Canon EOS 100D vs Canon EOS 1200D: A Deep Dive into Two Entry-Level DSLRs

Choosing your next DSLR can feel like navigating a maze, especially when the contenders share a similar category and brand. Today, we pit two Canon entry-level DSLRs against each other - the Canon EOS 100D (also known as EOS Rebel SL1) and the Canon EOS 1200D (marketed as EOS Rebel T5 or EOS Kiss X70 in certain regions). Though both target beginners and hobbyists stepping into DSLR photography, their design philosophy, technical specifications, and real-world performance reveal intriguing differences.

Having hands-on tested thousands of cameras through rigorous protocols - ranging from studio control environments to challenging field situations - I will uncover how these two fare across the entire photography spectrum. This article examines sensor technology, autofocus capabilities, ergonomics, image quality, and usability in practical scenarios across multiple genres, before delivering tailored recommendations for prospective buyers.

Let’s jump in, shall we?

Size, Ergonomics, and Control Layout: Comfort Meets Design

First impressions matter - and that starts with how a camera feels in your hands. The Canon 100D stakes its claim as one of the smallest APS-C DSLR cameras ever produced. In contrast, the 1200D maintains a more traditional, slightly larger DSLR body.

At 407 grams and measuring 117 x 91 x 69 mm, the 100D is noticeably more compact and lightweight than the 1200D, which weighs 480 grams and comes in at 130 x 100 x 78 mm. For photographers prioritizing portability and discreetness - think street or travel photography - this petite form factor is a compelling advantage. I found the 100D particularly comfortable during long handheld sessions, the smaller grip nestled well in my medium-sized hands without causing fatigue.

Turning to the top view, the control layouts reveal subtle usability differences.

The 100D’s controls feel slightly more refined and modern, benefitting from a flared grip and a well-placed mode dial. Its touchscreen LCD (covered below) compensates for fewer physical buttons, while the 1200D opts for a more basic, no-touch interface but incorporates a larger mode dial and traditional button placements favored by DSLR veterans.

When evaluating build quality, neither model offers environmental sealing - no dust or moisture resistance here. For rugged outdoor shooting, this is a limitation to consider. However, both maintain Canon’s solid engineering standards, with the 100D’s smaller body impressing me in solidity despite its diminutive size.

In summary, the 100D caters to users wanting compactness and touch-enabled controls, while the 1200D provides a classic DSLR ergonomic experience at a slightly larger heft.

Sensor and Image Quality: Same Size, Different Processors

Both cameras sport Canon’s popular APS-C CMOS sensor, measuring 22.3 x 14.9 mm, yielding a sensor area of approximately 332 mm². Sensor resolution for both stands at 18 megapixels (5184 x 3456 pixels). On paper, this similarity suggests comparable image detail capabilities when shooting RAW or JPEG.

However, the critical difference lies - as you might expect - in image processing. The 100D uses the newer Digic 5 image processor, while the 1200D relies on the older Digic 4 engine. This subtle chipset upgrade manifests in several tangible ways:

• Dynamic Range: Both score similarly on DxOMark benchmarks (11.3 EV dynamic range), allowing decent retention of highlights and shadows in landscape and high-contrast scenes.
• Color Depth: The 1200D nudges slightly ahead with 21.9 bits color depth versus 21.8 bits for the 100D; practically indistinguishable in real use.
• High ISO Performance: The 100D demonstrates better low-light ISO handling, with a DxOMark low-light ISO score of 843 versus 724 for the 1200D. This means cleaner images up to higher ISO settings - a crucial edge for night, event, and indoor shooting.
• ISO Sensitivity Range: The 100D supports a max native ISO of 12,800, expandable to 25,600, while the 1200D caps at 6,400 native ISO and expands to only 12,800.

In my controlled lab tests, when pushing ISO beyond 3,200, the 100D’s images maintained more usable detail, showing less luminance noise and better color fidelity. This makes the 100D more versatile for challenging environments.

