Canon EOS 1100D vs Canon EOS 700D: A Hands-On Comparison for the Discerning Photographer

Over the past decade, Canon’s entry-level DSLRs have carved a niche for themselves among beginners and budget-conscious enthusiasts alike. Two notable models, the EOS 1100D (also known as Rebel T3) and the EOS 700D (Rebel T5i), often come up in conversations comparing affordability, performance, and suitability for evolving photographic skills. Having personally tested thousands of cameras throughout my career, I’d like to walk you through a detailed, experience-driven comparison of these two cameras - covering everything from sensor performance to ergonomics and suitability across popular photography genres.

Let’s dig beyond the marketing specs and explore the real-world differences that matter.

Getting to Know the Cameras: First Impressions and Build

When you first pick up the 1100D and 700D side by side, the size difference is noticeable - a subtle but meaningful factor, especially if portability or hand comfort matters for your style of shooting.

The 700D is slightly bulkier and heavier at 580g versus the 1100D’s lean 495g, but this translates to a more solid grip and a sturdier feel that many users will appreciate during prolonged shoots or outdoor use. Both feature classic Canon compact SLR bodies with pentamirror optical viewfinders offering roughly 95% frame coverage, but the 700D edges out with a more refined grip texture and larger physical dimensions (133x100x79mm compared to 130x100x78mm).

Moving to the top deck reveals key controls and dials arranged similarly but with some ergonomic improvements on the 700D.

Here, the 700D introduces better-spaced buttons and a more tactile mode dial, which together make quick adjustments more intuitive. The 1100D’s simpler layout keeps things minimal but can feel slightly cramped if you’re used to more advanced control setups. For beginners, the 1100D does present less intimidation, but for more demanding workflows, the 700D’s design feels like a step forward.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: What’s Under the Hood

In practical photography, sensor specifications translate directly into your ability to capture sharp, noise-free images with natural colors. The 1100D sports a 12.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor paired with Canon’s older DIGIC 4 processing engine, while the 700D upgrades to an 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor with the DIGIC 5 processor.

This bump in resolution provides more detail, especially noticeable in landscapes and portraits where cropping flexibility and print size matter. I tested both cameras with ISO varying from 100 to 3200 in controlled studio lighting. The 700D consistently produced cleaner images with better noise control at higher ISOs, thanks to the newer processor and refined sensor design. Dynamic range differences were subtle but present; the 700D’s slightly improved dynamic range (11.2 vs 11.0 EV on DxOMark) helps retain more shadow and highlight detail, especially useful in contrasty outdoor scenes.

Color depth is fairly close between them (around 21.7-21.9 bits on DxOMark), so both yield pleasing skin tones and faithful color reproduction - Canon’s color science remains solid here. However, if rich gradations and subtle tonal transitions are a priority, the 700D’s data advantage gives it a noticeable edge.

Viewing and Interface: See Your Image the Way You Want

This is one of the 700D’s strongest improvements over the 1100D - the rear LCD display and live view interface. The 1100D features a modest 2.7-inch fixed TFT LCD with a mere 230k dots resolution, while the 700D boasts a 3-inch fully articulated Clear View II TFT touchscreen sporting over 1 million dots.

The 700D’s vari-angle screen is a game-changer for portrait photographers, vloggers, and anyone shooting at awkward angles - no more collapsing your body in strange ways to compose your shot. Touch focus and touch shutter capabilities are also present, adding to the camera’s user-friendly nature. For those who prefer tactile buttons however, the 700D maintains full physical controls without relying solely on the touchscreen.

On the other hand, the 1100D’s fixed screen sometimes feels restrictive, especially during live view or video shooting, but its simplicity can appeal to those who dislike touchscreen fiddling.

Autofocus and Burst Rate: Tracking Life in Motion

Autofocus systems are critical to deciding which camera suits your subject matter, especially for wildlife and sports photography. Both DSLRs feature Canon’s 9-point AF system with one central cross-type point.

However, the 700D upgrades all nine points to cross-type sensors, promising better sensitivity and accuracy. For reference, cross-type AF points gain sharper contrast detection horizontally and vertically, providing superior focus reliability on moving subjects.

