Canon EOS 7D: Review

Posted to Digital SLR 2010-03-17

Canon EOS 7D review:

The Canon EOS 7D digital SLR is Canon's latest entry into the advanced amateur/pro photography market. It features an all-new 18.0 Megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor, dual Digic 4 image processors and continuous shooting speeds up to 8fps. The EOS 7D also features ISO speeds up to 12800 and a new all cross-type 18-point autofocus system with user-selectable autofocus area selection modes.

In addition, it features an entirely new Intelligent Viewfinder that provides 100% coverage and displays user-selected AF modes as well as a center spot metering circle and grid lines if desired. Its new iFCL metering system features 63-zone dual layer metering that uses both focus and color information to provide accurate exposures. The camera is capable of full HD video at 30fps. It is constructed using a magnesium alloy body that is dust- and weather-resistant. The 3.0 inch LCD display provides 920,000 dot resolution.

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Quality

This is a pro quality camera at a very reasonable price. It comes with pro features as well - Canon has really done their homework on this one. The high-resolution sensor, full HD video and advanced exposure and focus systems all add up to a solid workhorse for the advanced amateur or pro photographer. And its magnesium alloy body and weather and dust seals mean it's built to take a beating.

Value

Canon has packed a lot of features and build quality into a camera that is surprisingly affordable. You'll have money left over for buying high quality lenses after buying this camera body. It has most of the features of higher-priced models from the competition, and features true pro build quality. Performance matches higher-priced cameras from the competition as well, so all in all the EOS 7D adds up to a solid value for the money.

Summary

If you're a serious amateur looking for an awesome camera, or a pro needing a second (or even first) Canon body, the EOS 7D makes an excellent choice. The combination of features, price and build quality is hard to beat. About the only complaint might be the high cost of good glass for this camera, since Canon has chosen to go the lens route with Image Stabilization. Other than that, it's near perfect for the price.

Pros

18.0 megapixel CMOS sensor
30 fps full HD video capture
3.0 inch 920,000 dot LCD display
Magnesium alloy, weather- and dust-resistant body
New Intelligent Viewfinder

Cons

There are no cons for this product