Hey there, fellow shutterbugs! Picture us grabbing coffee, chatting about gear like old friends. Today, I’m diving into two fantastic Canon DSLRs: the 80D and the 70D. I’ve spent years shooting with both, and I’m excited to share my take on the Canon 80D vs 70D comparison. Whether you’re upgrading or picking your first serious camera, let’s break down what makes these cameras shine.
Both belong to Canon’s EOS lineup, known for reliability and versatility. The 70D hit the market in 2013, a solid mid-range option, while the 80D, its successor, arrived in 2016 with notable upgrades. Is the newer model worth the jump? Or does the older one still hold up? Let’s explore.
Table of Contents
Canon 80D Vs 70D Comparison
Comparison Table
Here’s a quick snapshot of how these cameras stack up. This table highlights key differences, and I’ll dive deeper into each aspect below.
| Feature | Canon 70D | Canon 80D |
| Sensor Resolution | 20.2 MP APS-C CMOS | 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS |
| Autofocus Points | 19 | 45 |
| ISO Range | 100-12800 (expandable) | 100-12800 (expandable) |
| Continuous Shooting | 7 fps, 65 JPEGs, 16 RAW | 7 fps, 110 JPEGs, 25 RAW |
| Video | 1080p at 30fps | 1080p at 60fps |
| Autofocus in Video | Standard AF | Dual Pixel CMOS AF |
| LCD Screen | 3.0″ Vari-angle Touch | 3.0″ Vari-angle Touch |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 98% | 100% |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth |
| Weight | 755 g | 730 g |
| Battery Life | 920 shots | 960 shots |
Image Quality
Let’s talk sensors first. The 70D sports a 20.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor, while the 80D bumps it up to 24.2 MP. Those extra megapixels make a difference when cropping or printing large images. I took both cameras to a local park for a landscape shoot, and the 80D captured finer details in distant foliage, almost like seeing the scene in higher definition.
In low-light scenarios, the 80D shines brighter. It handles ISO settings up to 1135 with minimal noise, while the 70D starts getting grainy around ISO 926 (Photography Spark). At a friend’s dimly lit wedding reception, the 80D’s images had cleaner shadows, making post-processing a breeze. The 80D also introduces a Fine Detail Picture Style, which boosts sharpness straight out of the camera. It’s subtle but gives photos a polished look, especially for portraits or landscapes.
Another time, I shot a cityscape at dusk with both cameras. The 80D’s images retained more color accuracy and detail in the shadows, which was a lifesaver when editing. The 70D wasn’t bad, but it required more work to get similar results. If you’re into large prints or heavy cropping, the 80D’s sensor is a clear winner.
Autofocus System
Autofocus is where the 80D really flexes its muscles. It boasts 45 cross-type autofocus points, compared to the 70D’s 19. This means better coverage and tracking for moving subjects like athletes or wildlife. I’ve shot soccer games with both, and the 80D locked onto players darting across the field with ease, while the 70D occasionally lagged.
The 80D’s center focus point works down to -3 EV, perfect for low-light scenes like moonlit landscapes (Dustin Abbott). The 70D, at -0.5 EV, struggles in similar conditions. I recall shooting a concert with the 70D, and it hunted for focus in the dim lighting, frustrating me mid-show. The 80D, on the other hand, nailed focus almost instantly, even in near-darkness.
For wildlife photography, I took both cameras to a nature reserve. The 80D tracked birds in flight more reliably, giving me sharper shots. The 70D wasn’t terrible, but I missed a few critical moments due to slower focus. If you shoot fast action or in low light, the 80D’s autofocus is a significant upgrade.
Video Capabilities
Both cameras shoot Full HD 1080p video, but the 80D offers 60fps for smoother slow-motion, while the 70D is capped at 30fps. The 80D’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF is a game-changer, providing smooth, silent autofocus during video recording (PCMag). I shot a vlog with the 80D, and it kept my face sharp even as I moved around, with no distracting lens noise.
The 70D’s video autofocus, using contrast detection, often requires manual adjustments, which can be a hassle. I tried filming a friend’s dance performance with the 70D, and the focus lagged, forcing me to tweak it manually. The 80D also has a headphone jack for audio monitoring, which the 70D lacks. This was a lifesaver when I recorded an interview, ensuring the sound was crisp.
Neither camera offers 4K, which is a drawback compared to newer models, but the 80D’s video quality feels more professional. For vloggers or event videographers, the 80D is the better choice.
Performance and Speed
Both cameras shoot at 7 frames per second, ideal for action photography. However, the 80D’s larger buffer—110 JPEGs or 25 RAW files versus the 70D’s 65 JPEGs or 16 RAW—lets you capture longer bursts (Camera Decision). I photographed a flock of birds with the 80D and got more usable shots before it slowed down, which was crucial for getting that perfect wing position.
The 80D’s Digic 6 processor is faster than the 70D’s Digic 5+, making menu navigation and image processing snappier. Shutter lag is slightly better on the 80D at 60ms versus 65ms on the 70D. During a fast-paced street festival, the 80D’s quick response let me capture fleeting moments, like a street performer’s jump, without delay.
I also noticed the 80D processes images faster when shooting in RAW, which is great for quick reviews in the field. The 70D isn’t sluggish, but the 80D feels more responsive overall.
Design and Ergonomics
Both cameras are built tough with weather sealing, perfect for outdoor adventures. The 80D is slightly lighter at 730g compared to the 70D’s 755g, which I appreciate during long shoots (Versus). The 80D’s larger grip fits my hands better, especially with heavier lenses, making it feel like an extension of my arm.
Both feature 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreens, great for vlogging or shooting from tricky angles. The 80D’s 100% viewfinder coverage is a slight edge over the 70D’s 98%, ensuring what I see is what I get. I once framed a tight shot with the 70D and missed a small detail at the edge, which wouldn’t have happened with the 80D.
