Canon 70d vs Nikon D7100: Which Dslr Reigns Supreme?
Choosing your first DSLR can feel like navigating a minefield. The market is saturated with options, each promising superior image quality and a wealth of features. But two cameras consistently rise to the top of the conversation: the Canon 70D and the Nikon D7100.
Both the Canon 70D and the Nikon D7100 are renowned for their performance, making them excellent choices for both amateur and enthusiast photographers. They offer a significant step up from entry-level cameras, providing more control and creative flexibility.
This in-depth comparison will dissect every aspect of these popular DSLRs. We’ll explore their strengths and weaknesses across various categories, from image quality and autofocus to video capabilities and overall user experience. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which camera, the Canon 70D or the Nikon D7100, is the perfect fit for your photographic needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Canon 70D | Nikon D7100 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Resolution | 20.2MP | 24.1MP |
| Sensor Size | APS-C | APS-C |
| ISO Range | 100-12800 (expandable to 25600) | 100-6400 (expandable to 25600) |
| Autofocus Points | 19 cross-type | 51 (15 cross-type) |
| Continuous Shooting | 7 fps | 6 fps |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30fps | 1080p at 60fps |
| LCD Screen | 3.0-inch Vari-angle touchscreen | 3.2-inch Fixed |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 98% | 100% |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes | No |
| Body Material | Polycarbonate | Magnesium alloy |
| Weight (Body Only) | 755g | 675g |
| Weather Sealing | Limited | Moderate |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor Resolution
- Canon 70d: Features a 20.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor. Offers excellent image quality and good low-light performance, but resolution is slightly lower than the D7100.
- Nikon D7100: Equipped with a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor. Provides higher resolution, allowing for more detailed images and greater cropping flexibility.
- Winner: Nikon
Autofocus System
- Canon 70d: Boasts a 19-point all cross-type AF system. Known for its fast and accurate focusing, particularly in single-point AF mode.
- Nikon D7100: Features a 51-point AF system with 15 cross-type points. Offers a wider and more complex AF coverage, potentially better for tracking moving subjects.
- Winner: Nikon
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Canon 70d: Shoots at 7 frames per second (fps). A good speed for capturing action, but slightly slower than the D7100.
- Nikon D7100: Can shoot at 6 fps. Decent speed but slower than the 70d.
- Winner: Canon
Video Capabilities
- Canon 70d: Offers Full HD 1080p video recording with excellent Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth and accurate focusing during video.
- Nikon D7100: Also records Full HD 1080p video, but lacks the same level of continuous autofocus performance as the 70D.
- Winner: Canon
LCD Screen
- Canon 70d: Has a 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD. The touchscreen provides intuitive control and the vari-angle design offers flexibility.
- Nikon D7100: Features a 3.2-inch fixed LCD screen. Offers a larger screen size but lacks the touch functionality and tilt articulation of the 70D.
- Winner: Canon
ISO Range
- Canon 70d: Native ISO range of 100-12800, expandable to 25600. Offers good low-light performance, but noise can become noticeable at higher ISOs.
- Nikon D7100: Native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 25600. Similar low-light performance, but may show a bit more noise at higher ISO settings compared to the 70D.
- Winner: Tie
Build Quality
- Canon 70d: Constructed with a polycarbonate body. Offers a solid build, but may feel slightly less robust than the D7100.
- Nikon D7100: Features a magnesium alloy top and rear cover. Provides a more durable and weather-sealed build.
- Winner: Nikon
Connectivity
- Canon 70d: Includes built-in Wi-Fi. Allows for easy image transfer and remote control via a smartphone or tablet.
- Nikon D7100: Lacks built-in Wi-Fi. Requires an optional adapter for wireless connectivity.
- Winner: Canon
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Image Quality (Resolution) | Nikon D7100 |
| Autofocus Performance | Canon 70D |
| Video Features | Canon 70D |
| Ergonomics & Build Quality | Nikon D7100 |
| Usability | Canon 70D |
| Viewfinder Coverage | Nikon D7100 |
What They Have in Common:
- Aps-C Sensor: Both cameras feature APS-C sized sensors, offering a good balance between image quality and camera size. This sensor size is a popular choice for enthusiasts.
- Interchangeable Lenses: Both cameras use interchangeable lens systems, providing a wide range of lens options for various shooting scenarios. This flexibility allows photographers to adapt their gear to their specific needs.
- Full Hd Video Recording: Both cameras are capable of recording Full HD video, allowing users to capture high-quality video footage. They provide options for creative video projects.
- Optical Viewfinders: Both cameras have optical viewfinders, providing a clear and direct view of the scene. Optical viewfinders are known for their clarity and minimal lag.
- Raw Image Support: Both cameras support RAW image capture, giving photographers greater control over image editing. This allows for more flexibility in post-processing.
Canon 70D Vs Nikon D7100 Buying Guide
Image Quality and Sensor Performance
The Canon 70D and Nikon D7100 both boast impressive image quality, but they approach it differently. The 70D features a 20.2MP APS-C sensor with Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF, excelling in live view and video autofocus. The D7100, with its 24.1MP sensor, offers slightly more resolution, leading to more detailed images, particularly when cropped. Nikon’s sensor often delivers slightly better dynamic range and low-light performance, making it a strong contender for landscape and portrait photography. The choice depends on your priorities: faster autofocus for video or slightly better image detail.
