Canon EOS 1200D vs Canon EOS 60D: A Comprehensive Comparison for Discerning Photographers

Choosing the right DSLR from Canon’s extensive lineup can be a daunting task, especially when balancing budget considerations against performance ambitions. The Canon EOS 1200D (introduced in early 2014) and the Canon EOS 60D (released in late 2010) represent two distinct strata targetted at entry-level and enthusiast photographers respectively - yet their overlapping features often spark the question: which camera still holds its own in today’s competitive environment?

Having put both models through rigorous hands-on evaluations - including sensor tests, autofocus benchmarking, ergonomic assessments, and genre-specific photographic challenges - this in-depth comparison aims to clarify the strengths, compromises, and user profiles best suited for each. Throughout, we’ll integrate technical data and real-world findings grounded in extensive experience handling these DSLRs, always keeping the needs of photographers front and center.

Physical Design and Handling: Compact Simplicity Meets Mid-Size Versatility

To start, appreciating the tangible form factor and ergonomics reveals important practical distinctions.

The Canon 1200D is a compact and lightweight DSLR (approx. 480 g) with dimensions of 130 x 100 x 78 mm. Its body targets beginners favoring portability and ease of use. Conversely, the EOS 60D is a solid mid-size option, substantially heftier at around 755 g and measuring 145 x 106 x 79 mm, signaling a more robust build and advanced handling controls suited for enthusiast use.

From the top view, the differences in control layout and design philosophy become apparent.

The 60D boasts a dedicated top LCD panel for shooting information, a luxury absent in the 1200D, facilitating quick parameter checks. Its control wheels and buttons are more ergonomic, enabling faster exposure adjustments with greater tactile feedback. The 1200D, however, keeps the interface straightforward with fewer dedicated dials - an intentional design choice easing newcomers into DSLR operation but possibly frustrating for more advanced users who value direct access.

Ergonomically, the 60D’s more pronounced grip and spread of controls support longer shooting sessions comfortably, particularly beneficial for dynamic genres like wildlife or sports photography where rapid reaction is vital. The lighter, smaller 1200D, while convenient for travel and street photography, may feel cramped for users with larger hands or when attaching heavier lenses.

Sensor and Image Quality: Identical Resolution, Divergent Processing

Both cameras share an APS-C CMOS sensor with dimensions of 22.3 x 14.9 mm and 18 megapixels maximum resolution (5184 x 3456 pixels), maintaining Canon’s characteristic 1.6x crop factor. However, subtle differences in sensor technology and processing engines contribute to distinct image qualities.

Technically, both utilize the same DIGIC 4 processor generation, but the 60D - being positioned higher in the lineup - benefits from better noise handling and dynamic range, as reflected in DxOMark scores: 66 overall for the 60D versus 63 for the 1200D. The 60D achieves slightly superior color depth (22.2 vs. 21.9 bits) and dynamic range (11.5 vs. 11.3 EV), with better low-light ISO performance (up to 813 vs. 724 score).

In practical terms, this translates to finer tonal gradations and cleaner images in shadow areas, crucial for landscape and portrait photography where detail retention matters. The 60D also supports a broader array of aspect ratios (including square 1:1 and widescreen 16:9), offering creative flexibility beyond the 3:2 ratio constraint of the 1200D.

Both cameras have an anti-aliasing filter to prevent moiré but at the slight cost of ultimate sharpness. Neither supports sensor stabilization, making lens choice and technique critical for maximizing image sharpness.

Display and Viewfinder: From Fixed Basics to Articulating Advantage

Display quality and usability deeply affect compositional precision and workflow pace.

Canon’s 1200D sports a fixed 3-inch TFT LCD with a resolution of 460k dots - serviceable but minimal for reviewing detailed images or navigating menus. The 60D’s screen, in contrast, is also 3 inches but boasts over twice the resolution at 1040k dots and, importantly, a fully articulated design. This flexibility is invaluable for low/high angle shooting, macro work, and video framing.

Both rely on optical viewfinders: the 1200D features a pentamirror with 95% frame coverage and 0.5x magnification, while the 60D’s pentaprism offers a brighter, larger 0.6x view with 96% coverage, enhancing manual focus accuracy and subject tracking.

For photographers prioritizing eye-level shooting and critical framing, especially in fast-paced environments like sports or wildlife, the 60D’s viewfinder presents a tangible advantage.

Autofocus and Continuous Shooting: Essential Tools for Action and Precision

Autofocus (AF) system capabilities directly influence success in capturing fleeting moments and sharpening complex subjects.

