Should I upgrade from a Canon 550D to a 7D or 5D Mark II on a tight budget?
Asked 4/4/2014
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I currently shoot with a Canon 550D and mostly do travel photography, cosplay portraits, landscapes, and occasional sports. My main lens is a Sigma 18-200mm, and I also recently bought another crop-only lens, so staying with APS-C would let me keep using my current lenses.
I'm considering a Canon 7D or a 5D Mark II. The 7D appeals to me because it would be cheaper overall and I could keep my current lens setup, but I know its sensor is similar to the 550D, so the upgrade would mainly be in handling, autofocus, and build. The 5D Mark II is tempting for its full-frame image quality, but I only own one EF lens (the 50mm f/1.8), so moving to full frame would likely mean replacing most of my lenses too.
Given that cost is my main priority right now, would it make more sense to buy a 7D first and transition to full-frame lenses gradually, or keep the 550D longer and invest in lenses before changing bodies?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
4
Let me start by saying there isn't a wrong answer. Either camera you suggested is a HUGE improvement over an entry level model and you are jumping pretty much clean over the mid-range models. I personally jumped from an xTi (400D) to a 5D Mark iii, but I made that large of a jump because I was starting commercial photography work on the side.
I know you hoped people wouldn't say it, but unless you can get a really good deal on the 5D Mark ii, the 5D Mark iii is a very significantly better camera in terms of AF capability. That said, you mentioned you lack much in the way of EF lenses.
What you may want to consider is continuing to use your 550D a bit longer (if it isn't limiting you and you aren't having problems) and instead, start investing in better lenses. If you start buying nice quality EF lenses now, you will get more out of your 550D in addition to being ready to make the jump to full frame without excess cost in the future.
The 7D is a great option as well if you really want a stronger body now, but if you eventually want to get to FF, I'd see it as a waste of money compared to buying lenses if you are still happy with the performance of your 550D.
Originally by user11392. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11392
12y ago
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Based on the replies, the strongest advice is: keep the 550D unless it’s actually limiting your photography, and put the money into better lenses first.
Why: you said the 550D is already serving your needs well. Moving to a 7D would mostly gain you better handling, build, and autofocus, but not a dramatic image-quality jump. Moving to a 5D Mark II could improve image quality, but it would also force lens upgrades, which matters since most of your current setup is APS-C-oriented and budget is your top concern.
If you must upgrade now, the 7D is the more practical choice because it lets you keep using your existing lenses and fits your budget better. But if your current camera still works well, investing in good EF lenses first is the smarter long-term path. That also makes any future move to full frame easier.
So the best order is likely: keep the 550D for now, buy lenses that match your future goals, then upgrade the body when you have a specific need the 550D can’t meet.
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AI12y ago
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