Canon T8i vs Sony A68: A Detailed DSLR Face-Off for Enthusiasts

Choosing the right camera is often a balancing act between specs, real-world performance, and budget. As someone who has tested thousands of digital cameras, I can tell you that even two cameras in the same “entry-level DSLR” category can feel worlds apart once you get them into your hands and behind the lens. Today, I'll take a close look at the Canon EOS Rebel T8i (known elsewhere as EOS 850D or EOS Kiss X10i) and the Sony SLT-A68. Both fill a similar niche for photography enthusiasts stepping up from beginner gear - yet their design philosophies and priorities differ quite a bit.

I spent countless hours comparing these two across major photography disciplines, testing autofocus, image quality, ergonomics, and video capabilities, to help you decide which suits your style and needs better. Let’s dive deep.

Getting Acquainted: Size, Handling & Ergonomics

Before even turning them on, a camera’s feel in your hands and how intuitively it places controls can make or break your shooting experience. The Canon T8i and Sony A68 are both compact SLR-style cameras, yet there are notable differences.

Physically, the T8i is a smidge smaller and lighter, weighing about 515 grams versus the Sony’s heftier 610 grams. The T8i’s dimensions are 131x103x76mm, while the A68 measures 143x104x81mm, making it chunkier. The Canon’s more modern ergonomics felt refined to me – the grip is textured just right, and controls fall naturally beneath your fingers.

Check out their top view layouts:

Canon’s control cluster benefits from a fully articulated 3-inch touch screen with 1040k dots resolution, while Sony offers a slightly smaller 2.7-inch tilting screen at 461k dots, without touch capability. This difference is significant for quick setting changes and live view focusing - more on that shortly.

Ergonomic takeaway: If you appreciate a lighter camera with a fully articulated touchscreen for vlogging or selfies, the Canon T8i scores higher. The Sony’s denser build might appeal if a robust, heavier feel is your preference, but its controls feel a bit dated and less intuitive.

Sensor and Image Quality - The Heart of the Matter

Both cameras utilize APS-C sized sensors with roughly 24 megapixels, yet sensor tech and processing can markedly influence image quality.

Canon T8i Sensor Overview

• 22.3 x 14.9 mm CMOS sensor with a 1.6x crop factor.
• DIGIC 8 processor handles image rendition.
• Native ISO range 100-25600 (expandable to 51200).
• Optical low-pass filter present (anti-aliasing filter).

Sony A68 Sensor Overview

• Slightly larger 23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS sensor, 1.5x crop factor.
• Bionz X image processor.
• ISO 100-25600 native.
• Anti-alias filter included as well.

Though the difference in physical sensor size is subtle, Sony’s sensor area advantage (~366.6 vs ~332.3 mm²) theoretically offers a slight edge in light gathering.

When I put both cameras through our standard DxO-like image quality tests (independent lab data is only partial here), the Sony’s sensor delivers marginally better dynamic range and low-light performance. In particular, the Sony A68 scored an overall DXOmark-like 79, with 24.1 bits color depth, 13.5 EV dynamic range, and low-light ISO rating of 701 - impressive for the segment. For comparison, the Canon hasn’t been fully tested but generally, Canon’s APS-C sensors with DIGIC 8 deliver solid color fidelity and good highlight retention, but slightly less dynamic range and low-light ISO performance than the Sony.

In practical terms, this means the Sony A68 might retain more detail in challenging shadow and highlight areas, while the Canon delivers pleasing skin tones and colors out of the box - thanks to Canon’s excellent color science.

Autofocus and Burst Performance - Catching the Moment

Autofocus systems are mission-critical, especially for wildlife, sports, and event photographers. Let’s compare:

• Canon T8i: Dual Pixel CMOS AF with 45 all-cross-type AF points (phase detection) and Live View contrast detection, face detection and tracking included.
• Sony A68: Hybrid phase/contrast detection AF with 79 focus points (15 cross-type), Eye AF, face detection, and continuous tracking.

My experience confirms Canon’s Dual Pixel AF offers silky smooth, fast focusing in live view and video, significantly better than older contrast detection systems. Sony’s phase detection array with 79 points provides a highly precise AF system for stills, especially with tracking moving subjects.

Burst speed favors Sony slightly: 8 fps vs 7.5 fps for Canon. In real-world shooting, Sony’s SLT (translucent mirror) technology allows continuous autofocus during burst shooting, which can help track moving subjects better. However, Canon’s focus tracking has improved considerably compared to previous models.

If you’re into fast action photography - sports or wildlife - Sony’s system is nippy and reliable, while Canon shines for video autofocus and live view.

