Last Updated on March 16, 2021
Canon and Nikon make some of the most popular and trusted cameras ever made. They have provided exceptional quality to professional and amateur photographers for decades and there competition with each other has led to some impressive advances that will help you be the best photographer you can be. While some people are rabid fans of either Nikon or Canon, I have found and loved cameras from both makers that I use all the time. When looking for a high quality DSLR you have likely seen both the Nikon D7500 and the Canon 80D and want to see which camera is best suited for your needs. This article will show you in detail what the differences between these cameras are and the features and performance so you can make the best possible decision. Read on for the specifications and performance ratings for each camera.
Nikon D7500 vs Canon 80D: Which is best for you
Both the Nikon and the Canon offer APS-C image sensors and are a big step up from entry level DSLR’s. If you are looking to make the leap in features and performance or want to start with a high quality DSLR either the Nikon D7500 or the Canon 80D will be an exceptional camera for you.
Nikon D7500: What you Get
Specifications You Will Love:
- 2 megapixel APS-C sensor.
- Fifty-one point autofocus sensor.
- Exceptional image noise performance.
The Nikon D7500 is the upgraded model of the Nikon D7200. It comes with all of the excellent features of it’s predecessor with some excellent improvements. It comes with a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor. This sensor provides exceptional high quality images under a variety of conditions. The D7500 offers a significant improvement in ISO performance along with upgraded video capture and autofocus performance. The D7500 achieves this with the super fast Expeed 5 processor which couples flawlessly with the 51 point autofocus sensor. The autofocus sensor is highly accurate while maintaining excellent speed. Image noise will be minimal throughout the entire ISO range, which is an excellent 100 – 102400. The Nikon comes equipped with built in Wifi and shoots at an 8 fps.
Keep in mind:
- The constant shooting rate is not as high as other cameras in it’s class
- Wifi connection is better in other models in the class
Canon 80D: What You Get
Specification You Will Love:
- 2 megapixel APS-C sensor.
- Super fast focus and shutter speed
- Offers live view response.
- 3 inch responsive touch screen viewfinder.
The Canon 80D offers a very similar feature set to the Nikon D7500. It likewise offers built in Wifi functionality along with a 24.1 megapixel APS sensor. It offers a fantastic 3 inch color touchscreen and super fast autofocus and shutter speeds. The Canon provides exceptional image quality and the picture quality is truly incredible for it’s class. This DSLR shines when it comes to detailed and realistic images. The Canon 80D will provide any photographer with impressive shots.
Keep in mind:
- The Canon’s video image quality is not as good as the Nikon
Nikon D7500 vs Canon 80D: Features compared
Below you will find a side by side comparison of the features and specs for the Nikon D7200 and the Canon 80D. This is a great way to visualize the features that are most important to you and how each camera stacks up.
| Nikon D7500 | Canon 80D | |
| Image Sensor | 24.2-megapixel APS-C | 24.2-megapixel APS-C |
| LCD Monitor | 3.2-inch LCD | 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen |
| Autofocus | 51-points, with 15 cross-type | Dual Pixel, 45-point cross-type |
| ISO Range | 100 – 102400 | 100 – 25600 |
| Video Capture | 1080p Full HD, 60fps | 1080p Full HD, 60fps |
| Weight | 765g | 730g |
| Connectivity | HDMI, USB 2, Wi-Fi | HDMI, USB 2, Wi-Fi |
| Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Read on for a more in depth look at how the two cameras comparison shakes down.
Nikon D7500 vs Canon 80D: Which Is Better
Picture Quality: Nikon D7500
The Nikon D7500 produces great image quality. The upgraded 20.9 megapixel APS-C sensor is one of the best non full frame cameras on the market. It reproduces realistic color and performs great even in low light conditions. It offers low noise at higher ISO settings making achieving excellent image quality in all light conditions.
picture Quality: Canon 80D
The Canon 80D also produces exceptional image quality while offering some of the best images of any APS-C camera on the market. The Canon shoots great images under even difficult lighting conditions making it a very versatile DSLR camera. It handles all the way to 3200 ISO before you will notice any image grain. The Canon captures realistic and vibrant colors both indoors and outdoors.
Photography Performance: Nikon D7500
The Nikon’s Expeed 5 processor offers exceptional performance and operating the camera is easy and straight forward. This means you can get to taking high quality pictures faster. It offers excellent continuous shooting rate and 8 fps continuously. The 51 point autofocus performs very well and tracks moving subjects making this an excellent performer for moving subject photography. 15 of the points are cross type sensors as well.
Photography Performance: Canon 80D
The Canon 80D offers the impressive DIGIC 6 processor and it is an exceptional performer. It offers incredibly fast autofocus and fast shutter speeds allowing for continuous shooting at 7 fps which is just below that of the Nikon. The autofocus does well at tracking moving subjects and keeping them in focus.
Camera Design: Nikon D7500
If you are familiar with the previous generation, the D7200, you might think the D7500 is bulky and clunky but you would be mistaken. The Nikon D7500 has been redesigned in a much sleeker and more lightweight body style. The camera feels great in the hand and is a great camera for all day shooting. This new version also comes with an upgraded screen that tilts and offers touchscreen functionality. The camera is much more ergonomic and comfort while shooting was a major improvement for the Nikon D7500 over previous renditions.
Design: Canon 80D
The Canon 80D isn’t going to win any modern camera design awards. It has the loveable Canon bulk many have grown to love. It is heavier and larger than the Nikon and this is a factor for photographers with small hands or who are looking for a lighter camera so keep that in mind. I do not find the Canon to be too heavy or bulky and I have shot for hours with the 80D without any issues. The camera screen offers live viewing and it tilts for ease in shooting. The touchscreen works well offering easy access to setting adjustments.
Nikon D7200 vs Canon 80D: Final Verdict
As you can see, both the Nikon D7500 and the Canon 80D are great performing cameras with great features that will help you take great images. There are many similarities but also a couple key differences. Here are my final thoughts on which camera is best for you.
Who Should Select the Nikon D7500
There are two defining reasons the Nikon D7500 may be the best option for you. If size and weight are very important factors to you then the Nikon is an excellent choice. The Nikon offers a clean and lightweight body design that is lightweight and great for photographers with small hands. It also offers a lower price tag than the Canon 80D. If either if these two considerations are at the top of your priority list the Nikon is the camera for you.
Who Should Select the Canon 80D
As noted before, the Canon 80D comes in a bigger body and a bigger price tag. But it offer superior image quality. This camera offers the best image quality in the mid range cameras on the market today. With realistic and vibrant colors and excellent image detail the Canon 80D offers truly fantastic pictures. If you are willing to invest a little more and are ok with a bigger camera you won’t find a better option than the Canon 80D.
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