Best Canon DSLR Camera in 2024: 15 Top Canon DSLR Cameras

If you’re committed to investing in a Canon camera, then you’re probably wondering what is the best Canon DSLR. In this guide, I’m going to breakdown the pros and cons of some of the most popular buying choices when it comes to Canon DSLRs.

I get asked this question a lot – What Canon camera would be the best for shooting videos? There’s no one size fits all recommendation.

As you’ll come to see in this guide, there’s a Canon DSLR camera for just about any situation. And what you opt for really depends on your wants and needs. As well as your budget, of course.

The best choice for shooting a wedding may not be the greatest option for a family portrait. And the best camera for a beginner might be too basic for an advanced user. But whatever you need, there is a Canon DSLR camera model for your current situation.

Taking into account your budget and needs, finding the best choice for you can be made simple with our guide. We will cover the major features and specifications of each of the Canon DSLR camera models and highlight what they are best used for.

Let’s first take a quick look at the current bestsellers:

Listed below are the current best Canon DSLR cameras, many of them with large improvements from their predecessors. And all of them solid cameras in their own right.

Now that we have that out of the way, let me showcase these Canon cameras that I have found to be on the top of my (or anyone else’s) list:

1. Canon EOS 5d Mark IV
2. Canon EOS 5Ds
3. Canon EOS 5d Mark III
4. Canon EOS 7d Mark II
5. Canon EOS REBEL T7i
6. Canon EOS M6
7. Canon EOS 80D

Before I begin diving into the details of each model, I should make it clear that I am not ranking these cameras from best to worst in numbered order. These simply represent the seven that I think are the best overall options.

Now, let’s get started!

1. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Performance and Image Quality

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV holds a distinguished position in the realm of full-frame DSLRs, boasting impressive advancements over its predecessor.

Powering this beast is a 30.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor paired with Canon’s DIGIC 6+ image processor.

This combination ensures high-resolution images with commendable clarity, detail, and color accuracy.

The low-light performance is particularly noteworthy, with a native ISO range of 100-32,000, expandable to 50-102,400.

This makes the Mark IV adept at capturing quality images even in challenging lighting conditions.

The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system offers smooth and fast autofocus, beneficial for both stills and videos.

The system covers a significant portion of the frame, ensuring subjects remain in focus even if they aren’t centrally positioned.

Video Capabilities and Features

While the EOS 5D series has always been respected for its still photography prowess, the Mark IV steps up the game in video recording.

It offers 4K video recording at 30fps, a first for the series, providing filmmakers and videographers a robust platform for cinematic content creation.

The 4K frame grab feature is particularly intriguing, allowing users to extract 8.8-megapixel stills directly from 4K videos during playback.

The aforementioned Dual Pixel CMOS AF comes into play here as well, offering a smooth focus transition between subjects, akin to a camcorder.

The touchscreen interface further enhances this, letting users tap to focus or change the subject.

For those looking for advanced video features, Canon has also included Canon Log Gamma, which captures more dynamic range, providing greater flexibility in post-production grading.

Design, Build, and Usability

The Mark IV retains the robust build quality emblematic of the 5D series.

It’s constructed using magnesium alloy and is sealed against dust and moisture, ensuring it’s suited for various shooting environments.

The 3.2-inch ClearView II LCD touchscreen offers a resolution of 1.62 million dots, rendering sharp and vibrant previews.

This screen is pivotal for navigating menus, reviewing shots, and selecting autofocus points.

The Intelligent Viewfinder II provides 100% frame coverage, ensuring users see the entirety of their shot without omissions.

Ergonomics are well-considered, with a grip that feels secure and controls intuitively placed for easy access.

Connectivity options like Wi-Fi, NFC, and GPS are built-in, aiding in seamless sharing and geotagging of images.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV stands as a testament to Canon’s commitment to evolving with the demands of modern photography and videography.

