Canon T7i Vs Canon T8i Complete Comparison: Which One to Buy?

Canon T7i and T8i are both excellent entry-level DSLR cameras that offer a great balance of features and affordability. 

Both cameras have their own unique features and advantages, making it difficult to decide which one to choose. 

In this complete comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences and similarities between the Canon T7i and T8i to help you make an informed decision on which one to buy.

As a seasoned photographer with experience shooting with both mirrorless cameras and DSLRs like the Canon EOS Rebel T7i and T8i, I’ve put both models through their paces for this article. 

My testing covers every primary feature of both models, as well as external factors like price and usage cases.

So, keep reading to find out which one is the perfect fit for your photography needs!

At a Glance

Based on my testing, I can confidently say that both the Canon EOS T7i and T8i are great options for photographers looking for an entry-level DSLR camera. 

However, after thorough evaluation, I believe that the T8i is the superior choice.

At first glance, both cameras have similar specs – they both have a resolution of 24 megapixels and use APS-C sensors. 

But when you take a closer look at the technical details, the T8i boasts several additional features that many users will appreciate, such as a more powerful image processor, faster burst shooting, and higher video resolution

That being said, the T7i still has its advantages. It’s less expensive than its successor and is an excellent choice  for beginners. Plus, it has a better flash than the T8i.

So whichever model you choose, you can’t go wrong!

Comparison

I have broken my testing into several categories. I will examine the many aspects that separate the T8i and the T7i.

1. Body and Design: Both Cameras Offer Ease of Use and Lightweight Build

The Rebel T8i and Rebel T7i have similar body designs, as expected from their similar names. 

Canon has standardized the design of the Rebel cameras, so each feels practically identical in my hand. 

However, there are some minor differences between the two models. The T7i is slightly smaller than the T8i, while the latter is a bit heavier. 

Dimensions & Weight

Although the differences in dimensions and weight are not substantial, keep in mind that the primary weight of the camera comes from the lens you attach to it.

Both cameras felt comfortable in my hands and I was able to shoot for an entire day without any issues. 

Canon has done an excellent job with the ergonomic design of these cameras, laying out everything where I can easily find it. 

However, I was disappointed that neither camera is weather-sealed, which means I have to protect them from the elements. 

As someone who enjoys hiking and nature photography, this was a bit of a letdown.

Additionally, neither camera has shock absorption. While this isn’t something I necessarily expect from DSLR cameras like these, it’s still worth noting.

Key Takeaways

Overall, neither camera has an advantage regarding body and design, as both are easy to use and lightweight. 

The minor differences in dimensions and weight won’t have much impact on users. 

Therefore, the design should not be a deal-breaker when deciding between these two cameras. 

It’s worth noting that these cameras are smaller than full-frame models, which are bulkier and heavier to compensate for their more powerful and larger processors. 

While some photographers may prefer a full-frame model, travel photographers who need to carry their cameras around all the time should stick to smaller models like the T7i and T8i.

2. Sensor Comparison: T7i and T8i Share Similar Sensors and Resolution

If you’re looking for a camera with great image quality, both the Canon Rebel T7i and T8i will serve you well with their APS-C sensors and 24–megapixel  resolution. 

But with such similar specs, you might be wondering what sets these two models apart.

The primary difference between the two lies in their image processors. The T7i uses DIGIC 7, while the T8i employs the more advanced DIGIC 8. 

While beginners may not notice much of a difference, professional photographers will appreciate the T8i’s superior processing power.

The processor is the brain of the camera, responsible for turning the image the camera sees into the photo you want. 

It’s like a computer processor – the more powerful it is, the better your camera will perform. 

In my testing, I found that the Rebel T8i’s DIGIC 8 processor was able to convert raw data into images faster than the Rebel T7i’s DIGIC 7 processor. 

Additionally, I noticed better lighting and colors in photos taken with the Rebel T8i.

Another advantage of a powerful processor is its ability to compensate for digital noise – that grainy or pixelated look I sometimes see in photos. 

I found that photos taken with the T7i had less noise than those taken with other cameras.

One more advantage of a faster processor is the ability to shoot more photos rapidly. 

The T8i’s burst mode is particularly impressive, shooting at 7.5 frames per second, making it a great option for sports and action photographers. 

In comparison, the T7i’s burst mode shoots at six frames per second. However, the difference between shooting six pictures in a row and four could be what separates an okay image and an excellent one.

The difference may not seem significant until you see the results for yourself.  

In my testing, the T8i‘s action shots were noticeably superior compared to those captured with the T7i.

