Canon 90D Review: 4K 30FPS Video Finally Comes To The Prosumer Series

Written by Justin Sim (Tech360.tv Community Creator)

Instagram/Facebook: Lukai Takashi

Overview

One might find the general look of the EOS 90D relatively the same as its predecessor the EOS 80D, however, if you look closely, Canon has once again cleverly shifted around some of its features and added a couple new more. This latest iteration of the double-digit APS-C series has but one new key feature which all of us have been waiting for, wait for it… 4K! At 30fps!

I must say for once; they have bothered to make it work across the entire board for a change. Puns aside, we should look at how this change will work with the pre-existing line-up of STM (Stepper Motor Technology) lenses since Canon’s main source of image stabilisation works primarily off its optics. However, this time they have added digital Image Stabilisation (IS) to its video function!

While this might seem like a feature intended to attract more amateur videographers, Canon has also upped the ante with an upgraded 32.5MP sensor (from 24MP) and a new metering sensor for photographers to get the (almost) best of both worlds. We’re looking at a 45-point all cross-type AF system coupled with face detection, through-the-viewfinder shooting.

This is something really exciting for photographers like me because I now have the option to better track my subjects and have a clearer confirmation if my shots are focused on the right subject. You might say that this feature clearly highlights Canon’s bid to push ahead of its competition. With these game-changing initiatives, there is much to expect in the upcoming years to come.

Comparison

Having worked with all 3 models starting from EOS 70D, I have seen the multiple changes Canon has worked around its line-up. This usually and unsurprisingly came in the form of sensor upgrades and shifts in controls. The form of the camera body hasn’t changed much over the past few years, the ergonomics, however, have improved a lot and this is a testament to Canon’s heed to its users’ cry for upgrades.

This is evident if you look at the previous model, the EOS 80D, based on the following changes.

1. Overall weight (body) has dipped by 29 grams.

2. They have now added Bluetooth, which allows you to connect to other devices.

3. Single-slot SD Card can now support UHS-II cards.

4. Continuous shooting is 4 fps faster. (for those wondering)

5. The max video resolution is higher at 3840 x 2160 than the previous 1920 x 1080.

Final Thoughts

Looking at how far the EOS 90D has come by since the emergence of its predecessors, I have chanced upon an EOS 40D (yes, you can still find them in the market) and the number of changes and upgrades are noteworthy.

Nevertheless, this is something of a step-up since the emergence of its mirrorless series. Most of us were left wondering if Canon would ever consider carrying forward the changes into their DSLR line-ups, but perhaps there is some hope left for us amateur (Canon) users.

More information about the Canon 90D (S$1,779 for body only) is available on Canon’s website.