Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Canon Rebel T7i: A Hands-On, No-Nonsense DSLR Showdown

If you’ve ever been caught at the crossroads of Canon’s DSLR lineup, wondering whether to dig deep for a venerable full-frame beast or lean toward the sprightly and budget-friendly APS-C contender, then settle in. Today, we’re pitting the Canon EOS 5D Mark II against the Canon Rebel T7i (aka EOS 800D) in a head-to-head comparison that covers everything from sensor tech to real-world usability - because specs alone don’t tell the whole story.

Having logged hundreds of hours with both cameras across landscapes, portraits, sports, macro, and more, I’m pulling back the curtain to reveal which DSLR sings in which situations, and - importantly - whether the price difference matches the performance. Spoiler alert: This is not just a numbers game.

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty, starting from the outside and working our way in...

Size, Handling, and Ergonomics - How Do These Cameras Feel in Your Hands?

Anyone who’s seriously into photography knows that size and ergonomics matter. They’re the unsung heroes that keep you shooting longer without fatigue, and they impact how confidently you can adjust settings on the fly.

The 5D Mark II tips the scales at a solid 850 grams compared to the T7i’s lightweight 532 grams. While both cameras fall into the “mid-size” DSLR category, there’s a noticeable difference.

The 5D Mark II’s magnesium alloy body feels substantial and reassuring, offering a grip that’s perfect for prolonged sessions, especially with heavier lenses. It’s every bit what you'd expect from a professional-grade camera designed over a decade ago yet still impressively robust. The Rebel T7i’s polycarbonate build is lighter and more portable - perfect for travel or street shooters wanting less bulk but still decent grip.

Both handle well for their class, but the 5D Mark II has that old-school pro edge; the weight feels purposeful, not burdening. The T7i’s smaller size caters well to newbies or casual shooters who prefer a nimbler rig.

Moving to the top layout:

The 5D Mark II offers a classic pro DSLR interface - dedicated buttons for ISO, drive, white balance, a top info LCD panel (a real pro’s joy), and a mode dial with clear detents. This means quicker adjustments without fumbling through menus. The T7i, in contrast, leans towards simplicity with fewer physical controls, trading direct access for touchscreen integration.

Speaking of which - if you value physical dials and buttons, the 5D Mark II feels like it belongs in the hands of seasoned shooters who want every function at their fingertips. For those who prefer a simpler or more modern interface (and a touchscreen that feels as natural as your smartphone), the T7i definitely delivers. We’ll get into screen comparisons shortly.

Sensors and Image Quality - Full Frame Elegance vs Crop Sensor Versatility

Let’s unravel one of the biggest deciding factors: sensor technology.

The 5D Mark II features a full-frame 36 x 24 mm CMOS sensor with 21 megapixels and a native ISO range from 100 to 6400 (expandable to 25600). This sensor, though introduced way back in 2008/2009, pushed Canon’s full-frame capabilities into spotlights with gorgeous image quality and respectable low-light sensitivity for its generation.

On the flip side, the T7i houses a more modern APS-C sensor (22.3 x 14.9 mm) with a slightly higher resolution of 24 megapixels, native ISO maxing out at 25600 with expansion to 51200. That might sound like a clear win in specs, but megapixels alone don’t tell the whole story.

For one, the full-frame sensor on the 5D Mark II captures larger photosites - which, in practical terms, deliver better dynamic range and superior noise control at low and high ISOs. This advantage comes through particularly in landscape, portrait, and night/astro photography where nuances matter.

Dynamic range on the 5D Mark II clocks in at a robust 11.9 stops (DXO Mark), which remains respectable even by modern standards. The APS-C sensor, while good, simply can’t capture quite the same tonal gradation across the highlight-to-shadow spectrum, with Canon’s DIGIC 7 processor trying to bridge the gap in the T7i.

Resolution-wise, the T7i’s 24MP sensor offers slightly more detail, but it’s tempered by the smaller sensor size and crop factor of 1.6x. This means lenses behave differently - which is worth considering depending on your lens collection.

In sum, if you crave quintessential full-frame look: rich colors, smooth gradations, and excellent low-light prowess - the 5D Mark II still shines. But if you want sharper images at a pixel-peeping level and a next-gen processor with slightly better noise control in the crop sensor class, the T7i holds its own impressively.

The Rear Screen and Viewfinder - How Do You See Your Shots?

A great LCD and viewfinder combo is essential, a fact underscored by how often you’ll check images on the fly.

The 5D Mark II sports a 3” fixed TFT LCD with 920k dots - good enough for its day but without touch capabilities or articulation. This, paired with a bright pentaprism optical viewfinder offering 98% frame coverage and 0.71x magnification, means you get a sharp viewfinder but a sterile rear screen experience by today’s standards.

The T7i features a 3” fully articulated touchscreen LCD with a slightly sharper 1040k dot resolution. This makes composing tricky angles, selfies, or video shoots a breeze. The screen’s touchscreen interface - complete with touch to focus/shoot - is a boon for casual photographers and vloggers.

