens to buy?)Add LP-E6 BatteryAdd Dolica MonopodAdd AmazonBasics Camera CaseAdd 32GB SD CardAdd 16GB SD Card (some have reported success adding multiples of this card and Amazon discounts each time, giving you up to 4 free SD Cards with camera)See what else I recommend buying with the Canon 70D and T5i Cameras

Best Canon 70D Deal (Savings on Amazon & B&H vs Costco)

UPDATE 11-23-15 - Amazon and B&H have the BEST deal this week - Ends 11/30.

• Canon EOS 70D DSLR Camera (Body Only) - Just $899  Shop B&H | Shop Amazon
• Canon EOS 70D DSLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 STM Lens - Just $999.00  Shop B&H | Shop Amazon
• Canon EOS 70D DSLR Camera with 18-135mm Lens Video Creator Kit - Just $1249.00  Shop B&H | Shop Amazon

Add spare 55-250 STM lens for just $149!! This is an excellent deal for a versatile zoom lens. Costco deal is the same but comes with a crummy bag and SD card - The Amazon and B&H accessories are better and if you live outside of NY you don't have to pay sales tax with B&H PhotoNot sure if the 70D is right for you? My Full Review of the Canon 70DI am getting lots of questions about the best deal on the 70D - This camera is selling very well and it should. In my review I have found it to be an awesome device for photos and video, perfect blend of features and pro level performance in a reasonably sized and priced package. Watch my Canon 70D Review.Costco is offering a bundled deal with the Canon 70D - Looks good at first glance but it has a couple of issues:

1. You can put this exact same bundle together on Amazon for almost $100 savings!! (scroll down for details)
2. The card they are bundling STRUGGLES TO SUPPORT the higher bit rate video files the 70D is capable of producing and slows down quickly when shoot RAW. See my full test chart of SD cards in 70D. Or just skip to bottom and buy the SanDisk Extreme 80 or 45s for better results.
3. The 55-250 Bundled is the older II version.  The new STM version would be worth your money if you plan to do video with the lens. In fairness Amazon is still bundling this lens too.  At this time the 55-250 STM (my review coming soon) needs to be bought separately.

On Amazon you can get the Canon 70D with 18-55 IS STM and the 55-250 for a savings of $105.  Add in the 2% rewards and in 35 days you will get $27.88 to spend on a spare 70D Battery or put toward a good tripod.  But more importantly those immediate savings need to be put toward an SD Card that WILL work well in your 70D.

• I recommend SanDisk Extreme 32 GB SDHC Class 10 UHS-1 Flash Memory Card 80MB/s (Buy from Amazon)
• For a good camera bag for the 70D I recommend Lowepro SlingShot 102 AW or Case Logic SLRC-202 Medium SLR Camera Bag - I have more camera bag recommendations depending on your needs - just leave a comment below with the style you are looking for and I can provide some recommendations.
• As mentioned above the 55-250 bundled in BOTH the Amazon and Costco deals is the old non STM lens. The new STM lens will be MUCH better for your video work and better for photos too - image quality is improved.  (Buy the Canon EF-S 55-250mm F4-5.6 IS STM Lens for Canon from Amazon)

 Support my work. Click this link to get the best deal on the Canon 70D on Amazon. B&H is also offering a better deal vs Costco on the 70D - Get the 70D with EXTRA battery, 16GB SD Card and Backpack for $1349.00. OR 18-135 STM for $1549.Not sure if the 70D is the best camera for you? Leave a comment below -tell me how much photo vs video you plan to shoot and your subjects.  I'd be happy to give you my thoughts.  I would also like to ask you to take a second and like my Facebook Page Facebook.com/Digital.Photo.Recommendations. Thanks! 

