After reviewing a number of entry-level cameras, it seems logical to step up a notch and start exploring the so-called mid-range, where we find the Canon EOS 80D. This solid camera has several optimizations compared to the EOS 70D, retains a similar structure to ease the transition, and, as expected, has a wide variety of compatible accessories that expand its functionality.
If you don't have experience with DSLRs or are looking to buy your first unit, you might want to pause here. Many of the functions on the Canon EOS 80D are at the same level as entry-level units, but this camera is often presented as an evolutionary leap, or as a second unit for those who have a few spins in the photography world. Now, if you are indeed willing to leave your current DSLR behind or to multiply your possibilities with a new camera, then you are in the right place.
The Exact Changes, No More or Less
Officially introduced in February 2016, the Canon EOS 80D replaces and improves upon the EOS 70D from 2013. Its specifications include a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor (four more than the 70D), the new DIGIC 6 processor, ISO sensitivity from 100 to 16,000 with a boost of 25,600, a 45-point autofocus system (cross-type AF), a pentamirror viewfinder with 100% coverage, a 3-inch tilting touchscreen with 1.04 million dots, built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, and a burst mode of 7 fps (110 JPGs and 25 RAW images). Surprisingly, video recording goes up to 1080p60. It's clear that Canon made some compromises here, but personally I don't see it as terrible, and a solid 1080p is always preferable to a half-baked 4K. As for pricing, the camera has lost a few euros along the way. The body alone costs 999 euros, while its standard kit with an 18-55 lens ranges between 1,050 and 1,100 euros.
As mentioned above, the structure of the Canon EOS 80D is very similar to the EOS 70D, with slight adjustments in its curves to optimize ergonomics. The mode dial remains in exactly the same place, but the total number of functions has expanded from 10 to 12. The basic zone is divided into Scene Automatic (A+), Flash Off (the crossed-out lightning bolt), Creative Auto (CA), the Special Scenes menu (SCN), and Creative Filters (the overlapping circles). To that we must add the four modes we already explored in our Canon EOS 750D article: Manual (M), Programmed Auto (P), Aperture Priority (Av), and Shutter Priority (Tv). Now, what does the rest mean? Easy: 'B' is the so-called Bulb Mode, a critical ally for shooting at night, fireworks, or basically anything that requires long exposures. C1 and C2 are programmable shooting modes, very convenient wildcards that entry-level cameras often don't offer, and they will save you time once you've found that sweet spot for certain photos. Programming the custom modes requires a visit to the user manual, on page 445.
The wireless connectivity of the Canon EOS 80D received no major changes. We can transfer images between cameras, connect a smartphone with the official app and use it as a remote, save images to the separately purchased Connect Station, enable direct printing on compatible printers (PictBridge), and of course view content. At the same time, the Canon EOS 80D gets along quite well with Eye-Fi cards, but the manual warns of two details: on one hand, it's not possible to use Wi-Fi/NFC and Eye-Fi transfer at the same time, and on the other, battery consumption is a bit more intense with an Eye-Fi card installed. You can get one of those cards for about 35 euros on average, and the Toshiba FlashAir we share here has the EOS 80D on its compatibility list.
Accessories for Canon EOS 80D
One of the best pieces of news any photographer can receive is that their accessories are compatible with a wide range of cameras, and every time we make our selection we think about that. The Canon EOS 80D is no exception, and if you decide to join the family of this Japanese manufacturer, you'll most likely be able to reuse a good number of items. On the other hand, if you only have the camera in your possession and wish to expand your arsenal, everything that follows will serve you.
Cleaning and Protection
Keeping your sensor in optimal condition is essential. Nobody wants their photos ruined by a speck of dust, and although the Canon EOS 80D comes with an automatic cleaning system, there are times when that's not enough. That's when accessories like the Matin manual cleaning kit, which includes two precision brushes (one for general use and one for corners) that don't deteriorate with time, and the Fujin Mark II sensor vacuum, in case you prefer a more 'hands-off' solution, come into play. As for protection and transport, the Canon EOS 80D weighs 730 grams, and you'll need something sturdy like the Gloxy Pro AW backpack for Canon EOS 80D to move it safely.
Product codes: 0712160899,0712884069,GloxyPRO
Tripods and Heads
The ISO sensitivity of the Canon EOS 80D is not exactly bad, and its first drawbacks appear when going beyond ISO 6,400, but that doesn't eliminate the need for proper supports to shoot in low-light environments. It all starts with the Gloxy GX-T6662A Plus tripod, which besides adapting without issues to the EOS 80D, is getting cheaper. The Gloxy Z articulated head solves any complex angle or unusual position for just 40 euros, and if you're looking for panoramas or time-lapse videos, you shouldn't look further than the Sevenoak SK-EBH01 automatic head.
Product codes: 0713869670,0713929355,0712359960
Video Accessories
Granted, the Canon EOS 80D can't record 4K, but its 1080p60 is more than decent, and some users haven't hesitated to use it to upload content to YouTube. If your plan is to become a YouTuber at a reasonable price or to record in a special way that upcoming trip, then it's not a bad idea to accompany the camera with accessories like the Samyang 14mm T3.1 VDSLR lens or a Boya BY-M1 lavalier microphone. However, if your videos are going to have some action with extreme sports or outdoor activities, you should add the Gloxy Movie Maker stabilizer, which essentially transforms the EOS 80D into a camcorder.
Product codes: GloxyMovieMaker,0712550790,0712001261
Flashes
Any photography session is doomed to failure if we don't have enough light, and when we introduce a camera like the Canon EOS 80D into the equation, the purchase of an additional flash is not entirely optional. The best price-performance ratio is still handled by the Gloxy GX-F1000C flash, with eight levels of flash control, and it includes 20 color gels, a case, foot, and diffuser for free. On the other hand, if you want something much more compact and light without sacrificing specifications, all arrows point to the Nissin i60A. It costs twice as much, but it weighs just 300 grams (leaving the entire EOS 80D kit at one kilogram), is very easy to carry, and its performance is impressive.
Product codes: 0713633211,IM713118383
Lens Accessories
Investing in a Canon EOS 80D is a very important decision on its own, and the recommended thing is to go directly into the territory of objectives to unlock its potential, but if you feel you're not ready or the budget doesn't help these days, don't forget there's the shortcut of lenses. The Gloxy megakit enables wide-angle, macro, and telephoto functions for less than 140 euros, while the Gloxy 2-in-1 lens gives us fisheye and macro for 50 euros. If we're going to experiment and make mistakes, let it not cost us so much.
Lenses
Product codes: 0713464497,0713043559
Sooner or later, the standard lens that comes with the Canon EOS 80D will be insufficient. Viewing dedicated lenses as an investment rather than an expense can be complicated for some, but once we cross that threshold, it's definitely worth it. Once again we bet on the magic of "price-performance", and that leaves us at the door of the Firefly and Blackstone lenses made by the folks at Irix. Both Firefly variants are excellent for landscapes and architecture, but if the weather is too harsh, it's best to opt for the reinforced Blackstone model.
Product codes: 0713464495,0713043555
And that's all for today. Remember: If you still don't have a DSLR and want to dip your toes into this wonderful world, you should visit our complete photography section and read our articles dedicated to other cameras, both from Canon and Nikon. However, if what you want is to replace your entry camera with something more complete, the Canon EOS 80D might be the answer. Good luck!
