Canon 70D vs 80D Comparison

The Canon 70D and Canon 80D are two higher-end cameras that are well suited for serious photographers. Each model has some subtle differences and we will clarify what these are. This is so you know exactly what you will be getting, should you choose to purchase either device.

Each camera will be awarded points for succeeding in a range of different categories. At the end, we will tally up the points to determine an overall winner. We will also determine which model is the best value for money.

Megapixels

The number one thing to look for in a camera is its megapixel value. This determines the overall photo quality. The 70D has a 20-megapixel sensor while the 80D has a 24-megapixel sensor. This allows the 80D to churn out significantly higher quality still-shots.

For those that don’t know, one megapixel is one million pixels. Each pixel is a segment of data that acts as a building block for a photo. The more pixels you have the higher the image quality.

The 80D can produce photos with four million more pixels than the 70D.

+1 for the 80D

Burst Mode

If you want to capture a good shot of a moving subject (such as when undertaking wildlife or sports photography) then simply snapping one photo is not enough. You need to take a rapid succession of shots. Then you can browse through them afterwards and select the perfect one.

Both cameras allow you to snap seven images per second when in burst mode. This is a pretty decent speed and can really help you get that perfect shot.

+1 for the 70D

+1 for the 80D

Recording Video

Both cameras can record high definition video, however, there is a difference in the frame rate. The 80D can record 1080p at 60fps while the 70D can only hit 30fps. Unfortunately, neither incorporates the increasingly popular 4K video format.

+1 for the 80D

Auto Focusing

The 80D has a superior auto-focusing system to that of the 70D. It has 45 focus points compared to the 70D’s 19 focus points. This extra 29 points make it easier to clearly hone in on a subject.

+1 for the 80D

Lens

Both cameras have the same lens mount and are compatible with the exact same lenses. There are around 300 of them. This selection includes standard, wide-angle, telephoto, and SuperZoom lenses. If you consider yourself a serious photographer then you are going to have plenty of options, regardless of the camera you choose.

+1 for the 70D

+1 for the 80D

Screen Quality

This is another category where both cameras are equally superior. They each have pretty much the same LCD touch screen, so you can easily operate the camera just like your phone. Their screens also tilt, which means you can shoot form a variety of positions. Lastly, each screen has a resolution of 1.040k dots.

+1 for the 70D

+1 for the 80D

Headphone Jack

The 80D has a headphone jack, which is handy to check the sound quality when recording video. This gives much greater control over what the final audio will sound like. Unfortunately, the 70D misses out on this nifty feature.

+1 for the 80D

Common Strengths

We have already been over the major features of each camera, however, we would like to dig a bit deeper so that you know exactly what you’re getting. Both cameras have some further strengths that you should be aware of.

They both have Face Detection Focus. This feature is pretty self-explanatory and makes it easy to take portrait photos. The camera will automatically detect a human face and place it in the center of the frame.

The two cameras also feature smartphone control. Yes, you can set-up each camera on a tripod and then control it from a distance by using your phone.

As for Battery Life, both are pretty good. The 80D can take up to 960 shots on a single charge while the 70D can take 920 shots. 40 shots isn’t much difference, and overall both devices have powerful batteries.

Lastly, they both have Wi-Fi. This makes it easy to backup and share photos without delay. You can even share them straight away on Twitter or Facebook.

Common Weakness

Neither camera has any form of image stabilization. This would have been handy in case you’re shooting from a moving vehicle. Furthermore, neither have built-in GPS or Bluetooth. Nor do they have dual SSD card slots.

We have already mentioned that neither camera can film in 4K, but you should also be aware that there is no slow motion video option either.

Price

You can get a new 70D, with a tripod and carry case, off Amazon for around $830. For around $999, you can get a bundle deal that includes 3 lenses.

A new 80D, with a tripod and carry case, costs around $1,100 on Amazon. To get a lens kit included, you will need to spend around $1,300.

There are numerous bundle deals on Amazon, so make sure you scrutinize the inventory lists closely. You want to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting. Lenses are the most important accessory, followed by tripods and spare batteries.

Overall, the 70D is cheaper and wins the point.

+1 for the 70D

Overall Score

Check out the total scores below.

Also, check out this side-by-side comparison.

Which One Should You Get?

Both cameras do everything pretty well. The only major differences are that the 80D has a few more megapixels, is better at recording video, and has a superior auto-focusing system. If there were a significant price difference between the two models then we would just recommend going with the 70D. It’s a great camera with 20 megapixels and a touchscreen.

The thing is, each camera is very closely priced. Unless you’re really tight for cash, we recommend handing over an extra couple hundred bucks to get the 80D. You will be getting a high performing camera with 24 megapixels, a pivoting touchscreen, the ability to film 1080p at 60fps, and excellent autofocusing.

We also recommend looking for a bundle deal with a lens kit. Multiple lenses will give you more flexibility when shooting, and getting them included in a bundle is cheaper than buying them separately. You will see quite a few different options on Amazon, and many include a tripod and spare battery.

In conclusion, the Canon 80D is the best overall camera and the best value for money. However, if you’re on a really tight budget then the Canon 70D is still a solid backup choice.