Sony A77 Vs Canon 70d: Which One Is The Best Dslr Camera For You?
What To Know
- The Sony A77 has a continuous shooting speed of 12 frames per second (fps), while the Canon 70D offers a slightly faster 7 fps.
- The Sony A77 has a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 500 shots per charge, while the Canon 70D has a slightly better battery life of approximately 920 shots per charge.
- However, if you prefer a longer battery life and a slightly faster autofocus system, the Canon 70D might be a more suitable option.
When it comes to choosing a DSLR camera, two popular options that often come to mind are the Sony A77 and the Canon 70D. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, making them suitable for a wide range of photographers, from enthusiasts to professionals. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Sony A77 and Canon 70D, helping you make an informed decision about which camera best suits your needs.
Image Quality: Resolution and Sensor Size
The Sony A77 boasts a 24.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Canon 70D features a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. While both cameras offer excellent image quality, the A77 has a slight edge in terms of resolution, allowing you to capture more detail in your shots. However, the difference in resolution is not significant enough to be a deciding factor for most photographers.
Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy
The autofocus system is a crucial aspect of any DSLR camera, especially for capturing fast-moving subjects. The Sony A77 employs a 19-point autofocus system with 11 cross-type sensors, providing fast and accurate focusing even in low-light conditions. On the other hand, the Canon 70D features a 19-point autofocus system with 9 cross-type sensors, which is also capable of delivering quick and precise autofocus. In practice, both cameras perform admirably in terms of autofocus, and the choice between them may depend on personal preference and specific shooting scenarios.
Continuous Shooting Speed: Capturing Action
For photographers who need to capture fast-paced action, the continuous shooting speed is an important consideration. The Sony A77 has a continuous shooting speed of 12 frames per second (fps), while the Canon 70D offers a slightly faster 7 fps. While both cameras can capture moving subjects effectively, the A77’s higher shooting speed may be advantageous for sports or wildlife photography.
Video Recording Capabilities: Full HD and Beyond
Both the Sony A77 and Canon 70D offer full HD (1080p) video recording capabilities, providing aspiring videographers with the opportunity to create high-quality videos. However, the A77 goes a step further by offering 60p video recording, allowing for smoother slow-motion footage. Additionally, the A77 has a built-in stereo microphone, while the 70D requires an external microphone for audio recording.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen: Composition and Playback
The Sony A77 features a traditional optical viewfinder with 100% coverage, providing a clear and accurate representation of the scene being captured. The Canon 70D, on the other hand, has a pentaprism optical viewfinder with 98% coverage, which is still quite good but slightly less immersive than the A77’s viewfinder. In terms of LCD screens, both cameras have 3-inch vari-angle LCD screens with a resolution of 921k dots, allowing for comfortable composition and playback of images and videos.
Battery Life: Power for Extended Shoots
Battery life is a crucial consideration for photographers who plan on extended shooting sessions. The Sony A77 has a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 500 shots per charge, while the Canon 70D has a slightly better battery life of approximately 920 shots per charge. However, it’s important to note that battery life can vary depending on factors such as the frequency of use of the LCD screen and video recording.
Price and Availability: Value for Money
The Sony A77 and Canon 70D were both initially released several years ago, and their prices have fluctuated over time. Currently, both cameras can be found at similar price points, making them accessible to a wide range of photographers. However, it’s worth considering the availability of these cameras, as they may be harder to find new in some regions.
Takeaways: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
Ultimately, the choice between the Sony A77 and Canon 70D depends on your individual needs and preferences as a photographer. If you prioritize resolution and continuous shooting speed, the Sony A77 may be a better fit for you. However, if you prefer a longer battery life and a slightly faster autofocus system, the Canon 70D might be a more suitable option. Both cameras offer excellent image quality and a range of features that make them suitable for a variety of photography genres.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. Which camera has better low-light performance?
Both the Sony A77 and Canon 70D perform well in low-light conditions, thanks to their large APS-C sensors and capable autofocus systems. However, the A77 may have a slight edge due to its higher resolution sensor, which can capture more detail in low-light situations.
2. Can I use the same lenses on both cameras?
No, the Sony A77 uses Sony’s Alpha mount lenses, while the Canon 70D uses Canon’s EF mount lenses. This means that you cannot directly mount lenses from one system to the other without an adapter.
3. Which camera is better for video recording?
Both cameras offer full HD video recording capabilities, but the Sony A77 has a slight advantage with its 60p video recording mode, which allows for smoother slow-motion footage. Additionally, the A77 has a built-in stereo microphone, while the 70D requires an external microphone for audio recording.