Key Takeaways

Overall, the Canon Rebel T7i and T8i are similar in terms of sensors and megapixel resolution. 

The primary aspect that differentiates these cameras is the T8i‘s more advanced image processor, which improves lighting, color, and noise reduction while also enabling better burst photography.

The T8i is the best mid-tier DSLR camera for sports photography, while the T7i is still a solid choice for those on a budget or just starting in photography.

3. Connectivity Comparison: T7i and T8i Both Offer Excellent Connectivity Options

When it comes to connectivity, the Canon Rebel T7i and T8i are quite similar. 

Both cameras offer NFC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as the option for a hard-wired connection to a computer for uploading. 

I personally had no trouble uploading photos with either camera.

Both cameras also have HDMI output, so I can easily display your photos on a computer or television screen. 

Thanks to the powerful processors on both models, the photos already look professionally edited.

To unlock some of the camera’s features, I need to download the Canon app on my smartphone. Both cameras can upload photos directly to the app. 

In my experience, the app was user-friendly, and I didn’t find any aspect of the process frustrating.

 Even beginner or intermediate photographers should have no issues using the app.

One exciting feature available through the Canon app is remote camera control. 

I used the Canon app to control the camera remotely. I know some users may not get much use out of this feature, but it was a worthwhile addition.

I think remote connectivity will help some users with family portraits or selfies. The Canon app is worth trying, no matter your preference for apps.

If you’re not familiar with NFC or Bluetooth technology, don’t worry. You can also upload photos by plugging your SD card into your computer or laptop. 

While this method can be slower, it’s an easy option for those who aren’t comfortable with wireless technology.

Key Takeaways

Overall, both the T7i and T8i offer excellent connectivity options, including NFC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. 

Both cameras can also connect to a computer for hard-wired transfer via USB cable. Additionally, they both have HDMI output for displaying pictures on a larger screen.

4. Screen and Viewfinder: Both Cameras Feature Excellent Options

Both the Canon EOS Rebel T7i and Rebel EOS T8i have very similar rear screens. The screens are articulated and can be operated with a touch interface or with physical buttons. 

I found the touchscreen to be the most user-friendly method for interfacing with the camera’s menus.

The screens also have the ability to change the focus target if used in live view mode. I tapped the screen and was able to refocus in seconds. 

Tapping to change focus is an intuitive feature and is perfect for rapid photo adjustments.

The rear screens are both articulated. Neither screen has total control, but I can flip the back display to see it while standing in front of the camera. 

The articulated screen is perfect for taking selfies or examining video footage while recording. 

Vloggers and YouTubers will appreciate the flip screen. Some other models, like the T7, lack this feature.

One of my only complaints about the screen on either camera is its low resolution. 

Neither camera has many pixels on the rear display. The displays are average on the resolution front, but I found them both slightly lacking compared to higher-end models.

Both cameras start in Guided Mode by default. Guide Mode helps you understand the camera; Canon sets up the interface to explain photography terms to new users. 

The explanations are easy-to-follow, and Canon explains vocabulary in non-photographic terms. 

The Guided mode is excellent for beginners hoping to get into photography. 

The cameras also ship with a Standard Mode that looks like the standard camera interface. 

You won’t get any fancy explanations, but I found everything laid out logically. 

Canon has plenty of practice creating its user interface, and both models succeed in this aspect.

I  can choose between the standard and Guided modes on the T7i and T8i. 

I used the camera in Guided Mode for a while during my tests of both cameras. 

I was impressed by the user interface and the way it explained photography to new users.

I foresee no issues from beginners or experienced photographers handling the rear screen.

DSLR cameras have viewfinders I can preview my picture in. 

Many mirrorless cameras do not have a viewfinder, or it uses more battery power than the DSLR equivalent. 

The viewfinders in these two cameras are nearly identical. 

I had 95 percent the same field of vision on both cameras. This coverage puts both cameras firmly in the mid-tier of viewfinders. 

You will shoot precisely what you see at 100 percent the same field of vision. You must do some cropping with these cameras to capture the framing perfectly.

Both cameras have an optical viewfinder rather than an electronic one. 

An optical viewfinder saves battery life and lets us see what the camera sees. 

I enjoyed the viewfinder on both models and found the previews clear and crisp. 

Optical viewfinders are also better in bright light where I have trouble seeing a screen.

Both the optical viewfinders for these cameras have a magnification of 0.51.

Key Takeaways

Overall, both cameras have great screen and viewfinder options, with some minor drawbacks.