Marrying a high-resolution sensor with advanced video features, all encapsulated within a rugged body, the Mark IV emerges as a versatile tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike, adept at handling diverse shooting scenarios.

2. Canon EOS 90D

Performance and Imaging Capabilities

The Canon EOS 90D, building upon the legacy of Canon’s mid-range APS-C DSLRs, brings forth an array of improvements that are sure to capture the interest of enthusiasts and semi-professionals alike.

It houses a 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, currently one of the highest resolutions available for crop-sensor DSLRs.

This high resolution ensures detailed shots, opening up opportunities for larger prints and cropping flexibility in post-processing.

Partnered with the DIGIC 8 image processor, the EOS 90D delivers impeccable image quality with reduced noise, especially in low-light scenarios.

With an ISO range of 100-25,600 (expandable to 51,200), the camera performs admirably across varied lighting conditions.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting Features

One of the standout features of the EOS 90D is its autofocus system.

The camera employs a 45-point all cross-type AF system when shooting through the optical viewfinder, ensuring accuracy and speed in locking onto subjects.

Switching to live view, the camera utilizes Canon’s acclaimed Dual Pixel CMOS AF, offering 5,481 selectable autofocus points, which covers almost the entire frame.

This is particularly handy for video shooting or when using the vari-angle touchscreen for more dynamic angles.

Speaking of speed, the 90D doesn’t hold back in burst mode, offering a blazing 10 frames per second shooting with full autofocus and auto-exposure.

This makes it a formidable choice for action, sports, and wildlife photography, where capturing the decisive moment is paramount.

Video Capabilities and User Experience

On the video front, the EOS 90D doesn’t shy away from delivering top-tier features.

It provides uncropped 4K video recording at 30fps, ensuring high-resolution footage with maximum detail.

Coupled with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, subject tracking in videos is smooth and precise.

For those looking for slow-motion footage, 1080p recording at 120fps is available.

Design-wise, the 90D inherits the ergonomic comfort that the EOS series is renowned for.

The weather-sealed body ensures durability while the deep grip promises secure handling.

The 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen is a boon for videographers and those shooting at challenging angles.

Menus are intuitive, and the inclusion of a joystick further enhances navigation.

The Canon EOS 90D emerges as a powerhouse in the APS-C DSLR segment, adeptly balancing the needs of both photographers and videographers.

With its high-resolution sensor, advanced autofocus system, rapid burst shooting, and robust video features, it stands out as a versatile and reliable tool for creative expressions, catering to a wide spectrum of genres and styles.

 

3. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Performance and Image Quality

Canon’s EOS 6D Mark II stands as a significant evolution from its predecessor, the EOS 6D, filling a niche for enthusiasts and professionals seeking full-frame capabilities without the bulk or expense of high-end models.

At the heart of the camera is a 26.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, coupled with the DIGIC 7 image processor.

This pairing ensures images that are sharp, vibrant, and rich in detail. One of the camera’s most striking attributes is its adeptness in low-light photography.

Its ISO range spans from 100-40,000, expandable up to 102,400, allowing photographers to confidently approach dimly lit scenarios.

The noise is remarkably controlled at higher ISOs, ensuring clarity even in challenging conditions.

Autofocus System and Usability

The autofocus system of the EOS 6D Mark II has seen a commendable upgrade.

The camera boasts a 45-point all cross-type AF system, a substantial leap from the 11-point system of its predecessor.

This enhanced AF system ensures swift and precise subject tracking, especially useful in dynamic settings like sports or wildlife photography.

When shifting to Live View mode, the camera employs the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, delivering smooth and accurate focus with the added advantage of touch focus on its vari-angle screen.

Speaking of the screen, the 6D Mark II incorporates a 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD.

This feature is a welcome addition, providing flexibility in composing shots, especially in tight angles or when shooting from low or high perspectives.

Features, Video, and Build

While the EOS 6D Mark II isn’t primarily designed with videography as its foremost feature, it offers Full HD video at 60fps.

