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Canon 80d vs 70d

Why people love Canon DSLRs ? These cameras give you a chance to apply any photographic effects to the images before or after taking shots. What’s more, they deliver intuitive to use, quality pictures, fast-action shots, and so on.

Among the top choices for this brand are canon 80d vs 70d. However, which of the two you should buy?

Canon EOS 70d was launched in July 2013, while Canon EOS 80d was introduced to the market in February 2016, and both cameras were equipped with great APS-C sensor. The Canon 70d remained to be an excellent entry-level DSLR. Then, the 80d was designed to adopt the great features of 70d and bring some improvements to them.

If you are looking for a camera that is high-performing when it comes to low-light photography, video capture, and continuous shooting, then you can consider the 80d. on the other hand, if you wish to upgrade to mid-range DSLR yet you are on a tight budget, then the canon 70d will work best for you.

This canon 70d vs 80d comparison guide delves straight in the two popular canon DSLRs on the market today. It is not all about comparing canon eos 70d vs canon eos 80d to know which one is better for photography. This guide was created to help you choose the right camera for you.

Although the Canon 80d comes with a variety of advanced features, however, this showdown is not yet over. Keep reading this guide to discover the canon 70d vs 80d image quality and unique and shared features along with strengths and weaknesses of both models. Also read Canon Rebel T5i vs. Canon Rebel T5.

The format of this canon 80d vs 70d comparison guide is intended to be informative and straightforward to help both novice and seasoned photographers better understand the differences and similarities of the two cameras. For the first step, below is the side-by-side comparison of the two DSLRs.

Head-to-Head Comparison of Canon 80d vs 70d

Canon 70dCanon 80d
Best forSerious prosumers and amateursSemi-pro and professional mid-range DSLR users
Resolution20.2MP24.2MP
ProcessorDIGIC5+DIGIC6
Custom Functions2326
Sensor SizeAPS-C (22.5 x 15mm)APS-C (22.5 x 15mm)
Maximum ISO1280025600
LCD Dots1,040,0001,040,000
Viewfinder TypeOpticalOptical
Video Resolution720p, 1080p720p, 1080p
Number of Focus Points1945
Viewfinder Coverage98%100%
Battery Life920 shots960 shots
Timelapse RecordingNoYes
Headphone PortNoYes
Color Depth11.613.2
Low-light ISO9261135
Wireless ConnectionYesYes
Articulating ScreenYesYes
External Flash ShoeYesYes
Built-in FlashYesYes
Face Detection FocusYesYes
Continuous Shooting7.0fps7.0fps
Metering63-zone7560p/63-segment
Canon 80d vs. 70d

Canon 80d vs 70d Shared Features

Both the Canon 70d and 80d are designed with dual pixel autofocus, making them a great camera choice for video making. This feature can also help you in getting an exceptionally accurate, swift focus while giving you a perfect time to time track your moving subject.

The two cameras feature an APS-C sensor along with a format factor of 1.6. They are medium-sized cameras that are effective in striking a perfect balance between portability and image quality. They also come with a native of 3:2, sensor width to sensor height.

Meanwhile, the Canon 80d and 70d also share the same sensor size. But, the 70d has lower resolution of 20MP compared with 24MP of the 80d. Many seasoned photographers consider the megapixel value to be among the top considerations when buying a camera. That is because it will help you figure out the overall photo quality of a particular camera. If you do no know, one megapixel is equivalent to one million pixels. Then, each pixel is known to be a segment of data acting as building blocks for a picture. In short, the pixels a camera has, the higher the image quality it would be.

Modern cameras of today are not only excellent in taking still images, but they are also capable of recording movies. Interestingly, the two canon cameras are designed with sensors having high read-out speed to capture moving images. What’s more, they both also have an optical viewfinder, which offers the magnification of 0.59x.

When it comes to articulating screen, the two cameras are equipped with articulated rear screen, and you can turn it to be front-facing. So, if you are a photographer or a vlogger who loves taking selfies, this feature is for you. As for the image data storage, both cameras can write files to SDXS cards and use UHS-I cards to deliver ultra-high-speed data transfer up to 104MBs.