Time Lapse with a DSLR - Canon 70D

Work in Progress post. Updated as I add new material and followup video showing how to "develop" the time lapse into a video file rather than a series of images.Summary of video

1. set the camera on a sturdy tripod and choose your composition and exposure (Manual Mode or AV Mode)
2. Set file size to JPEG or smaller RAW(if an option) you don't want to deal with 3,000 plus RAW files unless you really want an ability to edit before creating the timelapse.
3. Configure the intervalometer/TriggerTrap to take a picture each X seconds and X amount of  times
4. Disconnect the lens while holding down the depth of field preview button to the "sweet spot" to avoid flickering in your TL
5. Wait A LOT- e.g. if you set the DSLR to take a photo every second and run that back at 24fps.  1 minute of real time equals 3 seconds of video. Shorter intervals give smoother results. Longer intervals allow you to speed through time more quickly.
6. Dump every photo into editing software, do a little magic (Video how to on this part coming soon)

Watch the example time lapse shot after the filming of this video: http://youtu.be/lbkM5ekaDl8?t=10m44sGear seen in the video: MeFoto Travel Tripod, Lowepro Photo Sport Pro 30L, Intervalometer, TriggerTrap Dongle Related: How to use an Intervalometer for family photos.

Canon 70D Review vs Canon T5i (700D) Review & Differences Explained

Full Text Review of the Canon 70D below video

My time and energy on this site and answering your questions is supported by folks like you buying the 70D through these links. It costs you nothing extra and provides me a small percentage of the sale.  Buy the Canon 70D from Amazon

Discussion separated into three areas- body, features and performance,

Body/Styling 70D vs T5i(700D)

• 700D smaller, lighter about ½ LB less - which works out to about 30% lighter

• 70D feels more solid in the hand - slightly more to grip and deeper

• 70D offers pentaprism viewfinder which is bigger and brighter than the pentamirror in the 700D

• Top LCD lets you see various camera settings at a glance plus top row of buttons provides for quick changes and two dials gives you access to shutter speed and aperture in Manual mode.  700D shares dial for shutter speed and aperture and extra button press to switch between function

• Custom mode on dial to save and return to commonly used settings

• Auto modes all accessed through SCN on the dial, cleaner more professional dial options

• Dedicated back auto focus button

• Bigger battery gives more than 2x battery life over the 700D

Features of the 70D vs T5i (700D)

• 19 cross type focus points and dedicate AF mode button with quick selection between modes and point selecting vs 9 cross type points on 700D

• 70D offers dual pixel focusing in live view - fast, accurate and rarely makes mistakes. Using with touchscreen for very impressive almost cinematographic results.  700D autofocus is capable but in live view it isn’t impressive, slower and more likely to hunt for focus. 700D needs STM lens for smooth focusing, 70D is smooth with virtually all modern lenses. STM still useful for that silent autofocus.

• 70D burst mode 7 fps with a big enough buffer for actually getting a serious burst.  Also offers a lower speed burst and quiet shutter mode at two speeds.  700D offers 5 frames per second with a smallish buffer, you really only get a 1-2 seconds of that burst rate, faster if shooting JPEG instead of RAW

• HDR ( both have backlight control but 70D also offers a more robust HDR with control over the exposure latitude and style.

• A pile of additional image features offered by the 70D- Multi exposure shot(additive or average), Bracketing at various exposure settings and select from 2-7 shots in sequence, raw image processing in camera - shoot only RAW but produce JPEG files in camera, ⅓ stop ISO, detailed control over AF tracking , Auto focus micro adjustments have returned to the 70D - REJOICE!, max shutter speed at 1/8000 second allows you to shoot at wider apertures under bright sun and multiple size raw files.

• Additional Video features offered by the 70D same frame rates as 700D but offers high and low compression, digital zoom and time code settings for better sync between cameras

• WIFI feature built into 70D - download images to mobile device or camera or activate live view and shoot remotely - no video and when connected to mobile device will only pass 1920 x 1080 images. T5i does not offer WIfi but you could use an Eye-Fi card to transfer files to mobile device or computer.

Performance/Results Canon 70D vs T5i (700D)

• Day to day shots/video files - very little difference between these until the light levels drop cleaner files from the 70D at 1600 and above. Difference is noticeable but not huge

• Slightly better on board flash exposure from the 70D.  700D still too bright though it can be adjusted.

• Feature or performance - video focus tracking the 70D is excellent makes for easy camcorder like focusing - if you are a parent that wants one device that will capture both video and stills without lots of work on your part - the 70D is the camera to get.

