Canon EOS 700D Launched With 18-megapixel Image Sensor
Canon has long been a leader in the digital photography space, and the launch of the Canon EOS 700D (also known as the Rebel T5i in some markets) reinforced its dominance in the entry-level DSLR category. The camera, featuring an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, offers a blend of high image quality, intuitive controls, and robust video capabilities, making it an ideal choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
With improved autofocus performance, a vari-angle touchscreen, and enhanced low-light sensitivity, the Canon EOS 700D brought several refinements over its predecessor, the EOS 650D. Whether you’re looking to capture stunning stills or record high-definition videos, this DSLR provides a solid balance of features at an affordable price.
Key Features of Canon EOS 700D
The Canon EOS 700D comes packed with an impressive set of features that make it a versatile tool for photographers.
18-Megapixel APS-C CMOS Sensor
At the heart of the EOS 700D is an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that delivers sharp, detailed images with excellent color reproduction. The larger sensor size compared to compact cameras allows for better depth of field control, making it perfect for portrait photography.
DIGIC 5 Image Processor
The camera is powered by the DIGIC 5 image processor, which enhances speed, image quality, and overall performance. This processor enables faster image processing, reduced noise, and improved color accuracy, even in challenging lighting conditions.
ISO Range and Low-Light Performance
With an ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable to 25600), the Canon EOS 700D performs well in low-light situations. Users can shoot in dim environments without relying too heavily on artificial lighting, making it a great choice for night photography and indoor shooting.
Design and Build Quality
Body Construction and Ergonomics
The Canon EOS 700D features a solid polycarbonate body with a rubberized grip, providing a comfortable and secure hold. The camera feels well-balanced in hand, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions.
Touchscreen LCD and Vari-Angle Display
One of the standout design elements is the 3-inch Vari-Angle touchscreen LCD with a 1.04 million-dot resolution. This fully articulated screen allows users to shoot from creative angles, making it especially useful for vloggers and content creators. The touchscreen functionality enhances usability, enabling tap-to-focus and intuitive menu navigation.
Performance and Autofocus System
Hybrid CMOS AF System
Canon equipped the EOS 700D with a Hybrid CMOS AF system, improving autofocus speed and accuracy, especially in Live View mode. This is particularly beneficial when shooting videos or capturing fast-moving subjects.
9-Point All-Cross-Type Autofocus
The camera boasts a 9-point all-cross-type autofocus system, ensuring precise focusing across the frame. Cross-type sensors provide enhanced accuracy, particularly when tracking subjects in motion.
Burst Shooting Capabilities
The Canon EOS 700D offers a 5 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting mode, making it a viable option for capturing action shots, sports photography, and dynamic scenes.
Video Capabilities
Full HD 1080p Recording
For videographers, the EOS 700D delivers Full HD (1920×1080) video recording at 30fps, 25fps, and 24fps. This allows for professional-quality video capture with cinematic effects.
Continuous Autofocus in Video Mode
The Movie Servo AF mode enables continuous autofocus during video recording, ensuring that moving subjects remain sharp without manual focus adjustments.
Built-in Microphone and External Mic Support
The stereo microphone offers decent in-camera audio recording, but for higher-quality sound, users can take advantage of the external microphone input, a crucial feature for vloggers and filmmakers.
User Experience and Interface
Intuitive Touchscreen Interface
One of the major highlights of the Canon EOS 700D is its intuitive touchscreen interface. The capacitive 3-inch LCD touchscreen allows for easy navigation, quick settings adjustments, and even tap-to-focus functionality. This feature makes it highly accessible, especially for beginners transitioning from smartphones to a DSLR.
Scene Intelligent Auto Mode
Canon has integrated Scene Intelligent Auto mode, which analyzes the scene and optimizes camera settings accordingly. This is perfect for beginners who may not be comfortable adjusting settings manually but still want well-exposed shots.
Customization and Manual Controls
For advanced users, the EOS 700D offers full manual control, including adjustments for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO settings. Users can also assign frequently used functions to custom buttons, enhancing efficiency while shooting.
Lens Compatibility and Kit Options
EF and EF-S Lens Support
The Canon EOS 700D is compatible with Canon’s EF and EF-S lens lineup, offering a vast selection of lenses to suit different photography styles. From wide-angle and macro to telephoto and portrait lenses, users have endless possibilities to enhance their photography.
