More DSLR choices for your dollar: Closely-related Canon 77D, T7I blur the lines between EOS and Rebel
posted Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at 12:00 AM EDT
Announced today alongside the updated Canon EOS M6 mirrorless camera comes a pair of brand new Canon DSLRs. The updated Canon T7i, a new Rebel-series model, is set to replace the existing T6i. Meanwhile, there's a new little brother to sit under the popular 80D, in the form of the aptly-named the Canon 77D. Both models share many similar features that have made their way down from higher-end models such as the 80D itself.
Together, both the T7i and 77D center around a 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, a similar, if not identical, chip to the one from the 80D. The addition of Dual Pixel technology is notable, with the new T7i being the first Rebel-series camera with that feature. Both models also gain the 80D's 45-point all-cross-type phase-detect AF system as well as the faster DIGIC 7 image processor -- something the 80D itself does not have.
With the Canon T7i situated as a nice full-featured entry-level DSLR and the Canon 77D as a budget-friendly yet advanced step-up model, both share a number of features and performance specs to make either an excellent choice for photography and videography, alike -- especially with the handy flip-out articulated touchscreen. Though with video recording maxed-out at just 1080/60p, those looking for 4K video will need to look elsewhere.
Both the Canon T7i and Canon 77D are set to go on sale in April 2017, with the Rebel model starting at an estimated retail price of around US$750 and the 77D at US$900. For more information about all the features, specs as well as a tour of the camera's design, check out our in-depth Canon T7i preview and Canon 77D preview!
In addition to the new DSLR cameras, Canon has also introduced an updated 18-55mm zoom lens, which will be available for purchase separately (for an MSRP of US$250) as well as in a kit configuration with both the T7i and 77D. The more compact EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens is said to be some 20% smaller than the current 18-55mm IS STM wide-angle zoom and still offers built-in image stabilization, which Canon said provides up to four stops of correction.
Lastly, while the T7i and 77D feature Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth connections, offering quick media sharing as well as remote control capabilities with a paired smart device, Canon has also announced a standalone Bluetooth-based remote control. The Wireless Remote Control BR-E1 is compatible with both new EOS models and connects via Bluetooth, providing up to a 16-foot working radius from the camera, and -- best of all -- does not require line-of-sight with the camera as other IR-based remotes do. This is particularly handy for trickier or more involved remote shooting scenarios or when other signal interference might be problematic. The Canon BR-E1 is also set to go on sale in April 2017 for an estimated retail price of US$50.
