Camera Review: Canon 80D

Despite a troubled DSLR market, Canon has always been strong in maintaining enough variety in its products to ensure a smooth ascent for users who want the latest in innovation and technology. Canon EOS 80D is an excellent product from the manufacturer which is a worthy successor to the old 70D. This specific model gives advanced users lots of tools to work with while remaining budget-friendly and approachable for those aspiring to new heights.

Product Highlights

·       24MP APS-C CMOS sensor with Dual Pixel AF

·       Up to 7 fps shooting, expanded ISO 25600

·       DIGIC 6 image processor

·       7560-pixel RGB + IR metering sensor

·       Weather-resistant body

·       45-point all cross-type AF system

·       1080/60p video capture

·       3″ 1.04M-dot articulating touch screen

·       Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC

Design and Handling

Cannon 80D feels light in the hand and although it is not as sturdy as compared to some models in the 5D series, it is quite comfortable to shoot with. The 80D features a 3-inch LCD that you can pull out as well as rotate for framing at various angles. The touch screen is responsive however, you may find it somewhat difficult to view the display in bright sunlight.

There is a dedicated AF selector button alongside the shutter which is great. The button will pull up your selection of AF modes when you are composing through the viewfinder, allowing you to quickly toggle through the different modes.

Image Quality

Still image quality and performance are great and the 80D offers excellent color accuracy. The camera delivers pleasing RAW and JPEG files that have good dynamic range. However, the ISO performance is a bit lackluster. The detail retention in JPEGs is good as you start to increase the ISO values but when you reach ISO 1600, you may see some color shifting in reds.

Video Capabilities

Cannon 80D is capable of recording 1080p video at up to 60 fps. The video quality is great and colors are accurate. There is no 4K recording capability which is nowadays expected on cameras at this price point. Still, the 1080p recording capability of 80D will not disappoint most users.

Performance

The AF system of Cannon 80D is great. It focuses fast and thanks to the Dual Pixel CMOS AF, you can see smooth focus transitions during video. The camera is fairly speedy as it delivers 7 fps in continuous shooting mode while being focus locked on the first frame. In terms of battery life, the 80D bests most of its mirrorless competition by getting an impressive 1,390 shots per charge.

The Bottom Line

Taken on its own merit, Cannon 80D is excellent for videographers, sports photographers, and anyone who is looking from an upgrade from the Rebel DSLR. The 80D is a great camera which performs very well. It has all the best features of Cannon and it is also compatible with more professional accessories from the manufacturer. However, this isn’t the camera for everyone. There are lots of options out there to satisfy varied needs and if you want a camera for 4K or professional video, then the 80D is not for you. While the lack of 4K video recording capability may not be a deal breaker for most photographers, it is something to consider.