Canon SL3 vs T7: Which Camera Should You Buy?

Canon, a renowned name in the world of photography, offers a diverse range of cameras to cater to the varying needs of photographers.

In this article, we delve into the detailed comparison of two popular models: the Canon SL3 and the Canon T7.

We’ll explore the unique features, specifications, and performance of each camera, followed by a head-to-head comparison to help you make an informed decision based on your photography preferences.

Comparison Table Of Canon SL3 vs T7

Feature	Canon EOS Rebel SL3	Canon EOS Rebel T7
Image Sensor	APS-C CMOS, 24.1MP	APS-C CMOS, 24.1MP
Image Processor	DIGIC 8	DIGIC 4+
ISO Range	100-25600 (expandable to 51200)	100–6400 (expandable to 12800)
Autofocus	Dual-pixel CMOS AF, 9-point	9-point phase-detection AF
Viewfinder	Optical with 95% coverage	Optical with 95% coverage
LCD Screen	3.0″ Vari-angle touchscreen	3.0″ LCD, non-touch
Video Recording	4K UHD at 24p, Full HD at 60p	Full HD at 30p
Burst Shooting	Up to 5 fps	Up to 3 fps
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI and USB	Wi-Fi, NFC, HDMI, and USB
Built-in Flash	Yes, Guide Number: 9.8 (m/ft)	Yes, Guide Number: 9.8 (m/ft)
Storage	SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible)	SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Battery Life (CIPA)	Approx. 1070 shots	Approx. 500 shots
Dimensions	122.4 x 92.6 x 69.8 mm	129.0 x 101.3 x 77.6 mm
Weight	Approx. 449g (body only)	Approx. 475g (body only)
Price	Check Price On Amazon	Check Price On Amazon

Canon SL3 In-Depth

Design and build

1. Physical Dimensions and Weight

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 boasts compact physical dimensions measuring 122.4 x 92.6 x 69.8 mm (4.83 x 3.64 x 2.75 inches) and a relatively lightweight body at approximately 449g. These attributes contribute to the camera’s portability and ease of handling during extended shooting sessions.

2. Build Quality and Materials Used

The camera exhibits a robust build quality, ensuring durability in various shooting environments. The choice of materials reflects Canon’s commitment to crafting a reliable and sturdy DSLR, making it suitable for both amateur and enthusiast photographers.

Sensor and Image Quality

1. Sensor Type and Size

Equipped with an APS-C CMOS sensor, the Canon SL3 delivers high-quality imaging results. The APS-C size ensures a good balance between image quality and the camera’s compact form factor.

2. Megapixel Count

With a 24.1-megapixel resolution, the camera provides ample detail for capturing intricate scenes, making it ideal for a range of photography genres.

3. ISO Range and Performance

The ISO range of 100–25600 (expandable to H: 51200) allows for versatile low-light performance, providing photographers with the flexibility to adapt to different lighting conditions.

4. Image Processing Engine

The DIGIC 8 image processor contributes to efficient and rapid processing of image data, enhancing overall camera performance and facilitating advanced features.

Autofocus and Performance

1. Number of Autofocus Points

The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system with 9-point phase detection ensures precise and quick autofocus, offering flexibility for composing shots.

2. Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

The autofocus system excels in both speed and accuracy, making it crucial for capturing fast-paced scenes or achieving sharp focus in various shooting scenarios.

3. Burst shooting capabilities

With a burst shooting rate of up to 5 frames per second, the SL3 enables users to capture a series of moments swiftly, making it well-suited for action photography.

LCD Screen and Viewfinder

1. Type and Specifications of the LCD Screen

The 3.0-inch vari-angle touch-screen LCD with a resolution of approximately 1.04 million dots offers a versatile and intuitive interface for composing and reviewing images from various angles.

2. Viewfinder Specifications

The optical viewfinder with approximately 95% coverage enhances the traditional shooting experience, providing a clear and immersive view of the scene.

Video Recording

1. Video Resolution and Frame Rates

The SL3 supports 4K UHD (24p, 25p) recording in addition to Full HD (60p, 30p), catering to videographers’ diverse needs. The inclusion of 4K time-lapse movie mode adds creative possibilities.

2. Autofocus During Video Recording

Movie Servo AF ensures continuous autofocus during video recording, contributing to smooth and professional-looking footage.

Connectivity and Battery Life

1. Types of Ports Available

The camera features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless sharing and remote control. Additionally, it offers HDMI output, USB 2.0, and a 3.5mm microphone input for enhanced connectivity.

2. Wireless Connectivity Options

The integration of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth simplifies the transfer of images and facilitates remote control through compatible devices.

3. Battery Life and Type

Powered by the LP-E17 rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, the SL3 boasts an impressive battery life of approximately 1070 shots (CIPA), minimizing interruptions during shooting sessions.

Canon T7 In-Depth

Design and build

1. Physical Dimensions and Weight

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 features dimensions of 129.0 x 101.3 x 77.6 mm (5.08 x 3.99 x 3.06 inches) and a body weight of approximately 475g. While slightly bulkier than the SL3, it remains a reasonably-sized camera suitable for varied shooting conditions.

2. Build quality and materials used

The T7 maintains a solid build quality, ensuring reliability in different shooting environments. Canon employs durable materials to construct a robust yet lightweight camera body.

Sensor and Image Quality

1. Sensor Type and Size

Similar to the SL3, the T7 features an APS-C CMOS sensor, providing a good compromise between image quality and camera size.

2. Megapixel Count

With a 24.1-megapixel sensor, the T7 delivers detailed images, capturing the essence of scenes with clarity and precision.

3. ISO Range and Performance

The T7 offers an ISO range of 100–6400 (expandable to H–12800), allowing for flexibility in low-light shooting scenarios.