Both cameras employ 9 AF points with cross-type sensors primarily in the center; however, the 60D differentiates itself by explicitly supporting 9 cross-type points all capable of increased sensitivity, while the 1200D’s specification lists 9 points without confirmation on cross-type count. This subtlety suggests superior AF precision in the 60D, especially in challenging lighting or contrast conditions.

Autofocus modes supported on both include single, continuous, and live view AF with face detection. Neither camera offers advanced features like eye-tracking or animal-eye AF detection, reflecting their era and market positioning.

Continuous shooting rates capture another divergence: 3 fps for the 1200D versus 5 fps for the 60D. This difference, while not dramatic, can impact action photography success, granting the 60D a slight edge for sports or wildlife photographers requiring more frames per second to nail peak moments.

Genre-Specific Performance: What Each Excels At

Examining both models across various photographic disciplines allows us to deliver nuanced recommendations tailored to user intent.

Portrait Photography

Portraiture demands smooth skin tone reproduction, accurate color rendering, and attractive bokeh quality.

Both cameras share identical sensor resolutions, enabling richly detailed portraits. The 60D’s improved dynamic range and color depth provide a more faithful tonal transition in highlight and shadow regions - particularly noticeable in mixed lighting conditions or studio environments. Moreover, the improved AF system favors more reliable face detection and focusing precision, albeit lacking advanced eye autofocus found on newer models.

Bokeh and lens selection require attention: both accept Canon EF and EF-S lenses, with an extensive ecosystem complemented by third-party options. The 60D can better handle heavier prime lenses thanks to its robust grip and build stability, translating to more comfortable portrait sessions.

Landscape Photography

Landscape photographers cherish resolution, dynamic range, and weather resistance.

The 18 MP APS-C sensors deliver adequate resolution for large prints and cropping. The 60D slightly outperforms in dynamic range, which enhances shadow detail and highlight retention in tricky light or HDR scenarios.

Crucially, the 60D features weather sealing against dust and moisture - an asset often undervalued by amateurs but critical in fieldwork. The 1200D lacks any environmental sealing, demanding more caution.

Limitations include both cameras’ lack of in-body image stabilization, putting the onus on stabilized lenses or tripods to achieve razor-sharp images at low shutter speeds.

Wildlife Photography

High-speed autofocus, fast burst rates, and durable battery life characterize success here.

The 60D’s higher continuous frame rate (5 fps vs. 3 fps) and more sensitive 9 cross-type AF points provide a decisive advantage in tracking moving animals, especially in open habitats.

Battery life also differs markedly: approximately 1100 shots per charge on the 60D (LP-E6 battery) against 500 on the 1200D (LP-E10 battery), providing nearly double shooting duration during extended field trips where recharging may not be feasible.

Sports Photography

Sports demand rapid autofocus tracking, high frame rates, and reliable shutter speeds.

With a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000s, the 60D enables freezing fast motion under bright daylight conditions better than the 1200D’s 1/4000s limit.

Its 5 fps burst rate eases capturing sequences during action, though neither model targets professional sports shooters requiring 10+ fps performance.

AF system improvements again favor the 60D, though neither camera offers sophisticated tracking algorithms or face/eye AF geared to sports.

Street Photography

Street photographers value discretion, portability, and low-light capabilities.

The 1200D’s compact form factor and lighter weight enhance mobility and inconspicuous shooting, critical for candid street scenarios.

However, the 60D’s improved low-light ISO handling and articulated screen – aiding waist-level shooting or unusual angles – are compelling.

Neither camera excels in silent shooting modes, with mechanical shutters dominant, potentially limiting use in noise-sensitive venues.

Macro Photography

Macro work calls for precise autofocus, stabilization, and flexible shooting angles.

The 60D’s articulated LCD screen shines here, facilitating viewing at awkward angles common in close-up work.

While neither provides in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which would help handheld macro shots, users can leverage stabilized lenses or tripods.

AF precision is comparable, though the 60D’s cross-type points and improved controls aid manual focusing and fine composition.

Night and Astrophotography

Challenges include high ISO noise, long exposures, and manual control.

The 60D’s marginally better high ISO performance benefits night shooting, reducing noise artifacts in dark scenes.

Its extended maximum shutter speed (30 sec on both), combined with robust build and better battery life, support longer astrophotography sessions.

Both cameras lack built-in intervalometers (requiring third-party remote triggers for time-lapse astrophotography).

Video Capabilities

Modern creators increasingly demand versatile video functions.

The 1200D records Full HD 1080p at 30 and 25 fps only, with H.264 compression. Microphone input is absent, limiting audio quality options, and the fixed rear screen hinders flexible framing.