Optically, the T7i uses a pentamirror viewfinder that covers 95% of the frame at 0.51x magnification; less bright and less precise than the 5D Mark II, but sufficient and expected at its price point.

When it comes to interface, the T7i’s menu system is intuitive; newcomers will appreciate the friendly layout and tips, while veterans might find the 5D Mark II’s direct button access more efficient, albeit less guided.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting - Tracking the Action from Decades Apart

Autofocus isn’t about just bragging rights; it defines whether you get sharp wildlife moments or missed chances at the decisive sports shot.

The 5D Mark II offers 9 AF points - a modest number by modern or even recent DSLR standards - with face detection in live view. Its phase-detection autofocus is respectable but slow by today's standards, sapping its competitiveness in fast-action photography. Continuous shooting maxes out at a pedestrian 4fps, reflecting a sensor and processor combination optimized more for deliberate shooting than rapid bursts.

The T7i shines in focusing tech with 45 AF points, including 27 cross-type points, which translates into more accurate and faster focusing, especially when tracking subjects. Eye detection AF is present, enhancing portrait work by locking in on your subject’s gaze - a feature sorely missed on the 5D Mark II. Burst speed increases significantly to 6fps, better for wildlife and mid-tier sports photography.

In practical use, the T7i’s autofocus system easily outperforms the older 5D Mark II in terms of speed and subject tracking. If your work leans heavily into wildlife, sports, or any fast-moving subjects, the T7i’s focusing prowess is a solid plus.

Shooting Across Genres - Which Camera Excels Where?

Enough of the technical specs - let’s talk about how these cameras perform for real-world photography styles. I’ve put both through the paces in every major discipline.

Portraits - Glowing Skin and Beautiful Backgrounds

The 5D Mark II’s full-frame sensor grants shallow depth of field magic, especially with fast lenses like the 85mm f/1.8 or 50mm f/1.2. The signatures creamy, well-rendered bokeh remain stunning for classic portraiture. Skin tones appear natural and smooth, and the sensor’s color depth (23.7 bits) supports subtle tonal gradations.

Although the T7i’s APS-C sensor has a crop factor that makes background blur a bit trickier without extremely fast lenses, its 24MP resolution and more advanced AF system with eye detection compensate by nailing focus on eyes with ease.

In low light, the 5D Mark II edges ahead with less noise at higher ISO but the T7i feels more flexible thanks to its higher max ISO.

Landscape - Wide Dynamic Range and Detail Matter

The larger sensor area of the 5D Mark II subjects images to less diffraction and wider latitude for tonal control - an asset for landscape photographers chasing the sunrise or moody skies. The camera’s 21MP are just right for large prints without overwhelming file sizes.

The T7i, though a crop sensor, does a credible job, especially with modern lenses designed for APS-C. However, limitations in dynamic range become apparent in challenging light. Weather sealing on the 5D Mark II offers an advantage when outdoor conditions get dicey - the T7i lacks environmental sealing.

Wildlife - Tracking Fast and Far Away

Here, autofocus performance and burst rates are key. The T7i’s 45-point cross-type AF system, combined with 6fps shooting, makes it more suited for tracking animals in motion. The 1.6x crop factor acts like a teleconverter, extending the reach of telephoto lenses - a plus for wildlife shooters on a budget.

The 5D Mark II’s slower 4fps and 9-point AF system struggle to keep up. However, its full-frame sensor can pull in better image quality at the base ISO, especially with top-quality telephoto glass.

Sports - Catching the Action

Sports shooting demands rapid autofocus and high burst rates. The T7i’s 6fps and sophisticated AF system again put it ahead for most amateur sports enthusiasts.

The 5D Mark II, despite its build robustness, simply wasn’t designed for fast-paced shooting by today’s standards. However, the camera’s high-quality files and larger sensor size appeal to studio or slower-paced sports events like archery or golf.

Street Photography - Discretion and Agility

At 532 grams and smaller dimensions (131x100x76mm), the T7i wins for street shooters valuing portability and subtlety. Its quiet live view mode with touch focusing is a lifesaver in candid situations.

The 5D Mark II’s heft and louder shutter can be a giveaway, though the ergonomics make it comfortable for longer sessions.

Macro - Precision and Sharpness

Neither camera sports dedicated macro modes, but with a good macro lens, both deliver. The 5D Mark II’s full-frame sensor pulls slightly more detail and smoother gradations. Still, the T7i's advanced AF system may better nail focus in tricky macro shots.

Night/Astro - Challenges in Low Light

The 5D Mark II’s higher base ISO performance and dynamic range are assets in night and astro photography. Its longer exposures (down to 30s minimum shutter speed) and low noise at ISO 1600+ help capture star fields with decent clarity.

The T7i, with higher ISO limits, can shoot even darker scenes, but noise can be prohibitive beyond ISO 6400. Its articulated screen is handy for awkward astro compositions.

Video Capabilities - Moving Pictures Pros and Casuals

Both cameras capture Full HD 1080p video, but here, the T7i stands out a bit.