Autofocus System and Speed
Autofocus is a critical consideration. The Canon 70D’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system provides incredibly fast and accurate autofocus in live view and video modes, a significant advantage for video shooters and those who prefer composing on the LCD screen. The Nikon D7100 employs a robust 51-point autofocus system, offering excellent subject tracking and speed through the viewfinder. It excels in capturing fast-moving subjects. Ultimately, the 70D’s live view autofocus is superior, while the D7100’s viewfinder AF is more powerful.
Video Capabilities
Both cameras offer strong video capabilities, but with distinct strengths. The Canon 70D shines with its smooth and reliable autofocus during video recording, making it easier to maintain focus on moving subjects. Its touchscreen interface simplifies control and focus adjustments. The Nikon D7100 records higher-quality video due to its sensor’s increased resolution and sharper output, albeit without the same level of live view autofocus performance. The D7100 also provides more professional video features. The choice depends on your autofocus needs and video quality requirements.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Ergonomics and build quality are factors that impact the shooting experience. The Canon 70D features a comfortable grip and a user-friendly interface. The vari-angle touchscreen LCD is particularly useful. The Nikon D7100, built with a robust magnesium alloy body, feels more durable. Its button layout is efficient. The D7100 offers a slightly more professional feel. Consider how the camera fits in your hand and the importance of durability to your use case.
Lens Selection and Ecosystem
Both Canon and Nikon boast extensive lens ecosystems, offering a wide range of options for various shooting scenarios. Canon’s lens lineup often includes more affordable options, while Nikon’s offers some exceptional professional-grade lenses. Consider which lenses you’ll need for your photography. The availability of specialized lenses and the overall cost of the lens system should inform your decision. Both brands have great options for beginners and professionals alike, but the specific lenses you need might sway your choice.
Price and Value for Money
Price and value are important considerations. The Canon 70D, having been on the market longer, is often found at a slightly lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Nikon D7100, while potentially more expensive, may offer better value for its higher resolution and build quality, especially for landscape and portrait photographers. Evaluate your budget and prioritize features that are most important to you. Consider the used market as well; both cameras provide great value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Canon 70D If…
- You prioritize a user-friendly experience with a touchscreen interface.
- You value fast and accurate autofocus performance for both stills and video.
- You need built-in Wi-Fi for easy image sharing and remote control.
- You prefer a more compact and lighter body.
Buy Nikon D7100 If…
- You need higher resolution images for more detailed shots.
- You require more advanced autofocus capabilities with a greater number of focus points.
- You want a more robust build with weather sealing for challenging environments.
- You need a viewfinder with 100% coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Canon 70D’s user-friendly interface and intuitive controls might give it a slight edge. Its touchscreen LCD further simplifies operation. The Nikon D7100, with its more complex button layout, requires a steeper learning curve, but it offers more advanced features that can be beneficial as your skills progress. Both cameras provide excellent image quality for learning photography.
Does the Canon 70D have better autofocus?
The Canon 70D has a superior autofocus system in live view and video modes, thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. This allows for fast and accurate focusing during video recording and when using the LCD screen. The Nikon D7100’s autofocus system performs better through the viewfinder, with more focus points and better subject tracking, especially for fast-moving subjects. It’s about your preferred shooting method.
Which camera has better image quality?
The Nikon D7100, with its higher-resolution 24.1MP sensor, generally produces slightly sharper images with more detail, particularly when cropped. It also tends to offer better dynamic range and low-light performance. The Canon 70D’s image quality is excellent, but it may not match the D7100’s image detail. Both cameras deliver outstanding image quality for their class.
What are the video capabilities of each camera?
Both cameras offer good video capabilities. The Canon 70D excels with its smooth and reliable autofocus during video recording, thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF. The Nikon D7100, while lacking the same autofocus speed in live view, records higher-quality video with more detail and offers more professional video features. The choice depends on your video priorities: autofocus vs. maximum quality.
Is the Nikon D7100 more durable?
Yes, the Nikon D7100 features a more robust build quality, incorporating a magnesium alloy body. This makes it feel more durable and better able to withstand the rigors of frequent use and challenging environments. The Canon 70D is still well-built, but it doesn’t offer the same level of ruggedness. If durability is a major concern, the D7100 is the better choice.
Which camera offers a better lens selection?
Both Canon and Nikon have extensive lens ecosystems, providing a wide array of options for various shooting styles. Canon’s lens lineup may offer more affordable options, while Nikon’s boasts some exceptional professional-grade lenses. Ultimately, the best lens selection depends on your specific photographic needs and the types of lenses you plan to use. Both are very strong.
Which camera is cheaper?
Generally, the Canon 70D tends to be found at a slightly lower price point, especially on the used market, making it more budget-friendly. The Nikon D7100, being a bit older, may still command a slightly higher price. However, prices fluctuate depending on the condition and availability. Always compare prices before making your final decision.
Final Verdict
The Canon 70D excels with its superior live view and video autofocus, making it ideal for video recording and photographers who prefer composing on the LCD screen. The Nikon D7100, however, offers slightly better image detail, a more robust build, and a more comprehensive autofocus system through the viewfinder. The choice hinges on your specific needs, prioritizing either autofocus speed and ease of use (70D) or image detail and build quality (D7100).
Winner: Nikon D7100