Final Thoughts -Both these cameras are capable of producing excellent images and video. What you need to decide as you watch my review/read the points below - are you willing to carry around the extra weight and spend the extra cash for the additional features of the 70D (and there are loads of them!)  I will have more to say about the 70D soon and share more testing samples and video - for now check out the links below for additional helpful information.Additional Helpful Videos

Canon 70D Wifi Demo - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCKiJ1nOMFU

Canon 70D Digital Zoom Demo - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bmf877Ii1TA

Editing RAW files on G+ - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJxb77Osqg0

Canon 70D SD Card and Buffer Test - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuEtZb3ZNLA

Canon 70D Review vs Nikon D7100 Review

  Bottom Line: Both the Canon 70D and the Nikon D7100 are excellent and produce really impressive video and stills in low light, and at high ISOs. Focus through the viewfinder is fast on both cameras and it really comes down to the features you are looking for should help you determine which is best for you.

Strengths of the Nikon D7100:

1. Well built with magnesium body, loads of buttons, customization of several buttons and dual card slots. The Canon 70D body is aluminum and polycarbonate. Both are weather sealed. The D7100 offers dedicated bracketing buttons too.
2. Excellent low light high ISO capabilities - I was stunned by the low light performance of the D7100 - high ISO files are clean and the dynamic range is excellent and remains excellent even in lower light. I am listing this as a strength for the Nikon but in most cases the Canon is on par with the quality though when I do see a winner it is the Nikon. If we want to talk about live view focusing in low light the Canon does an excellent job. The Nikon still struggles with this. In viewfinder focusing the two seem equal to me. Nikon does offer the crop mode which fills the frame with focus points, certainly useful for faster action.
3. Images and video are SHARP! Nikon ditched their anti-aliasing filter and the result is sharper video and images AND they still manage to control moire. Even when I try to get moire on the Nikon I can’t - on the Canon I can get it without even trying. It is often avoidable but you are more likely to see it in Canon video.
4. 100% viewfinder- When you look through the viewfinder you get exactly what you see and it is nice and bright. Canon’s at 98% is very slightly dimmer and not exactly what you see - Having that large bright viewfinder is very useful in lower light situations, really helps you see what you are photographing and checking focus.
5. Retouch menu and extra scenes/effects. The D7100 offers a slew of scenes, some of those scene modes that work in video and a robust retouch menu. Now professionals are not likely to be excited by these scenes and the retouch menu but the options are there and they can be fun even if some scene/effects are gimmicky (selective color I am looking at you) - I will also throw in here the dedicated bracketing button that Nikon adds in, nice for serious HDR work.
6. Wireless is a $60 add on and is limited to phone/tablet devices but you can send full resolution files through the air. Canon’s wifi is built in with greater features- including connecting to your computer but you are limited to 1920 x 1080 sized JPEGS that you can send across to your phone or tablet.
7. Uncompressed HDMI Out - this is a professional level feature that allows you to connect an external monitor or HD for recording video straight to a drive.

Strengths of the Canon 70D:

1. The headline feature of the 70D is that lovely live view and video focus - fast, smooth and almost always on target. In the past with a few exceptions live view focusing on DSLRs has been slow, painfully slow and plagued by a hunting for focus, especially in lower light. The updated sensor technology of the 70D fixes these issues. I find myself using live view whenever it is convenient. The 70D locks onto focus smoothly with any lens and gives you have camcorder like focus while still maintaining the beautiful shallow depth of field and low light capabilities that make DSLR video great. Add an STM lens and focus is silent, perfect for the parent who wants excellent video of their child.
2. That live view focus is great and having it on an articulated screen is wonderful.  lift it up, lower it, face it toward you for talking head videos - it just works very well.
3. So i just went on and on about the wonderful live view focusing, couple that with the articulated screen and the fact that the articulated screen is an excellent touchscreen and the 70D is FUN to use - nothing feels like a chore. Touch to focus is useful and if you are doing video work, being able to touch softly to make changes is appreciated and flip the screen around if you are recording yourself for talking head videos like the ones on my Youtube Channel and you can still make changes to settings on the camera - though you cannot start and stop video from the touchscreen.
4. Ergonomics and one handed operation - If you don’t want to use the touchscreen the manual controls on the 70D camera are sweet and with just a finger you push button, rotate a wheel and your settings is changed. Nikon is more two handed in those actions with many buttons left of the screen that needs a push.  Not a big difference and some people  prefer the feel of the Nikon.
5. Burst mode and buffer, the burst mode on this camera at 7fps is serious and the buffer is large enough that you can keep shooting at that high speed long enough to capture your moment. D7100 shoots at 6fps and the buffer fills up in just a second. You can enable crop mode on D7100 which gives you better results but still not great especially if you are using those dual card slots - if faster action is your subject matter the 70D offers the burst mode that you need.
6. Wifi built in with greater options for sharing vs D7100 - Built in Wifi gives you some nifty options for downloading images on the go or direct to your computer(buggy software) or uploading to web services - I am frustrated that you are limited to only transferring 1920 x 1080 sized files and you can't start and stop video.