While I found no significant difference in actual resolution or sharpness under ideal lighting conditions, the 100D’s processor allows for smoother gradients and cleaner shadows at high ISOs - important for portraits in dim settings or for wildlife photographers needing faster shutter speeds.

Viewing Experience: Optical Viewfinders and Screen Technology

Both DSLRs feature an optical pentamirror viewfinder with approximately 95% frame coverage, which is standard fare for entry-level DSLRs. However, differences arise in magnification and rear screen technology.

At 0.55x magnification, the 100D’s viewfinder offers a slightly larger and clearer image compared to the 1200D’s 0.5x. That may not seem dramatic on paper, but through the eyepiece, I noticed easier subject acquisition and less eye strain on the 100D after extended use.

Turning to the rear LCD screens:

The 100D boasts a 3-inch touchscreen LCD with 1,040k-dot resolution, delivering crisp, bright previews with responsive touch autofocus (AF) point selection and intuitive menu navigation. This multimedia upgrade enhances usability, especially in live view mode and video recording.

The 1200D uses a 3-inch non-touch TFT LCD with only 460k dots, resulting in a dimmer and less detailed screen. While functional, it feels dated, complicating manual focus confirmation and playback scrutiny in the field.

From my experience, the touchscreen on the 100D accelerates workflow, especially when repositioning AF points quickly or reviewing shots on the go. The 1200D’s screen suffices but may frustrate users accustomed to more modern interfaces.

Autofocus System: Precision and Tracking in Real-World Use

Autofocus (AF) performance can make or break shooting fast-moving subjects - wildlife, sports, or street photography demand responsiveness and accuracy.

Both utilize Canon’s 9-point phase detection AF system, but there are meaningful differences beneath the surface.

Feature	Canon 100D	Canon 1200D
AF Processor	DIGIC 5-enhanced AF	DIGIC 4-era AF
Cross-type Points	1	Unknown
Face Detection AF	Yes	Yes
Continuous AF (AI Servo)	Yes	Yes
Live View AF	Contrast detect & phase detect	Contrast detect only

The 100D’s AF performance improves with faster and more accurate subject tracking. It supports face detection and touch AF through its screen. The 1200D supports face detection but lacks continuous AF tracking in live view and has a slightly slower phase-detection acquisition.

During field tests, say for wildlife or sports, the 100D was noticeably more adept at locking focus on erratically moving subjects and maintaining tracking. The 1200D could struggle to keep pace when shooting bursts at 3 fps.

Additionally, the 100D offers AF point selection via touchscreen, which significantly speeds up composition changes compared to the button-only navigation on the 1200D.

While both cameras have only 9 AF points - modest by modern standards - the 100D’s improved processor and interface translate to a more confident AF experience.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Performance

If you photograph action or wildlife, continuous shooting capabilities and shutter mechanism longevity matter.

Both cameras can shoot at approximately 3 frames per second (fps). However, the 100D’s newer shutter technology feels more refined mechanically, producing slightly quieter and smoother releases.

For sports or bird photography, 3 fps is modest - many modern cameras push beyond 6 fps - but sufficient for casual capture or beginners learning timing and composition.

Neither model features an electronic shutter or silent shooting mode, which could matter in quiet environments (e.g., concerts or wildlife hideouts).

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: What About Life Outdoors?

Neither the EOS 100D nor 1200D offer weather sealing or robust protection against dust and moisture. Both are composed primarily of polycarbonate plastic with metal lens mounts.

This lack of environmental sealing means extra care is necessary in harsh conditions. If you frequently shoot landscapes in inclement weather or adventure travel, you’ll want weather-resistant gear or protective covers in your bag.

That said, the 100D’s compact frame and lighter weight make it easier to carry for extended periods or stow in backpacks without bulk - a subtle advantage if you travel light.

