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Verdict and competition

Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D review: verdict

There's no doubt that the EOS Rebel T7i / 800D feels a touch dated compared to some of the latest mirrorless cameras. That said, it now offers comparatively good value and remains a good choice for beginners or smartphone upgraders who prefer the benefits of DSLRs, including superior handling and battery life.

The sensor still impresses, with great performance at high ISOs, and delivers detail-rich images (though to get the best from the camera you'll want some decent glass).

The graphical interface will make the camera even more appealing to new users too – combined with the logical control layout and polished touchscreen it makes for a hassle-free shooting experience.

It's disappointing not to see 4K video capture here, especially as most mirrorless rivals now offer it, while perhaps the biggest disappointment is the camera's finish. While it's similar to previous models, the onslaught of mirrorless models that feel that much nicer in the hand exacerbate this shortcoming.

Still, if you can get over these issues and are looking for a well-rounded and easy to use camera that can teach you the basics of more advanced shooting, then the EOS Rebel T7i / EOS 800D is certainly still worth a look.

Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D review: competition

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Nikon D5600

The closest rival to the EOS Rebel T7i / EOS 800D is the Nikon D5600, and there's not much to choose between them – the finish is quite a bit nicer on the D5600, while the autofocus performance on the T7i / 800D is better, especially if you're going to be using Live View regularly. Which one you pick will come down to personal preference, and the larger appeal of the rival systems as a whole.

Read our in-depth Nikon D5600 review

Fujifilm X-T20

While it's now been succeeded by the Fujifilm X-T30, the older and more affordable Fujifilm X-T20 is more than a match for the EOS Rebel T7i / EOS 800D. The touchscreen interface isn't quite as polished, but the handling and finish are excellent. The 24MP sensor delivers the goods, and the autofocus performance won't disappoint. It's available with a 16-50mm lens, but it's worth paying the extra for the 18-55mm optic if you can stretch to it.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T20 review

Panasonic Lumix G80 / G85

It's since been replaced by the Panasonic G95 (or G90 if you're outside the US), but the Panasonic Lumix G85/ G80 remains a cracking mid-price mirrorless camera with a vast range of compatible lenses. Its 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor might not be quite a match for the T7i / 800D's, but it's not far off thanks to the absence of an optical low-pass filter. Handling and AF are great, there's a touchscreen and the build is that bit nicer thanks to a aluminum front plate. Throw in advanced 4K video capture, and you have a very nice camera indeed.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix G80 / G85 review

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Phil Hall is an experienced writer and editor having worked on some of the largest photography magazines in the UK, and now edit the photography channel of TechRadar, the UK's biggest tech website and one of the largest in the world. He has also worked on numerous commercial projects, including working with manufacturers like Nikon and Fujifilm on bespoke printed and online camera guides, as well as writing technique blogs and copy for the John Lewis Technology guide.

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