Viewfinder and LCD - Interactive Interfaces

While both cameras feature SLR-style optical or electronic viewfinders, their approach differs:

• The Canon T8i uses a traditional optical pentamirror viewfinder (~95% coverage, 0.51x magnification), offering a natural, lag-free shooting experience.
• The Sony A68 employs a 1440k-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with 100% frame coverage and 0.57x magnification.

The electronic viewfinder (EVF) provides WYSIWYG benefits such as exposure preview, focus confirmation, and real-time display of settings but some users find the lag and refresh rate a dealbreaker. Optical viewfinders give that classic DSLR feel, with zero lag and natural colors.

Here’s a close-up of their backs for your reference:

Sony’s EVF is bright, detailed, and covers the entire frame, which is a plus for critical composition. But the older tilting, non-touch LCD at 461k dots feels a little clunky compared to Canon’s sharp 3-inch fully articulating touchscreen, which I always find invaluable for composing at awkward angles and touch AF control.

Interface-wise, Canon wins for beginner and enthusiast friendliness. Sony feels a little more complex, suited for users okay with non-touch navigation.

Outdoor Durability and Build Quality

Neither the Canon T8i nor Sony A68 are professional-grade weather-sealed cameras. Both lack dust or moisture sealing, limiting their use in inclement weather without protective gear. The Canon’s polycarbonate body is more lightweight but less rugged, whereas the Sony’s heavier body impresses with a metal chassis providing a sturdier feel - but it still isn't fully weatherproof.

If your style includes landscape, travel, or adventure photography where rough conditions are frequent, neither camera is fully ideal, although both can work with care.

Lens Ecosystems and Compatibility

This is one area where Canon enjoys a decisive advantage:

• Canon T8i uses the renowned EF/EF-S mount with access to over 300 native lenses, including many modern autofocus lenses and extensive third-party options.
• Sony A68 accepts Sony/Minolta Alpha mount lenses, a smaller ecosystem with only about 140 lenses, many discontinued or third-party. Adapting modern Sony E-mount lenses requires adapters, adding bulk.

This matters hugely if you value lens choice. I’ve witnessed beginners get frustrated by limited compatible glass or expensive adapters. Canon’s ecosystem is more extensive, affordable, and future-proof, especially with EF-S lenses tailored for APS-C sensors like on the T8i.

Battery Life and Storage

Power-wise, Canon’s T8i offers excellent battery life - rated at 800 shots per charge under CIPA testing - significantly outpacing Sony’s 510-shot rating on the A68.

Both cameras have a single card slot, but Sony supports Memory Stick Pro Duo cards alongside SD variants, while Canon sticks strictly to SD cards (UHS-I compatible). SD cards remain more common and affordable.

For travel or extended shoots, Canon’s battery endurance makes it the safer bet.

Connectivity and Extras

Modern connectivity is another area where Canon leaps ahead:

• Canon T8i includes built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless smartphone integration, remote control, and image transfer.
• Sony A68 only offers Eye-Fi card connection, lacking native Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, requiring specialized cards or tethering solutions.

For casual photographers who like instant sharing, wireless remote shutter release, or easy firmware updates, Canon’s wireless suite delivers convenience without fuss.

Video Capabilities - Where Do They Stand?

Though primarily DSLRs targeted to still photographers, both offer video shooting features:

• Canon T8i supports UHD 4K video at 25p and 23.98p (max bitrate 120 Mbps), Full HD 1080p up to 60p, plus microphone input (no headphone jack).
• Sony A68 maxes out at Full HD 1080p (60i/30p/24p) with support for AVCHD, MPEG-4, and XAVC S codecs, also with mic input but no headphone out.

Canon’s jump to 4K is a clear win for hybrid shooters who want sharp video and decent autofocus during recording. However, Canon applies a heavy crop and lacks Dual Pixel AF in 4K mode, somewhat limiting autofocus smoothness. Still, much better than the Sony’s lack of 4K.

If video quality and flexibility matter to you, Canon pulls ahead, but be aware it’s not a professional video tool.

Real-World Photography Disciplines: Strengths and Preferred Use Cases

With all specifications laid out, how do these two cameras behave across specific genres? Here’s a breakdown based on hands-on testing:

Portrait Photography

• Canon T8i: Dual Pixel AF shines for accurate eye detection autofocus and is highly reliable at capturing pleasing skin tones with Canon’s color science. The fully articulated touchscreen helps for creative framing.
• Sony A68: Good autofocus with 79 phase detection points, but it lacks touch AF and the screen is less flexible. Sony produces slightly punchier colors but requires more post-processing for skin tones.

Winner: Canon for portraits - easier to get reliable focus and natural skin colors out of the camera.

Landscape Photography

• Sony A68: Slightly larger sensor area and better dynamic range helps retain highlight/shadow detail, and excellent resolution (6000x4000) facilitates large prints.
• Canon T8i: Good resolution and pleasing colors, but less dynamic range. Limited weather sealing on both means caution outdoors.

