Canon Rebel T3 vs T3i: Which Dslr Reigns Supreme?
Choosing your first DSLR can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Are you torn between two popular choices? Perhaps you’re considering the Canon Rebel T3 versus the T3i, both excellent entry-level cameras.
This comparison aims to break down the key differences to help you decide which camera best suits your needs and budget. We’ll delve into their features, performance, and overall value, so you can make an informed decision and start capturing stunning photos.
The Canon Rebel T3 and T3i share some similarities, but crucial upgrades in the T3i offer significant advantages. Let’s explore what sets these two Rebel models apart, ensuring you pick the perfect camera to kickstart your photography journey and capture memories that will last a lifetime.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Canon Rebel T3 | T3i |
|---|---|---|
| Megapixels | 12.2MP | 18MP |
| LCD Screen | 2.7-inch | 3.0-inch Vari-angle |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 | 100-12800 |
| Continuous Shooting | 3 fps | 3.7 fps |
| Video Resolution | 1280 x 720 (720p) | 1920 x 1080 (1080p) |
| Autofocus Points | 9 | 9 |
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Processor | DIGIC 4 | DIGIC 4 |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 95% | 95% |
| Weight (Body Only) | 495g | 515g |
| Live View | Yes | Yes |
| External Microphone Jack | No | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor Resolution
- Canon Rebel T3: 12.2 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. Delivers decent image quality for everyday photography. However, the resolution is relatively low compared to newer models, limiting cropping flexibility.
- T3i: 18.0 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. Provides significantly higher resolution, allowing for more detailed images and greater cropping capabilities. Offers an advantage for larger prints and more creative freedom.
- Winner: t3i
LCD Screen
- Canon Rebel T3: 2.7-inch LCD screen with 230,000 dots. The screen is adequate for basic image review and menu navigation, but the low resolution can make it difficult to assess image sharpness accurately. The fixed screen also limits viewing angles.
- T3i: 3.0-inch Vari-angle LCD screen with 1,040,000 dots. The articulated screen provides flexible viewing angles for shooting from various positions and the high resolution offers sharper image previews. This is a significant advantage for video recording and live view shooting.
- Winner: t3i
ISO Range
- Canon Rebel T3: Native ISO range of 100-6400. Provides acceptable performance in good lighting conditions. High ISO performance is limited, with noticeable noise at higher settings.
- T3i: Native ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable to 25600). Offers a wider ISO range, allowing for better low-light performance. The expanded range provides more flexibility in challenging lighting situations.
- Winner: t3i
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Canon Rebel T3: 3 frames per second (fps). Suitable for capturing some action, but can quickly fill the buffer when shooting in RAW.
- T3i: 3.7 fps. Provides a slightly faster continuous shooting speed, resulting in the capture of more images in the same timeframe.
- Winner: t3i
Video Recording
- Canon Rebel T3: Records 720p HD video at 25 or 30 fps. Offers basic video capabilities, but the resolution is limited compared to the t3i.
- T3i: Records 1080p Full HD video at 24, 25, or 30 fps. Provides higher quality video recording, making it suitable for more demanding video projects.
- Winner: t3i
Autofocus System
- Canon Rebel T3: 9-point autofocus system. Provides adequate autofocus performance for general photography. The system is less sophisticated than the t3i’s and can struggle in some situations.
- T3i: 9-point autofocus system with all points cross-type. Offers a more accurate and responsive autofocus performance compared to the t3.
- Winner: t3i
External Microphone Jack
- Canon Rebel T3: No external microphone jack. Limits audio recording options.
- T3i: Includes an external microphone jack. Allows for the use of external microphones, improving the audio quality in videos.
- Winner: t3i
Price and Availability
- Canon Rebel T3: Generally, more affordable. Can be found used at lower prices.
- T3i: More expensive than the T3.
- Winner: T3
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Image Quality (Overall) | T3i |
| Video Quality | T3i |
| LCD Screen | T3i |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | T3i |
| Features | T3i |
| Value | T3 |
What They Have in Common:
- Sensor Type: Both cameras utilize a CMOS sensor, which is a standard in DSLR cameras and contributes to image quality and low-light performance.
- Autofocus System: Both the T3 and T3i share the same 9-point autofocus system, ensuring consistent focusing performance in various shooting scenarios.
- Image Processor: Both cameras use the DIGIC 4 image processor, which handles image processing tasks, color accuracy, and noise reduction.
- Live View: Both cameras offer Live View, allowing you to compose shots on the LCD screen before taking the picture, and also enabling video recording.
- Compatibility: Both cameras are compatible with the extensive range of Canon EF and EF-S lenses, giving users a wide variety of lens options.
Canon Rebel T3 Vs T3I Buying Guide
Image Quality and Sensor Performance
Both the Canon Rebel T3 and T3i feature APS-C sensors, but the T3i boasts a higher megapixel count (18MP vs. 12.2MP). This difference translates to slightly more detail in images captured by the T3i, especially when cropping or printing larger sizes. The T3i also offers a wider ISO range, providing better performance in low-light conditions and reducing noise at higher ISO settings. While the T3 is still capable of producing excellent images, the T3i’s sensor gives it a slight edge in overall image quality and flexibility.
