Canon’s EOS Rebel line of DSLR cameras has long been a go-to choice for beginner photographers looking for an affordable way to step up from smartphone or point-and-shoot cameras.
The Canon EOS Rebel T7i and EOS Rebel T8i represent Canon’s latest generation of entry-level DSLRs.
They are very similar cameras on the surface, with the T8i providing a modest upgrade over the slightly older T7i model. In this in-depth comparison guide, we’ll break down the key specs and features of the T7i and T8i to help you decide which one best fits your needs and budget as an aspiring photographer.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specs/Features | Canon EOS Rebel T7i | Canon EOS Rebel T8i |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.2MP | 24.1MP |
| Image Processor | DIGIC 7 | DIGIC 8 |
| Autofocus System | 45-point all cross-type | 45-point all cross-type |
| Live View Focus System | Dual Pixel AF | Dual Pixel AF with Eye Detection AF |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 6 fps | 7 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | Full HD 1080p 60fps | 4K 24p, Full HD 120fps |
| LCD Screen | 3″ vari-angle touchscreen | 3″ vari-angle touchscreen |
| ISO Range | 100-25600 (expands to 51200) | 100-25600 (expands to 51200) |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth, NFC | Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi |
| Battery Life | 600 shots | 600 shots |
| Dimensions and Weight | 5.2 x 4 x 3.1 in, 1.18 lbs | 5.2 x 4 x 3.1 in, 1.18 lbs |
| Current Price | $700-800 new | $850-950 new |
Overview of Key Specs
Before we dive into the details, let’s start with a high-level overview of the core specs and features of the Canon T7i and T8i:
Canon EOS Rebel T7i:
- 24.2 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- 45-point autofocus system with all cross-type AF points
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF for fast live view and video AF
- Digic 7 image processor
- Full HD 1080p video up to 60 fps
- 3″ vari-angle touchscreen LCD
- ISO range of 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
- 6 fps continuous shooting
- Bluetooth and NFC wireless connectivity
Canon EOS Rebel T8i:
- 24.1 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- 45-point autofocus system with all cross-type AF points
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with eye detection AF in live view
- Digic 8 image processor
- 4K 24p and Full HD 120p video
- 3″ vari-angle touchscreen LCD
- ISO range of 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
- 7 fps continuous shooting
- Bluetooth, NFC, and WiFi wireless connectivity
As you can see, there are many similarities but also some key differences that we’ll dig into more throughout this comparison. The T8i brings noteworthy video upgrades as well as a bump to 7 fps continuous shooting.
But the T7i, while slightly older, shares the same impressive Dual Pixel autofocus system found in Canon’s more advanced DSLRs. Let’s break things down in more detail.
Camera Body and Design
In terms of physical design and handling, the T7i and T8i are nearly identical. They have the exact same dimensions at 5.16 x 3.94 x 3.07 inches and weigh 1.18 lbs with the battery and memory card. Both cameras feature Canon’s standard entry-level DSLR control layout with a nice sized grip for comfortable handling.
The buttons and dials are all in the same locations for easy operation. If you’re familiar with other Canon Rebel DSLRs, you’ll feel right at home handling either model.
The T7i and T8i both utilize Canon’s standard LP-E17 rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. Battery life is rated at around 600 shots per charge for both models, which is average for DSLRs in this class. An optical viewfinder provides a natural viewing experience, with 95% coverage and 0.82x magnification.
A 3” vari-angle touchscreen LCD allows for flexibility when composing shots at creative angles and vlogging. The LCD touch interface also makes menu navigation intuitive. Both cameras have a built-in pop-up flash that supports Canon’s wireless flash sync system for external speedlites.
Overall, Canon did not make any major design or handling changes between the T7i and T8i. They have nearly identical robust polycarbonate resin and stainless steel body construction that feels solid and durable without being overly heavy.
Image Sensor
At the heart of any digital camera is the image sensor, which captures light and converts it into digital image data. The T7i and T8i feature APS-C sized CMOS sensors, which are common for consumer and enthusiast level DSLRs. The T7i has a 24.2 megapixel sensor, while the T8i has a 24.1 megapixel sensor.
The minor difference in resolution is negligible in real world use. More important is their high ISO performance and dynamic range capabilities, which we’ll explore more later.
Both sensors utilize Canon’s advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, which enables fast and accurate autofocus during live view and video recording using phase detection points integrated directly on the image sensor itself. This means you can use the vari-angle touchscreen to take shots from creative angles and your subjects will remain sharply in focus.
A key advantage of DSLRs compared to mirrorless cameras is that the optical viewfinder allows you to conserve battery life when not using live view. Overall, both the T7i and T8i deliver strong image quality and focus capabilities thanks to their proven APS-C size sensors and advanced Dual Pixel AF system.
Image Processor
The image processor is the engine that handles all the complex computational tasks inside a digital camera. This includes autofocus, image processing, exposure metering, face detection, and more. The T7i utilizes Canon’s DIGIC 7 processor while the T8i gets an upgraded DIGIC 8.