Longer Bottom Line: Both of these cameras have lots to offer and it really depends on your needs that should determine which is a better camera for you. Parents that want an excellent device to photo and video their children - the 70D really feels like the perfect blend of power and usability, especially paired with the 18-135 STM that will give you silent autofocus. Indie film makers I would think the Nikon with gorgeous low light video and uncompressed HDMI would be what you want. Wedding/event videographers - It can go either way, most professionals I know of and talk to don’t use and are not interested in auto focus during video but I know that there is a group out there very interested in this camera and there are the semi-pros that are interested in easy autofocus while filming and the 70D provides that.  That is just a few use cases. . . Want my opinion on which is best for you?  Leave a comment below and make sure you tell me what you will be photographing or taking video of.  And anything else you think would be helpful for me to know.

Canon 70D Review- Complete Thoughts

I heartily recommend this camera- It performs well, provides unbelievable liveview/video autofocus, even with the shallowest depth of field and moves the Canon APS-C sensor forward, performing noticeably better than the 60D and other Canon models using the same sensor.I am not the only one that feels this way -

“Ultimately, this is still the best all-around DSLR in this price segment, pending our test of the Pentax K-3. The video quality is top notch, the still image quality only suffers in extreme low light, and Dual Pixel AF offers a usability advantage that nobody else can match. For a consumer-level shooter or hobbyist that wants a durable, control-laden DSLR that can do video and stills equally well, the 70D is the choice to beat.”

From Reviewed.comDo you have questions you want to see answered about the 70D? Leave a comment belowWhile you wait for my full review- Canon 70D vs D7100 Part ICanon 70D vs D7100 Part IIAll Canon 70D videos - Buffer/SD Card Tests, Low light tests, Wifi Feature and more.Canon 70D Image SamplesCanon 70D Manual in PDF form (stick it in Dropbox so you always have the manual available)Using HDR Mode Canon 70D (Coming soon)  

Canon 70D Video Samples and Feature Tour

Two videos packed full of 70D Goodness.   Not enough for you?  More 70D samples and video. 70D Buffer test and best SD card for the 70D.  Download the Canon 70D PDF Manual. 70D Dual Pixel Focus Demo.  Is the 70D as good as a camcorder at focusing and keeping moving objects in focus?  Remember that camcorders, with their much smaller sensors, produce video with large depth of field and this makes it much easier to keep objects in focus.  The 70D which a large sensor and lenses with wide maximum apertures can produce razor thin depth of field -it looks lovely in video and photos but makes focusing a bit more challenging.  I have been seriously impressed with how well the 70D has done, with lenses as wide as f/1.2, the 85mm f/1.2 L. I have also been impressed with the absence of that focus hunt.  In previous DSLR cameras there is always this 1/2 to full second where the camera grabs focus, goes just beyond and then back to focus.  the 70D in all but the dimmest conditions locks onto focus on the first try.    Here is a good light demo of the 70D in action.Second video is a complete side by side tour of the 70D and 60D - discussing the differences and similarities. In general these two cameras look and feel very similar in the hand with the 70D having a few styling and function differences that move it just slightly more towards the pro end of Canon. The video below is long, 16+ minutes and if you only want to see the product tour you can skip to 8:00 where I start the product tour of the 70D

Canon 70D Manual PDF

As I explained in my unboxing/first look video it is always a good idea to get your hands on the digital version of your manuals and I suggest you stick those into dropbox.Click the image for PDF Goodness-