The inclusion of Dual Pixel CMOS AF again proves advantageous, ensuring smooth focus transitions and reliable subject tracking in videos.

A notable omission is 4K video capability, which some users might find limiting.

On the design front, the camera retains the robustness and reliability Canon is known for. It’s durably built with weather-sealing, making it a viable companion in various outdoor conditions.

The camera also includes built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth, and GPS functionalities, streamlining the process of image sharing, remote shooting, and geotagging.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II positions itself as an enticing proposition for those transitioning into the full-frame realm or for professionals seeking a reliable secondary camera.

With its commendable image quality, versatile autofocus system, and user-centric design, the 6D Mark II offers a blend of features that can cater to a broad spectrum of photographic styles and requirements.

4. Canon EOS 1D X Mark III

Sensor, Performance, and Image Quality

Canon’s EOS 1D X Mark III emerges as the pinnacle of the company’s professional DSLR offerings, designed explicitly for professionals who demand nothing short of excellence.

Powering this beast is a 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, bolstered by the new DIGIC X image processor.

While some might argue that the resolution seems conservative, especially in an era of high megapixel count, the combination ensures optimal performance in high-speed scenarios, brilliant low-light capabilities, and exceptional image quality.

Photos produced are impeccably detailed, with a natural color rendition and an expansive dynamic range.

With an ISO range from 100-102,400, expandable to an astounding 819,200, this camera fearlessly tackles low-light situations, producing relatively clean images even at high ISO values.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting Capabilities

The autofocus mechanism in the EOS 1D X Mark III is nothing short of revolutionary.

Employing a deep learning algorithm, the camera introduces a new Smart Controller feature, a built-in optical pointing device that promises swift selection of the AF point.

The camera houses a 191-point AF system with 155 cross-type points, ensuring rapid and precise focus acquisition.

When using the Live View mode, users can leverage the 3,869-point Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system, which covers nearly the entire frame and brings staggering focus accuracy.

For action, sports, or wildlife photographers, the 1D X Mark III offers an eye-popping burst rate of 20 fps in Live View and 16 fps with the optical viewfinder, all with full AF/AE tracking, making sure you never miss that critical shot.

Video Features and Build Design

For videographers, the EOS 1D X Mark III presents a formidable array of capabilities.

It offers 5.5K RAW video recording, a first for Canon’s DSLR lineup, promising unprecedented details and flexibility in post-processing.

Additionally, it supports 4K video recording at 60fps and Full HD at 120fps.

The inclusion of Canon Log provides 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording, ensuring extensive grading possibilities and dynamic range.

Physically, the camera exudes robustness and reliability, crafted for the harshest environments.

The magnesium alloy body is both weather-sealed and durable.

Despite its inherent weight and bulk, typical for professional DSLRs, the ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling even during prolonged shoots.

Canon’s EOS 1D X Mark III stands testament to the company’s commitment to catering to the highest echelons of professional photography and videography.

With its unbeatable performance, advanced autofocus system, unparalleled video capabilities, and rugged design, it’s a camera that’s poised to deliver in the most demanding situations.

5. Canon EOS 7D Mark II

Sensor, Performance, and Image Quality

The EOS 7D Mark II stands as Canon’s flagship APS-C sensor DSLR, catering specifically to enthusiasts and semi-professionals.

At its core is a 20.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, paired seamlessly with the dual DIGIC 6 image processors.

This combination guarantees fast performance and impressive image quality. Photographs rendered exhibit excellent sharpness, color accuracy, and depth, ensuring the camera’s ability to capture intricate details.

The ISO range of 100-16,000, extendable to 51,200, ensures versatility in various lighting conditions.

Furthermore, the camera’s admirable noise reduction capabilities mean that even at elevated ISO levels, image degradation is minimal, and detail retention remains high.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed

One of the EOS 7D Mark II’s standout features is its sophisticated 65-point all cross-type autofocus system.