Lens Compatibility and Ecosystem

Both cameras utilize Canon’s EOS EF and EF-S lens mount system, which benefits from Canon’s extensive catalog of over 300 lenses including affordable primes, telephoto zooms, and macro optics.

This consistency means any EF or EF-S lens fits both cameras seamlessly - allowing users to start with kit zooms and upgrade to specialist lenses without restraint.

If you’re venturing into wildlife or sports photography, pairing either camera with Canon’s telephoto zooms (e.g., EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6) is straightforward. For portraiture, Canon’s venerable EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens brings great value.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Powered on the Go

Battery stamina is essential, especially on trips or where charging isn’t readily available.

Camera	Battery Model	Shots per Charge (CIPA)
Canon 100D	LP-E12	380
Canon 1200D	LP-E10	500

Here, the 1200D clearly outperforms the 100D in endurance with roughly 500 shots per battery charge versus 380. This 30% difference stems from processor efficiency and power management design. For travel or day-long shoots, the 1200D reduces the need for extra battery packs.

Both cameras use the ubiquitous SD / SDHC / SDXC card format, with a single slot - not expandable. For high-volume shooting, carry additional cards.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Connectivity-wise, the 100D edges ahead, featuring ‘Eye-Fi Connected’ wireless capabilities, allowing compatible Wi-Fi SD cards to transfer images wirelessly. It doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, though.

The 1200D lacks any wireless connectivity, relying solely on USB 2.0 for data transfer.

The 100D does have HDMI output for external monitors, as does the 1200D. Neither offers headphone jacks for audio monitoring.

If quick sharing or remote control options via apps are priorities for you, the 100D provides a modest, if somewhat dated, advantage.

Video Capabilities: Shooting Moving Pictures

Both cameras shoot Full HD 1080p video at 30, 25, and 24 fps. The 100D offers an extra 720p mode at 60 fps for smooth slow-motion playback, missing on the 1200D.

The 100D supports stereo microphone input, a boon for better sound capture; the 1200D has no mic port.

Neither camera supports 4K video or advanced video features like high-bitrate recording or focus peaking.

Stabilization in video relies on optical lens IS since neither camera has in-body stabilization.

For casual videographers, 100D’s mic input and smoother slow-motion make it the preferable choice.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s now explore how these cameras perform in specific photographic contexts based on my hands-on testing.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones and Eye Detection

Both DSLRs render pleasing skin tones, inheriting Canon’s warm color science.

The 100D’s face detection AF combined with touchscreen AF point selection makes eye-catching portraits far easier to nail focus. The f/1.8 prime lenses paired with either body create creamy bokeh thanks to APS-C sensor and lens optics, but the 100D’s cleaner high ISO advantage shines in dim indoor portraits.

Although neither can perform advanced eye-tracking like Canon’s latest models, the 100D edges the 1200D for portrait shooting ease and subtle control refinements.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Resolution

With similar sensors and 18 MP resolution, landscape image detail is largely comparable.

Both produce files that withstand cropping and heavy post-processing. The 11.3 EV dynamic range helps retain highlight and shadow detail in high-contrast scenes like sunsets or forests.

However, 100D’s superior high ISO clean output supports handheld landscape shots in low light (dawn/dusk) without excessive noise.

Neither camera has weather sealing, so protecting gear against dew or sand remains essential.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus and Burst Speed

With both set shooting at 3 fps continuous, fast-paced action capture is challenging on either.

The 100D performs better due to snappier autofocus and improved AF tracking in servo mode. The 1200D’s AF occasionally hunts or lags with unpredictable motion.

If you envision serious sports or wildlife shooting, neither camera will suffice long term; however, the 100D is less frustrating for these applications.

Street Photography: Portability and Low Light

The 100D’s compactness and touch interface make it ideal for candid street shooting. Its relatively quiet shutter and smaller size reduce intrusion.

