The competition in the mirrorless space is wonderful, and manufacturers are packing more and more features into that format, but the story of the DSLR is far from over. Larger sensors, robust and sealed bodies, versatility, and a wide range of accessory compatibility define the latest models, among which the Canon EOS 90D stands out. As the direct replacement for the 80D, the Japanese giant looks to reinvigorate its mid-end offering while keeping a familiar design, simplifying any transition process.
The compact design and simple controls of some mirrorless models make them very attractive as “first cameras,” but when we look closely at the best-selling units, a DSLR tops the list. Canon definitely hit the mark with the EOS 4000D , maximizing cost-effectiveness, and establishing the idea that carrying a DSLR in your bag is not a luxury or something impossible.
If a photography enthusiast gets their feet wet for the first time with a DSLR, they most likely want to continue with the same format, and among the new mid-end options we find the Canon EOS 90D. Heir to the very popular Canon EOS 80D, this recent camera raises the stakes with a new sensor with higher resolution, impressive battery performance, and the inclusion of 4K video, without sacrificing comfort or familiarity, and most importantly, without breaking the bank.
A Versatile DSLR for Enthusiasts
Announced in August of this year, the Canon EOS 90D features a 32.5-megapixel effective APS-C CMOS sensor, accompanied by the eighth version of the DIGIC image processor. Its ISO sensitivity extends from 100 to 25,600, with a boost above 51,200, while the shutter speed ranges between 1/8,000 and 30 seconds, or 1/16,000 with the electronic system. Its 3-inch LCD screen is touch-sensitive and fully articulated, with a standard resolution of 1.04 million dots. The viewfinder is optical with pentaprism technology, offering 100 percent coverage. If the plan is to squeeze the 90D’s battery to the maximum, the viewfinder is our main ally.
That said, the Canon EOS 90D delivers a superior experience in live view mode, especially when it comes to autofocus. The viewfinder has 45 phase-detection points, but the Dual Pixel mode shows a slight increase in precision and coverage, equivalent to 88 percent of the frame horizontally and almost 100 percent vertically. The “price” to pay (if we can call it that) is a limit in the maximum burst speed, although in the end it will depend on each user. The burst via optical viewfinder reaches 10 frames per second, but when using live view, that number drops to 7 fps.
Personally, I think you have to experiment. A flaw or two in autofocus with the viewfinder doesn’t have to condemn it, and there is always room to optimize its performance with a firmware update (Canon has already confirmed there will be updates). Either way, image quality is excellent (both in JPEG and RAW), and the only thing to watch is smoothing at very high ISO values. Canon prefers a more aggressive position, which doesn’t sit well in all cases.
The interface of the Canon EOS 90D has minimal changes compared to the EOS 80D. In fact, they’d be very easy to confuse if it weren’t for both DSLRs placing their model on the body. The most relevant change occurs on the back, with the inclusion of a small joystick of eight directions. It’s a good addition to take advantage of with your right thumb; however, we didn’t find any customization options, since it essentially mimics the commands of the other control.
As for the rest, pure Canon. Six buttons on the top, LCD panel, and two dials. The mode dial on the Canon EOS 90D has fewer entries than the 80D (10 vs. 12), which is a kind of return to the days of the 70D. The setup starts with Intelligent Scene Auto or Full Auto, Special Scenes “SCN” (twelve in total), and Creative Filters (ten available). The so-called Creative Zone is divided into Programmable Auto “P”, Shutter Priority “Tv”, Aperture Priority “Av”, Manual “M”, and Bulb “B”. The Canon EOS 90D manual is in Spanish, and it spans almost 700 pages. Lots of material to absorb, but we recommend reading it.
Canon usually catches some flak for video features in its cameras. The story of the Canon EOS 90D started with a stumble: the absence of 24p modes across all resolutions. It’s not the first time this has happened, and to be honest, I don’t know what the Japanese manufacturer is thinking by leaving 24p in the inkwell, but it has officially communicated that the next firmware update will include the missing frame rates.