This broad and dense AF system provides accurate and rapid focus acquisition, particularly crucial for action, wildlife, or any fast-moving subjects.

The camera’s iTR (Intelligent Tracking and Recognition) technology further bolsters AF performance by employing face detection and color tracking, making subject tracking remarkably efficient.

For those keen on capturing split-second moments, the 7D Mark II doesn’t disappoint.

With a continuous shooting speed of 10 frames per second, and a substantial buffer, photographers can capture extended sequences of high-speed action without missing a beat.

Build, Design, and Additional Features

Built like a tank, the EOS 7D Mark II boasts a robust magnesium alloy body, ensuring both durability and resilience against the elements.

The extensive weather-sealing provides photographers the confidence to shoot in challenging conditions without fretting over potential damage to the equipment.

The camera also features dual memory card slots, adding an extra layer of flexibility for storage or backup purposes.

On the video front, the EOS 7D Mark II offers Full HD recording at 60fps with the added benefit of Dual Pixel CMOS AF, ensuring smooth focus during video capture.

The camera also possesses an integrated GPS, invaluable for those into travel photography or anyone keen on geotagging their shots.

Canon’s EOS 7D Mark II is a compelling proposition for advanced amateurs, enthusiasts, and semi-professionals.

It merges the agility and portability of an APS-C DSLR with features one would expect in a professional full-frame body.

With its combination of stellar image quality, rapid autofocus, high-speed shooting capabilities, and rugged construction, the 7D Mark II is a worthy contender in its category, promising reliability in a plethora of shooting scenarios.

 

6. Canon EOS Rebel T8i (EOS 850D)

Sensor, Performance, and Image Quality

Positioned as an upper entry-level DSLR, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i, known as the EOS 850D outside of the US, serves as a bridge between beginners and enthusiasts.

The heart of the camera is a 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which is complemented by the DIGIC 8 image processor.

This duo ensures that the camera delivers images with vibrant colors, ample sharpness, and good detail retention.

The native ISO range spans from 100 to 25,600, ensuring flexibility in varying lighting situations.

When pushing the ISO limits, noise performance is commendable, with usable shots even towards the higher end of the spectrum.

For the budding photographer or someone transitioning from a smartphone or compact camera, the T8i’s image quality is likely to impress.

Autofocus and User Experience

The T8i showcases a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system, which, when combined with the Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, guarantees smooth and accurate focus, particularly evident during live view shooting and video recording.

This AF system ensures that subjects are kept sharp even when in motion, a boon for those dabbling in action or wildlife photography.

Continuous shooting speeds peak at 7 frames per second, offering a respectable rate for capturing fleeting moments.

On the user experience front, the camera boasts a fully articulating touchscreen, simplifying composition from unconventional angles.

This, coupled with the intuitive user interface and a streamlined button layout, makes the T8i exceptionally user-friendly, catering well to its target demographic.

Video Capabilities and Additional Features

Video enthusiasts will appreciate the T8i’s ability to record 4K footage at 24fps, though with a 1.6x crop. Full HD recording is available at up to 60fps, providing more flexibility for those interested in capturing smoother footage or dabbling in slow-motion editing.

The inclusion of the Dual Pixel CMOS AF during video ensures that focus transitions are smooth and subjects remain sharp even when on the move.

Additionally, the camera features a built-in microphone jack, allowing for enhanced audio quality when using external microphones.

On the connectivity front, both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are integrated, simplifying the process of transferring images to smartphones or remote shooting through the Canon Camera Connect app.

The Canon EOS Rebel T8i (EOS 850D) is a worthy contender in the crowded space of entry-level DSLRs.

With a blend of commendable image quality, reliable autofocus, user-friendly design, and decent video capabilities, it stands as an appealing option for those making their first foray into the world of DSLRs or enthusiasts looking for a feature-rich yet uncomplicated shooting experience.