For the burst or continuous shooting capabilities, the canon 80d vs 70 captures imageries at 7fps or seven frames per second. If you wish to capture an excellent shot even your subject is moving, similar to sports photography or wildlife photography, snapping a single photo is never enough. This is where you will require taking a quick succession of shots. Afterward, you can browse these shots and pick which one appeals to you most. Good thing, the two cameras will allow you to snap 7 images per second when you set them in burst mode. In fact, this speed is pretty decent and could help you a lot in getting a perfect shot, whether the subject is moving or not.

Both of them can also capture video at 1080p. On the other hand, they differ when it comes to frame rate. The Canon 70d can record 1080p video at only 30fps, while the 80d can hit 60fps.

As for the lens, the two cameras have similar lens mount that is compatible with the exact same type of lenses. In fact, you can choose from 3000 lenses, including SuperZoom lenses, telephoto, and wide-angle lenses. Whether you choose the 70d over the 80d and vice versa, you have plenty of lens options.

The screen quality is another factor that the canon 70d and 80d are equally superior. Both cameras have an identical LCD touch screen, which means that you can effortlessly operate each model as if you are operating your smartphone. The screen can be also tilted, making it a lot easier for you to shoot from different positions or angles. Additionally, both screens have a resolution of 1.040k dots.

Apart from the shared key features above, the two cameras have something more to be aware of, including they have a feature called Face Detection Focus and a smartphone control. The latter allows you to set up the camera on a tripod. That way, you can control the camera from a distance through your phone. You may also like Nikon D5600 vs D7200.

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When it comes to battery life, the manufacturer done pretty well to the two cameras. On a single charge, the 70d can take up to 920 shots, while the 80d can take 960 shots. The difference of 40 shots is not a major issue because overall, both of them have powerful batteries.

Lastly, the Canon 70d and 80d are Wi-Fi connection enabled. This means that it’s a lot easier for you to share and backup your photos. Not to mention, you can share your desired photos on your social media channels.

Camera Body Comparison

Size and weight are other decision factors when picking the right camera for your photography needs. In this section, you will be more familiar with the two camera’s dimensions.

But first, let’s talk about the body design. The two cameras are designed with virtually identical bodies. Then, both of them were built using quality materials like magnesium alloy and polycarbonate. The only differences are that the layout of the camera buttons and the 80d features a headphone jack. Other than that, both cameras follow the distinct DSLR design of Canon.

For better comparison, you can take a look at the size and weight comparison table of canon 80d vs 70d cameras below:

Canon 70dWidth: 139 mmHeight: 104 mmDepth:79 mmWeight: 755 g
Canon 80dWidth: 139 mmHeight: 105 mmDepth: 79 mmWeight:730 g

If the cameras’ front view area is taken as an aggregate measure of the size, the two cameras are of equal size. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 80d is 3% or 25g slightly lighter than the Canon EOS 70d.

However, keep in mind that the body size and weight are not the sole deciding factor whenever you are comparing cameras with interchangeable bodied. You can also take into account the camera lenses you need to use with these bodies. Considering that both cameras have similar APS-C sized sensors, the necessary lenses for a similar aperture and focal length will be the same in weight and size.

As for the weather sealing, the canon 80d vs 70d are designed with weather sealings in their bodies. This means that the cameras have resistance to dust and water. Then, when it comes to the LCD screen, both cameras have the same diagonal size of 3”.

Why Consider the Canon 80d Over the Canon 70d

By having a DSLR camera on your side is essential, it is possible for you to upgrade your photography experiences. The camera is known to be equipped with an inner mirror, which allows the light coming from the lens to reflect into the optical viewfinder. We strongly suggest you to read more about Canon 80d vs. 70d & Canon 80d vs. Nikon d7500

Unlike the point-and-shoot cameras and smartphone cameras, DSLR cameras are bigger and capable of accommodating a larger sensor inside. Besides, they also come with an autofocus system that delivers superior subject tracking and continuous performance.

In this section, you will discover valuable reasons why it is an excellent idea to consider Canon EOS 80d over the 70d.

In 2016, the Canon 80d was introduced to the market to replace the Canon 70d. It is designed to be a high-performing DSLR combined with a wide array of advanced features. This camera is an excellent option if you are planning to upgrade from an entry-level DSLR canon camera.

Being the successor of EOS 70d, the 80d was built and designed with more advanced autofocus capabilities and better sensors. Since it is equipped with image resolution of 24MP along with improved ISO sensitivity, this means that you can get excellent, crisp, and highly detailed photos.