The 60D supports additional video modes - notably HD 720p at up to 60 fps and VGA resolutions at 60 fps, expanding creative choices. Further, it includes a microphone input jack, allowing use of external microphones for better sound fidelity.

Neither offers 4K capabilities or touchscreen interfaces, understandable for their vintage. Image stabilization during video relies purely on lens IS.

Travel Photography

Weight, size, versatility, and battery life define travel gear success.

The compact 1200D, weighing just 480 g with its small form factor, excels in portability - tailored for photographers prioritizing lightweight kits.

However, the 60D’s significant 1100-shot battery life and articulated screen for composing shots in diverse conditions make it a powerful travel companion for those willing to carry a bit extra weight.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

Professional photographers may consider file quality, durability, and workflow compatibility.

Both support RAW formats essential for post-processing flexibility.

The 60D offers a more rugged body with partial weather sealing, a bright pentaprism viewfinder, and superior battery life, making it better suited for demanding shooting environments.

However, both cameras lack newer connectivity standards (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), though the 60D offers Eye-Fi card support - limited by today’s standards.

Neither model supports tethered shooting with advanced live tether modes found in recent Canon EOS models.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Constructed primarily from polycarbonate and aluminum composites, the 1200D's build is lightweight but unsealed, restricting use in inclement weather.

The 60D features enhanced sealing around buttons and compartments, improving dust and moisture resistance - though not fully weatherproof.

These differences affect usability in outdoor and professional studios where exposure to elements is common.

Battery Performance and Storage

As previously noted, battery life advantage strongly favors the 60D (LP-E6 battery) with approximately 1100 shots, significantly higher than the 1200D’s 500 shots (LP-E10 battery).

Both use a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot, sufficient for typical hobbyist use but less flexible than dual-slot competitors for pros.

Connectivity and Ports

Connectivity remains basic on both:

• HDMI out provided, supporting external monitors.
• USB 2.0 for file transfer.
• The 60D supports Eye-Fi cards for wireless transfer, an early wireless data solution.
• Only the 60D features an external microphone port; neither includes headphone jacks.

Neither model offers NFC, Bluetooth, or GPS, reflecting their launch periods.

Price-to-Performance and Value Assessment

At their respective price points - approximately $549 for the 1200D and $899 for the 60D in current retail approximations - budget-conscious buyers face trade-offs.

The 1200D delivers essential DSLR features at a value-oriented price, ideal for beginners or casual shooters.

The 60D’s improvements in build, autofocus, shooting speed, battery, and video justify the premium, appealing to more serious photographers investing in longer-term equipment.

Our overall performance ratings chart illustrates the 60D’s consistent superiority across key metrics though not an overwhelming gap, underscoring the 1200D’s competent entry-level credentials.

Canon 1200D screen back Canon 60D screen back

Reviewing sample photos from both models confirms the 60D’s modestly improved detail retention, dynamic range, and color fidelity, although images from the 1200D remain commendably sharp and vibrant.

Closing Recommendations: Choosing Your Canon DSLR

• For Beginners and Entry-Level Photographers: The Canon EOS 1200D remains a capable, affordable gateway into DSLR photography, offering essential controls and image quality in a compact form factor, ideal for students, hobbyists, or those upgrading from smartphones or point-and-shoot models.

• For Enthusiast Photographers: The Canon EOS 60D’s enhanced autofocus, ergonomics, build quality, and video features provide more creative flexibility and durability, justifying its higher price. It suits advanced amateurs engaging in wildlife, sports, travel, and video content creation.

• Specific Use Case Advice:

  • Portrait and Landscape: 60D preferred for better dynamic range and handling
  • Wildlife and Sports: 60D due to faster burst rate and reliable AF
  • Street and Travel Photography: 1200D’s compactness and light weight win for portability
  • Macro and Night Photography: 60D’s articulated screen and low-light performance aid creativity
  • Video Creators: 60D makes a superior choice with microphone input and additional frame rates

Ultimately, both cameras demonstrate Canon’s commitment to quality APS-C DSLRs, but the 60D’s advanced features and durable design sustain its relevance despite an older launch date. The 1200D offers a solid stepping stone but with clear limitations as users grow in skill and ambition.

The accompanying visual aids integrated here - including size comparisons, control layouts, sensor specifications, screen clarity, image galleries, and performance metrics - anchor this comparison in tangible experience, equipping readers with a clear, multifaceted understanding distilled from extensive hands-on testing.

Whether you prioritize portability or performance, budget or expandability, these insights empower a purchase decision aligned with your photographic journey and creative goals.