5. Key Specifications: Similar Hardware, Minor Differences

Both the Canon Rebel T7i and T8i are digital single-lens reflex or DSLR cameras, meaning they’re compatible with most Canon lenses, allowing for a wide range of shots. 

I can quickly equip either model with a wide-angle or telephoto lens to get the zoom and scope for any shot you need.

As someone who loves swapping out lenses to find the perfect shot, I appreciate this feature. Neither camera has an edge in compatibility.

In terms of resolution, both cameras have a 24-megapixel ratio. While the T7i has a slightly higher megapixel count of 24.2 compared to the T8i’s 24.1,

In practice, I wasn’t able to notice any difference in resolution. 

The megapixel ratio of both cameras puts them in the middle compared to the market. 

Most cameras have a megapixel count similar to the T7i and T8i, so my photos will look as crisp as anyone else’s. 

You want your quality to be on par or better when competing for a gig as an event photographer or trying to set your travel blog apart. 

I found my test photos with these cameras above average, and I know you will be happy with your quality. You will have beautiful creations with just a little editing.

ISO is one of the most important aspects of a camera. A camera with a wide ISO range will set itself apart from the competition.

ISO is a complicated concept for some new photographers. There is a lot of technical jargon that may trip up new users. I will not go into an over-detailed explanation of ISO.

ISO refers to the ability of a camera and its film to gather light. ISO was initially a concern for the film in traditional cameras, but digital cameras have ISO too. 

A lower ISO setting means the camera is less sensitive to light. A higher ISO leads to a more light-sensitive camera. 

Both options have their uses, and having a wide ISO range in a camera is desirable.

Both the Canon EOS Rebel T7i and T8i have the same ISO range. The range clocks in at 100 to 25,600 for stills. 

I found this span more apt for taking photos when the lighting wasn’t the best. 

I did not notice much grain or digital noise in my photos. The noise that existed was easy to edit out.

I can adjust the ISO range in steps of 1/3EV. Experienced photographers like me will be able to get the perfect amount of lighting for each photo.

The T8i has a silent shooting mode. Event photographers should opt for this camera to avoid making a scene during an intimate event like a wedding. 

Key Takeaways

Overall, both cameras offer similar hardware, and the minor differences between the two are unlikely to be noticeable in practice. 

Both models are capable of delivering quality images that will satisfy the demands of most photographers, whether it’s for professional events or personal photography projects.

6. Performance: T8i Offers Clear Improvement for Better Video and Photography

Now we come to the nitty gritty. The performance is the main factor you want to consider while comparing cameras.

Fortunately, both the Canon EOS Rebel T7i and T8i have excellent performance. However, the T8i has a slight edge over its predecessor.

Let’s start with the video performance. Canon released the EOS Rebel T7i at the end of the 1080p era, which is known as 1920 x 1080 resolution or HD, and while it offers decent video quality, it’s no longer the standard. 

Vloggers, YouTubers, and filmmakers will appreciate the T8i’s ability to record in 4K or ultra-HD resolution.

I was impressed by the crisp and detailed 4K videos I captured with this camera.  

T8i also has a Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system for videos, which allows for smooth subject refocusing.

The only drawback of the 4K videos is that I could only film in 24 frames per second.  

However, this framerate is the industry standard for movies and can produce cinematic experiences. 

Vloggers who want 4K at 60 frames per second should look elsewhere. 

Both cameras support 60 frames per second of video at 1080p.

No matter what my video needs, the T8i outperforms the T7i.

On the photography front, the T8i is also a clear improvement. 

Its autofocus system is faster and more precise, capturing the perfect shot in fractions of a second. 

The T7i’s autofocus system is also excellent, but it is slightly slower and doesn’t match its newer counterpart.

Both cameras use a 45-point focus system that can pinpoint a subject throughout the frame. 

While I can find more expensive models with better autofocus systems, both the T8i and T7i are some of the best autofocusing cameras in this price range.

In my tests, both cameras were great at tracking subjects as they moved across the frame. However, the T8i had better tracking and is the camera I recommend to wildlife or sports photographers.

You need a precise and efficient autofocus system when shooting fleeting moments. 

Wildlife and sports photographers need to get a subject in focus in milliseconds. They can’t afford to waste time manually focusing or waiting for autofocus to do its job.

In low-light environments, both cameras performed nearly equally. They use the same ISO architecture, giving me plenty of options for how much light to allow in. 

However, thanks to its more advanced processor, the T8i produced slightly better pictures in these conditions.

I tested both cameras at a high school football game to see how they performed in action and low-light environments. 

While both gave me some excellent action shots, the T8i’s improved burst mode and processing put it ahead of the T7i. 