Autofocus System and Performance
The T3i has a more advanced autofocus system compared to the T3. It features 9 autofocus points, with all of them being cross-type, which results in faster and more accurate focusing, particularly in challenging lighting situations. The T3, on the other hand, also has 9 autofocus points, but not all of them are cross-type, making its focusing system slightly less responsive. This difference is noticeable when capturing fast-moving subjects or in situations where precise focus is crucial.
Video Recording Capabilities
The Canon T3i offers significantly improved video capabilities over the T3. The T3i can record Full HD 1080p video at 30, 25, and 24 frames per second, while the T3 can only record 720p HD video. The T3i also provides manual control over video settings, giving you greater creative control over your footage. Furthermore, the T3i features a built-in microphone for better audio quality, whereas the T3 doesn’t offer these advanced video features.
LCD Screen and User Interface
The T3i features a vari-angle LCD screen, which is a major advantage for composing shots from different angles. This feature is particularly useful for taking photos or videos from overhead, low to the ground, or when shooting in tight spaces. The T3 has a fixed LCD screen, limiting your shooting options in such scenarios. The T3i also has a slightly higher resolution LCD screen, providing a clearer and more detailed preview of your images and videos. The user interface on the T3i is generally more intuitive.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Both cameras share a similar build quality, being primarily constructed from plastic. However, the T3i feels slightly more refined in hand. The T3i has a more ergonomic grip, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods. Both cameras are lightweight and portable, making them suitable for travel and everyday use. The overall build quality is adequate for both cameras, but the T3i provides a slightly better feel and handling experience.
Price and Value for Money
The Canon Rebel T3 is generally available at a lower price point than the T3i, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the T3i offers significantly more features and better performance for a slightly higher price. The value for money depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are a beginner and prioritize cost, the T3 might be a good starting point. However, if you are willing to spend a bit more, the T3i offers more value with its enhanced features and capabilities.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Canon Rebel T3 If…
- You are on a tight budget and need an affordable entry-level DSLR.
- You primarily take photos and don’t need advanced video features.
- You want a simple and easy-to-use camera without too many complex settings.
- You are a beginner looking to learn the basics of DSLR photography.
Buy T3i If…
- You want a higher resolution sensor for more detailed images and cropping flexibility.
- You plan to shoot videos and need Full HD (1080p) video recording.
- You value the convenience of a vari-angle LCD screen for flexible shooting angles.
- You want to expand your creative control with features like an external microphone jack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in image resolution?
The T3i boasts a 18-megapixel sensor, while the T3 has a 12.2-megapixel sensor. This higher megapixel count in the T3i allows for slightly more detailed images, especially when cropping. Although both cameras produce great images, the difference can be noticeable when printing larger sizes or if you need to crop your images significantly. The T3i’s higher resolution offers more flexibility for post-processing.
Which camera has a better autofocus system?
The T3i has a more advanced autofocus system with all 9 points being cross-type, providing faster and more accurate focusing. The T3 also has 9 autofocus points, but not all are cross-type. The T3i’s autofocus system is particularly beneficial when shooting fast-moving subjects or in challenging lighting conditions, giving it a clear advantage in focusing performance.
Does the T3i have better video capabilities?
Yes, the T3i has significantly improved video capabilities. It records Full HD 1080p video at 30, 25, and 24 fps, offering manual control over settings. The T3 can only record 720p HD. The T3i also features a built-in microphone, enhancing audio quality, and providing more creative options for video recording. This makes the T3i a better choice for videographers.
What kind of LCD screen does each camera have?
The T3i features a vari-angle LCD screen, which can be flipped out and rotated, offering more flexibility in shooting angles. The T3 has a fixed LCD screen. The T3i’s vari-angle screen is especially useful for shooting from high or low angles. The T3i’s LCD has a higher resolution too, providing a clearer image preview.
Are the cameras easy to use?
Both cameras are designed for beginners and are relatively easy to use, but the T3i offers a slightly more intuitive user interface. The menu systems are straightforward, and both cameras include scene modes and automatic settings to help new users get started quickly. The T3i, with its vari-angle screen and additional features, might be slightly more complex at first.
What is the build quality like?
Both cameras share a similar build quality, primarily made of plastic. The T3i feels slightly more refined in hand, with a more ergonomic grip. Both are lightweight and portable, suitable for travel. Although the build quality is adequate, the T3i provides a marginally better handling experience and feels more robust. However, both are durable enough for everyday use.
Which camera is more expensive?
The T3i is generally more expensive than the T3. The T3 is a more budget-friendly option, making it a good choice for beginners. However, the T3i offers significantly more features and better performance for a slightly higher price. Consider your budget and your needs; the T3i offers better value if you can afford it.
Final Verdict
The Canon Rebel T3i surpasses the T3 in several key areas, including image resolution, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and user-friendly features like a vari-angle screen. While the T3 is a solid entry-level camera, the T3i provides a more versatile and feature-rich experience, making it a better choice for those willing to invest a bit more.
Winner: Canon Rebel T3i