Canon T3 vs T3i: Which Rebel Dslr Is Right for You?
Choosing your first DSLR can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. If you’re considering a Canon Rebel, you’ve likely stumbled upon the Canon T3 and T3i. Both cameras are popular choices for beginners, but they have key differences that could significantly impact your photography experience.
This comparison delves into the specifics of the Canon T3 vs T3i, helping you determine which camera best suits your needs and budget. We’ll explore their features, performance, and overall value to guide you toward the perfect Rebel for capturing your memories.
Whether you’re a budding photographer or simply looking for a step up from your smartphone, understanding the nuances between the Canon T3 and T3i is crucial. Let’s dive in and find the ideal camera to kickstart your photographic journey!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Canon T3 | T3i |
|---|---|---|
| Megapixels | 12.2MP | 18MP |
| LCD Screen | 2.7″ | 3.0″ Vari-angle |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 | 100-12800 |
| Continuous Shooting | 3 fps | 3.7 fps |
| Video Recording | 720p HD | 1080p Full HD |
| Autofocus Points | 9 | 9 |
| Sensor Type | APS-C CMOS | APS-C CMOS |
| Processor | DIGIC 4 | DIGIC 4 |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 95% | 95% |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (Body Only) | 495g | 515g |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0, Mini-HDMI | USB 2.0, Mini-HDMI |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor Resolution
- Canon T3: Features a 12.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor. This resolution is sufficient for prints up to a reasonable size and offers good image quality in favorable lighting conditions. However, it can struggle in low-light situations compared to higher-resolution sensors.
- T3i: Boasts an 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor, providing significantly more detail and allowing for larger prints or more cropping flexibility. This higher resolution generally leads to sharper images and more versatility.
- Winner: t3i
LCD Screen
- Canon T3: Equipped with a fixed 2.7-inch LCD screen. This screen is adequate for reviewing images and navigating the menu, but it lacks the flexibility and viewing angles of a more advanced display.
- T3i: Features a 3.0-inch vari-angle (articulating) LCD screen. This allows for easier shooting from various angles, including overhead and low-to-the-ground shots, improving composition options.
- Winner: t3i
Video Recording
- Canon T3: Records video at a maximum resolution of 720p (1280 x 720) at 30fps. This is a basic video capability, suitable for casual video recording but lacking the sharpness and detail of higher resolutions.
- T3i: Records video at 1080p Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 30fps and 24fps, offering significantly better video quality with more detail and a more cinematic feel. It also includes manual video controls.
- Winner: t3i
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Canon T3: Offers a continuous shooting speed of approximately 3 frames per second (fps). This is adequate for some action shots, but can be limiting for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- T3i: Also offers a continuous shooting speed of approximately 3 frames per second (fps). This is the same as the T3, suitable for some action, but not a strong point.
- Winner: Tie
ISO Range
- Canon T3: Has a native ISO range of 100-6400. This range allows for decent performance in various lighting conditions, but image quality can degrade noticeably at the higher ISO settings.
- T3i: Offers a native ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable to 25600). The wider ISO range allows for better low-light performance and more flexibility when shooting in challenging conditions.
- Winner: t3i
Autofocus System
- Canon T3: Features a 9-point autofocus system. This is a basic system and can sometimes struggle to accurately focus on moving subjects or in challenging lighting.
- T3i: Also features a 9-point autofocus system, but with the added benefit of a more advanced metering system. This system is slightly more capable and accurate than the T3.
- Winner: t3i
External Microphone Input
- Canon T3: Does not have an external microphone input. This limits the audio quality of videos, relying on the built-in microphone.
- T3i: Includes an external microphone input, allowing for the use of higher-quality microphones and improving the audio quality of videos.
- Winner: t3i
Creative Filters
- Canon T3: Offers basic in-camera creative filters. These are limited, but offer a quick way to apply effects to images.
- T3i: Offers more comprehensive in-camera creative filters, providing more options for artistic effects directly in the camera.
- Winner: t3i
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Image Quality | T3i |
| Video Quality | T3i |
| LCD Screen | T3i |
| Features | T3i |
| Value | T3 |
What They Have in Common:
- Sensor Type: Both cameras utilize an APS-C CMOS sensor, providing a good balance between image quality and camera size.
- Autofocus System: Both cameras share a 9-point autofocus system, offering a reliable performance for general photography.
- Processor: Both cameras use the DIGIC 4 image processor, allowing for decent image processing speed and performance.
- Viewfinder Coverage: Both cameras offer a 95% viewfinder coverage, which is standard for cameras in their class.
- Built-in Flash: Both cameras include a built-in flash, providing on-the-go illumination for various shooting conditions.
Canon T3 vs T3i Buying Guide
Image Quality and Sensor
The Canon T3 and T3i both offer excellent image quality for their price range, but the T3i boasts a significant advantage. The T3 features a 12.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the T3i steps up to an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor. This higher resolution in the T3i allows for more detailed images and greater flexibility when cropping. The T3i also offers improved low-light performance due to its slightly more advanced sensor technology. Both cameras capture images with Canon’s signature color science, but the T3i’s higher resolution sensor provides a clear edge in overall image quality and detail.