DIGIC 8 brings modest improvements in image processing, face detection, and power efficiency. However, the difference in real world use is minor. More importantly, both processors are fast enough to provide a smooth live view experience and rapid 6-7 fps burst shooting with autofocus.
Where you may notice more of a difference is when recording video. The 4K video capabilities of the T8i require the extra processing throughput of DIGIC 8. But for day to day still photography, you can expect excellent performance from the DIGIC 7 chip in the older T7i.
Autofocus System
Canon has equipped both the T7i and T8i with a 45-point autofocus system that offers widespread AF coverage across a large portion of the viewfinder. This gives you a lot of compositional flexibility and tracking ability when shooting moving subjects. All 45 AF points are cross-type for enhanced precision and responsiveness, especially when paired with a fast aperture lens.
In live view and video mode, the Dual Pixel AF system offers smooth and fast autofocus thanks to the phase detection pixels integrated on the image sensor itself. This allows both cameras to confidently track subjects and maintain focus even during burst shooting.
One advantage the T8i has is the inclusion of eye detection AF when shooting portraits through the LCD in live view mode. This automatically finds and focuses on the subject’s eyes for tack sharp focus on faces. The T7i lacks this option, though you can still tap to focus on any area of the frame.
For viewfinder shooting, the autofocus capabilities are otherwise virtually identical between the two cameras. Both the T7i and T8i deliver DSLR-level AF performance suitable for shooting action sports and wildlife thanks to their 45-point all-cross-type AF systems.
Also Read: Is Canon EOS M50 Better Than EOS M200?
Continuous Shooting Speed
When you need to capture fast action shots, the continuous shooting speed comes into play. The T7i can shoot at up to 6 fps when using the optical viewfinder. The T8i bumps this up slightly to 7 fps. While not a huge difference, the extra 1 fps gives you a bit more leeway for capturing fleeting moments and subtle changes in facial expressions and movement.
The large APS-C sensors and advanced image processors allow both cameras to maintain autofocus and autoexposure when burst shooting at up to 6-7 fps. This enables you to capture multiple shots of moving subjects while maintaining focus. However, RAW image buffer depths are limited to around 30 frames for both models when shooting full resolution Fine JPEG + RAW.
Overall, while the T8i has a slight lead for action photography, the 6 fps drive speed of the T7i remains respectable for entry-level sports and wildlife work. Either model provides a noticeable speed boost over smartphone cameras and basic compacts when photographing kids or pets in motion.
Video Capabilities
Video has become an increasingly popular DSLR feature set for vlogging, social media clips, and even amateur filmmaking. Here the T8i gains a more substantial upgrade over the older T7i.
The T7i offers Full HD video up to 60 fps, which was excellent for its time. But the T8i adds the ability to shoot 4K video up to 24 fps. 4K provides a lot more resolution for flexibility in post-production cropping and effects. If you want higher frame rates, the T8i can also shoot Full HD at up to 120 fps for buttery smooth slow motion when played back.
Thanks to Dual Pixel AF, both cameras offer continuous autofocus while filming video. But the T8i gains eye detection AF for automatically finding and tracking faces when recording clips. Beginner filmmakers will also appreciate the 4K timelapse movie mode on the T8i, taking the guesswork out of stabilizing and processing sequences of still images.
The T7i lacks the more advanced video features but still provides good quality Full HD footage for vlogging or casual video projects. But if you envision doing more creative things with 4K, slow motion, or timelapses, the T8i is better equipped.
Wireless Connectivity
In today’s connected world, built-in wireless capabilities go a long way for conveniently transferring images and remote shooting options.
The T7i includes both Bluetooth and NFC connectivity for quick pairing with smartphones and tablets. Bluetooth facilitates automatic image transfers to your mobile device for rapid sharing on social media. NFC enables instant connections by simply tapping devices together.
The T8i adds the benefit of built-in WiFi in addition to Bluetooth/NFC. This opens up more advanced wireless functions like remotely controlling the camera from your smartphone as well as automatic backup to cloud services like Canon’s Image.canon platform.
Both cameras allow wirelessly connecting to a compatible smartphone using Canon’s free Camera Connect app. This enables remote shooting control complete with live view preview as well as transferring images from camera to phone. The T8i just makes connecting easier with its built-in WiFi versus needing to leverage NFC pairing on the T7i.
Battery Life
With power draining features like video, burst shooting, and wireless connectivity, battery life is an important consideration for DSLRs. Here the T7i and T8i are evenly matched, both using the same LP-E17 lithium ion pack rated for around 600 shots per charge.
This battery life is average for the category and allows for a solid day’s worth of normal still photography. However, power can drain faster when extensively using live view, burst mode, or WiFi/NFC streaming and transfers. Picking up a spare battery is recommended for longer shoots or travel. But both cameras offer adequate juice for typical daily use.