Kit Lens Options (18-55mm IS STM)
The EOS 700D is often sold as a kit with an 18-55mm IS STM lens. This STM (Stepping Motor) lens is designed for smooth and silent autofocus, making it ideal for video recording. The optical image stabilization helps in reducing camera shake, resulting in sharper images.
Connectivity and Storage
Memory Card Support
The Canon EOS 700D supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, ensuring ample storage capacity for both images and videos. Using a high-speed SD card (Class 10 or UHS-I) is recommended for smooth video recording and faster file transfers.
Connectivity Options (USB, HDMI, Remote Control Support)
The camera features USB and HDMI ports, allowing users to transfer files easily or connect to external displays for reviewing content. Additionally, remote control support enables wireless shooting, perfect for long-exposure photography or group shots.
Battery Life and Power Efficiency
LP-E8 Battery Performance
The Canon EOS 700D is powered by a LP-E8 rechargeable lithium-ion battery, offering an estimated 440 shots per charge (according to CIPA ratings). While this may be sufficient for casual users, those planning extended shoots should consider carrying extra batteries or a battery grip.
Power-Saving Features
To extend battery life, the camera includes auto power-off settings, an energy-efficient processor, and an optical viewfinder, which conserves battery compared to using Live View mode.
Comparison with Competitors
Canon EOS 700D vs. Canon EOS 650D
- Similarities: Both models feature an 18MP sensor, DIGIC 5 processor, and articulating touchscreen.
- Differences: The EOS 700D has improved AF tracking, a refined exterior design, and a more responsive touchscreen.
Canon EOS 700D vs. Nikon D5200
- Canon EOS 700D: Better touchscreen interface, STM lens compatibility, and beginner-friendly features.
- Nikon D5200: Higher 24MP resolution, superior dynamic range, and better performance in RAW format editing.
Pros and Cons of Canon EOS 700D
Pros:
✔️ Excellent image quality with 18MP sensor
✔️ Intuitive touchscreen with vari-angle display
✔️ Decent low-light performance (ISO up to 12800)
✔️ Hybrid AF system for better focusing in Live View
✔️ Full HD 1080p video recording with continuous autofocus
✔️ Compatible with a wide range of Canon EF and EF-S lenses
Cons:
❌ No built-in Wi-Fi (wireless transfer requires an additional adapter)
❌ Limited battery life compared to competitors
❌ Only 9 AF points, which may feel restrictive for advanced users
Who Should Buy the Canon EOS 700D?
Beginners vs. Enthusiasts
- For beginners: The automatic shooting modes and guided UI make it a great first DSLR.
- For enthusiasts: The manual controls, lens options, and solid performance offer flexibility for creative photography.
Suitable Photography Genres
- Portrait Photography: Great for bokeh effects with the right lens.
- Street & Travel Photography: Compact and versatile for various shooting conditions.
- Vlogging & Content Creation: Vari-angle touchscreen and microphone input enhance video quality.
Price and Availability
Upon its release, the Canon EOS 700D was priced around $850 with the 18-55mm kit lens. The price has dropped over time, making it a budget-friendly DSLR option. Availability varies by region, with many online retailers and local camera stores still offering refurbished or used models.
Final Verdict
The Canon EOS 700D remains a solid choice for beginners and photography enthusiasts, thanks to its high-quality 18MP sensor, intuitive touchscreen interface, and reliable video recording capabilities. While it lacks modern features like built-in Wi-Fi, it compensates with excellent image quality, lens compatibility, and ease of use.
If you’re stepping into the world of DSLRs, the EOS 700D is a great starting point—offering a blend of performance, affordability, and creative flexibility.
FAQs
1. What type of memory card does the Canon EOS 700D support?
The EOS 700D supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Using a high-speed card (Class 10 or UHS-I) is recommended for video recording.
2. Can the Canon EOS 700D shoot in RAW format?
Yes, the Canon EOS 700D supports RAW shooting, allowing photographers to capture uncompressed image data for better post-processing flexibility.
3. Does the Canon EOS 700D have Wi-Fi connectivity?
No, the camera does not have built-in Wi-Fi. However, users can use Canon’s Wi-Fi adapter to transfer files wirelessly.
4. How does the autofocus system perform in low light?
The 9-point cross-type autofocus system performs decently in low light, but it may struggle in extremely dim conditions without an external light source.
5. Is the Canon EOS 700D good for vlogging?
Yes, the vari-angle touchscreen, external mic support, and smooth autofocus make it a great choice for beginner vloggers. However, it lacks 4K recording, which some advanced vloggers may prefer.