The 1100D shoots at 3 frames per second (fps) continuous burst, while the 700D can double that to a more respectable 5fps, better suited for capturing sequences in action.

During field testing with fast-moving subjects - a flock of birds and street athletes - I found the 700D’s predictive AF to maintain focus much better, with fewer misfires and lag during bursts. The 1100D’s AF, while functional for static or slow subjects, struggled with predictive tracking and required frequent manual focus adjustments to nail the shot.

Images Speak Louder Than Specs: Sample Gallery Comparison

Rather than relying only on technical numbers, viewing side-by-side image samples helps uncover practical strengths and weaknesses.

Canon 1100D screen back Canon 700D screen back

Notice the richer tonality and sharper detail in the 700D’s portraits, especially around skin textures and hair strands. The 1100D renders slightly less saturated colors with marginally less sharpening, which may appeal to those who prefer a natural, subdued look.

Landscape shots reveal the 700D’s finer dynamic range and reduced noise shadow retention benefits. Meanwhile, the 1100D’s files offer a slight softness but retain character for hobbyists and casual sharing.

Evaluating Performance Across Photography Types

Let’s break down how each camera holds up across photography genres, highlighting where they excel or fall short.

Portrait Photography

Skin tones, eye detection capability, and pleasing background blur matter most here. The 700D’s higher resolution sensor combined with 9 cross-type AF points and face detection in live view produce sharper, more reliably focused portraits. The DIGIC 5 processor aids color rendition, replicating natural skin hues better than the older 1100D.

Both cameras rely on lens aperture for bokeh quality, but the 700D’s higher ISO range allows more flexibility in low light conditions where wider aperture lenses aren’t an option.

Landscape Photography

Resolution and dynamic range take the limelight here. The 700D’s 18MP sensor allows larger prints and more cropping margin without detail loss compared to the 1100D’s 12MP. The slight edge in dynamic range captures richer gradations between highlights and shadows - helpful for sunrise or sunset scenes.

Neither camera includes weather sealing, but the 700D’s improved build feels more durable. Both accept the same EF/EF-S lenses, ensuring good lens options for wide-angle and telephoto needs.

Wildlife Photography

Fast autofocus and burst rate are paramount. The 700D’s 5fps shooting rate and improved AF system clearly outperform the 1100D’s capabilities here. However, neither camera matches the speed and tracking sophistication of higher-end models - but for casual wildlife shooters, the 700D can capture better action sequences.

Sports Photography

Similar to wildlife, sports demand fast AF and rapid frame rates. While neither camera is a pro sports machine, the 700D’s faster burst and user-friendly controls enable better tracking of athletes mid-action. The 1100D can technically do the job but expect more missed focus and slower performance.

Street Photography

Here, discretion and portability count. The 1100D’s smaller size and lighter weight make it appealing for inconspicuous shooting. However, the 700D’s articulating touchscreen assists in shooting from hip level or awkward angles to capture candid moments creatively.

Low-light performance edges in favor of the 700D, especially useful in dim urban environments.

Macro Photography

Both cameras depend largely on lens choice for close focusing, but the 700D boasts more precise focusing via its 9 cross-type points. Stability features are absent on both bodies, so a tripod or lens with image stabilization helps. The articulated screen on the 700D adds convenience when framing low or awkward macro subjects.

Night and Astro Photography

High ISO noise handling influences night shots. The 700D’s newer sensor and DIGIC 5 processor allow cleaner images at ISO ranges above 1600, extending usability into dark environments.

Neither camera supports long-exposure features like bulb ramping natively but manual bulb exposures are possible. The articulating screen of the 700D is handy when shooting at unusual angles for the night sky.

Video Capabilities

This is an area where the 700D leads clearly. The 1100D is limited to 720p HD video at 30fps with no external microphone input.


In contrast, the 700D supports full HD 1080p video at 30fps, also offering 720p at 60fps for smoother motion. It includes a microphone input for improved audio quality - a feature seriously missed on the 1100D. The touchscreen interface eases focus during video; though neither has in-body stabilization, you can rely on optical IS lenses.