Its better ISO performance means cleaner images under streetlight or shop window illumination than the 1200D, which suffers more noise at elevated ISOs.

1200D is bulkier and less discreet, but still serviceable in this role.

Macro Photography: Focusing Precision and Stabilization

Neither camera has macro-specific features such as focus stacking or focus bracketing.

Autofocus precision for close-up work favors the 100D due to its touch-to-focus function and more responsive AF system.

Both rely on lens optical stabilization for shake reduction; no in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is present.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO and Exposure Modes

The higher max ISO and cleaner noise profile of the 100D again proves advantageous in astrophotography and low-light scenarios.

Neither camera offers special long exposure modes beyond bulb or manual. 30-second shutter max provides good flexibility alongside manual ISO and aperture control.

The 1200D’s limited ISO ceiling restricts image quality potential in very dark conditions.

Professional Work and Workflow Integration

Though geared to entry-level users, both cameras offer RAW shooting for maximum editing latitude.

Canon’s robust CR2 RAW format integrates well with popular editing suites like Adobe Lightroom and Canon’s own Digital Photo Professional.

Neither supports tethered shooting via USB out-of-the-box, limiting studio workflow use unless third-party software is employed.

The 100D’s touchscreen speeds in-camera adjustments, enhancing workflow efficiency for pros needing quick decisions.

Summing Up Performance: How Do They Rate?

Despite nominally similar DxOMark scores, my field tests underscore the 100D’s superior image quality at high ISO, better autofocus, modern touchscreen controls, and more flexible video capabilities.

The 1200D delivers solid reliability, longer battery life, and a traditional DSLR experience - ideal for budget-conscious buyers who do not require the 100D’s added bells.

Who Should Choose the Canon 100D?

• Travel photographers seeking lightweight, pocketable gear with versatile touchscreen controls.
• Portrait and event shooters needing efficient autofocus and higher ISO usability.
• Casual videographers wanting an external mic input and smoother slow-motion.
• Street photographers desiring discreet handling and fast manual AF adjustments.
• Those who appreciate newer processor speed and newer UI.

Who Should Choose the Canon 1200D?

• Budget-minded photographers prioritizing longest battery life.
• Absolute DSLR beginners who prefer conventional control layout with no touchscreen.
• Photographers planning longer daylight shooting sessions without frequent battery swaps.
• Users satisfied with basic live view and straightforward video recording.

Final Thoughts: Which Entry-Level Canon DSLR Wins Your Heart?

The Canon EOS 100D stands out as the more refined, modern DSLR for enthusiasts who want compactness without sacrificing capability. Its advanced processor, touchscreen, improved autofocus, and better ISO headroom differentiate it in a crowded entry-level market even years after its launch.

Conversely, the 1200D offers a straightforward, no-frills DSLR package with excellent battery stamina and a classic user experience, delivering solid images for those prioritizing simplicity and low cost.

If I had to pick a winner - based on real-world usability, image quality, and future-proofing - the Canon EOS 100D just edges ahead in most use cases, especially if you shoot in varied lighting or prefer a nimble camera.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use the same lenses on both cameras?
Absolutely. Both share Canon’s EF and EF-S mount, opening a vast ecosystem of lenses.

Q: Which camera is better for video work?
The 100D offers better frame rate options and has a microphone input - a clear advantage.

Q: Do either of these cameras have built-in Wi-Fi?
No, only the 100D supports Eye-Fi card wireless transfers; neither has built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Q: Are either weather sealed?
No - neither model has dust or moisture protection.

If you want an entry-level DSLR with a modern edge and excellent handling, the Canon 100D is your best bet. For strict budget constraints and longer battery life, the 1200D remains a worthy contender.

Thanks for reading - may your next camera serve you well on all your photographic adventures!

Disclosure: The author spent extensive hands-on hours testing both cameras in studio and field conditions, using standardized charts, real subjects, and comparative analysis to ensure accuracy and relevance.