Canon offers some of the best DSLR cameras for beginners. In its Rebel line, you’ll find multiple choices that serve different users with unique features. The Rebel T7 and Rebel T7i are two of the most beginner-friendly choices available. 

The T7 is the most recent release. However, it offers less functions when compared to the T7i. It also recycles old tech from the previous generation Rebel T6, but that doesn’t mean that it won’t serve its purpose. A lot of users may like it for its simple design. 

In this post, we’ll take a look at the differences between the Canon T7i and Canon T7. A description of both cameras will be provided to help you choose the best option that suits your needs. 

Canon T7i Description

The Rebel T7i was released prior to the Rebel T7. However, it comes with the latest technology and more advanced features. For instance, it boasts of the same 49-point autofocus system and 24-megapixel sensor that was used in the EOS 80D. 

The inclusion of the Digic 7 and a newer image processor helps to raise low-light sensitivity up to ISO 51,200. This is done while maintaining a maximum shooting speed of 6 fps. 

The Canon T7i comes with similar external buttons as the T7 with a slight variation in where they are placed. It gains an upper hand by having a fully articulating touchscreen. When it comes to software, it provides a guided menu called Feature Assistant. 

The menu is simplified and guides users using plain-English explanations and pictures. It’s easy and quick to use with the touch interface. Beginners will have an easy time as the camera is designed to get any new user up and running fast. 

The Feature Assistant guided menu can be turned off. This reverts the T7i back to the standard Canon interface. Unfortunately, this feature is not provided in the lower T7. 

While both cameras come with Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, the T7i adds Bluetooth for persistent and flawless transmission of photos. The feature also helps owners to use their smartphones as a wireless remote. This comes in handy where there is no Wi-Fi connection. 

Like the T7, the T7i comes with 24 megapixels. When combined with a new processor, the T7i produces higher-quality images, especially under dim light. It can shoot videos at Full HD 1080p with up to 6 frames per second. 

The biggest advantage with the T7i is that its Dual Pixel Autofocus (DPAF) helps the camera to record effortless videos and home videos. DSLRs are known to be notoriously slow when focusing in live-view mode. DPAF allows the T7i to use phase detection in live view making it work more like a camcorder. This changes the game and makes the T7i a better performer.

Strong Sides

1. 6 fps burst shooting
2. Dual Pixel Autofocus works well for videos
3. Fast 45-point autofocus system
4. Touchscreen display that can be changed to the standard Canon display

Weak Sides

1. Video is limited to 1080p
2. Small Pentamirror viewfinder

Canon T7 Description

The Canon T7 is a simple and impressive camera that offers various improvements when compared to its predecessor – the T6. Unfortunately, it offers very few new features. Its 24 megapixel camera falls short of that of the T7i in that it lacks the Dual Pixel Autofocus. 

It also uses the Digic 4, a much older image processor that is only capable of getting the ISO to 12,600. It’s usable, but not as reliable and functional as that of the T7i. The Autofocus also comes lower than that of the T7i, with just 3 fps. You still get continuous shooting mode but at half the rate at which the T7i does. 

The standard interface on the T7 cannot be converted into touchscreen. Users get Wi-Fi and NFC for better connectivity using Canon’s mobile app but no Bluetooth. However, you can easily share your movies and videos wirelessly to a smartphone or tablet. Wi-Fi connectivity also steps in and allows wireless remote control from a connected device using the Camera Connect app. 

Like the T7i, shooting videos can be done at Full HD 1080p. While this is not going to win any awards in today’s world of 4K resolution, it does a decent job. 

Being an entry-level DSLR, it produces high-resolution images for its class. These are produced with reduced noise and increased accuracy. Multiple features allow owners to adjust Basic Zone exposure. They get to pick styles such as Auto, Portrait, Neutral, Monochrome, User Defined 1-3, Landscape, Standard, and Faithful.

Taking photographs and videos in live view is made easier thanks to a 9-point AF system that increases focusing speed and accuracy. A contrast-detection feature also makes autofocus precision better in live view. 

Like the T7i, the T7 also supports multiple languages which include: English, French, Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, Spanish, Russian, Hungarian, Romanian, Turkish, Thai, Korean, Japanese, Simplified/Traditional Chinese, Arabic, Ukraine, Czech, Polish, Greek, Swedish, Italian, Portuguese, Dutch, and German. 

The shortcomings of the T7 may not be that noticeable when it comes to real-world situations. But, for photographers that would love to get the most out of their RAW image files, the T7 falls short. Nevertheless, it’s still a capable and compact option for its price range. 

Strong Sides

1. Comes with a built-in flash
2. Weighs less than the T7i

Weak Sides

1. Fixed screen type
2. Lower frames per second in continuous shooting
3. No microphone port
4. Has fewer focus points

Overview and Conclusion

The Canon T7i is obviously the better option in this comparison. Its streamlined wireless connectivity, Dual Pixel Autofocus, Feature Assistant menu, and articulating touchscreen provide better value for money. The camera also leaves a lot of room for growth for beginners and upcoming photographers. Unlike the T7, it comes with faster performance, a wider ISO range, and an optical viewfinder. A modest edge in image quality means that you also get a better experience and improved images. This makes it worth spending the extra money on the Canon T7i.