When it comes to choosing a camera, photographers often find themselves torn between two or more excellent options. In the case of Canon enthusiasts, the dilemma often lies between the Canon 90D and the 7D Mark II. Both cameras are exceptional in their own right, but which one is better suited for your needs? In this article, we’ll delve into the features, specifications, and performance of each camera to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Let’s start with the physical aspects of both cameras. The Canon 90D and 7D Mark II share a similar design language, with a rugged and weather-sealed magnesium alloy body. However, the 90D is slightly larger and heavier, weighing in at 751 grams compared to the 7D Mark II’s 660 grams. Both cameras feature a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, making it easy to shoot from unusual angles and compose your shots with precision.
One notable difference is the grip design. The 90D has a more pronounced grip, providing a more comfortable hold for those with larger hands. The 7D Mark II’s grip is slightly more compact, making it better suited for photographers with smaller hands.
Weather Sealing
Both cameras boast impressive weather sealing, with the 90D featuring 450 points of weather sealing and the 7D Mark II sporting 397 points. This means that both cameras can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including rain, snow, and dust. However, the 90D’s additional weather sealing points give it a slight edge in this department.
Image Sensor and Autofocus
Now, let’s move on to the heart of the matter – the image sensor and autofocus system.
Image Sensor
The Canon 90D features a 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the 7D Mark II boasts a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. On paper, the 90D’s higher megapixel count seems like a significant advantage. However, the 7D Mark II’s sensor is more than capable of producing exceptional image quality, with a slightly larger pixel size resulting in better low-light performance.
In real-world usage, the 90D’s higher megapixel count translates to more detailed images, especially when cropping or printing large.
Autofocus System
The autofocus system is another area where the 90D takes the lead. It features a 5481-point Dual Pixel AF system, which provides fast and accurate tracking of subjects. The 7D Mark II, on the other hand, uses a 65-point all-cross-type AF system. While the 7D Mark II’s autofocus is still very capable, the 90D’s Dual Pixel AF system offers more points and more advanced tracking capabilities.
Video Capabilities
For videographers and content creators, the Canon 90D is the clear winner when it comes to video capabilities.
4K Resolution
The 90D is capable of shooting 4K resolution at 30fps, with a crop factor of 1.07x. The 7D Mark II, on the other hand, tops out at 1080p at 60fps. While the 7D Mark II’s video capabilities are still respectable, the 90D’s 4K resolution makes it a more attractive option for those who need high-quality video.
Slow-Motion and Timelapse
The 90D also features advanced slow-motion capabilities, with the ability to shoot 1080p at 120fps. Additionally, it offers a built-in timelapse feature, making it easy to create stunning timelapse sequences.
Continuous Shooting and Buffer
When it comes to continuous shooting, the 7D Mark II is the clear winner. It can shoot up to 10fps with AF tracking, making it an excellent choice for wildlife and sports photographers. The 90D, on the other hand, tops out at 11fps, but only in live view mode.
However, the 90D’s buffer is significantly larger, allowing for more shots to be captured before the camera slows down. This makes it better suited for photographers who need to capture multiple frames in quick succession.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery life is an essential consideration for photographers who spend extended periods in the field.
Battery Life
The 90D boasts a battery life of up to 1300 shots, while the 7D Mark II can capture up to 800 shots on a single charge. This makes the 90D a better option for photographers who need to shoot for extended periods without access to a power source.
Storage
Both cameras feature dual SD card slots, allowing photographers to expand their storage capacity or use different cards for different file types.
Price and Value
Lastly, let’s talk about price and value. The Canon 90D is currently priced around $1,200, while the 7D Mark II can be found for around $1,000.
While the 7D Mark II is the more affordable option, the 90D’s advanced features and improved performance make it a better value in the long run.
Conclusion
So, which camera is better – the Canon 90D or the 7D Mark II? The answer ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re a wildlife or sports photographer, the 7D Mark II’s fast continuous shooting and advanced autofocus system make it an excellent choice. However, if you’re a hybrid shooter who needs both exceptional stills and video capabilities, the Canon 90D is the better option.
With its advanced autofocus system, 4K video capabilities, and improved weather sealing, the 90D is the more well-rounded camera. While it may not be the best choice for every photographer, it’s an excellent option for those who need a camera that can keep up with their creative vision.
| Feature | Canon 90D | Canon 7D Mark II |
|---|---|---|
| Image Sensor | 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS | 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS |
| Autofocus System | 5481-point Dual Pixel AF | 65-point all-cross-type AF |
| Video Resolution | 4K at 30fps | 1080p at 60fps |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 11fps in live view mode | Up to 10fps with AF tracking |
| Battery Life | Up to 1300 shots | Up to 800 shots |
By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, you can make an informed decision and choose the camera that best fits your needs.