Winner: Sony edges out for landscape details, but Canon remains a capable option.

Wildlife Photography

• Sony A68: SLT design allows continuous phase-detection autofocus during bursts at 8 fps, great for tracking.
• Canon T8i: 7.5 fps with solid autofocus but no support for Animal Eye AF or focus bracketing.

Winner: Sony’s autofocus tracking and faster burst rates make it preferable for wildlife enthusiasts on a budget.

Sports Photography

• Sony’s faster burst and tracking AF again tip the scales here.
• Canon’s autofocus speed is good but slightly behind Sony’s legacy SLT capabilities.

Street Photography

• Canon’s smaller size, lighter weight, and quieter shutter feel more discreet.
• Sony is bigger, heavier, and noisier.

Winner: Canon for portability and friendliness on the street.

Macro Photography

Neither camera offers special macro features like focus stacking or post-focus, but...

• Canon’s touchscreen and articulating screen give better live view focusing control.
• Sony’s sensor stabilization (sensor-based image stabilization in A68) aids sharper handheld macro shots.

Winner: Tied, usage dependent.

Night/Astro Photography

• Sony’s better high ISO handling with 13.5 EV dynamic range plus sensor stabilization provides more noise-free results.
• Canon’s maximum ISO 51200 is higher but noisier.

Winner: Sony for cleaner night images.

Video Production

• Canon T8i’s 4K video and Dual Pixel Autofocus in 1080p offer more versatility.
• Sony A68 limited to 1080p with no 4K or touch controls.

Winner: Canon for hybrid photo/video shooters.

Travel Photography

• Canon’s battery life, connectivity, light weight, and articulated screen make it ideal for travelers.
• Sony’s bigger body and shorter battery life weigh more on long days.

Winner: Canon for travel comfort and flexibility.

Professional Use

Both cameras lack weather sealing, high frame rates, and professional codecs. Sony’s wider AF coverage is a plus, but Canon’s robust lens lineup, wireless features, and autofocus quality lead to smoother workflows.

Summary of Overall Performance and Ratings

Bringing all these factors together:

A clear pattern emerges. The Canon T8i excels for beginners and hybrid shooters looking for versatile imaging and video, portability, and ease of use. The Sony A68 offers slightly better image quality, autofocus tracking, and durability at a lower price, yet its dated interface, lack of 4K, and connectivity limit appeal.

For genre-specific details:

Seeing Is Believing – Sample Images from Both Cameras

Comparing real-world shots is indispensable:

Canon T8i front Canon T8i screen back Sony A68 front Sony A68 screen back

Note the Canon’s warmth in skin tones and smooth bokeh rendering against Sony’s sharper detail and elevated dynamic range in high-contrast scenes.

Final Verdict: Which Camera Should You Buy?

Buy the Canon T8i if you:

• Crave a fully articulated touch screen for vlogging or selfies.
• Need excellent live view autofocus for video.
• Prefer lighter, smaller camera bodies.
• Want a huge lens ecosystem with forward compatibility.
• Value wireless control and image sharing.
• Shoot portraits, travel, or street photography often.

Buy the Sony A68 if you:

• Demand stronger dynamic range and slightly better low light images.
• Prioritize fast AF tracking and burst shooting (wildlife/sports).
• Appreciate the solid feel of a heavier, sturdier body.
• Don’t mind the older interface and lack of 4K video.
• Are on a tighter budget but want strong still photography features.

Closing Thoughts & Personal Recommendations

While the Sony SLT-A68 is a remarkable camera for its age with some standout specs like excellent sensor noise performance and advanced AF, the Canon T8i feels like a specimen born from lessons learned over years of Canon’s DSLR development. Canon’s thoughtful ergonomics, superior touchscreen interface, decent burst performance, and helpful video features all combine to offer an easier and more modern user experience.

Dear Canon, a few things could be better - weather sealing, in-body stabilization, and even 4K video without such heavy crop - but for an entry-level DSLR in 2020, the T8i strikes a versatile balance.

On the other hand, Sony’s A68 remains a compelling choice for those who want more bang for their buck in image quality and AF speed - especially wildlife and sports photographers who can work around its interface quirks.

I encourage you to handle both in-store if possible, try their menus, and consider your planned photography genres before committing. Whichever side you choose, these cameras show that “entry-level” does not mean lacking in performance or features.

Please share your own experiences or questions below - I’m eager to discuss nuances or help with lens recommendations for your new system!

Happy shooting!

Appendix Images Recap:

• ![size-comparison.jpg]
• ![top-view-compare.jpg]
• ![sensor-size-compare.jpg]
• ![back-screen.jpg]
• ![cameras-galley.jpg]
• ![camera-scores.jpg]
• ![photography-type-cameras-scores.jpg]