Choosing the right camera is a crucial decision for aspiring photographers, particularly those entering the world of DSLR photography. Canon, a renowned brand in the camera industry, offers two compelling options for beginners: the Canon SL2 and SL3.
In this article, we’ll delve into the details of each camera and provide a head-to-head comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Comparison Table Of Canon SL2 and SL3
Here’s a comparison table highlighting the key specifications and features of the Canon SL2 and SL3:
Feature | Canon SL2 | Canon SL3 |
---|---|---|
Image Sensor | 24.2MP APS-C CMOS | 24.1MP APS-C CMOS |
Image Processor | DIGIC 7 | DIGIC 8 |
ISO Range | 100-25,600 | 100-25,600 |
Autofocus System | 9-point AF | Dual Pixel CMOS AF |
LCD Screen | 3.0-inch Vari-Angle Touchscreen | 3.0-inch Vari-Angle Touchscreen |
Video Recording | Full HD at 60fps | 4K at 24fps, Full HD at 60fps |
Burst Mode | 5fps | 5fps |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Battery Life | Approx. 650 shots per charge | Approx. 1,070 shots per charge |
Weight | 453g (body only) | 449g (body only) |
Dimensions | 122 x 93 x 70 mm | 122 x 93 x 70 mm |
Autofocus Points (Live View) | Contrast-detection AF | 3,975 Dual Pixel AF points |
Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
Viewfinder Coverage | 95% | 95% |
Microphone Input | Yes | Yes |
Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
Price | Check Price On Amazon | Check Price On Amazon |
Canon SL2
Key Features
1. Sensor and Image Processor
The Canon SL2 houses a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 7 image processor. This combination delivers high-quality images with vibrant colors and fine details. The DIGIC 7 processor enhances image processing speed, contributing to overall camera performance.
2. ISO Range and Low-Light Performance
With an ISO range of 100–25,600, the SL2 performs admirably in various lighting conditions. This wide ISO range ensures flexibility, allowing photographers to capture well-exposed images even in challenging low-light environments.
3. Autofocus System
Featuring a 9-point autofocus system, the SL2 provides reliable and accurate focus across the frame. This autofocus system is suitable for a range of shooting scenarios, particularly in good lighting conditions.
4. LCD Screen and Touch Functionality
The 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen adds a layer of convenience to the SL2’s usability. Photographers can easily navigate menus, set focus points, and review images with a simple touch, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
5. Video recording capabilities
The SL2 supports full HD video recording at 60 fps, making it a viable option for users interested in both photography and videography. While lacking 4K capabilities, the Full HD recording is of good quality for casual video shooting.
Design and Build
1. Size and Weight
Compact and lightweight, the SL2 is designed for portability without compromising functionality. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners or those who prioritize a camera that is easy to carry.
2. Ergonomics and grip
The ergonomic design of the SL2 includes a comfortable grip, ensuring stability during extended shooting sessions. This is crucial for users who plan to shoot for extended periods, providing a secure and comfortable hold.
3. Button Layout and Controls
The SL2 features an intuitive button layout that allows for easy access to essential functions. The well-designed controls contribute to a seamless shooting experience, especially for users transitioning from point-and-shoot cameras.
Performance
1. Shooting Speed and Burst Mode
With a 5fps burst mode, the SL2 can capture a reasonable number of frames per second, making it suitable for general photography. While not designed for high-speed action photography, it meets the needs of many entry-level users.
2. Battery life
The SL2 boasts commendable battery life, allowing users to shoot for approximately 650 shots per charge for extended periods without frequent recharging. This is a practical feature for photographers who may not have immediate access to charging facilities.
3. Connectivity Options
Equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth, the SL2 offers convenient connectivity options. Users can easily transfer images to smartphones or control the camera remotely using dedicated apps, adding flexibility to their workflow.
Pros and Cons
1. Strengths of the Canon SL2
- Excellent image quality with a 24.2 MP sensor.
- User-friendly design, suitable for beginners.
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability.
- A variable-angle touchscreen enhances flexibility in shooting angles.
2. Limitations of the Canon SL2
- Limited autofocus points pose challenges in certain scenarios.
- Lack of 4K video recording is a drawback for videographers.
Canon SL3
Key Features
1. Upgrades from Canon SL2
The Canon SL3 builds upon the SL2’s foundation, introducing several key upgrades to enhance overall performance and the user experience.
2. Improved sensor and processor
The SL3 features a 24.1 MP sensor and a more advanced DIGIC 8 image processor. This upgraded combination contributes to improved image quality, faster processing speeds, and better overall performance compared to its predecessor.
3. Dual Pixel CMOS AF
One of the significant enhancements in the SL3 is the inclusion of dual-pixel CMOS AF technology. This advanced autofocus system significantly improves focusing speed and accuracy, especially during live viewing and video shooting.
4. 4K Video Recording
A standout feature of the SL3 is its 4K video recording capability at 24 fps. This is a significant upgrade for users interested in high-resolution video production, providing greater creative possibilities.
5. Vari-Angle Touchscreen
The SL3 maintains the 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, allowing users to shoot from various angles and facilitating easy menu navigation. This feature enhances the camera’s versatility and usability.
Design and Build
1. Similarities and Differences with SL2
While maintaining a compact size and lightweight design, the SL3 introduces refinements in its ergonomics and handling. The overall form factor remains similar to the SL2, providing a sense of familiarity for users upgrading from the previous model.
2. Enhanced Ergonomics and Handling
The SL3 boasts enhanced ergonomics and handling, with improvements in the grip and button layout. These refinements contribute to a more comfortable and user-friendly experience, addressing some of the ergonomic concerns of the SL2.