What about 4K? On one hand, it has no crop at 30 frames per second. On the other, its final quality is standard (this will improve if we accept a crop of the frame), and the crop also makes an appearance when we decide to stabilize digitally. From a more positive angle, its 1080p60 is more than solid, rolling shutter and other aberrations are almost nonexistent, autofocus does a great job, and we always welcome dedicated connectors for microphone and headphones. Another option to experiment with is 1080p120, although it works without autofocus and without audio.
Accessories for the Canon EOS 90D
The Canon EOS 90D currently costs 1,400 euros with an 18-55mm lens kit, but a good alternative is to invest 1,200 euros in the body and put the difference toward a more versatile lens with optimized optics. Wandering the halls of Canon gives us the advantage of a wide availability of accessories, official and from other brands, with an excellent price-performance ratio. See for yourself?
Battery and Power
With an estimated 1,300 shots per charge of its battery when using the viewfinder, the Canon EOS 90D doesn’t disappoint from any point of view, but that number will drop if you’re a live view enthusiast. Also, the battery cannot be charged in-camera via USB, so it’s not a bad idea to add a couple of external solutions. The Gloxy LP-E6 battery is perfect for any Canon EOS 90D out there, and the Gloxy 2-in-1 charger for home and car ensures greater portability. We shouldn’t forget the Gloxy GX-E14 grip, on offer with two batteries for 75 euros (SKU DI454,VDTS-4604-CH-DI43).
Tripods and Supports
With 701 grams including batteries, memory card, lens, and optional grip, it’s no secret that the DSLR can get a bit heavy in hand, and the lack of in-body stabilization doesn’t help either. The good news is that we found an excellent tripod for the Canon EOS 90D in the Gloxy GX-T6662A. It weighs less than 1.2 kilograms, supports a maximum load of 10 kilograms, its non-slip legs improve stability, and at 60 euros, its price is unbeatable. Among the more compact options, it’s hard to resist the Clampod Takeway T2. It will easily handle this DSLR thanks to its 40-kilogram tolerance, and it grips onto anything.
Backpacks and Bags
Including weather sealing on the EOS 90D is an excellent move by Canon. It’s logical to expect this DSLR to work outdoors often, but protecting it from dust is half the equation. We’ll also need a good transportation solution, and that’s where the Gloxy Pro AW backpack comes in. With a waterproof cover, padded and customizable interior, wide and comfortable straps, pockets for secondary accessories, and three general sizes available, it tops our list. Alternatives? The Delta 400a Fancier bag comes in three colors, is very spacious, and its sling style screams “photography” in every direction (SKU GloxyPRO,Fancier400a).
Flashes
Each user will have to determine if the guide number 12 on the built-in flash of the Canon EOS 90D is sufficient for their sessions, but here we always recommend adding more firepower in terms of lighting. The Gloxy GX-F1000C is a great candidate to occupy the dedicated flash spot, with a guide number 58, two-second recycle time, wireless control, diffuser, 20 free gels, and just 140 euros on the tag.
Lenses
This is where Canon’s support shines. The two lenses available in kits for the EOS 90D do their job, but there are plenty of reasons to consider buying the body and looking for an alternative lens. On one hand, we have the F/3.5-6.3 XR Di II VC and the f/4.5-6.0 DI LD , both from Tamron. The first is an excellent all-rounder that ranges from 18 to 200mm, while the second favors nature and sports with a 70-300 configuration.
On the other side, we have what are probably two of the best wide-angle lenses on the market: Firefly and Blackstone from the company Irix. Available in 11 and 15mm, with plastic body options or a combination of aluminum and magnesium. Unprecedented sharpness and precision at this price, which is not an exaggeration. The reviews speak for themselves (SKU 0713043559,0713043555).
Perhaps owners of an EOS 80D won’t find many reasons to jump to this new model, but anyone coming from a more humble camera will find very positive aspects in the Canon EOS 90D. It’s a young camera, and it still carries that “premium” of a new product, but something tells me it will become popular soon. Good luck!