Canon 70D vs D7100 - Buffer Speed/Write Speed with Common SD Cards

A simple and not completely scientific test - I took each SD card I had lying around - formatted it, stuck it in the camera being tested and held the shutter down for 10 seconds. Counted the number of shots in that ten seconds and wrote it all down on the spreadsheet below. The Canon 70D does get a win in the performance column, interestingly with the fast cards the D7100 comes back on the RAW side but overall the 70D consistently pumps out more shots per ten second period than the D7100. I will add some images of the wave forms so you can get a sense for how it looks over the ten second period.Canon 70D Burst Rate/FPS

Canon 70D Image Samples & High ISO Samples

[gallery ids="3892,3891,3890,3889,3888,3886,3887,3885,3884"] A few more lower light shots[gallery ids="3899,3900,3901"]70D f/5.6 ISO 320 100% crop 18-135 STM Lens

Video of Dual Pixel focusing in action on the 70D

Canon T5i(700D) - Everything you want to know

Picture of a Canon T5i Coming Soon

My Series of how-to Videos using the Canon T5i and T4i

T5i(700D) Information

Amazon Free Accessories - Get a 16GB SD Card and SlingBag with your SL1, or T5i purchase.

• Best SD Card for Canon T5i- SanDisk Extreme 16GB or 32GB (Get 32GB if going on long vacation or shooting lots of video)
• Canon T4i Bundles -  18-55 STM vs 18-135 STM (which is right for you?)
• Canon T5i - First Look
• Canon T5i Touchscreen Demo (coming soon)
• Canon T5i Creative Filters (NEW Feature)
• Canon T5i PDF Manual

The Versus Posts

• Canon T5i(700D) vs 70D (and 60D)
• Canon T5i vs T4i vs T3i
• Canon T5i vs D5200

Other Recent Canon Posts

• Canon Recommended Lenses (by budget)
• Canon's New 40mm f/2.8 STM & How to read MTF Charts
• 18-55 STM vs 18-135 STM Lenses - Which is right for you?
• What does STM mean? Canon 40mm and 18-125 STM Lenses explained

 

