Photography News 08

Camera review

APS-CDSLR big test There’s a huge choice of APS-C DSLRs available, with an equally huge price range. We compare six of the current crop to see which is best for you

Words by Ian Fyfe

and flexibility in settings like bracketing and white-balance. It’s a similar story with entry- level models, but these same restrictions are often more pronounced. Often the most immediately noticeable differences between the levels of camera are in build quality and handling. Bodies at the lower end are smaller and less robust, but the flipside is that they’re more compact and lighter, which might be what you’re looking for. Less space for buttons also results in more restricted control with less direct access. Other things like smaller and dimmer viewfinders and single rather than dual memory card slots are seemingly less important, but can be significant. So with all that in mind, let’s see what our six are capable of.

continuous shooting speeds to make them well suited for sports, wildlife and action photography. They’re also more solidly built and resistant to the elements, while a bigger body leaves space for more direct access buttons and dials. But mid-level DSLRs have wide appeal because they are options either as an upgrade for enthusiasts who want more advanced performance at a reasonable cost, or as a backup camera to a more advanced or full-frame model. Often the sensor and processor technology isn’t different from the top-end models, and it’s a case of deciding how many bells and whistles you need or want. More simplistic focusing and slower shooting speeds are common sacrifices at this level, as well as things like control of flash

No fewer than 25 APS-C format DSLRs are currently available, ranging from simple entry-level models up to those with sophisticated technology aimed at advanced enthusiasts and even professionals. In pursuit of high-quality images, it’s tempting to dismiss the lower- end models and gravitate towards the most expensive, but the difference in price can be huge. That’s why we’ve pitted six of the best APS-C DSLRs from across the price range against each other in tests of performance and handling, to see what they’re capable of and whether it’s necessary to spend big for the best performance. Our line-up includes two advanced APS-C DSLRs, the Nikon D7100 and Sony A77; two mid-level models, the Canon EOS 70D and Nikon D5300; and two entry-level offerings, the Canon EOS 700D and Sony A58. There’s no denying that the extra cost of top-end cameras provides extras in both functionality and form. The metering systems are often more advanced, and sophisticated AF systems combine with fast

Often the sensor and processor technology isn’t different fromthe top-endmodels, and it’s a case of deciding how many bells andwhistles youneed orwant

Photography News | Issue 8