4. Image Processing Engine

Equipped with the DIGIC 4+ image processor, the camera delivers efficient processing of image data, contributing to overall performance.

Autofocus and Performance

1. Number of Autofocus Points

The T7 is equipped with a 9-point phase-detection AF system, providing reliable autofocus capabilities for various shooting situations.

2. Autofocus Speed and Accuracy

The autofocus system ensures a balance between speed and accuracy, catering to the needs of entry-level photographers.

3. Burst shooting capabilities

Offering a burst shooting rate of up to 3 frames per second, the T7 enables users to capture a sequence of shots, though at a slower pace compared to the SL3.

LCD screen and viewfinder

1. Type and Specifications of the LCD Screen

The T7 features a 3.0-inch LCD screen with a resolution of approximately 920,000 dots, providing a clear and functional interface for composing and reviewing images.

2. Viewfinder Specifications

Similar to the SL3, the T7 comes with an optical viewfinder covering approximately 95% of the frame, offering a traditional shooting experience.

Video Recording

1. Video Resolution and Frame Rates

Capable of recording Full HD (1920×1080) at 30 fps, the T7 caters to basic video recording needs. The inclusion of video snapshot mode adds a creative touch to video production.

2. Autofocus During Video Recording

The camera supports continuous autofocus during video recording, enhancing its usability for capturing dynamic scenes.

Connectivity and battery life

1. Types of ports available

The T7 features built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for convenient image sharing and remote control. It also includes HDMI output and USB 2.0 for versatile connectivity.

2. Wireless Connectivity Options

Wi-Fi and NFC support streamline the process of sharing images and enable remote control using compatible devices.

3. Battery Life and Type

Powered by the LP-E10 rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, the T7 offers a respectable battery life of approximately 500 shots (CIPA), ensuring a decent duration for shooting sessions.

Head to Head Comparison Of Canon SL3 vs T7

Design and Build

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 boasts a more compact form factor with dimensions of 122.4 x 92.6 x 69.8 mm and a lighter weight of approximately 449g, offering enhanced portability compared to the Canon EOS Rebel T7, which measures 129.0 x 101.3 x 77.6 mm and weighs around 475g.

The SL3’s smaller size and reduced weight make it a more convenient companion for on-the-go photography. The T7, while slightly bulkier, maintains a solid build quality, showcasing Canon’s commitment to durability.

Verdict: The SL3 takes the lead in terms of design and portability, making it a more attractive option for users who prioritize a compact and lightweight camera.

Sensor and Image Quality

Both the Canon SL3 and T7 feature the same APS-C CMOS sensor with a resolution of 24.1 megapixels. This ensures that both cameras deliver comparable image quality, capturing fine details and offering flexibility in post-processing. The SL3, however, incorporates the more advanced DIGIC 8 image processor, potentially providing a slight edge in image processing capabilities.

Verdict: While the sensors are identical, the SL3’s DIGIC 8 processor contributes to marginally better image processing, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize advanced image rendering.

Autofocus and Performance

The SL3’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF with 9-point phase-detection autofocus points offers a significant advantage over the T7’s 9-point phase-detection AF system.

The dual-pixel technology provides faster and more accurate autofocus, especially during live viewing and video recording. Additionally, the SL3 boasts a higher burst shooting rate of up to 5 frames per second, providing a better tool for capturing fast-paced action.

Verdict: The SL3 clearly excels in autofocus performance and burst shooting capabilities, making it a superior choice for users who demand swift and precise focusing, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios.

LCD screen and viewfinder

Both cameras share similar LCD screen sizes (3.0 inches) and viewfinder coverage (approximately 95%). However, the SL3’s vari-angle touch-screen LCD with a higher resolution of approximately 1.04 million dots adds a layer of flexibility for creative composition and easy navigation. The T7, while functional, lacks the touch-enabled and vari-angle screen found in the SL3.

Verdict: The SL3’s vari-angle touchscreen LCD provides a more versatile shooting experience, making it a preferred choice for users who value creative flexibility and ease of use.

Video Recording

The Canon SL3 stands out with its 4K UHD video recording capability at 24p and 25p, offering higher resolution and cinematic possibilities compared to the T7’s Full HD recording at 30fps.

The SL3’s Movie Servo AF ensures continuous autofocus during video recording, enhancing its appeal for videographers. The T7, while capable of full HD recording, lacks the 4K feature and is less versatile for video enthusiasts.

Verdict: The SL3 takes the lead in video recording capabilities, especially with 4K UHD support and Movie Servo AF, making it a preferred choice for content creators and videographers.

Connectivity and Battery Life

Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing and remote control. However, the SL3 adds Bluetooth connectivity, offering an additional option for seamless wireless communication.

The SL3 also includes a 3.5mm microphone input, enhancing its audio recording capabilities for videography. In terms of battery life, the SL3 outshines the T7 with approximately 1070 shots (CIPA) compared to the T7’s 500 shots.

Verdict: The SL3 provides superior connectivity options and significantly longer battery life, making it a more versatile and reliable choice for users who prioritize extended shooting sessions and advanced connectivity.

Winner of the comparison?

The winner of the comparison between the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 and the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is the Canon EOS Rebel SL3.

The SL3 emerges as the preferred choice for users seeking a more advanced and feature-rich DSLR camera. Its advantages in design and portability, autofocus and performance, LCD screen versatility, 4K UHD video recording, superior connectivity options, and significantly longer battery life make it a comprehensive and versatile camera for both photography and videography.

While the T7 remains a solid entry-level option, the SL3’s array of advanced features positions it as the recommended choice for users who prioritize a more robust and versatile DSLR experience.