Q: Should I buy the T5i to replace my aging camcorder?A: Maybe - Camcorders are still easier to work with, focus faster and you can get a nice 1080P camcorder for less Sony HDRPJ260V High Definition Handycam 8.9 MP Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom, 16 GB Embedded Memory and Built-in Projector  What you don't get with a camcorder is excellent low light capabilities that the T5i offers and the lovely blurred backgrounds you get shooting with the larger sensor at large apertures. Not to mention all the lenses Canon has to offer and of course an excellent camera capable of taking photos, none of the camcorders can take even close to a comparable photo at this time.  You now have the option of the 70D from Canon which does offer camcorder like focusing power with an incredible high quality sensor. More about the Canon 70D.Q: I have a canon T3i, should I upgrade?A: Review the T3i vs T5i post above.  The T5i is a nicer camera but doesn't offer a ton of new features that will make you a better photographer or produce much higher quality photos. The one caveat is the new 18-135 STM lens is excellent and buying the T5i with the 18-135 kit is a good value and one of the first longer range "walk-around" lenses that I can highly recommend.Q: I don't understand the difference between the auto focus during video of the T3i and the T5i- can you explain this simply?A: Most DSLRS have a mirror that bounces the light coming into the camera up to the viewfinder and the big brains of the camera(responsible for focusing), when you go to take a photo the camera focuses(very quickly) and then the mirror flips up(this usually is louder than the actual shutter) and the light hits the sensor and you have a photo.   In live view or while filming (basically the same as live view) the mirror is flipped up and stays up, this blocks the big brains from being part of the focusing and as a result the camera focuses much more slowly as it uses the littler brain connected to the sensor and can only do it when you ask the sensor to focus, it is not capable of continuous AF.  You also have the option of letting the mirror flip down for a second, refocus, and continue filming. This does cut off light to the sensor for a moment and interrupts the video.    Canon has made changes to the sensor, it is now a hybrid CMOS sensor that basically has a bigger brain and is capable of continuously auto focusing while filming without flipping down the mirror or being very slow about it.Q: Is the T5i fast enough for sports photography?A: The T5i is now up to 5.3 FPS - Frames Per Second, Shooting RAW you can only get six shots before the buffer needs to clear.  My direct experience with the T3i was that this buffer really took time to clear, especially if you were shooting RAW.  JPEG gives you almost 22 shots before the buffer is full.  So, you hold the shutter down for one second and you get 6 shots and can't take any more for several seconds.  In the world of sports (except maybe your child) this is not fast enough and the buffer does not clear fast enough.  If you are serious about sports the 60D or 70D is an option or buy  7D - used would be just fine and at $1000 a great deal for a serious camera. Watch my video that details burst mode shooting with the Canon T4i/T5iQ: Is the T5i the best camera in its class?  A: Really hard to answer this one - And you probably need to really define the "class" you are talking about.  The T5i is an excellent camera with lovely features but it isn't really a game changer (I know that this doesn't directly answer the question)  And there are now loads of options.  I am still Canon biased, you are buying into a huge ecosystem - tons of excellent lenses (Canon Recommended Lenses (by budget)), oodles of accessories and quality control plus customer service that is really only matched by Apple.    When I am shooting weddings I am always keeping an eye on the guests and what they shoot with and Canon is still champ in numbers but cameras like the Sony NEX series and Olympus Pen are certainly on the increase.  A strong alternative is the Sony a65 or the Nikon D5200Q: Can I use my old Canon lenses with the T5iA: You can use your old lenses with the t5i, unless they are really old.  If they have the designation EF or EF-S they will work just fine with your T5i.Q: What SD Card should I get if I am going to be shooting videoA: You want the SanDisk Extreme 16GB SDHC Flash Memory Card It is fast, reliable and affordable, you do NOT Need the ones labeled Video, they don't offer anything different and the SanDisk Extreme works perfectly for video and photos.  If you will be shooting LOADS of video with the canon T5i grab the 32GB versionQ: If I am primarily interested in video - is the T5i or the D5200 a better dslr for videoA: The T5i is easier to work with but the D5200 is excellent in lower light and allows clean/uncompressed HDMI out. Two downsides to Nikon D5200 1. can't change aperture during video or even when live view is turned on.  2. Kit lenses on the Nikon stink and you really need to shoot with a better lens.  Primes are great option, so is the SIgma 17-70 C.  My review of the Sigma 17-70C.Q: Earlier Rebels could only film for 12 minutes, What is the movie recording limit on the T4i?A: The limit is now 29min and 59seconds.  With a fully-charged Battery Pack LP-E8, the total movie shooting time approx. 1 hr. 40 min. at room temperature and approx. 1 hr. 20 min. at lower temps. Remember that each 20 minute clip at 1080P is going to be nearly 10GB.  A complete list of recording limits of the T2, T3i, T4i, T5i and D5200.Q: Should I buy a spare battery? and if so third part or canon?A: I would buy a spare, battery life is good -about 500 shots-  but it is always nice to have a spare around and I might even say essential if you plan on shoot lots of video.  Buying the Canon Brand LP-E8 for the T4i (same battery used for t2i and t3i) is safest but there honestly is little chance anything bad will happen from using a 3rd party battery other than it might not last quite as long.  Though in my experience with the Rebel XT 3rd party batteries were just fine.Q: How is the Canon T5i Touchscreen? Do you accidentally press it with your nose?A:  The Canon T5i touchscreen is excellent, this isn't a cheap resistive screen we have seen on other P&S cameras, rather it is a screen very similar to the Apple iPhone and iPad screens we all know and love - it is fast, responsive and for now Canon still offers physical buttons for all the controls so you the touchscreen's use is entirely optional, though I think you will find it a much faster and more intuitive way to change settings. - Video Demo of the Touch Screen. In over a year of use of the T4i/T5i screen I have not once accidentally activated the screen.Q: Will EF Lenses work on the Canon T4i?A:  YES - EF and EF-S lenses work on the Canon T4i. EF-S do NOT work on full frame cameras like the 5D Mark II and III. My list of Canon Recommended lenses.Have a question not answered here? Leave it in the comments on on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Digital.Photo.Recommendations Liking this page will also put you in the running for the future giveaways.  Did you know I just gave away $600 in prizes!  

Canon T5i vs 60D vs 70D

How does the Canon T5i stack up against the 60D and 70D?