When it comes to DxOMarks sensor scores, the 80d gained a better overall score of 79, while the 70d got a total score of 68. the DxOMark refers to a benchmark assessing the camera sensors’ image quality scientifically. Besides, it scores the camera sensors for low-light sensitivity (DXO sports), dynamic range (DXO landscape), and color depth (DXO portrait), and an overall score will be presented.

While both cameras share the same crop-frame APS-C sensor, the 80d appears to be slightly updated since it has a resolution of 24M. this means that the camera has a better maximum file size of 6000 x 4000 pixels compared to 70d with 5472 x 3648 pixels. Take note that this boost is an advantage if you are planning to print out your photos in a paper larger than A3 sizes, or you need to crop the images a lot.

Although 70d has a very good DIGIC 5+ sensor, the DIGIC 6 found in the 80d tends to be better. That is because it can make the camera a bit quicker when processing photos after shooting them. Not only that, it can also give you a better rate of burst and continuous shooting.

When it comes to still images, the 80d is the winner in this category. As mentioned above, the 80d produces better image resolution (6000 x 4000 vs 5472 x 3648). This translates that 80d outperforms the canon 70d with regards to ISO and dynamic range. The 70d has an ISO range of 100 to 12800, while 80d has an ISO range of 100 to 6000. Apart from the improved ISO range, 80d also produces only little noise throughout the ISOs. The camera also comes with an ISO invariance feature, which helps it from producing very little noise while you are shooting a well as during the post-production whenever you are adjusting the light settings.

Nonetheless, while 80d and 70d can shoot video at 1080p, the 80d has a much better framerate then 70d. That is because 80d has a video capture capability of 60fps while the 70d has only 30fps. Then, the 70d can only shoot video in a MOV format, while 80d can capture MP4 and MOV formats. Despite having the same Dual Pixel autofocus system that is quite impressive, the 80d outperforms the canon 70d in this category. It’s no surprise because 80d has a more advanced number of autofocus sensors.

The AF points were among the selling advantages of canon 70d when it was introduced in 2013. However, 80d has an improvement in this area. The canon 80d has higher autofocus points of 45-cross type sensors compared to 70d that has only 19-cross type autofocus points. This translates that 80d can provide better performance at refined focusing, giving you a more accurate and sharper results when you are tracking a moving subject.

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Another massive improvement that happened to 80d is the viewfinder. With a 98% field of vision, the 70d has a reasonably impressive. On the other hand, some details of what you are capturing an image will not be visible in the viewfinder. The good news is that 80d solved this problem because it has a viewfinder capture of 100%. So, everything you see in the viewfinder will appear in the final image.

Overall, choose 80d over the 70d if you are interested in mid-range DSLR camera with excellent video capture capabilities. If you already have a little knowledge about photographer and how you can operate it because you can even enhance your craft. Thus, if you are into nature or sports photography, the Canon 80d is a better choice because it has a faster rate in terms of continuous shooting.

Why Consider the Canon 70d Over the 80d

When it comes to image quality, the size of the imaging sensor tends to be the considering factor. Then, a large sensor is equivalent to larger individuals’ pixel which will result in richer color-depth, more comprehensive dynamic range and improved low-light sensitivity when compared to smaller pixel-units in an imaging sensor. Besides, large-sensor cameras allow you to get better opportunities utilize the shallow depth-of-field with the purpose of isolating your subject from its background.

On the other hand, cameras with larger sensors tend to be more costly and lead to heavier and bigger. The good thing is that both canon 70d and 80d have medium-sized sensors, so you can expect for portability without sacrificing the image quality. But then again, there are reasons why you need to consider canon 70d over the 80d.

As mentioned above, 80d was the improved version of 70d with more advanced features, but it does not necessarily mean that 70d has nothing great to offer.

The canon 70d is equipped with 100 to 12800 native sensitivity range, and you can extend it to ISO 100 to 25600. It is also considered as among the most budget-friendly and high-performing DSLRs produced by Canon. Being a well-rounded camera, it is primarily designed for photography enthusiasts. Apart from having full features you can expect from a DSLR camera, it is comfortable to hold and well-built.

