Canon 60D vs. Canon 650D

Attribute	Canon 60D	Canon 650D
Resolution	18.0 MP	18.0 MP
Sensor Type	APS-C CMOS	APS-C CMOS
ISO Range	100-6400 (expandable to 12800)	100-12800 (expandable to 25600)
Autofocus Points	9	9
Continuous Shooting Speed	5.3 fps	5.0 fps
Video Resolution	Full HD 1080p	Full HD 1080p
Screen Size	3.0 inches	3.0 inches
Articulating Screen	Yes	Yes
Viewfinder Type	Pentaprism	Pentamirror
Weight	755 g	575 g

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a camera, Canon is a brand that is often trusted for its quality and performance. Two popular models in Canon's lineup are the Canon 60D and Canon 650D. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, making it challenging to decide which one is the better choice. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two cameras to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon 60D and Canon 650D have different designs and build qualities. The 60D features a magnesium alloy body, which gives it a more robust and durable feel. It also has a larger grip, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. On the other hand, the 650D has a polycarbonate body, which makes it lighter and more compact. It is also equipped with a touchscreen LCD, allowing for intuitive navigation and control.

Both cameras have a well-placed layout of buttons and dials, providing easy access to essential settings. The 60D has a top LCD panel, which displays key shooting information, while the 650D relies on the rear LCD for all information. Overall, the 60D's build quality and ergonomics make it a preferred choice for photographers who prioritize durability and handling.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, both the Canon 60D and Canon 650D deliver excellent results. They are equipped with an APS-C sized sensor, but the 650D has a higher resolution of 18 megapixels compared to the 60D's 18-megapixel sensor. This difference in resolution may not be noticeable in everyday shooting scenarios, but it can be advantageous for cropping or printing larger images.

Both cameras perform well in low-light conditions, thanks to their wide ISO range. The 60D has a native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable up to 12800, while the 650D has a native range of 100-12800, expandable up to 25600. This means that the 650D has a slight edge in terms of low-light performance, allowing for better noise control at higher ISO settings.

Additionally, the 650D introduces Canon's DIGIC 5 image processor, which enhances image quality and provides faster image processing compared to the 60D's DIGIC 4 processor. This improvement results in better overall image sharpness, color accuracy, and reduced noise levels.

Autofocus System

The autofocus system is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a camera, especially for those interested in capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting videos. The Canon 60D features a 9-point autofocus system, which is reliable and accurate for most situations. However, the 650D takes it a step further with a 9-point cross-type autofocus system, providing improved precision and tracking.

Moreover, the 650D introduces a new hybrid autofocus system, combining phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus. This hybrid system allows for faster and more accurate autofocus during live view and video recording, making it a preferred choice for vloggers and videographers.

Video Capabilities

Speaking of video recording, both the Canon 60D and Canon 650D offer impressive video capabilities. The 60D can record Full HD 1080p videos at 30 frames per second, while the 650D can shoot at the same resolution but with the added benefit of continuous autofocus during video recording, thanks to its hybrid autofocus system.

The 650D also introduces a touchscreen LCD, which allows for touch-based focus control while recording videos. This feature is particularly useful for vloggers or those who frequently shoot videos on the go. However, it's worth noting that the 60D has a microphone input, which can be advantageous for those who require better audio quality by using an external microphone.

Additional Features

Both cameras come with a range of additional features that enhance the shooting experience. The Canon 60D has a faster maximum shutter speed of 1/8000s compared to the 650D's 1/4000s, allowing for better control over exposure in bright conditions. It also has a larger optical viewfinder, providing a more immersive shooting experience.

On the other hand, the 650D offers a built-in stereo microphone, which can capture better audio quality without the need for an external microphone. It also has an articulated touchscreen LCD, allowing for flexible shooting angles and easy menu navigation.

Both cameras have an SD card slot for storage, but the 650D also supports the newer SDXC memory cards, which offer higher storage capacities. This can be beneficial for photographers who frequently shoot in RAW format or record long videos.

Conclusion

After comparing the attributes of the Canon 60D and Canon 650D, it is clear that both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. The 60D excels in terms of build quality, ergonomics, and a larger optical viewfinder, making it a reliable choice for photographers who prioritize these aspects. On the other hand, the 650D offers a higher resolution sensor, improved low-light performance, a hybrid autofocus system, and a touchscreen LCD, making it a more versatile option for those interested in video recording or vlogging.

Ultimately, the choice between the Canon 60D and Canon 650D depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the type of photography or videography you plan to pursue, your budget, and the importance of each feature discussed in this article. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the camera that best suits your requirements.