Pros of the 60D and 70D bodies

• Top LCD screen and slightly more accessible button layout for quickly adjusting settings
• Bigger slightly more robust body
• Slightly Faster FPS with a little larger buffer, longer burst shooting
• Faster Max shutter speed at 1/80000 of a second
• Pentaprism viewfinder = brighter/larger
• Longer battery life

Additionally the 70D offers (70D Pros)

• A newly designed sensor - 22MP and better low light capabilities.
• Camcorder like auto focus when used with any Canon lens - Silent AF during video if using 18-55 STM or 18-135 STM lens
• WiFI for streaming live view or sharing images to smartphone/tablet
• Micro focus adjustment - pro level feature that lets you align lenses and cameras for maximum sharpness
• Multiple compression levels for H.264 video
• Touchscreen

Canon T5i Pros-Over the 60D

• Continuous Auto focus during video (silent when paired with new STM lenses 40mm or 18-135)
• On board Stereo Mic
• Newer Digic Processor = higher ISO capabilities & in camera HDR
• Touch screen
• Smaller - more easily portable

-Over the 70D

• Smaller - more easily portable
• Cheaper with 18-55 STM or 18-135 STM lens

	70D Pro A newly designed sensor - 22MP and better low light capabilities. Camcorder like auto focus when used with any Canon lens - Silent AF during video if using 18-55 STM or 18-135 STM lens WiFI for streaming live view or sharing images to smartphone/tablet Micro focus adjustment - pro level feature that lets you align lenses and cameras for maximum sharpness Multiple compression levels for H.264 video Touchscreen Top LCD screen and slightly more accessible button layout for quickly adjusting settings Slightly Faster FPS with a little larger buffer, longer burst shooting Faster Max shutter speed at 1/80000 of a second Pentaprism viewfinder = brighter Longer battery life Price- Body Only $1199 | with 18-55 Lens | with 18-135 Lens $1549
	60D Pro Top LCD screen and slightly more accessible button layout for quickly adjusting settings Slightly Faster FPS with a little larger buffer, longer burst shooting Faster Max shutter speed at 1/80000 of a second Pentaprism viewfinder = brighter Longer battery life Price- Body Only $599 | with 18-135 Lens
	T5i Pro Continuous Auto focus during video (silent when paired with new STM lenses 40mm or 18-135) On board Stereo Mic Newer Digic Processor = higher ISO capabilities & in camera HDR Touch screen Smaller - more easily portable Canon T5i (Best Prices on Amazon)

 The 60D has been out for almost four years, announced August 2010. The 70D began shipping at the beginning of September 2013. The T5i and 60D share the same sensor.  At low ISOs the image quality and noise levels should be virtually identical.  The 70D has a new 22MP sensor with improved low light capabilities. All cameras have articulated LCD screens of the same size but the T5i and 70D have touchscreens with the 70D being slightly improved, very little real world difference there.   Looking through the viewfinder the 60D/70D has pentaprism which means a brighter viewfinder, The 60D/70D also uses the larger LP-E6 batteries which effectively doubles battery life, 60D/70D gets nearly 1100 shots per battery, the T5i is around 500.  You also get higher FPS and shutter speed with the 60D/70D, 6fps/7fps and 1/8000 second versus 5.3 with the T5i and a larger buffer on the 60D/70D gives you a few more shots at those higher speeds. 60D/70D is a bit bigger and a bit more rugged with a top LCD screen. The 70D allows for micro focus adjustment - a pro level feature that lets you align lenses and cameras for maximum sharpness. 70D also has new dual pixel focus for camcorder like focus with any canon lens during video.  Silent focus if you use one of the STM lenses. 70D also has Wifi for connecting to live view via smartphone or tablet and accessing images for sharing.Summary - If you are getting paid to shoot you should consider the 60D or 70D, longer battery life, slightly more ergonomic design and button layout plus the top screen LCD allow you to shoot more efficiently.  The 70D is expensive but provides some of the best crop sensor images possible at this time and if you want camcorder like focus with the quality of a DSLR there is no better option than the 70D.  If you are a parent or amateur the smaller size of the T5i is a bonus, best camera is the one you will have with you most of the time and the STM lenses paired with the T5i do a decent job of auto focusing, just not quite as good as the new 70D.