Sports photographers may want to stick with the T8i.

Key Takeaways

Overall, while both cameras are great, the T8i is a clear improvement and the recommended option for those looking for better video and photography performance.

7. Battery Life: T8i Offers Slight Edge, Ideal for Extended Use

Both cameras excel when it comes to battery life, which is one of the many reasons why I prefer shooting with a DSLR.

To put their battery life to the test, I conducted experiments to see how many shots I could take on a single charge. 

I was able to capture 800 photos on the T8i before its battery drained. 

On the other hand, the T7i was able to take approximately 600 pictures before it needed to be recharged.

It’s worth noting that I conducted these tests using the viewfinder rather than the rear screen. 

If I use the back display to preview your images, I will likely get fewer shots.

With either camera, I don’t have to worry about taking multiple batteries with me on a hike, as both have enough battery life to last all day based on my testing.

Key Takeaways

Overall, both cameras excel in battery life, but the T8i has a slight edge in this aspect, making it the better choice for those who need a longer-lasting battery life. 

Both cameras are suitable for those who love taking photographs all day long.

8. Price: T7i Aimed at Entry-Level, T8i Ideal for Upgrading

Both of these cameras target slightly different markets with their price points.

Canon aimed the T7i at entry-level photographers who want something fancier than the cheapest option. 

In contrast, the EOS Rebel T8i is more suitable for those looking to upgrade to the next camera level.

It’s important to note that camera prices constantly fluctuate thanks to new stock or deals. The EOS Rebel T7i retails for a few hundred dollars less than the T8i. 

The cost varies depending on any extra accessories like a lens or carrying bag.

In my opinion, despite costing slightly more, the T8i is the better value purchase due to its additional features. 

The T8i performs better in action photography and videos, two key markets that many photographers care about.

However, for those who are just starting in the world of cameras, the T7i is still a worthwhile consideration and a perfect beginner camera. 

Even though it can’t compare to the T8i, you will still see excellent results with the T7i.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which camera best suits your needs and budget. 

While I believe that the T8i is the better value of the two models, I understand why some may hesitate to invest in the higher-priced camera.

9. Canon T7i Pros and Cons

The best aspect of the Canon T7i is its performance. The camera takes crisp pictures, and everything always stays in focus. I found excellent value for my money with the T7i.

This model is also perfect for beginners or experienced photographers. You have a built-in guide that shows the basics of photography on this camera.

I took some beautiful photos with this camera thanks to its customizable settings and powerful processor.

The T7i falls in its videos. I could only record in 1080p, unlike the T8i with its 4K videos. Vloggers may want to avoid this camera.

The T7i is slightly behind the T8i technologically. The newer model has a better processor and autofocus.

Key Takeaways

10. Canon T8i Pros & Cons

The Canon T8i is one of the best mid-tier cameras today. The camera takes beautiful action shots and has a powerful processor to correct images. 

The model has a superb burst mode that captures 7.5 images per second.

The T8i is also a video powerhouse. I recorded several videos in 4K resolution. The 24 frames per second gave my videos a cinematic feel. 

One drawback of the camera is you can’t record in 60 frames per second at 4K resolution. YouTubers may be disappointed in the lack of 60 frames per second.

The T8i is slightly larger than the T7i, but you won’t notice the difference. The T8i costs more than the T7i.

I believe the T8i makes up for the extra cost with additional features and better components. 

Key Takeaways

Canon T7i vs T8i: T8i Takes the Crown as Overall Winner

Overall, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i takes the cake in this comparison. 

While it may not be a runaway improvement over the T7i, the additional features are worth the cost. 

During my testing, the T8i proved to be a powerful camera that captured some gorgeous vistas.

That being said, the T7i is still worth purchasing for some users. It’s cheaper than the T8i and better for those on tighter budgets. 

Even though it has worse videos, you can save money if you don’t plan to record videos on the camera.

Both cameras have a great autofocus system, although the T8i is more responsive. 

The T7i may be worthwhile for those who take landscape shots and focus the camera manually. 

On the other hand, sports, action, and wildlife photographers will want to stick to the T8i due to its superior burst mode.

Event and professional portrait photographers will also find the T8i more to their liking. 

The camera has a silent shooting mode to capture the action without disturbing anybody.

It also excels in videos, making it the perfect choice for YouTubers, vloggers, and influencers.

I hope this guide helped you understand the difference between the T7i and T8i. 

No matter your needs, either camera will be a boon. Click on one of the links to learn more about these devices. 

You’re only a few clicks away from a new camera and a new avenue to express your creativity.