Canon 400d Vs. Olympus E-500: The Ultimate Showdown For Dslr Enthusiasts
What To Know
- The Canon 400D has a continuous shooting speed of 3 frames per second (fps), while the Olympus E-500 can shoot at a slightly faster 5 fps.
- The Canon 400D has a polycarbonate body with a metal chassis, while the Olympus E-500 has a magnesium alloy body.
- While the 400D has a slightly higher resolution sensor and better low-light performance, the E-500 offers faster continuous shooting speed, a more immersive viewfinder, and better build quality.
The Canon 400D and Olympus E-500 are two iconic digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras that were released in 2006 and 2005, respectively. Both cameras were highly regarded for their image quality, features, and affordability, making them popular choices for amateur and enthusiast photographers. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences and similarities between the Canon 400D and Olympus E-500, helping you make an informed decision if you’re considering purchasing one of these classic DSLRs.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Canon 400D features a 10.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Olympus E-500 boasts a 8-megapixel Four Thirds CMOS sensor. While the 400D offers a slightly higher resolution, both cameras are capable of producing excellent image quality, with sharp details, accurate colors, and good dynamic range. However, the 400D may have a slight edge in low-light conditions due to its larger sensor size, which allows for better noise control.
Lens Compatibility
The Canon 400D is compatible with Canon’s extensive range of EF and EF-S lenses, providing photographers with a wide selection of options to suit various shooting scenarios. The Olympus E-500, on the other hand, uses the Four Thirds lens mount, which offers a smaller but still versatile selection of lenses. Additionally, the E-500 can also use Four Thirds lenses from Panasonic and Leica, expanding its lens compatibility even further.
Autofocus System
The Canon 400D employs a 9-point autofocus system, while the Olympus E-500 features an 11-point autofocus system. Both cameras offer phase-detection autofocus, which is generally faster and more accurate than contrast-detection autofocus. However, the E-500’s additional autofocus points may provide slightly better coverage and accuracy, especially when tracking moving subjects.
Continuous Shooting Speed
The Canon 400D has a continuous shooting speed of 3 frames per second (fps), while the Olympus E-500 can shoot at a slightly faster 5 fps. This difference may be significant for photographers who need to capture fast-moving action or sequences of shots.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The Canon 400D has a pentamirror optical viewfinder with 95% coverage, while the Olympus E-500 features a pentaprism optical viewfinder with 95% coverage. Both viewfinders offer bright and clear views, but the E-500’s pentaprism viewfinder may provide a slightly more immersive and accurate representation of the scene. As for LCD screens, the 400D has a 2.5-inch display with 230,000 dots, while the E-500 has a slightly larger 2.5-inch display with 215,000 dots. Both screens are adequate for composing shots and reviewing images, but they may not be as sharp or detailed as modern DSLR cameras.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
The Canon 400D has a polycarbonate body with a metal chassis, while the Olympus E-500 has a magnesium alloy body. Both cameras feel solid and well-built, but the E-500’s magnesium alloy construction may provide better durability and weather resistance. In terms of ergonomics, the 400D has a slightly larger grip and more pronounced buttons, which may be more comfortable for photographers with larger hands.
Key Points: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Canon 400D and Olympus E-500 are both excellent DSLR cameras that offer great image quality, a range of features, and affordability. While the 400D has a slightly higher resolution sensor and better low-light performance, the E-500 offers faster continuous shooting speed, a more immersive viewfinder, and better build quality. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality and low-light performance, the Canon 400D may be a better choice. If you need faster continuous shooting speed, a more durable body, and a more immersive viewfinder, the Olympus E-500 might be the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which camera has better video capabilities?
A1: Neither the Canon 400D nor the Olympus E-500 offers video recording capabilities.
Q2: Can I use Canon lenses on the Olympus E-500?
A2: No, Canon lenses are not compatible with the Olympus E-500. You would need an adapter to mount Canon lenses on the E-500, but this may affect the lens’s performance and functionality.
Q3: Which camera has better battery life?
A3: The Olympus E-500 generally has better battery life than the Canon 400D. The E-500 uses a larger battery (BLS-1) that provides approximately 500 shots per charge, while the 400D uses a smaller battery (NB-2LH) that provides approximately 400 shots per charge.