7. Canon EOS 77D Review

Sensor, Performance, and Image Quality

The Canon EOS 77D, often seen as a bridge between Canon’s entry-level DSLRs and their more enthusiast-oriented models, packs a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.

This sensor, in tandem with the DIGIC 7 image processor, ensures that the camera is capable of producing images with excellent detail, rich colors, and commendable dynamic range.

The native ISO range of 100-25,600, which is expandable up to 51,200, provides ample flexibility when shooting in varied lighting conditions.

As for noise performance, the 77D performs admirably, maintaining good detail and color accuracy even as ISO levels climb.

For those transitioning from more basic models or even advanced compact cameras, the image quality the 77D delivers will be notably satisfactory.

Autofocus, Handling, and User Experience

The autofocus system on the EOS 77D boasts 45 cross-type points, ensuring rapid and precise focus acquisition across a majority of the frame.

The inclusion of Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology further enhances live-view shooting and video recording, providing smooth and accurate focus tracking.

Continuous shooting speeds cap at 6 frames per second, making it viable for capturing moderately fast-moving subjects. In terms of handling, the 77D feels robust and is ergonomically designed, ensuring comfort during extended shooting sessions.

The top LCD panel, a feature often reserved for higher-end models, offers a quick glance at key settings, while the fully articulating touchscreen provides an intuitive means to navigate the menu, review shots, or even set focus points.

Video Capabilities and Connectivity

For budding videographers, the EOS 77D offers Full HD video recording at 60fps, ensuring smooth footage.

The aforementioned Dual Pixel CMOS AF plays a crucial role here as well, guaranteeing that focus transitions in videos are buttery smooth and subjects remain sharp, even when in motion.

A built-in 5-axis digital stabilization aids in reducing shake during handheld shooting, though it’s worth noting this is not a full-fledged in-body image stabilization system.

On the connectivity front, the 77D comes equipped with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, facilitating easy image transfers to mobile devices and enabling remote shooting via Canon’s dedicated app.

The Canon EOS 77D emerges as a compelling option for those hovering between beginner and enthusiast DSLR cameras.

With a harmonious blend of robust image quality, a reliable autofocus system, user-friendly design, and competent video capabilities, it stands as a versatile tool for photographers looking to elevate their craft without venturing deep into the professional territory.

The Best Canon DSLR

In the past, I wrote an article on what are the best Canon lens to get for videoshooting.

If you’re hunting for a new camera, hopefully this article on the best Canon DSLR helps you find your next camera body to fit lenses that you already have.

Much like how a lens’ performance varies depending on the situation and setting, it’s the same with Canon cameras as well.

So, how curious are you to know what camera to get to match the lenses you have found or vise versa, – what camera should you invest in, and then what lenses to get? This may sound like a chicken and egg situation. But, really, you have to just focus on what your vision for video shooting is and ensure that it matches your budget.

You will find out that the prices of Canon equipment tend to be a bit pricier than other competitors in the market.

But trust me, I have a lot of experience with using cameras and selecting lenses, and I have always found Canon cameras to be worth my money. Every single time.

Canon cameras last a long time, too. They age well and a solid Canon camera purchase now will last far into your shooting career, regardless of what new cameras come on the market.

Also, do not discount the features of older cameras, and consider them obsolete, they still remain a more affordable option rather than always splashing out on the newest models.

Which Canon DSLR Should You Buy?

This comprehensive range of cameras is the best cameras out there for Canon right now. My selection is based on a variety of reasons, such as:

• kind of user,
• the user’s purpose,
• user’s skill level, and
• the level and type of features on each camera.

Over time, you as a videographer will be able to narrow down your niche, and be able to precisely look for what features are important to you.

By referring to this list of the best Canon cameras, you will likely be able to find a camera that fits your needs and budget.

And, hey, if you ever want to upgrade from DSLR camera shooting, you can always consider Canon’s amazing Canon EOS C100, which was really designed as the next level up for video shooting with Canon cameras.

Enjoy shooting with your new Canon DSLR camera!
 

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