Canon 70D vs 77D: A Comprehensive Review of Your Next DSLR Choice

When it comes to choosing between Canon 70D and 77D, the quest for the perfect DSLR is akin to finding the needle in a haystack. Both models are impressive in their own right, but which one should you pick?

Introduction and Overview

The Canon EOS 70D and EOS 77D were unveiled to the public in July 2013 and February 2017, respectively. Both cameras are designed for advanced amateur photographers, professional wildlife and nature photographers, and anyone looking for a sturdy, high-resolution camera. Let's break down the key specifications and features that differentiate these two models.

Physical Characteristics

Body Size and Weight:

The Canon EOS 77D is significantly smaller (99.9 x 61.0 x 35.4mm) and lighter (605g) compared to the 70D (143.1 x 102.1 x 71.7mm, 815g). Additionally, the 70D is dust and moisture resistant, a feature the 77D lacks. Battery life is another aspect to consider, as the 70D can take 920 shots on a single charge, whereas the 77D can manage 600 shots.

Photographic Sensor Comparisons

Sensor Size:

Both cameras use APS-C sensors, but the 77D offers a 24 megapixel sensor, while the 70D provides 20 megapixels. Despite the smaller pixel size in the 77D, the higher megapixel count does offer more flexibility for cropping and large print sizes. A 24-megapixel sensor in the 77D can produce prints up to 30 x 20 inches, while the 70D can manage up to 27.4 x 18.2 inches.

Image Quality:

The 77D features a DIGIC 7 image processor, which enhances dynamic range, color depth, and overall image quality. Its ISO range can be extended to 100-51200, while the 70D's range is ISO 100-25600 (extendable to 100-51200).

Other Key Features

Viewfinder and Screen:

The 70D offers a superior optical viewfinder with a 98% field of view and a 0.59x magnification, compared to the 77D's 95% field of view and 0.51x magnification. The 70D's larger viewfinder makes it easier to see the full image, and its higher magnification enhances viewfinder clarity.

Picture-Saving Features:

The 77D includes an intervalometer for time-lapse photography, which the 70D lacks. The 77D can shoot at a higher frame rate of 1080/60p for video, while the 70D offers 1080/30p. The 77D's higher mechanical shutter speed (1/8000s) also allows for faster freezing of action compared to the 70D's 1/4000s.

Battery Life and Cost:

The 77D is more lightweight and thus more portable, weighing 215g less than the 70D. However, it also has more features, such as NFC and Bluetooth support, for wireless device pairing and sharing. The 77D is also less expensive at launch, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Advantages of the Canon EOS 70D

More complete viewfinder with a larger field of view (98%) Higher mechanical shutter speed (1/8000s vs 1/4000s) Faster burst mode (7 fps vs 6 fps) Longer battery life (920 vs 600 shots) Weather-sealed body for better protection in harsh conditions Earlier release date (2013) allowing more time to refine features

Advantages of the Canon EOS 77D

More megapixels (24 vs 20 MP) Higher image quality (10 points better in overall scoring from DXO Mark) Better color depth (1.1x more dynamic range) More recent processor (DIGIC 7 rather than DIGIC 5) 1080/60p video rate Intervalometer for time-lapse photography Lighter body (215g less) Simpler device pairing and picture sharing through NFC and Bluetooth More affordable at release (25% less expensive) More recent (2017 release) with the latest technological updates

Overall Analysis:

When comparing these two cameras, the Canon EOS 77D scores slightly higher with 12 advantages compared to the 70D's 7 advantages. However, the preference for one camera over the other can vary depending on the user's specific needs and photographic goals. For nature and wildlife photography, the 7D may offer a slight edge due to its weather sealing and specialized features. For those prioritizing portability and affordability, the 77D is the clear winner. Ultimately, the choice comes down to the individual user's priorities and the specific photography they want to pursue.