What are the main differences between the Canon 90D and 7D Mark II?
The Canon 90D and 7D Mark II are both high-end DSLR cameras, but they have distinct differences in terms of sensor type, resolution, and video capabilities. The 90D features a 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the 7D Mark II has a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. The 90D is also capable of recording 4K video at 30fps, whereas the 7D Mark II is limited to 1080p at 60fps.
Another significant difference is the autofocus system. The 90D has a 45-point all-cross-type AF system, whereas the 7D Mark II has a 65-point all-cross-type AF system. Additionally, the 90D has a faster continuous shooting speed, with a maximum of 11fps compared to the 7D Mark II’s 10fps. Overall, the 90D is geared more towards videographers and those who require high-resolution stills, while the 7D Mark II is better suited for sports and wildlife photographers.
Which camera is better for sports and wildlife photography?
The Canon 7D Mark II is generally considered better for sports and wildlife photography due to its faster continuous shooting speed and advanced autofocus system. The camera’s 65-point all-cross-type AF system provides faster and more accurate tracking of moving subjects, making it ideal for capturing fleeting moments in sports and wildlife photography.
Additionally, the 7D Mark II has a faster burst mode, with a maximum of 1090 JPEG images or 31 RAW images in a single burst. This, combined with its rugged weather-sealing and durable construction, makes it a reliable choice for photographers who need to shoot in challenging environments. While the 90D is still a capable camera, its slower burst mode and fewer autofocus points make it less suitable for high-speed photography.
Can the Canon 90D shoot 4K video?
Yes, the Canon 90D is capable of recording 4K video at 30fps, as well as 1080p at 120fps for slow-motion footage. This is a significant advantage over the 7D Mark II, which is limited to 1080p at 60fps. The 90D’s 4K video capabilities make it an excellent choice for videographers who require high-resolution footage for their projects.
In addition to its 4K capabilities, the 90D also features a vari-angle touchscreen LCD and a microphone jack, making it well-suited for vlogging and content creation. The camera’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system provides fast and accurate autofocus during video recording, ensuring that subjects remain sharp and in focus.
What is the battery life of the Canon 90D and 7D Mark II?
The Canon 90D has a battery life of approximately 1300 shots per charge, according to CIPA standards. The 7D Mark II, on the other hand, has a battery life of around 670 shots per charge. This significant difference is likely due to the 90D’s more power-efficient design and improved battery technology.
It’s worth noting that battery life can vary greatly depending on usage patterns and settings. For example, using the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi or GPS can reduce battery life. Additionally, the 90D’s vari-angle touchscreen LCD may consume more power than the 7D Mark II’s fixed LCD screen.
Are the Canon 90D and 7D Mark II weather-sealed?
Yes, both the Canon 90D and 7D Mark II are weather-sealed, but to varying degrees. The 7D Mark II has a more comprehensive weather-sealing system, with seals at 65 points around the camera body. This provides excellent protection against moisture, dust, and other environmental elements.
The 90D, on the other hand, has a more limited weather-sealing system, with seals at 45 points around the camera body. While this still provides a good level of protection, it may not be as robust as the 7D Mark II’s sealing system. However, both cameras are still suitable for use in a variety of weather conditions, including rain and snow.
Which camera has better low-light performance?
The Canon 90D has slightly better low-light performance than the 7D Mark II, thanks to its newer sensor design and improved noise reduction algorithms. The 90D’s native ISO range extends to 25,600, whereas the 7D Mark II’s native ISO range is limited to 16,000.
In practical terms, this means that the 90D is capable of producing cleaner and more detailed images in low-light conditions. However, both cameras are still susceptible to noise and grain at high ISO settings. It’s worth noting that the 7D Mark II’s autofocus system is still highly effective in low light, making it a good choice for photographers who frequently shoot in challenging lighting conditions.
Which camera is the better value for money?
The Canon 90D is generally considered the better value for money, given its more modern feature set and competitive pricing. The 90D offers a higher resolution sensor, 4K video capabilities, and a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, making it an attractive option for photographers who require a versatile camera that can handle a range of tasks.
In contrast, the 7D Mark II, while still a capable camera, is an older model that has been surpassed by newer technology. While it remains a good choice for sports and wildlife photographers, its limited video capabilities and older sensor design make it less desirable for photographers who prioritize video and high-resolution stills.