Another outstanding feature of canon 70d is it has a dual-pixel CMOS autofocus technology. From this feature, you can expect a dramatic result whenever you are autofocusing when set to movie mode. It is also designed with full articulatable ClearView II LCD touchscreen allows you to easily manage all the features of the camera with ease of use.

Additionally, the Canon 70d has a 7fps shooting speed allowing you to capture good shots of moving subjects. It’s also noteworthy to say that the camera features integrated Wi-Fi, so you can back up or share your photos with ease, from smart devices to other compatible media devices. Besides, you can transfer you desired files to your computer, and that is made possible by the optional EOS software.

The Canon EOS 70d is also known for its remote shooting feature, which is effective in capturing time-lapse photos over a prolonged period of time. With its GPS compatibility, the camera can record location, altitude, and longitude. You do not have to worry about the ISO noise when you are shooting because this camera has multi-shot noise reduction.

Overall, the Canon 70d is the right choice for you if you are into a mid-range DSLR camera that allows you to save money. That is because it is slightly cheaper than the canon 80d. It suits well amateur photographers who wish to upgrade from their compact cameras.

Canon 80d vs 70d Shared Weaknesses

Not all cameras were created perfect, so expect that both 80d and 70d have weaknesses. Although there are only a few of them, it is always a nice to get familiar with the flaws you might encounter once you buy any of them.

Both cameras have no form of image stabilization, which is necessary if you are shooting while you are on a moving vehicle. None of them have sensor-based image stabilization, so are required to purchase a lens with an optical stabilization feature separately. Currently, there are only 107 lenses that are equipped image stabilization intended for Canon EF/EF-S mount.

Neither camera has Bluetooth or even dual SSD card slots. Although both cameras have an impressive video quality at 1080p, neither is capable of shooting at 4K video format.

What the Reviewers Say

The Canon EOS 70d is still loved by many people who are into the mid-range camera. It was made famous due to its excellent performance in all photography areas, combined with critical features like fast burst mode, 1080p video, and dual-pixel autofocus. No doubt, the 70d was the solid foundation of creating is successor Canon EOS 80d.

To help you end up with the decision, it’s good to know what other people who have already tried using canon 70d vs. 80d are saying.

Reviewers’ Take on the Canon 70d

The canon 70d can be a fantastic vlogging camera. If you are not interested in 4k videos, this camera is the right choice for you.

Almost everyone loved the articulating touchscreen of the camera. You are free to place the camera in different angles or positions, be it left or right or high or low. Then, the facial autofocus works effectively.

According to the reviewers, the 70d is lighter than their other cameras. The menus are easy to understand, navigate, or operate. As for the sound, it offers a straightforward result. Since you can use any EF/EF-S lens, you can expect amazing results.

Reviewers’ Take on the Canon 80d

Because the 80d is equipped with a fantastic autofocus, combining it with touchscreen really helped to make things effortless, especially if you are doing some focus pulls. Then, the dual-pixel autofocus really set the gold standard for the video autofocus.

Some online reviewers say that 80d delivers richer colors where it can generate more natural colors. Since it has a headphone port, it allows the user to use auto-monitoring while the recording continues.

Interestingly, the Canon 80d offers easier time-lapse photography than 70d, thanks to its built-in intervalometer for low-frequency shooting. That way, you can achieve sequences like moonrise, sunset, or flower blooming even without buying an external camera trigger. It also supports NFC for easy device pairing and wireless image transfer.

Many reviewers agree that 80d has more dynamic range, which means that you can capture images even in a broader range of dark and light details. It has a better JPG as well.

The Verdict

When talking about a high-end DSLR camera, the Canon 80d vs 70d should be part of your list. While they share a lot of features, each camera model has several features setting it apart compared to others. Their differences will help you figure out which camera model you should buy. Again, this canon 70sd vs 80d comparison guide is not about pointing out which of the two cameras is better in photography but to help you discover the perfect choice for your needs.

For sure, you have your own reason why you want to purchase a mid-range DSLR camera. Regardless of your reason, make sure to continue enjoying photography. We hope that after reading this comparison guide, you are now more familiar with the two cameras, and you already have an idea which one is right for you. So, continue capturing beautiful images and share them with the world!

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Jason Baxter

Jason is a professional photographer based in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Loyd has been doing photography for over 14 years and specializes in fine art landscape photography. Loyd's work has appeared on book covers, CD covers, television, internet galleries, and on the walls of private residences.