Canon EOS 70D
Announced July 2, 2013
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Canon EOS 70D is a versatile DSLR that stands out for its Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which provides exceptionally smooth and responsive focus during live view and video recording. Although it lacks professional-grade features like dual card slots and a headphone jack, it remains a highly capable tool for photographers and videographers seeking high image quality and intuitive handling.
Weighted from 15 reviewer scores
Pros
- Innovative Dual Pixel autofocus provides smooth, fast, and precise tracking for video and live view
- Excellent image quality with accurate color reproduction and clean high ISO performance
- User-friendly design featuring a fully articulated, responsive touchscreen and comfortable ergonomics
- Fast 7 fps continuous shooting speed and reliable 19-point autofocus system
- Strong value proposition with helpful extras like built-in Wi-Fi and electronic level display
Cons
- Lacks professional video and storage features such as a headphone jack, clean HDMI output, and dual card slots
- Complex Wi-Fi setup and limited remote utility functionality
- Build quality uses polycarbonate plastic rather than magnesium alloy
- Occasional issues with moiré and fine detail rendering in complex scenes
- Autofocus assist requires the internal flash to be active
- Launch price $1,199 (USD)
- Sensor 20.2MP APS-C CMOS
- Video 1080p 30p
- Burst 7 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 15 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- DPReview 83/100
Offering most of what an enthusiast looks for in a digital SLR, the Canon 70D takes it a step further with excellent live view and movie mode autofocus.
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Considering the minor refresh that became the EOS T5i / 700D, the EOS 70D represents a significant move forward by Canon.
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[I]mages produced by the EOS 70D are excellent, with superb colours straight from the camera.
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For those that are looking for a true Digital SLR with an optical viewfinder, combined with very good live view, and excellent video focus (with STM lenses), the Canon EOS 70D delivers, whilst also delivering that all important Canon feature: High Image Quality.
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The new Canon EOS 70D offers the best all-round combination yet of viewfinder, live view and movie shooting experience for a DSLR camera, backed up by excellent image quality from the 20 megapixel APS-C sensor, proven handling and fast performance [...]
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It's responsive, and it's good at what it's supposed to do.
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Canon's new EOS 70D may just be the perfect DSLR for the budget-minded independent video producer that wants high quality HD footage without the focus hassle.
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It is one of the best cameras, DSLRs, available on the market today for quality, especially for its price, and I strongly recommend this camera for both photographers and videographers because of those options.
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After using this camera I have come to really love it. I'm having a really hard time finding something I don't like.
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The Canon 70D is a fantastic prosumer camera. At present, the 70D is the overall class leader in APS-C cameras, especially when you consider your bang for buck value.
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The Canon EOS 70D is a simply amazing camera.
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The Canon 70D is Canon's least-expensive full-performance DSLR. I can't think of anything significant missing on the 70D for a normal person not made of money.
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So I think the highlight feature of the Canon EOS 70D is this new Dual Pixel focus technology. Whenever marketers scream loudly, I say, "Well, really, is it that good?" It is that good.
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[I]t's a great camera, it has a great value if you're looking into a brand new camera system and highly recommend it overall if you see the value of it.
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[...] I think this is definitely a camera that people could purchase if you just want to use it to film video and never take a snapshot or take any pictures; it is just that good of a camera.
