Canon FT vs. AE-1: Which Camera Should You Buy?

When delving into the world of classic 35mm film cameras, two models that often stand out are the Canon FT and the Canon AE-1. Both released during the analog photography era, these cameras showcase Canon’s commitment to quality and innovation.

This article aims to provide a detailed comparison of the Canon FT and AE-1, exploring their specifications, features, and user experiences.

Comparison Table Of Canon FT vs AE-1

Feature	Canon FT	Canon AE-1
Release Date	1966	1976
Lens Mount	FL	FD
Viewfinder	Match-needle metering, basic viewfinder	Aperture-priority AE, more informative viewfinder
Shutter Speeds	Manual selection	Manual and automatic modes
Metering System	Match-needle metering	TTL full-aperture metering
ISO Range	Manual film speed setting	Manual film speed setting
Exposure Control	Manual	Manual and Aperture-priority automatic
Flash System	Limited flash synchronization	More advanced flash compatibility
Film Advance	Single-stroke lever film advance	Single-stroke lever film advance
Multiple Exposure	Yes	Yes
Self-Timer	Built-in self-timer	Built-in self-timer
Power	Mechanical operation, no built-in battery	Requires one 4LR44 6V battery
Dimensions	144 x 93 x 87 mm	87 x 141 x 48 mm
Weight	Approximately 860g without lens	Approximately 620g without lens
Price	Check Price On Amazon	Check Price On Amazon

Canon FT Overview

A. Release date and historical context

The Canon FT was introduced in 1966, representing a significant era in film photography. As a predecessor to many Canon SLR cameras, it set the stage for advancements in manual control and build quality.

B. Film format and lens mount

The Canon FT utilized 35mm film and featured the Canon FL lens mount, offering compatibility with a range of Canon lenses from its time.

C. Viewfinder and focusing system

Equipped with a fixed eye-level pentaprism viewfinder and an interchangeable focusing screen, the FT provided a reliable and customizable focusing experience.

D. Shutter and exposure control

With a horizontal-travel focal-plane shutter offering speeds from B to 1/1000 seconds, the FT allowed for precise exposure control through manual settings.

E. Metering System

The FT employed a through-the-lens (TTL) metering system with a match-needle system, providing exposure information for accurate manual adjustments.

F. Flash capabilities

Featuring X-sync at 1/60 second and a hot shoe for an external flash, the FT offered basic flash capabilities suitable for its time.

G. Build and design

The Canon FT boasted a robust mechanical design, lacking built-in batteries and relying on manual operation. It weighed approximately 860 grams without a lens.

H. Pros and cons

Pros:

• Sturdy mechanical construction
• Interchangeable focusing screen
• through-the-lens metering for accurate exposures

Cons:

• Basic flash capabilities
• Manual film speed setting

Canon AE-1 Overview

A. Release date and historical context

The Canon AE-1 entered the scene in 1976, marking a shift towards user-friendly designs and automatic exposure modes.

B. Film format and lens mount

Similar to the FT, the AE-1 utilized 35mm film, but it featured the Canon FD lens mount, offering compatibility with a newer generation of Canon lenses.

C. Viewfinder and focusing system

Equipped with a fixed eye-level pentaprism viewfinder, the AE-1 featured a split-image focusing aid and microprism collar, providing assistance for precise focusing.

D. Shutter and exposure control

The AE-1 retained a horizontal-travel focal-plane shutter with speeds from B to 1/1000 seconds. However, it introduced an aperture-priority automatic exposure mode, making it more accessible to beginners.

E. Metering System

The AE-1 featured through-the-lens (TTL) full-aperture metering with center-weighted averaging, allowing for accurate automatic exposures.

F. Flash capabilities

With X-sync at 1/60 second and a hot shoe for external flash, the AE-1 improved upon the flash capabilities of its predecessor, catering to more advanced photography needs.

G. Build and design

Weighing approximately 620 grams without a lens, the AE-1 showcased a modern and user-friendly design, incorporating a more informative viewfinder that displayed shutter speed, aperture setting, and exposure warnings.

H. Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Aperture-priority automatic exposure
• Improved flash capabilities
• User-friendly design

Cons:

• Reliance on batteries for operation
• Limited manual control compared to the FT

Head-to-Head Comparison Of Canon FT vs. AE-1

1. Film Format and Lens Mount:

• Canon FT:
  • Film Format: 35mm film.
  • Lens Mount: Canon FL lens mount.
• Canon AE-1:
  • Film Format: 35mm film.
  • Lens Mount: Canon FD lens mount.

Analysis: Both cameras share the same film format, but the lens mounts differ. The AE-1 introduces the FD lens mount, which is more modern and offers compatibility with a broader range of Canon lenses.

2. Viewfinder and Focusing System:

• Canon FT:
  • fixed eye-level pentaprism viewfinder.
  • interchangeable focusing screen.
• Canon AE-1:
  • fixed eye-level pentaprism viewfinder.
  • split-image focusing aid and microprism collar

Analysis: Both cameras have reliable pentaprism viewfinders, but the AE-1’s split-image focusing aid and microprism collar provide additional assistance for precise focusing.

3. Shutter and Exposure Control:

• Canon FT:
  • horizontal-travel focal-plane shutter.
  • Shutter Speeds: B, 1 to 1/1000 seconds.
  • manual exposure control.
• Canon AE-1:
  • horizontal-travel focal-plane shutter.
  • Shutter Speeds: B, 1 to 1/1000 seconds.
  • Aperture-priority automatic exposure mode

Analysis: The FT relies on manual exposure control, while the AE-1 introduces the aperture-priority mode, making it more user-friendly, especially for beginners.

4. Metering System:

• Canon FT:
  • Through-the-lens (TTL) metering with a match-needle system
  • Exposure Metering Range: EV 2-18 at ASA 100
• Canon AE-1:
  • Through-the-lens (TTL) full aperture metering
  • Exposure Metering Range: EV 1–18 at ASA 100

Analysis: Both cameras feature TTL metering, but the AE-1’s full aperture metering offers a more advanced and automated exposure calculation.

5. Flash Capabilities:

• Canon FT:
  • X-sync at 1/60 second.
  • hot shoe for external flash.
• Canon AE-1:
  • X-sync at 1/60 second.
  • hot shoe for external flash.
  • Compatibility with Canon Speedlite electronic flashes

Analysis: The AE-1 provides more advanced flash capabilities with compatibility for electronic flashes, catering to photographers with diverse lighting needs.

6. Build and Design:

• Canon FT:
  • Mechanical operation.
  • Weight: approximately 860 grams without a lens.
• Canon AE-1:
  • Battery-powered operation.
  • Weight: approximately 620 grams without a lens.

Analysis: The FT relies on mechanical operation, while the AE-1 introduces battery-powered components. The weight difference reflects the design variances between the two models.

Winner of the Comparison?

Determining a clear “winner” between the Canon FT and the Canon AE-1 depends on your specific needs, preferences, and intended use. Each camera has its strengths, and the best choice for you will depend on your shooting style and priorities. Here’s a summary to help you make a decision:

Choose the Canon FT if:

1. Manual Control is a Priority

If you prefer full manual control over your exposure settings, including both shutter speed and aperture, the Canon FT is the better choice. It’s designed for photographers who want hands-on experience in setting up their shots.

2. Mechanical Reliability

The FT relies on mechanical operation without the need for batteries. If you appreciate a camera that doesn’t depend on electronic components, the FT is a robust and reliable option.

3. Traditional Design

The FT has a more traditional design, appealing to those who appreciate the vintage aesthetics and the tactile feel of mechanical controls.

Choose the Canon AE-1 if:

1. User-Friendly Experience

For beginners or those who prefer a more user-friendly experience, the Canon AE-1, with its aperture-priority mode, simplifies exposure control. It strikes a good balance between manual control and automation.

2. Advanced Flash Capabilities

If you’re interested in more advanced flash photography and compatibility with electronic flashes, the AE-1 offers improved flash capabilities over the FT.

3. Modern Design and Features

The AE-1 features a more modern design with an informative viewfinder, making it appealing to users who want a blend of classic film photography with some modern conveniences.

In conclusion, there is no definitive winner; it’s about finding the camera that aligns with your specific needs and shooting preferences.

Both the Canon FT and the Canon AE-1 have left a lasting legacy in the world of film photography, and either one can be a fantastic choice depending on your individual requirements.