3. Vari-Angle LCD Screen Benefits
The fully articulated vari-angle touchscreen remains a valuable feature, offering increased flexibility in capturing creative angles. This is especially useful for vloggers and photographers who frequently shoot in unconventional positions.
Performance
1. Speed and Autofocus
The SL3’s upgraded dual-pixel CMOS AF system significantly improves autofocus speed and accuracy, especially during live viewing and video recording. This enhancement makes the SL3 a more capable camera for capturing fast-paced action and achieving precise focus.
2. Battery Life Improvements
Despite the advancements and increased demands of 4K recording, the SL3 maintains approx. 1,070 shots per charge and commendable battery life. This is a crucial factor for users who prioritize extended shooting sessions without frequent interruptions for recharging.
3. Wireless connectivity features
The SL3 retains robust wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. These features ensure seamless image transfer, remote control, and easy sharing of content, contributing to an efficient and modern workflow.
Pros and Cons
1. Advantages of the Canon SL3
- Upgraded sensor and processor for improved image quality.
- Dual-pixel CMOS AF enhances autofocus performance.
- 4K video recording capability for higher-resolution video production.
- Enhanced ergonomics and handling compared to the SL2.
2. Drawbacks of the Canon SL3
- Burst mode speed remains at 5 fps, similar to the SL2.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Canon SL2 vs. SL3
Image Quality
The Canon SL2 features a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 7 processor, delivering impressive image quality with vibrant colors and fine details. Its ISO range of 100–25,600 ensures flexibility in various lighting conditions.
On the other hand, the SL3 comes with a slightly upgraded 24.1MP sensor and DIGIC 8 processor, contributing to improved image quality. The SL3’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology enhances focus accuracy, especially in live view and video shooting.
Verdict: While both cameras provide stellar image quality, the Canon SL3’s upgraded sensor and autofocus system give it a slight advantage for users seeking the best image performance.
Autofocus
The SL2 features a 9-point autofocus system, which is suitable for general photography but limited in more complex situations.
The SL3, on the other hand, introduces dual-pixel CMOS AF technology, significantly improving focus speed and accuracy, especially during live viewing and video shooting.
Verdict: The Canon SL3’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology offers a substantial improvement over the SL2’s autofocus system, making it more suitable for dynamic and fast-paced shooting scenarios.
Video Capabilities
One of the standout features of the SL3 is its 4K video recording capability at 24 fps. This provides higher resolution and greater creative possibilities for videographers.
In contrast, the SL2 supports Full HD video recording at 60 fps, which is still respectable for entry-level videography but lacks the crispness and detail of 4K. If video recording is a priority, the SL3 is the clear choice.
Verdict: The Canon SL3’s 4K video recording capability makes it a superior choice for users focusing on video production, offering more versatility and future-proofing.
Design and Handling
While the SL3 maintains a similar compact and lightweight design to the SL2, it introduces refinements in ergonomics and handling.
The SL3 features an enhanced grip and button layout, addressing some of the ergonomic concerns of the SL2.
Both cameras retain a variable-angle touchscreen, providing flexibility in shooting angles. The SL3’s improvements in handling contribute to a more comfortable and user-friendly experience.
Verdict: The Canon SL3’s enhanced ergonomics and handling make it a more user-friendly camera, addressing some of the design concerns of the SL2.
Battery Life
Both the SL2 and SL3 boast commendable battery life, allowing for extended shooting sessions without frequent recharging. Despite the SL3’s additional features and 4K video capability, it maintains efficient power consumption. The slight differences in battery life are negligible, and both cameras provide reliable performance in this aspect.
Verdict: Both cameras offer excellent battery life, and the differences are minimal. Battery life is not a deciding factor when choosing between the SL2 and SL3.
Price and Value
The Canon SL2, being the older model, is generally more budget-friendly. It provides excellent value for users looking for a capable entry-level camera without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, the SL3, with its upgraded features, comes at a slightly higher price point. The additional cost is justified for users who prioritize advanced autofocus, 4K video recording, and enhanced handling.
Verdict: The Canon SL2 provides excellent value for budget-conscious users, while the SL3 justifies its higher price with advanced features for those seeking enhanced capabilities.
User Feedback
Both cameras have received positive user feedback, with users praising their respective strengths. The SL2 is appreciated for its affordability, excellent image quality, and user-friendly design.
The SL3, in turn, receives praise for its upgraded features, especially the dual-pixel CMOS AF and 4K video recording. Users highlight the cameras’ reliability and performance in various shooting conditions.
Verdict: User feedback suggests that both the SL2 and SL3 are well-received by users, each catering to different needs and preferences.
Winner of the comparison?
The winner of the comparison between the Canon SL2 and SL3 depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user. Both cameras have their strengths, and the choice should align with the individual’s priorities. Here’s a concise summary:
- Canon SL2:
- Strengths: affordability, excellent image quality, compact design, and a user-friendly interface.
- Limitations: limited autofocus points; lack of 4K video recording.
- Canon SL3:
- Advantages: upgraded sensor and processor; dual-pixel CMOS AF for superior autofocus; 4K video recording; enhanced ergonomics.
- Drawbacks: slightly higher price point.
Verdict:
For budget-conscious users: The Canon SL2 is a winner, providing exceptional value for its price, making it an ideal choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.
For Advanced Features and Future-Proofing: The Canon SL3 emerges as the winner, offering advanced autofocus, 4K video recording, and improved handling for users who want more features and are willing to invest a bit more.
Ultimately, the winner is subjective and depends on your prioritized budget or desires for the latest features and enhancements.