Autofocus System
The autofocus systems of the T3 and T3i differ noticeably. The T3 employs a 9-point autofocus system, which is adequate for general photography but can struggle with fast-moving subjects or complex scenes. The T3i, on the other hand, upgrades to a 9-point autofocus system with all points being cross-type. This enhances accuracy and speed, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The T3i’s improved autofocus makes it a better choice for shooting action, sports, or any situation where quick and precise focusing is essential. This is a crucial area of difference.
Video Recording Capabilities
While both cameras offer video recording capabilities, the T3i provides a more advanced and versatile experience. The T3 can record video at 720p resolution, which is suitable for basic video needs. The T3i, however, steps up to 1080p full HD video recording, providing significantly sharper and more detailed footage. The T3i also offers manual controls over video settings, giving users more creative control over their videos. This enhancement allows for professional-looking videos. The T3i’s video capabilities are far superior, making it the better choice for video recording.
LCD Screen and User Interface
The LCD screen and user interface are important aspects of the shooting experience. The T3 features a fixed 2.7-inch LCD screen, which is adequate for viewing images and navigating the menu. The T3i, however, boasts a larger 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD screen. This articulated screen allows for easier shooting from various angles, which is especially useful for video recording and creative compositions. The T3i’s user interface is also slightly more refined, making it easier to navigate settings and access features. The T3i’s screen is a major advantage.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Both cameras share a similar build quality, providing a comfortable grip and relatively lightweight design. The T3i incorporates a few minor improvements in ergonomics. The T3i’s buttons and dials are slightly more responsive, and the overall feel of the camera is a bit more polished. While both cameras are primarily constructed from plastic, they feel sturdy enough for everyday use. The T3i’s slight ergonomic refinements and improved button feel make it a more pleasant camera to handle for extended shooting sessions. The build quality difference is minor.
Price and Value
The Canon T3 is generally available at a lower price point than the T3i, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. However, considering the features and capabilities offered, the T3i provides better value for the money. The T3i’s superior image quality, autofocus system, video recording capabilities, and LCD screen make it a more versatile and future-proof investment. While the T3 may save money upfront, the T3i’s added features justify the slightly higher price for most users. Consider your budget and long-term photographic goals when choosing.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy canon t3 If…
- You’re on a very tight budget and looking for an entry-level DSLR.
- You primarily shoot in good lighting conditions.
- You don’t need Full HD video recording.
- You are a beginner and want a simple-to-use camera.
Buy t3i If…
- You want a higher resolution sensor for more detailed images.
- You want Full HD video recording capabilities.
- You prefer a larger, vari-angle LCD screen for easier composition and viewing.
- You want a camera with a slightly faster continuous shooting speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference in image resolution between the T3 and T3i?
The Canon T3 has a 12.2-megapixel sensor, while the T3i has an 18-megapixel sensor. This higher resolution in the T3i results in sharper, more detailed images and allows for greater flexibility when cropping. The T3i’s sensor provides a significant advantage in overall image quality and detail compared to the T3, especially when printing or viewing images at larger sizes.
Does the T3i offer better video recording capabilities than the T3?
Yes, the T3i offers significantly improved video recording capabilities. The T3 records video at 720p resolution, while the T3i records at 1080p full HD. The T3i also provides manual controls for video settings, enabling greater creative control. This enhanced resolution and control make the T3i a much better choice for serious video recording needs.
Which camera has a better autofocus system?
The T3i has a more advanced autofocus system. Both cameras have 9-point autofocus systems, but the T3i’s system has all cross-type points, which enhances accuracy and speed, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The T3i’s autofocus is noticeably faster and more reliable, making it better for capturing moving subjects.
What kind of LCD screen does each camera have?
The T3 has a fixed 2.7-inch LCD screen, while the T3i features a larger 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD screen. The vari-angle screen on the T3i provides greater flexibility for shooting from different angles, which is especially useful for video recording and creative compositions. The T3i’s screen is a significant upgrade.
How do the ergonomics compare between the T3 and T3i?
The T3i has slightly improved ergonomics. Both cameras share a similar build quality, but the T3i incorporates a few refinements, such as more responsive buttons and dials. The overall feel of the T3i is a bit more polished, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods. These minor improvements contribute to a better shooting experience.
Is the T3i worth the extra cost?
Yes, the T3i is generally worth the extra cost. While the T3 is a more affordable option, the T3i offers superior image quality, a better autofocus system, enhanced video capabilities, and a vari-angle LCD screen. These features make the T3i a more versatile and future-proof investment, providing better value for most users.
Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are user-friendly, but the T3i might be slightly better for beginners due to its more advanced features and guidance system. The T3i’s vari-angle screen can also be beneficial for learning and experimenting with different shooting angles. Ultimately, both are good entry-level cameras, but the T3i offers more room to grow.
Final Verdict
The Canon T3i emerges as the superior camera due to its improved image quality, enhanced autofocus system, superior video recording capabilities, and a versatile vari-angle LCD screen. Although the T3 offers a more budget-friendly option, the T3i provides significantly better value for the money, making it the preferred choice for most photographers seeking a versatile and capable DSLR. The T3i’s advanced features deliver a more rewarding and enjoyable photography experience.
Winner: Canon T3i