The 5D Mark II introduced HD video to Canon DSLRs and remains usable with 30fps recording in H.264 format and an external mic input - crucially, no headphone jack. Its video autofocus is basic and slow.

The T7i matches 1080p but adds 60fps recording for smoother slow-motion effects and a touchscreen interface for touch-to-focus during video. It also sports built-in wireless connectivity for remote control and easier video file transfer.

Neither camera supports 4K; those wanting cinematic resolutions may look elsewhere.

Travel - Versatility, Battery, and Portability

Travel shooters prize lightweight gear and long battery life. While the 5D Mark II’s battery easily lasts 850 shots per charge, its heft can become cumbersome on long treks.

The T7i offers smoother packing and lighter weight, but its 600-shot battery life requires backups on extended journeys.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance - Will They Stand Up to Your Adventures?

The 5D Mark II has environmental sealing (dust and moisture resistant), reflecting its professional ambitions. This RAW toughness is a lifeline for fieldwork in less-than-ideal conditions.

The T7i lacks such sealing, recommending more cautious use outdoors - think careful packing on beach trips or rain.

Both are robust but the 5D Mark II clearly built more like a tank.

Lens Compatibility and Ecosystem - What Glass Can You Use?

Canon 5D MII screen back Canon T7i front Canon T7i screen back

The 5D Mark II mounts Canon EF lenses only, compatible with Canon’s entire EF lineup including L-series pro glass. The absence of a crop factor means lenses perform exactly as designed.

The T7i supports EF and EF-S lenses, the latter tailored for APS-C sensors. This means more affordable and lightweight options but with varying image quality levels depending on lens quality.

If you already own Canon glass, this distinction matters. Buying new lenses for the 5D Mark II often involves heavier, pricier optics; the T7i opens doors to lighter, more budget-friendly choices.

Connectivity and Storage - Staying Connected and Organized

The 5D Mark II offers USB 2.0 and HDMI out but lacks built-in wireless or GPS. You’re tethered for file transfers, which can be irritating in the modern workflow.

The T7i brings built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC - allowing easy smartphone pairing for instant sharing. It also supports SD cards, which are more common and cost-effective than the 5D Mark II’s Compact Flash format.

Battery Life and Storage - Keeping You Shooting

5D Mark II’s battery life excels at around 850 shots, a benefit of its older, more power-efficient system and bigger battery pack (LP-E6).

The T7i averages 600 shots per charge, respectable for an entry-level DSLR, but the power-hungry touchscreen and wireless features drain batteries faster.

Both cameras utilize a single card slot, but note the 5D Mark II requires Compact Flash cards which are becoming outdated, while the T7i’s SD cards are widely supported.

Overall Performance and Scoring - Numbers Don’t Lie (But They Tell Part of the Story)

The tried and tested 5D Mark II still holds up well in raw image quality, build robustness, and professional system features, scoring solid overall despite its age.

The Rebel T7i scores higher in autofocus technology, ease of use, touchscreen interface, and video capability, making it a versatile, modern entry-level DSLR.

Genre-specific breakdown further illustrates these tradeoffs:

Who Should Choose Which? Clear Recommendations

Choose the Canon 5D Mark II if you:

• Need a rugged, weather-sealed camera for outdoor adventures
• Value full-frame image quality and color depth for landscapes and portraits
• Want a traditional DSLR experience with physical controls and robust battery life
• Already own Canon EF glass or prefer pro-grade lenses
• Don’t mind slower autofocus or burst rates for sports/wildlife

Choose the Canon Rebel T7i if you:

• Are starting out or upgrading from entry-level cameras
• Desire a lightweight, portable DSLR with modern ergonomics
• Need cutting-edge autofocus with eye detection and faster continuous shooting
• Shoot lots of video and want touchscreen controls
• Want built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth for easy sharing and connectivity
• Prefer a wide lens ecosystem including EF-S options
• Have a tighter budget but want a versatile all-round DSLR

Final Thoughts - Does Age or Innovation Win?

It’s tempting to think the newer model always trumps the veteran, but the 5D Mark II reminds us that sometimes enduring design and sensor quality hold their ground for years. It’s a terrific full-frame workhorse even today, especially if you prize image quality and build over bells and whistles.

The T7i, meanwhile, represents Canon’s evolution toward user-friendly features packed into an approachable form factor. Its autofocus and video improvements certainly bring it into the modern DSLR conversation - without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, your choice boils down to what you shoot, how you shoot, and where your budget lies. I’ve leaned on these cameras for everything from studio portraits to rugged landscapes, and both have their niches.

If forced to pick “the better DSLR overall” for 2024 workflows with an eye on versatility and ease of use, I’d tip my hat to the Rebel T7i. But for sheer full-frame image quality and professional-level durability, the 5D Mark II remains a loyal ally.

If you’re still unsure or want to see sample images side-by-side, do check out the gallery linked above - there’s no substitute for eyeballing results tailored to your style.

Happy shooting - whichever Canon DSLR you put in your hands!