Our photographic adventure continues, and once again we focus on models that the market insists on discontinuing or making disappear, but that could become very interesting alternatives for the user, provided they have the right price. The Canon EOS 700D fits that position. Its announcement dates back to 2013, and in the past we have studied its direct successors, but the world of deals is inexhaustible, and we can already find reconditioned units at a not-so-crazy cost.
One of our main goals here at NeoTeo is to keep the doors of photography open for as many people as possible. Obviously, millions are taking photos with their mobile devices, but through this space we can communicate superior options that will help them grow as photographers, without ignoring the cost-benefit ratio. Photography still carries a certain profile of an "expensive hobby", and it doesn't have to be that way.
One of our favorite tricks is to look back and closely observe cameras that have already been discontinued by their manufacturers, or are in that process. The Canon EOS 700D is one of them. The price of its reconditioned body exceeds 450 euros, and it competes directly with its older sisters used, but the numbers can always become more favorable in the future, and it's not a bad idea to keep it on our radar.
Canon EOS 700D: Efficient, Intuitive, Classic
Originally announced in March 2013, the Canon EOS 700D (also known as Rebel T5i across the pond) features an APS-C CMOS sensor with 18 effective megapixels, backed by the fifth version of the DIGIC image processor. Its ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 12,800 with an upper Boost of 25,600, while the shutter speed ranges from 1/4,000 to 30 seconds. Its main screen is touch-sensitive and articulated, with a resolution of 1.04 million dots. On the viewfinder side we find an optical pentamirror solution with 95 percent coverage.
The autofocus system in the Canon EOS 700D takes some elements borrowed from the old EOS 60D, with a grid of nine points based on phase detection. If we limit ourselves to that mode, its performance leaves nothing to be desired, and it will only trip up in situations of very poor contrast. The story changes a bit when we switch to live view and the hybrid mode kicks in. While it doesn't make too many mistakes, it has been judged a much slower resource compared to the viewfinder/phase detection combo. Different firmware updates certainly improved its behavior, but we are looking at a natural limit on this camera.
And what about action? The Canon EOS 700D offers a very consistent burst at 5 FPS, across all its modes. The maximum buffer reported is 22 images for JPEG and 6 for RAW, but depending on the card used, the values can be lower. In other words, if we focus on JPEG, the Canon EOS 700D should be enough to capture the youngest of the house playing soccer, or a pet doing its thing.
The interface of the Canon EOS 700D suggests general control with the right hand, leaving the left free to squeeze the most out of its touchscreen. It is a classic and quite polished design, essentially a direct copy of the EOS 600D, with a plastic construction that doesn't sacrifice solidity. From a technical point of view, the Canon EOS 700D is an entry-level model, however, we don't detect major cuts regarding ports. Although you won't be able to monitor sound with headphones, the microphone input will enable higher quality using a dedicated device.
On top we find a control lever for power and video mode, the main dial next to the shutter, and of course, the mode dial. Its inputs are twelve in total, divided between a basic zone and a creative zone. The basic zone features Intelligent Auto, Flash Off, Creative Auto 'CA', Portraits, Landscapes, Close-ups, Sports, and Special Scene Mode 'SCN'. The creative zone contains Programmed Auto 'P', Shutter Priority 'Tv', Aperture Priority 'Av', and Manual 'M'. The rest of the details are in the manual, starting on page 20.
Being a 2013 camera, 4K support is noticeably absent on the Canon EOS 700D. Its maximum recording mode reaches 1080p30, or 720p60 if the plan is to optimize the framerate a bit. The limits in the hybrid autofocus system are felt more strongly in video, so if the scene requires it, we recommend working the focus manually. Beyond that, the quality is quite good for a camera that doesn't have video as a priority.
Accessories for Canon EOS 700D
I'm the first to admit it: the Canon EOS 700D reconditioned for 480 euros faces tough competition when the EOS 750D is cheaper used, but it all depends on the general condition. While the 750D is "more camera" when comparing specs, it would be useless if it's very beaten up. Regardless of the path you choose, one thing is certain: the cost of accessories is unbeatable. With a very reasonable investment, both Canons will be ready to put up a fight for years.
Batteries and Power
With an average of 440 shots per full charge, the Canon EOS 700D sits a couple of steps below, but it's not the end of the world. Anyone wishing to solve the energy equation of this reflex should add to their setup a Gloxy kit composed of the GX-E8 grip and two compatible LP-E8 batteries. And when it comes to recharging, nothing better than a Gloxy 2-in-1 charger for home and car. For less than 25 euros, it would be crazy to let it pass. The kit's reference is "KitGX-E8,VDTS-4604-CH-VDTS-44".
Tripods and Supports
Beyond the details about its autofocus and phase detection performance, it's a very good idea to incorporate a tripod for Canon EOS 700D into our accessory pack. Classic option for a classic reflex? Why not? The Gloxy GX-T6662A laughs at changes and new demands with a maximum load of ten kilograms, aluminum alloy design, non-slip legs, and less than 1.2 kilograms of weight. Want a more compact design? Then the Clampod Takeway T2 has the answer. This revised version optimizes its "tripod mode", supports the same 40 kilograms as its predecessor, and weighs just 200 grams.
Backpacks and Bags
The Canon EOS 700D doesn't have weather sealing, and we know what that means. We need to take reasonable care, and use a means of transport up to the circumstances. Fortunately, that's not difficult: The Gloxy Pro AW backpack provides a complete alternative with its padded and modifiable interior, wide straps to move all the accessories of this reflex comfortably, several secondary pockets, and a very useful waterproof cover. Now, if you're looking for something similar with a smaller volume, the Vanguard Discover 22 bag is a great candidate. Camera, two lenses and a flash, with extra space for memory cards, and a water-repelling exterior. For 45 euros or less, both are irresistible.
Memory Cards
We want that burst at maximum, but at the same time, we don't want a hole in our pocket. The keyword is SanDisk. Its SDXC Extreme 64 GB memory with V30 certification is an excellent starting point, but if you find you need to read data at an even higher speed, the SDXC Extreme Pro 128 GB variant reaches a ceiling of 170 MB/s. Economical, and they get the job done. The product codes are "IM713363821,CF571364".
Lenses
Undoubtedly, the easiest entry on this list. The richness of Canon lenses is so vast that sometimes you don't know exactly where to start. Very well, our first recommendation is the Tamron XR Di II VC, a robust 18-200 mm all-rounder that lets you go from wide angle to telephoto with great sharpness and color fidelity. Something more specialized? In that case, it's impossible to go wrong with the Irix Firefly wide angle. Don't be fooled by its plastic construction: it's built like a tank, its optics are state-of-the-art, and if you want to use it on another Canon APS-C or full frame, you can do that without surprises. A bit pricey, yes, but it's among the best. The product codes are "0712710391,0713043559".
And so the checkered flag falls. In summary, I recommend that you follow the evolution of the Canon EOS 700D. Maybe you'll think twice and look for a reconditioned body, but it's not absurd to wait for the second-hand market to yield a better number. If you don't see movement, step up a notch and buy the 750D, which will serve you very well. Good luck!