The button layout on both is intuitive, but the 80D feels more refined, with a slightly better-placed shutter button. For long days in the field, the 80D’s ergonomics give it a slight edge.
Connectivity
The 80D steps up connectivity with Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth, making photo transfers a breeze. The 70D has Wi-Fi but lacks NFC, so pairing is less seamless. I love the 80D’s NFC—just tap my phone, and it’s connected (Photography Concentrate). On a trip, I shared a sunset shot instantly with my family using the 80D’s Canon Camera Connect app.
The 80D’s headphone jack is a bonus for video shooters, letting me monitor audio in real-time. Both support remote shooting, but the 80D’s app is smoother. For social media-savvy photographers, the 80D’s connectivity is a clear win.
Battery Life
The 80D gets about 960 shots per charge, slightly better than the 70D’s 920. It’s not a huge gap, but those extra shots can be critical on long shoots. Both use the LP-E6 battery, so my spares work with either. I’ve never run out of power mid-shoot, but the 80D gives me a bit more peace of mind.
During a day-long hike, I shot landscapes with both cameras. The 80D lasted through the entire trip, while the 70D needed a battery swap near the end. It’s a small difference, but it matters when you’re far from a charger.
Real-World Usage
In my daily work, I use these cameras differently. For portraits, the 80D’s higher resolution and autofocus capture finer details, like the texture of skin or the sparkle in eyes. I shot a family session with the 80D, and the images were sharp enough for large prints without heavy editing.
For street photography, the 70D’s slightly smaller size makes it easier to carry around all day. I wandered through a bustling market with it, snapping candid shots without drawing attention. The 70D’s performance was solid, though the autofocus occasionally missed fast-moving subjects.
When traveling, the 80D’s connectivity is a lifesaver. I shared photos from a mountain hike directly to my phone, posting them online before I even got back to my hotel. For events like weddings, the 80D’s low-light performance and burst mode make it my go-to, ensuring I don’t miss key moments.
I also tested both cameras at a local festival. The 80D’s faster processor and larger buffer let me shoot continuous bursts of dancers without slowing down, while the 70D lagged after a few seconds. For dynamic scenes, the 80D is noticeably better.
Additional Features
The 80D offers a few extra perks worth mentioning. Its anti-flicker mode is great for shooting under artificial lights, reducing banding in photos. I used this at an indoor event with fluorescent lighting, and the 80D’s images were free of annoying stripes, unlike the 70D’s.
The 80D also supports interval shooting for time-lapses, which I’ve used to capture stunning sunsets. The 70D lacks this feature, so you’d need external software or a remote trigger. These small additions make the 80D more versatile for creative projects.
Decision-Making
So, which camera should you choose? It depends on your needs and budget. If you already own a 70D and it’s meeting your needs, there’s no urgent need to upgrade unless you want better autofocus, video performance, or higher resolution. The 70D is still a reliable workhorse for photography and basic video, especially if you’re watching your wallet.
However, if you’re buying new or upgrading, I’d recommend the 80D. Its superior sensor, autofocus, and video capabilities make it a better long-term investment. It’s ideal for enthusiasts or semi-pros who want a versatile tool that can handle everything from landscapes to vlogs. Think of the 70D as a trusty sedan and the 80D as a sporty SUV—both get you there, but the 80D offers more power and features.
If you’re a beginner, the 70D’s simpler feature set might be less intimidating, but the 80D’s advanced capabilities are great for growing into as you develop your skills. For videographers, the 80D’s Dual Pixel AF and 60fps video are hard to beat. Ultimately, both are excellent, but the 80D feels like the future-proof choice.
Final Thoughts
Both the 80D and 70D are stellar DSLRs, but the 80D’s upgrades make it my top pick for most photographers. Its sharper images, faster autofocus, and superior video capabilities make it a versatile tool for enthusiasts and semi-pros. The 70D remains a fantastic budget option, delivering solid performance for casual shooters or beginners.
Your choice comes down to what you value most—advanced features or affordability. Whichever you pick, both cameras will help you capture stunning moments. So, grab your gear, get out there, and start shooting!
FAQ
Can I use 70D lenses on the 80D?
Yes, both use the EF-S mount, so all lenses are fully compatible.
Is the image quality difference noticeable in everyday shooting?
It’s subtle for casual shots, but the 80D excels in low light and large prints, giving you more flexibility.
Which is better for beginners?
Both are user-friendly, but the 80D’s advanced features might feel overwhelming at first. It’s still a great learning tool.
Do they shoot 4K video?
No, both are limited to 1080p. The 80D’s 60fps and Dual Pixel AF make it better for video.
How’s the autofocus in real-world use?
The 80D’s 45-point system is faster and more reliable, especially in low light or for tracking moving subjects.
How do these compare to mirrorless cameras?
DSLRs like these offer optical viewfinders and longer battery life, but mirrorless cameras are smaller and often have better video features. It’s a trade-off based on your preferences.
Can I use third-party lenses?
Yes, both support EF and EF-S lenses from brands like Sigma or Tamron, but check compatibility for autofocus and stabilization.
Are these cameras future-proof?
They’re still relevant, but newer mirrorless models like Canon’s EOS R series offer cutting-edge features for long-term use.
I am a photography enthusiast turned blogger, sharing my passion and expertise on this blog, "CallofPhotography." Growing up surrounded by nature, I developed a love for capturing moments through my lens. After studying Fine Arts with a focus on photography, I launched my blog to share tutorials, gear reviews, and my own photographic work. Through engaging storytelling, I invites readers to join her visual journey, inspiring and empowering photographers of all levels worldwide.