A spec-by-spec breakdown of Canon’s popular cameras
We know that Canon released the Canon EOS 70D in 2013 and the EOS 80D with an updated 24 MP Sensor Resolution in 2016. That means that the Canon EOS lineup currently has 62 devices. The Canon EOS lineup is available on Wikipedia, and you can check it out for more information. The Canon brings forth several changes to the Canon EOS 80D, including a DIGIC 6 image processor with 16.000 Max ISO, among others. On the other hand, the updated version of Canon EOS 80D features a new battery (the LP-E6n) and ensures 960 shots for a single charge. However, given each Canon camera differs so much in terms of features and pricing — the Canon EOS 70D starts at $1,199.99 (only body), and the Canon EOS 80D goes for $625.99 (only body) — you may be wondering which model is right for you. To help you make sense of Canon EOS 70D vs Canon EOS 80D, we’ve summarized and compared the specs of each model.
Table of Contents
Price and size
Before we dive into some details of these two models, we need to address one of the essential differences between the two units: price. The 730g Canon EOS 80D starts at $625.99, while the 755g Canon EOS 70D goes for $1,199.99. Both of these Canon EOS cameras come with a touch screen. Along with more capacities, the updated version – of Canon EOS 80D offers an NFC Connection that allows for easy wireless connectivity with compatible devices, which the expensive Canon EOS 70D lacks.
Sensor Improvements and Dynamic Range
Now, let’s talk about the Sensor. In 2016, Canon switched to 24.2MP on the Canon EOS 80D, offering an excellent resolution bump over the 70D’s 20.2MP Sensor. The 24.2MP Sensor is a sweet spot for many photographers, allowing for improvement in some essential things when photographing subjects like high performance and dynamic ranges.
Speaking of updates to the Sensor, every Sensor in the Canon EOS lineup features excellent performance. In practice, a great camera sensor could make capturing more details easier, producing sharper images, preserving accurate colors, and improving performance even in low-light conditions. Therefore, the Canon EOS 80D performs better than the Canon EOS 70D.
There are also some notable differences between the two cameras. Only the Canon EOS 80D features a new AWB mode, which could produce a white priority balance even under tungsten lights (no warm/yellow look). This new feature adds to the fact that it is fit for event/sports/wedding photographers. The Canon EOS 80D also has a built-in intervalometer, allowing time lapses to be shot in a camera without any other accessory.
The Dynamic Range is one of the more notable updates on the Canon EOS 80D. The Canon EOS 80D features a dynamic range of 12.6EV at ISO 100, almost identical to the 12.7EV found in EOS 7D Mark II at the same sensitivity. Canon officials say this expanded dynamic range on 80D allows for retaining information in highlights and shadows. In reality, it offers better performance in highlights and shadow areas. As of the 70D, there is some noise in the shadows and color noise in various textures.
ISO and Video Quality
In terms of ISO performance, Canon has consistently improved its ISO settings. The Canon 80D, while featuring some updates compared to the Canon 70D, does not exhibit distinct differences in this aspect. However, the ISO level of the Canon 80D falls short when compared to the full-frame Canon 60D.
According to Dustinabbott’s blog, the ISO performance of the Canon 70D and the Canon 80D was tested at ISO 12,800. The results showed that the Canon 80D produced a cleaner image with reduced color banding and a finer grain/noise pattern than the Canon 70D. However, the color reproduction was somewhat flat, and you could use Adobe software to correct the color and enhance saturation.
Let’s talk about the video quality. Canon has been an excellent camera brand for video for a long time. Compared to the Canon 70D, the Canon 80D offers impressive video quality, particularly within its class. The clear touchscreen and smooth transitions provide stable and engaging footage in various situations. One standout feature is the new HDR video mode, which helps reduce highlight clipping in high-contrast conditions. While the updates to the Canon 80D are noteworthy, it is essential to note that it is not a professional-grade camera for videos. There are limitations, such as the lack of 4K support and clean HDMI. Capturing videos of your family and daily life, the Canon 80D is a great choice. As for the Canon 70D, it is a good video performer but lacks excellent moire suppression.
Autofocus System
The autofocus system allows photographers to focus on moving subjects and capture excellent images. The Canon 70D has an older autofocus system than the Canon 80D, which features the newly-released system introduced in the Canon 7D’s AF. The Canon 80D incorporates a new autofocus system. It offers double the number of AF points compared to the Canon 70D, and all focus points are proven to be more sensitive cross-type points. This enables photographers to use their preferred photo compositions and sensitive cross-type points to capture excellent images.
The Canon 80D has other significant improvements, such as a tracking system. Some photographers have tested the Phase Detect (viewfinder) AF of the Canon 80D, and there are no photos in the sequence that are missing elements. Although the autofocus system has some upgrades, my favorite feature is the DPAF Tracking. The Canon 70D incorporates this dual-pixel autofocus technology, and many photographers have praised its ability to provide fast and highly functional video servo autofocus in real-world usage. The Canon 80D continues to use an updated version of this technology, which is expected to enhance both video performance and still photo capabilities. If you have the budget and are a YouTuber, the Canon 80D is the best camera you can get.
Reasons to Buy Canon 80D over Canon 70D
| Features | Canon 80D vs Canon 70D | Notes |
| Weight | 730g vs 755g | More lightweight |
| LP-E6n Battery | Yes vs No | slightly more capacity |
| Autofocus system | 45 points vs 19 points | Accurate AF points |
| Phase Detect (viewfinder) AF | Excellent vs Good | Excellent autofocus system |
| DPAF Tracking | Excellent vs Good | Great for video mode |
| Sensor | 24.2MP vs 20.2MP | Nice resolution bump |
| Dynamic Range | Excellent vs Good | Allow for balancing the exposure |
| High ISO Findings | Excellent vs Good | Finest grain and the least amount of color banding |
| Video Centric | Excellent vs Good | Significantly better |
Conclusion
Choosing between the Canon 70D and 80D cameras is relatively straightforward, with significant improvements in the Canon 80D. It’s worth noting that new cameras are released each year, and they continually improve in various aspects. Camera companies often promise better autofocus capabilities, superior sensor performance, impressive dynamic range, and more.
Indeed, the Canon 80D has notable upgrades, such as excellent Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus (DPAF) tracking, expanded dynamic range, and other improvements. While it may lack 4K video recording capabilities, this might not be a significant concern for those using the camera for vlogging and social media content creation. In such cases, the Canon 80D is more than sufficient for their needs.
Best [Category]
Canon EOS 80D
Detailed Overview of Product
Indeed, the Canon 80D showcases notable upgrades such as excellent Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus (DPAF) tracking, expanded dynamic range, and other improvements. While it may lack 4K video recording capabilities, this might not be a significant concern for those primarily using the camera for vlogging and social media content creation. In such cases, the Canon 80D is more than sufficient for their needs.
Pros
Improved 24.2MP sensor
Improved AF system with 45 cross-type AF points
Faster shutter and bigger max buffer
Sensitive center point in low light conditions o
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Cons
No 4K video
Lacks the advanced video specs
Single SD card slot
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