Canon EOS Rebel T7 vs Sony SLT-A35: The Definitive Entry-Level DSLR Comparison for Serious Photographers

Choosing your next camera - especially in the entry-level DSLR realm - can feel a bit like navigating a maze packed with technical jargon, marketing buzzwords, and feature lists that read like a foreign language. I’ve personally tested both the Canon EOS Rebel T7 (also known as the EOS 2000D) and the Sony SLT-A35 extensively, putting them through their paces across various photography disciplines. Whether you’re aiming to shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or video, this comparison will walk you through key differences, real-world performance nuances, and ergonomic realities.

Let’s dive in.

A Tale of Two DSLRs: Physical Design & Handling

Before you even fire up your first shot, how a camera feels in your hands sets the tone for your entire shooting experience. Both cameras are advertised as “compact SLRs,” but a glance (and grip) tells a deeper story.

The Canon T7 is decidedly chunkier and heavier at 475g, measuring 129 x 101 x 78 mm, compared to the svelte Sony A35’s 415g and dimensions of 124 x 92 x 85 mm. The Rebel T7 pleasantly balances in the hand with a well-defined grip, which especially benefits users early in their DSLR journey who appreciate extra stability.

Sony’s A35 focuses on being lightweight and more compact, which makes it an appealing travel buddy or street shooter’s companion. However, the narrower grip and smaller size could feel less secure during longer handheld sessions or when paired with larger lenses.

Holding both, I find the Canon better suited for days when comfort matters – think long hikes or extended shoots. The Sony’s lighter footprint wins in scenarios demanding discretion or portability.

Top-Down Controls & Interface: Which One Puts You in the Driver’s Seat?

Nothing frustrates more than hunting through menus or wrestling with fiddly dials mid-shoot. Ergonomics go hand-in-hand with controls, so I compared their layouts carefully.

The Canon T7 sticks to the classic DSLR playbook - a mode dial featuring everything from full auto to full manual, a dedicated exposure compensation button, and comfortable, logically positioned buttons. The absence of touchscreen may feel old-school but avoids accidental triggers, which some photographers prefer.

Sony’s A35 features a more minimalist top panel with fewer dedicated buttons and instead layers more functions within the rear menu system. The electronic viewfinder toggle and drive mode dial remain handy, yet I noticed accessing certain settings takes a few more button presses than with the Canon.

From a practical standpoint - especially for newcomers - the T7’s tactile controls and intuitiveness edge out the Sony’s more menu-driven approach. This means less fumbling and faster adaptation, a crucial benefit when the golden hour waits for no one.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Never underestimate how much the sensor and its processing engine influence your results. Both cameras sport APS-C sensors, but the Canon T7 incorporates a newer 24-megapixel sensor vs Sony’s 16-megapixel chip from 2011. Here’s how they stack up on paper.

Sensor Size & Resolution:

• Canon T7: 22.3 x 14.9mm, 24MP
• Sony A35: 23.5 x 15.6mm, 16MP

The Sony’s sensor is slightly larger, which often translates to better light-gathering potential, but the Canon packs more pixels, offering finer resolution and more cropping flexibility.

Dynamic Range and Color Depth (DXO Mark Scores):

• Canon T7: Overall 71, Color Depth 22.6 bits, Dynamic Range 11.9 EV, Low Light ISO 1009
• Sony A35: Overall 74, Color Depth 23.3 bits, Dynamic Range 12.7 EV, Low Light ISO 763

The Sony takes a modest lead in color depth and dynamic range - translating to more detail in bright highlights and deep shadows, particularly appreciated in landscape and architectural photography. However, the Canon’s higher low-light ISO capability gives it a slight advantage in dim environments.

Real-World Impact:
In my side-by-side shootouts, the Canon’s 24MP sensor delivers crisply detailed images that sharpen beautifully for portraits and large prints, while the Sony’s sensor produces slightly cleaner images at base ISO with marginally better tonal gradations. The Canon’s higher pixel density occasionally introduces a touch more noise at high ISOs, but it’s manageable with noise reduction software.

Viewing Experience: Optical vs Electronic Viewfinder and LCD Screens

Your eye’s window into the world matters more than you might expect. The Canon employs a traditional pentamirror optical viewfinder (OVF), while Sony opted for an electronic viewfinder (EVF) - a big technical distinction worth unpacking.

Viewfinder:

• Canon T7: Optical, 95% coverage, 0.5x magnification
• Sony A35: Electronic, 100% coverage, 0.73x magnification, 1150 dpi resolution

The Canon T7’s OVF provides a natural, real-world look with no lag, but at 95% coverage, you miss a bit of the image edge, meaning what you see isn’t exactly what you’ll get. The Sony’s EVF shows a 100% field of view with brighter, real-time exposure feedback, including helpful overlays like histograms and focus peaking.

