Canon EOS 70D: Image Quality

Not only is the 70D’s sensor completely redesigned thanks to its Dual Pixel technology, it also features the highest resolution of any Canon APS-C sensor to date. As a result, the 70D should be able to resolve more detail than ever before, and it doesn’t disappoint.

Throughout the lower end of the ISO range the EOS 70D manages to resolve more detail than it’s main competitor, the Nikon D7100, while even at higher ISO settings it still delivers a good level of detail.

The higher megapixel count does raise some concerns with regards to image noise throughout the ISO range, although on the whole these concerns are generally allayed.

Performance at lower settings is first class, and it’s not until you approach ISO 1,600 that the first signs of grain-like noise appears. Results remain strong up to ISO 6,400, and although chroma noise is apparent it’s not the to detriment of overall image quality.

If you’re happy shooting Raw then results remain usable right up to the maximum extended setting of ISO 25,600, so long as you’re willing to work on noise reduction in post-production.

The 70D maintains the 63-zone iFCL metering system as seen in all DSLRs since the 7D. As a result, it offers a pleasingly good level of performance. There are some instances whereby the exposure system can be fooled by particularly light or dark areas in the frame, although on the whole we rarely found the need to use the exposure compensation.

The 70D’s colour system is also reliable, with colours pleasing in the standard colour setting, although they do lack a bit of punch. If you’re looking for a bit more punch then the range of Canon’s Picture Style modes offer plenty of options. The model’s auto white balance is also reliable, delivering good results across a range of different lighting conditions

Should I buy the Canon EOS 70D?

There’s no denying that the Canon EOS 70D breaks new ground when it comes to DSLR photography, thanks to the very best AF performance when shooting live view we’ve yet seen in such a camera.

However, when it comes to headline resolution – as well as some other elements of it’s specification – it is still behind the Nikon D7100. It is a big step forward from the 60D however, and it even runs the higher-end EOS 7D close in a host of areas.

So, if you’re a Canon user looking to make the step up from a triple-digit DSLR, or are simply wanting to upgrade your double-digit model, the 70D is an impressive bit of kit and could well be the option.

Verdict

The Canon EOS 70D is a real step forward in the world of DSLR photography, and if you shoot a lot of video, or find yourself using live view image capture with any regularity, it’s a great choice. But It’s not without its faults, with a few bugs in the Creative Filter settings proving particularly disappointing, although on the whole it’s an impressive bit of kit that will change the way DSLRs handle AF technology in the future.

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