Canon 60d vs 7d: Which Canon Dslr Should You Buy?
Choosing the right DSLR can feel like navigating a minefield, especially when you’re faced with two excellent options from the same brand. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head battle: the Canon 60D vs Canon 7D. Both cameras have earned their place in the hearts of photographers, but they cater to different needs and budgets.
The Canon 60D, a popular choice for enthusiasts, offers a compelling blend of features and affordability. On the other hand, the Canon 7D, known for its robust build and advanced capabilities, appeals to more serious shooters. We’ll explore their key differences, from image quality and performance to ergonomics and features.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to upgrade or a seasoned photographer seeking a new body, this comparison will help you make an informed decision. We’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, ensuring you choose the perfect tool to capture your creative vision. So, let’s get started and see which Canon DSLR reigns supreme in the Canon 60D vs Canon 7D showdown!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | 60D | 7D |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Resolution | 18MP | 18MP |
| ISO Range | 100-12800 | 100-12800 |
| Continuous Shooting | 5.3 fps | 8 fps |
| Autofocus Points | 9 | 19 |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 96% | 100% |
| LCD Screen | 3.0″ Vari-angle | 3.0″ Fixed |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30fps | 1080p at 30fps |
| Body Material | Plastic/Aluminum | Magnesium Alloy |
| Weather Sealing | No | Yes |
| Shutter Durability | 100,000 cycles | 150,000 cycles |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (Body Only) | 675g | 860g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor
- Canon 60d: Features an 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor. Offers good image quality and low-light performance for its class. Can be slightly outperformed by the 7D in certain situations.
- Canon 7d: Also boasts an 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor, but with a more advanced design. Provides slightly better noise performance and dynamic range compared to the 60D, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
- Winner: 7D
Autofocus System
- Canon 60d: Equipped with a 9-point AF system. It’s reliable for general photography, but can struggle with fast-moving subjects. Not as advanced as the system in the 7D.
- Canon 7d: Features a more sophisticated 19-point all cross-type AF system. Provides superior autofocus performance, especially for tracking moving subjects and capturing action shots.
- Winner: 7D
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Canon 60d: Offers a continuous shooting speed of approximately 5.3 frames per second (fps). Suitable for capturing moderate action.
- Canon 7d: Shoots at a faster 8 fps. Makes it significantly better for capturing fast-paced action and sports photography.
- Winner: 7D
Viewfinder
- Canon 60d: Has a pentamirror viewfinder. Provides a decent view, but it’s not as bright or clear as the 7D’s viewfinder.
- Canon 7d: Uses a pentaprism viewfinder, offering a brighter and clearer view of the scene, making it easier to compose shots, especially in bright light.
- Winner: 7D
Build Quality
- Canon 60d: Constructed with a polycarbonate body. Offers a decent build, but feels less robust compared to the 7D.
- Canon 7d: Features a more durable magnesium alloy body, making it more resistant to dust and moisture, and generally more rugged for professional use.
- Winner: 7D
Video Features
- Canon 60d: Can record 1080p video at 24/25/30 fps. Offers a fully articulating LCD screen, which is advantageous for video recording.
- Canon 7d: Also shoots 1080p video, but lacks the fully articulating screen of the 60D. Its video features are generally considered less user-friendly for video-centric workflows.
- Winner: 60D
LCD Screen
- Canon 60d: Features a fully articulating 3-inch LCD screen. This is excellent for shooting video and allows for more flexible shooting angles.
- Canon 7d: Has a fixed 3-inch LCD screen. It’s good for reviewing images, but less versatile than the 60D’s articulating screen.
- Winner: 60D
ISO Range
- Canon 60d: Native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 12800. Performs well at lower ISOs, but noise can become noticeable at higher settings.
- Canon 7d: Native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 12800. Offers slightly better noise performance at higher ISOs due to its more advanced processing.
- Winner: 7D
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Autofocus System | Canon 7D |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | Canon 7D |
| Build Quality | Canon 7D |
| Weather Sealing | Canon 7D |
| LCD Screen | Canon 60D |
| Ergonomics | Canon 7D |
What They Have in Common:
- Sensor Resolution: Both cameras share an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, delivering high-quality images with good detail and dynamic range. This resolution is suitable for various photography styles, from landscapes to portraits.
- Video Recording: Both the 60D and 7D offer Full HD 1080p video recording capabilities at 30fps, allowing users to capture high-quality videos with a wide range of compatible lenses.
- Iso Performance: Both cameras have a standard ISO range of 100-12800, providing similar performance in low-light conditions and allowing photographers to capture images without excessive noise.
- Lens Compatibility: Both cameras utilize the Canon EF and EF-S lens mount, granting users access to a vast and versatile lens selection from Canon and third-party manufacturers.
- Image Processor: Both cameras use Canon’s DIGIC 4 image processor, which ensures efficient image processing and helps deliver accurate colors and reduced noise in photos and videos.
Canon 60D Vs Canon 7D Buying Guide
Image Quality and Sensor Performance
Both the Canon 60D and the 7D utilize APS-C sensors, but the 7D often boasts a slight edge in image quality, particularly in low-light scenarios. The 7D’s sensor, while having the same megapixel count, generally delivers cleaner images at higher ISO settings due to its more advanced processing capabilities. This translates to less noise and better detail preservation when shooting in challenging lighting conditions. The 60D, however, still produces excellent images suitable for various photography genres, offering a very good balance of detail and dynamic range.
Autofocus Performance
The Canon 7D truly shines in autofocus performance. Equipped with a superior 19-point all cross-type AF system, the 7D excels at tracking moving subjects and focusing quickly and accurately. This makes it a better choice for sports, wildlife, and action photography. The 60D features a 9-point AF system, which, while adequate for general photography, is less sophisticated and may struggle to keep up with fast-moving subjects compared to the 7D’s robust system. The 7D’s AF is considerably more reliable in tricky situations.
Build Quality and Durability
The Canon 7D exhibits significantly superior build quality. It features a more rugged and weather-sealed body, making it better suited for use in harsh environments. The 7D is designed to withstand more wear and tear, ideal for professional photographers or those who frequently shoot outdoors. The 60D, while still well-built, utilizes more plastic in its construction and is less resistant to the elements. This difference makes the 7D a more durable and long-lasting camera.
Video Capabilities
Both cameras offer full HD video recording capabilities. However, the Canon 7D provides more advanced video features, such as 1080p at 30fps and a higher frame rate option for slow-motion effects. The 7D also allows for external microphone input and manual audio controls, providing more flexibility for video production. The 60D offers decent video quality, but the 7D’s superior control over video settings positions it as the more capable camera for serious videographers. The 7D also offers better control over the video settings.
Ergonomics and Handling
The 7D is often preferred by professionals due to its more ergonomic design and more comprehensive controls. The 7D features a larger grip and more physical buttons and dials, allowing for quicker access to essential settings without navigating through menus. This design is highly beneficial for photographers who need to make rapid adjustments on the fly. The 60D has a more compact and user-friendly design, appealing to those new to DSLRs, though it sacrifices some of the advanced control options found on the 7D.
Price and Value
The Canon 60D typically comes at a lower price point than the 7D, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. Considering its features and performance, the 60D provides excellent value for its price. The 7D, while more expensive, offers enhanced features and performance, particularly in autofocus and build quality. The 7D’s durability and advanced features may justify the higher cost for serious photographers who require a more robust and capable camera body. Evaluate your budget carefully.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Canon 60D If…
- You are a hobbyist or enthusiast looking for a versatile DSLR with a user-friendly interface.
- You want a camera with a vari-angle LCD screen for flexible shooting angles.
- You prefer a lighter and more compact body.
- You are on a tighter budget.
Buy Canon 7D If…
- You are a professional or serious enthusiast who needs robust build quality and faster performance.
- You often shoot fast-moving subjects and require a higher frame rate and more autofocus points.
- You need weather sealing for shooting in challenging environments.
- You prioritize a more durable camera body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Canon 60D and the 7D?
The Canon 7D generally surpasses the 60D in several key areas. It features a more advanced autofocus system (19 points vs 9), superior build quality with weather sealing, and a more robust design. It excels in tracking moving subjects and offers more professional-grade controls. The 7D also offers slightly improved image quality in low light conditions, and more advanced video features, making it a better choice for serious photographers and videographers.
Which camera is better for sports photography?
The Canon 7D is the clear winner for sports photography. Its advanced 19-point autofocus system, combined with a faster frame rate and more responsive controls, allows you to capture fast-moving action with greater precision and reliability. The 7D’s robust build quality also makes it better suited for the demands of shooting in various environments, allowing for a better user experience for the photographer.
Is the Canon 7D better for video recording?
Yes, the Canon 7D offers several advantages for video recording. The 7D provides more manual control over audio settings, including an external microphone input, allowing for higher-quality audio capture. The 7D also offers more flexible frame rate options, including 1080p at 30fps, and better control over video settings. These make the 7D a more capable camera for serious videographers.
Which camera is more durable?
The Canon 7D is significantly more durable due to its more robust build quality and weather-sealed body. This makes it better suited for use in harsh environments, such as rain, dust, and extreme temperatures. The 60D, while well-built, is less resistant to the elements, making the 7D a more reliable choice for demanding shooting conditions and a longer lifespan.
Does the 60D have any advantages over the 7D?
The Canon 60D offers a more compact and user-friendly design, making it a good choice for beginners. It also typically comes at a lower price point, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious photographers. While the 60D is a good camera, the 7D is the better camera overall.
What is the ISO performance like on both cameras?
Both cameras perform well at lower ISO settings. However, the Canon 7D generally exhibits slightly better performance at higher ISOs, resulting in less noise and better detail preservation in low-light conditions. This advantage becomes more noticeable when shooting in challenging lighting situations, allowing for cleaner images at higher sensitivities.
Which camera is better for a beginner?
The Canon 60D can be a better option for beginners due to its more user-friendly design and simpler controls. While the 7D offers superior performance, its more complex controls and features may be overwhelming for new users. The 60D’s more compact form factor is also easier to handle for those new to DSLR photography.
Final Verdict
The Canon 7D emerges as the superior camera due to its enhanced autofocus system, robust build quality, and advanced features. While the 60D offers excellent image quality and remains a viable option, the 7D’s performance advantages make it the preferred choice for those seeking a more capable and durable DSLR, especially for action and professional use. The 7D delivers a more comprehensive and versatile shooting experience.
Winner: Canon 7D