For fast-moving subjects where lag can be critical, I noticed the Canon OVF feels snappier though less informative, while the Sony’s EVF gives precise framing at the cost of occasional minor refresh delays.

Rear LCD Screen:
Both have fixed 3-inch displays (Canon 920k vs Sony 921k resolution), but neither offers touch input. The Sony screen feels a bit sharper and easier to see under harsh sunlight thanks to the EVF supplementing it.

If you prefer composing through a traditional viewfinder rather than a digital one, the Canon may suit you better; if you’re curious about previewing exposure and color in real-time before capture, the Sony’s EVF offers a distinct edge.

Autofocus and Continuous Shooting: Tracking Moving Targets

Autofocus systems can make or break your ability to capture decisive moments, especially for wildlife and sports photographers.

The Sony’s 15-point AF system holds an advantage over Canon’s more basic 9-point array, especially with three cross-type points adding accuracy.

In practice, the Sony’s faster 6 fps burst lets you catch more frames during action sequences, while Canon’s 3 fps can feel restrictive if you shoot moving subjects frequently.

Both cameras use phase-detection AF in the viewfinder and contrast-detection in live view; however, the Rebel T7 generally performs slightly more consistently thanks to newer processor optimizations, though slower overall continuous shooting speeds.

For wildlife and sports, I’d lean toward Sony’s better AF coverage and faster shooting, but if you’re mostly shooting stills or portraits, the Canon’s reliable focus and slower burst may suffice.

Shooting for the Genres: Portraits, Landscapes, Wildlife, and More

Let's break down their performance across major photography disciplines:

Portrait Photography

Quality skin tones, sharp eyes, and smooth bokeh - that’s the holy trinity.

• Canon T7: 24MP sensor provides high-res detail; skin tones appear natural and warm thanks to Canon’s color science. Its 9-point AF with face detection locks solidly on faces, though eye-detection AF is absent (a missed opportunity Canon). The optical viewfinder offers clear framing without electronic distractions.

• Sony A35: Offers slightly punchier colors, but skin tones can require gentle Lightroom tweaking to avoid slight coolness. The face-detection AF works well, but lack of eye-detection AF is a downside. The electronic viewfinder previews exact exposure, helping fine-tune portraits on the fly.

Personally, I prefer the Canon T7 for portraits thanks to its pleasing color rendition and reliable focus.

Landscape Photography

High dynamic range, resolution, and weather sealing come into play here.

• Canon T7: With its 24MP sensor and respectable dynamic range (~12 EV), it captures intricate landscape details. No weather resistance means you’ll need caution shooting in adverse weather.

• Sony A35: Slightly better dynamic range and color depth help tease out shadow and highlight detail in tricky light, but 16MP resolution means less cropping flexibility. Also no weather sealing.

If resolution is your priority for huge prints or cropping, the Canon edges ahead, but the Sony offers a touch more latitude in dynamic range for demanding scenes.

Wildlife Photography

Speed, accuracy, and telephoto compatibility are king.

• Canon T7: Compatible with Canon’s extensive EF and EF-S lens ecosystem (over 300 lenses), offering rich options for telephoto reach. Its 3 fps burst and 9-point AF system hold you back compared to the Sony but remain usable for casual wildlife photography.

• Sony A35: Uses Sony’s Minolta Alpha mount with fewer lenses (~143), but innovation like translucent mirror allows continuous phase detect AF during video and live view. 6 fps burst benefits quick action.

If you demand speed and AF coverage, the Sony leads, but Canon’s versatile lens range might swing your choice based on budget and preferences.

Sports Photography

Tracking accuracy and frame rate matter most.

Sony’s 6 fps burst surpasses Canon T7’s 3 fps, giving it a distinct advantage for sports. However, Sony lacks advanced continuous tracking features found in higher-end models, and both cameras have limited autofocus points compared to pro gear. For casual or amateur sports shooters, the Sony may be more satisfying, but neither is truly tailored for intensive sports photography.

Street Photography

Discreteness and portability are crucial.

The Sony’s lighter frame and compact dimensions score points here, as does its electronic viewfinder, allowing silent, discreet shooting in live view mode. The Canon’s optical shutter and built-in flash are noisier and more conspicuous. The T7’s larger grip can feel bulky when quickly whipping the camera out.

If stealth and convenience top your list, the Sony is your street-savvy partner.

Macro Photography

Close focusing precision and stabilization are key.

Neither camera excels notably in macro - the T7 lacks sensor stabilization, and the Sony has sensor-based image stabilization. Sony’s in-body stabilization gives a slight edge with handheld macro shots. Both rely heavily on lenses for magnification and focusing accuracy.

Night and Astrophotography

Low light noise and high ISO performance are crucial.

The Canon’s higher max native ISO of 6400 (extended to 12800) and slightly superior low-light ISO scores create an advantage for handheld night shots and astrophotography. The Sony’s sensor has better dynamic range but higher noise at elevated ISOs.

For night shooters needing clean images with minimal gear, the Canon’s sensor pulls ahead.

Video Capabilities

For enthusiasts and casual videographers, video features can matter a lot.

• Canon T7: Full HD 1080p at 30 fps recorded with H.264 codec; lacks microphone and headphone jacks, limiting audio control. No 4K or higher frame rates.

• Sony A35: 1080p video at 60/30 fps, AVCHD and MPEG formats supported, and importantly, includes a microphone port for external mics. No headphone output though. Offers slow sync and high-speed flash modes.

Sony’s video features are more versatile, particularly with microphone input and higher FPS options, making it better for hybrid shooters.

Travel Photography

A jack-of-all-trades must balance size, versatility, battery life, and connectivity.

Canon’s inclusion of Wi-Fi and NFC for image transfer enhances travel convenience, while Sony’s lack of wireless is a mark against it.

Battery wise, both hover around similar figures providing a full day’s shoot with moderate usage.

As your grab-and-go partner, I lean toward Canon for better connectivity and a comfortable grip, though Sony’s size can be appealing if you prefer to travel light.

Professional Workflow & Reliability

While both cameras target entry-level users, many enthusiasts and pros use affordable cameras as backups or for niche work.

• Canon T7: Offers full RAW support, solid build quality, and a well-established EOS ecosystem for tethering and studio integration.

• Sony A35: Also shoots RAW, but its slightly older platform brings fewer updates and less widespread software support compared to Canon.

Neither is “pro-grade” in the strict sense but Canon’s ecosystem and reliability keep it relevant in professional settings longer.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Neither model features weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing - typical for their class and age. Both feel robust enough for everyday use but treat them gently in tough environments.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

The Canon edges out with Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing, a crucial modern convenience missing on the Sony. Both use single card slots limiting redundant backups.

Price-to-Performance: Which Makes More Sense Today?

As of their last retail figures, the Canon T7 sells around $390 and the Sony A35 closer to $600. That’s a significant price spread on similar-class DSLRs.

Given the Canon’s updated sensor, wealth of lenses, wireless features, and superior ergonomics, it offers compelling bang for the buck. Sony’s advantages are situational - faster burst, EVF, video mic input - but come at a premium.

The Verdict: Who Should Pick Which?

After rigorously testing both under varied lighting, subject matter, and shooting conditions, here’s how you might decide:

• Choose Canon EOS Rebel T7 if you:

  • Prioritize image resolution and color science for portraits and prints
  • Need reliable Wi-Fi connectivity and easier smartphone pairing
  • Prefer traditional DSLR ergonomics with clear tactile controls
  • Want extensive lens options and a supportive ecosystem
  • Shoot landscapes and low-light scenes requiring cleaner high ISO
  • Have a tight budget but don’t want to compromise future lens upgrades

• Choose Sony SLT-A35 if you:

  • Value faster continuous shooting (6 fps) for casual sports or wildlife
  • Want an electronic viewfinder that previews exposure and focus digitally
  • Seek better video features, including microphone input and higher frame rates
  • Prefer a smaller, lighter body for street or travel shooting with discretion

Sample Gallery: Canon T7 and Sony A35 in Action

For a visual proof of their capabilities, here’s a gallery showcasing a mix of scenes captured with both cameras. Take note of image sharpness, color rendition, and dynamic range.

Canon T7 screen back Sony A35 front Sony A35 screen back

Final Thoughts: Who Wins the Entry-Level DSLR Showdown?

If you’re strictly after modern usability, image resolution, and future-proof lens choices, Canon’s Rebel T7 is my go-to recommendation. While not groundbreaking, it brings proven technology, reliable performance, and value unmatched by the older Sony A35.

That said, Sony’s translucent mirror tech and EVF provide unique creative options rare in budget DSLRs, still relevant for users wanting splice of advanced features like silent shooting and better video.

Dear Canon, if you’re listening: integrating eye-detection autofocus and touchscreen controls on an entry-level DSLR would seal the deal for many enthusiasts!

In the end, your decision hinges on what matters most: speed and modern features vs resolution and system depth. I hope my detailed comparative insights help you make a choice you’ll be delighted with.

Thanks for reading - if you have questions on either camera or want recommendations tailored to your specific photography style, drop me a line. Happy shooting!