Unmasking The Canon Eos 200d Vs 400d: Which Entry-level Dslr Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- The Canon EOS 200D (also known as the Rebel SL2 in the Americas) and the Canon EOS 400D (also known as the Rebel XTi in the Americas) are two popular entry-level DSLR cameras that have captured the attention of aspiring photographers seeking their first serious camera.
- The Canon EOS 200D offers a wider ISO range, extending from ISO 100 to 25600 (expandable to 51200) compared to the 400D’s ISO range of ISO 100 to 1600 (expandable to 3200).
- The 400D, on the other hand, relies on a traditional TTL-SA (secondary mirror) phase detection AF system, which is less responsive and accurate in low-light conditions.
The Canon EOS 200D (also known as the Rebel SL2 in the Americas) and the Canon EOS 400D (also known as the Rebel XTi in the Americas) are two popular entry-level DSLR cameras that have captured the attention of aspiring photographers seeking their first serious camera. While both cameras offer a range of impressive features, there are some key differences between the two that may influence your choice. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the specifications, performance, and features of the Canon EOS 200D and 400D, helping you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality: Capturing Every Detail
Resolution and Megapixels:
- Canon EOS 200D: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- Canon EOS 400D: 10.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor
The Canon EOS 200D boasts a significant advantage in terms of resolution, featuring a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor compared to the 400D’s 10.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. This higher resolution allows the 200D to capture images with greater detail and clarity, enabling you to produce larger prints or crop your photos without compromising quality.
ISO Range and Low-Light Performance:
- Canon EOS 200D: ISO 100-25600 (expandable to 51200)
- Canon EOS 400D: ISO 100-1600 (expandable to 3200)
The Canon EOS 200D offers a wider ISO range, extending from ISO 100 to 25600 (expandable to 51200) compared to the 400D’s ISO range of ISO 100 to 1600 (expandable to 3200). This expanded ISO range allows the 200D to perform better in low-light conditions, reducing noise and preserving image quality even when shooting in dimly lit environments.
Autofocus System: Capturing the Action
Number of AF Points:
- Canon EOS 200D: 9 AF points
- Canon EOS 400D: 3 AF points
The Canon EOS 200D features a more advanced autofocus system, boasting 9 AF points compared to the 400D’s 3 AF points. These additional AF points provide greater coverage and accuracy, allowing you to focus on your subject more precisely, even in challenging lighting conditions.
AF Type and Speed:
- Canon EOS 200D: Hybrid CMOS AF III with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Canon EOS 400D: TTL-SA (secondary mirror) phase detection AF
The Canon EOS 200D utilizes a more sophisticated autofocus system, employing Hybrid CMOS AF III with Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. This advanced AF system offers faster and more accurate focusing, particularly in Live View mode and when shooting video. The 400D, on the other hand, relies on a traditional TTL-SA (secondary mirror) phase detection AF system, which is less responsive and accurate in low-light conditions.
Video Recording Capabilities: Capturing Moving Moments
Video Resolution and Frame Rates:
- Canon EOS 200D: Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 60 fps
- Canon EOS 400D: VGA (640 x 480) at 30 fps
The Canon EOS 200D offers significantly better video recording capabilities compared to the 400D. It can capture Full HD (1920 x 1080) video at 60 frames per second (fps), providing smooth and detailed video footage. In contrast, the 400D is limited to VGA (640 x 480) resolution at 30 fps, resulting in lower-quality video.
Autofocus During Video Recording:
- Canon EOS 200D: Continuous AF with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Canon EOS 400D: Manual focus only
The Canon EOS 200D excels in video autofocus, thanks to its Continuous AF with Dual Pixel CMOS AF system. This allows you to maintain focus on your subject smoothly and accurately even while recording video. The 400D, unfortunately, lacks autofocus during video recording, requiring you to manually adjust focus, which can be challenging, especially when shooting moving subjects.
Connectivity and Sharing Options: Staying Connected
Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC:
- Canon EOS 200D: Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC
- Canon EOS 400D: No built-in Wi-Fi or NFC
The Canon EOS 200D comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC (Near Field Communication) capabilities, enabling you to wirelessly transfer images and videos to your smartphone or tablet. You can also remotely control the camera using the Canon Camera Connect app, making it convenient for group photos or shooting from a distance. The 400D lacks built-in Wi-Fi or NFC, limiting your connectivity options.
Battery Life: Powering Your Photography
Battery Capacity and Life:
- Canon EOS 200D: LP-E17 battery with approximately 650 shots per charge
- Canon EOS 400D: BP-511A battery with approximately 380 shots per charge
The Canon EOS 200D features a more efficient battery, the LP-E17, which provides approximately 650 shots per charge compared to the 400D’s BP-511A battery, which offers approximately 380 shots per charge. This extended battery life allows you to shoot for longer periods without worrying about running out of power.
Price and Availability: Making the Investment
Current Market Price:
- Canon EOS 200D: Approximately $550-$600 (body only)
- Canon EOS 400D: Discontinued (used models may be available)
The Canon EOS 200D is still in production and can be purchased new for approximately $550-$600 (body only). The Canon EOS 400D, on the other hand, is discontinued and no longer available new. However, you may be able to find used models at a lower price.
Wrap-Up: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Canon EOS 200D and 400D are both capable DSLR cameras, but the 200D offers several advantages over its predecessor. With its higher resolution sensor, expanded ISO range, improved autofocus system, enhanced video capabilities, built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, and longer battery life, the Canon EOS 200D is the clear winner in this comparison. It is an excellent choice for aspiring photographers seeking a versatile and user-friendly camera to capture their creative vision.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: Which camera is better for low-light photography, the Canon EOS 200D or 400D?
A: The Canon EOS 200D has a wider ISO range and better low-light performance compared to the 400D. It can capture images with less noise and preserve image quality even in dimly lit environments.
Q2: Does the Canon EOS 200D have autofocus during video recording?
A: Yes, the Canon EOS 200D features Continuous AF with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, allowing you to maintain focus on your subject smoothly and accurately while recording video.
Q3: Can I connect the Canon EOS 200D to my smartphone or tablet?
A: Yes, the Canon EOS 200D has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities, enabling you to wirelessly transfer images and videos to your smartphone or tablet. You can also remotely control the camera using the Canon Camera Connect app.
