Canon 80D vs Nikon D7500 - A Complete Comparison

Introduction

Both cameras are DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras that brag superb handling and build. They were introduced to the in February 2016 and April 2017 respectively where they were received with quite the enthusiasm from beginners and mid-level photographers. Today we compare the two cameras to see how they differ from each other and which one of them is the better camera.

Overview – At a Glance

Overview

The Canon 80D is a camera that performs exceptionally well in comparison to other cameras within its range. Its performance can be attributed to its APS-C CMOS sensor, which has an effective maximum resolution of 24.2 megapixels. With a 1.6x crop factor, the 80D captures brilliant JPEG and RAW images with a 14-bit depth. Its dimension and weight are 5.5” x 4.1 x 3.1″ and 730 grams. The EOS 80D is ideal for photographers who have previously used Canon cameras because then they can reuse their accessories, photographers who are price conscious and are limited by their budget as well as individuals who prefer having anti-aliasing in a bid to prevent moire.

The Nikon D7500 is in our opinion one of the most usable DSLR cameras we have come across. Like its counterpart the 80D, it is fitted with an APS-C CMOS sensor that has an effective maximum resolution of 20.9-megapixel. It captures vibrant ad vivid images whose color rendition is just stunning. Powered by an Expeed 5 processor, this camera pleasantly surprised us as we did not expect the performance it delivered. The dimension and weight of the Nikon D7500 are 5.5 x 4.1 x 3.1″ and 640 grams which make it slightly smaller and lighter than the Canon EOS 80D. You should consider the Nikon D7500 if you are a photographer who prefers a wider ISO range, do not want the anti-aliasing filter, frequently needs to capture 4K videos and are not budget conscious.

Canon 80D vs Nikon D7500 – Differences

The year when these two cameras were launched is not the only thing that sets them apart. There are a few other key features and specs that differentiate the Canon 80D and the Nikon D7500. Some of these features include;

The Anti-aliasing filter

Unlike the Nikon D7500, the EOS 80D has an anti-aliasing filter (AAF) which restricts its ability to capture exceptionally detailed images as they tend to become slightly blurred. The significant difference between the images captured by the cameras is rather stark since the Nikon D7500 yields shots that are way sharper.

Image Sensor size

Even though the cameras possess the same APS-C sensor, the size of Canon’s sensor is relatively smaller than that of the Nikon D7500 which is 9% bigger and measures 369 mm².

Video recording capabilities

The Canon EOS 80D, which is the older of the two cameras is incapable of capturing 4K quality videos and is limited to full HD 1080p videos at 60 frames per second. By contrast the Nikon D7500 captures the 4K quality video at 30 frames per second. However, the cameras autofocus systems are quite distinct as the D7500 uses a contrast autofocus system while the 80D uses Canon’s innovative dual pixel CMOS autofocus system which drastically outperforms the other.

Resolution

The maximum resolution on the cameras varies with the Canon 80D possessing a 24.2-megapixel resolution in comparison to the 20.9-megapixel possessed by the D7500. The difference in maximum resolution does not translate similarly to the pixel pitch because the D7500 has a larger pixel pitch outpacing the Canon 80D by 12%.

LCD Screen

Even though both cameras have touchscreen capabilities, the display screens operate differently with the D7500 tilting while that of the 80D swivels. The touchscreen of the 80D which is obviously well articulated therefore offers more flexibility during shooting.

ISO range

Canon 80D vs Nikon D7500 – Similarities

Similarly, as there are differences, there are also a few similarities shared between the DSLR cameras. They include;

Touchscreen display

Even though the displays of the cameras function completely differently from each other, they are both touch enabled, which helps with the maneuverability of the cameras.

Optical viewfinder

The optical viewfinders on the Canon 80D and the Nikon D7500 are both high-quality pentaprism viewfinders that offer 100% coverage for framing scenes. The viewfinder magnification of the cameras is also more or less the same and they have a somewhat equal diopter adjustment.

Lens disposability

Both the 80D and D7500 have copious interchangeable lenses available at their disposable which means photographers have lots of options that they can choose from. Any Canon or third-party EF or EF-S mount lenses can be used with the Canon EOS 80D while the Nikon D7500 is capable of functioning with any AF-S DX and AF-S lenses that are Nikkor or otherwise.

Flash

There is a nifty pop-up flash feature on both the cameras that comes in handy, especially in settings with poor lighting.

Which One Should You Opt for?

For novices, enthusiasts and intermediate photographers, these two cameras make for some pretty strong contenders when deciding which one to opt for. And while the final decision rests with the photographer as they are more in touch with their needs and budget, we would opt for the Nikon D7500.

The reason being that it performs much better and has a debatably better image sensor that offers photographers an improved dynamic range as well as color reproduction that is extremely vivid. Additionally, you can also shoot high-resolution videos with exceptional quality.

But this does not mean that the Canon EOS 80D does a terrible job, no! On the contrary it is a pretty decent device and its dual pixel CMOS autofocus system places it ahead of the pack when shooting HD videos. It is also the more affordable camera of the two.