You’ll find the 700D far more versatile for casual video or vlogging, while the 1100D feels quite dated in this respect.

Travel Photography

The lighter 1100D appeals for those prioritizing longer battery life (approximately 700 shots vs 440 on the 700D) and minimal luggage bulk. Its simpler interface may be less distracting when on the move.

On the flip side, the 700D’s larger, articulated screen, touchscreen convenience, and superior image quality widen creative options but cost some weight and battery endurance.

Under the Hood: Technical Insights and Features

Let’s deepen the look at some specs important for your decision:

This summary shows the 700D incorporates significant tech jumps justified by its higher price point, but the 1100D shines as an affordable entryway into DSLR photography with respectable battery stamina.

Battery Life, Connectivity, and Storage

The 1100D is the clear winner if sheer endurance is your game. On a single charge, its 700-shot rating means fewer battery swaps or charging demands - great for trips without access to power or long shooting sessions.

Both cameras use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards and USB 2.0 wired transfers. Neither supports Bluetooth or NFC; wireless connectivity is limited to compatible Eye-Fi memory cards.

The 700D has optional GPS support, a bonus for travel photographers who want geotagging without external gear.

Lens Ecosystem and System Expandability

Both DSLRs share Canon’s EF/EF-S lens mount, tapping into Canon’s vast lineup of over 320 native lenses. You’ll find everything from affordable primes and versatile zooms to dedicated macro and supertelephoto.

In terms of accessories - external flashes, remote controls, and battery grips - the 700D enjoys broader compatibility with Canon’s recent accessories, while the 1100D has a more basic offering aligned with entry-level use.

Worth Your Bucks? Price vs Performance

The 1100D often retails around $450, making it extremely tempting for newcomers or budget shooters. However, the 700D at roughly $650 offers tangible improvements in image quality, AF performance, video, and interface responsiveness.

From my extended testing, the 700D edges slightly ahead in all-around performance, but the 1100D remains a viable, no-frills DSLR with solid imaging capabilities.

Discussing genre-specific performance:

You’ll see the 700D leads in sports, wildlife, video, and portraiture, while the 1100D holds its own for casual, travel, and entry-level macro work.

Who Should Buy Which?

Canon 1100D: The Ideal Starter DSLR

• You are just starting photography and want an affordable DSLR.
• Battery life and simplicity are your top priorities.
• Your photography is mostly casual, including landscapes, family portraits, and street scenes.
• Video is a minor part of your shooting, and you prefer an optical viewfinder experience.

I often recommend the 1100D for students, casual photographers, or travelers on a tight budget - especially when paired with Canon’s affordable EF-S 18-55mm kit lens.

Canon 700D: For the Emerging Enthusiast

• You want significantly better image quality and resolution.
• Video shooting or vlogging is in your toolkit.
• Fast autofocus and better burst rates matter for wildlife and sports.
• You appreciate touchscreen controls and articulated screen flexibility.
• You can invest a bit more for features that help you grow your skills.

The 700D suits enthusiasts upgrading from compact cameras or previous Canon models seeking a flexible camera without breaking the bank.

The Final Frame: My Personal Take

Having spent weeks shooting both cameras in studios, city streets, nature, and low-light conditions, the Canon 700D feels like a more thoughtfully designed DSLR aligned with the expectations of today’s photographers - even if it’s now several years old.

Its touchscreen, superior sensor, and video features provide creative freedom and reliability that the 1100D’s fundamental design cannot match. However, this does not negate the 1100D’s appeal for certain users: the simplicity, battery endurance, and lighter price make it a no-nonsense camera that’s easy to learn and carry.

If you’re on the fence, here’s a simple approach: if you want smooth stepping stones in your photography journey with room to grow, the 700D is worth the investment. If you value straightforward operation and budget constraints dominate, the 1100D remains a straightforward, practical choice.

In summary: Both cameras continue to hold their own in the entry-level DSLR realm. Your decision boils down to priorities regarding image quality, video use, ergonomics, and budget.

If you like what you’ve read, don’t just take my word for it - get your hands on these cameras if possible, test their ergonomics and interfaces in-store, and consider what photography genres excite you most.

Happy shooting!

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