ISO Performance
A camera’s light sensitivity, or ISO range, determines how well it can capture images in dim lighting. High ISO performance also contributes to your ability to use fast shutter speeds to freeze action in low light.
The T7i and T8i deliver virtually identical ISO ranges of 100 to 25600, expandable to 51200. Image quality at the lower end of the range up to around ISO 1600 is very good with minimal noise. At the higher settings like ISO 12800 to 25600, visible noise increases along with some loss of fine details. But images remain very usable for web sharing or smaller prints.
When shooting indoors, concerts, night events, or action in cloudy conditions, you’ll appreciate both cameras’ ability to use fast shutter speeds thanks to their relatively clean high ISO output. Either model provides solid low light image quality for an entry-level DSLR.
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Additional Features
Beyond core specs, there are a few other features worth highlighting in comparing the T7i Vs. T8i:
- Scene Intelligent Auto mode – Both cameras include Canon’s beginner-friendly auto mode which automatically selects appropriate camera settings when detecting certain types of common scenes and subjects.
- Special Effect Modes – Apply creative looks in-camera like grainy black and white, soft focus, fish eye effect, watercolor, and more.
- HDR Movie Mode – Records video while overlaying multiple exposures to maintain details in high contrast lighting scenarios.
- Timelapse Movie – Available on the T8i, this mode assemblies timelapse sequences in-camera for stabilized 4K playback.
- Cropping – The T8i allows cropping JPEG images in-camera to preview composition changes before shooting.
- Self-timer – Both models have a standard 10 second self-timer for selfies and group shots. The T8i adds a 2 second delay option as well.
- Flash – The built-in pop-up flash can act as a wireless commander for Canon’s external Speedlite flashes providing creative lighting flexibility.
- RAW Image Capture – Both cameras allow shooting hi-res JPEGs along with more flexible RAW files for improved editing potential.
- Picture Styles – Choose from color settings like landscape, portrait, neutral, faithful, and more to match your creative vision.
Which is Best For You: T7i or T8i?
Now that we’ve compared the key specs and features of the Canon T7i Vs. T8i, which model is right for you? Here are some key factors to help you decide:
Budget
- The older T7i can be found for $700-800 new or even less refurbished or used, making it the more budget-friendly option.
- The newer T8i costs around $850-950 new given its recent release. Worth considering if the upgrades are important to you.
Video needs
- The T7i is great for basic Full HD recording like family events or vlogging.
- The T8i adds more advanced 4K and slow motion video capabilities for creativity.
Action photography
- Both offer speedy Dual Pixel autofocus and 45 cross-type AF points.
- The T8i’s 7 fps drive speed gives it a slight edge for capturing fast action.
Wireless connectivity
- The T7i has Bluetooth/NFC for basic wireless image transfers.
- The T8i adds WiFi for more advanced functions like remote shooting.
Beginner-friendliness
- Both share Canon’s intuitive interface and guided modes perfect for photography beginners.
So in summary, the T7i is arguably the best value for those seeking a budget-friendly entry into Canon’s DSLR ecosystem. But the T8i brings some compelling upgrades for video, wireless connectivity, and speed that may be worthwhile if those features are important to you.
Either way, both are fantastic starter DSLRs that offer many pro-level features and excellent image quality in an affordable package.
Also Read: Choose Between Canon EOS R10 And Canon EOS M50 Mark II.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main differences are the T8i adds 4K video, faster 7fps continuous shooting, eye detection AF, and built-in WiFi. The T7i is slightly older but shares the same impressive 45-point AF system and Dual Pixel AF as the T8i at a more budget-friendly price.
The T8i is slightly better on paper thanks to its upgrades, but the T7i is still a remarkably capable camera, especially for the money. The T7i actually outpaces the T8i in some areas like megapixels. But the T8i excels for video, speed, and wireless connectivity.
The next tier up in Canon’s lineup is the 90D, which provides more advanced features, weather sealing, faster drive speeds and a more robust body. Another option is mirrorless cameras like the Canon EOS M6 Mark II that have similar image quality in a more compact form.
Yes, the Canon T8i is considered an entry-level or beginner model in Canon’s DSLR lineup, alongside the slightly older T7i. It offers approachable controls and interface for those new to DSLR photography while still providing excellent image quality and performance.
Also Read: Choose Between Sony A9 II And A1.
Conclusion
The Canon EOS Rebel T7i and Rebel T8i represent two fantastic options for those seeking an affordable, user-friendly DSLR. You really can’t go wrong with either one. The T7i delivers tremendous value and imaging capabilities in a compact form.
But the T8i brings desirable upgrades for video, speed, and connectivity that some will find worth the extra initial investment.
Hopefully this detailed comparison has provided the information you need to decide if the T7i or T8i is the best entry-level Canon DSLR for your creative goals and budget.
Both cameras can produce stunning, professional-looking photos and video while also having room to grow your skills as a new photographer.