7D or 50D searched and still lost

[Neil S.]

Here is a direct comparison of some of the differences in features between the 7D and the 50D:

7D

-18 Megapixels
-Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors
-ISO 1-6400 (expandable to 12800)
-100% Viewfinder Coverage
-19 Point All Cross-Type AF
-63 Zone Dual Layer Metering
-Magnesium Alloy Construction
-8 Frames/Second Burst
-1080p Video Mode
-Weather Sealing

50D

-15.1 Megapixels
-Single DIGIC 4 Image Processor
-ISO 1-3200 (expandable to 6400)
-95% Viewfinder Coverage
-9 Point All Cross-Type AF
-35 Zone Metering
-Magnesium Alloy Construction
-6.3 Frames/Second Burst
-No Video Mode
-No Weather Sealing

As you can see they are quite different in many ways. There are also lots of extra little features the 7D has that I didn't mention above. Things like a dual axis electronic level, and a transparent LCD built into the viewfinder (I really like that one by the way).

The reasons you may want to get the 7D over the 50D:

-If you require video, this one goes without saying.
-If you will be working in harsh conditions, and want better protection from dust and moisture. This is always good to have though.
-If you really need the 8 frames/sec burst rate.

In many ways they are also quite similar, and are both fine cameras in my opinion.

Clearly the 7D is a better camera overall, and if you can afford it I highly recommend getting it over the 50D.

+1 on the glass thing Big Mike pointed out. I own the 7D and it is really hungry for good glass. This isn't anything bad about the camera in my opinion, it just means it is able to show the limits of lower end glass.

Hope this helps. :mrgreen: