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Canon has recently introduced the R100, which is now their most affordable interchangeable lens camera, priced at $479 for the body and $600 with the kit lens. Given its budget-friendly price tag, the R100 may become the go-to first interchangeable lens camera for many. However, with smartphones boasting increasingly impressive camera capabilities, can the R100 stand out? To answer this, I embarked on a detailed comparison between the R100 and the iPhone 14 Pro.
Setting the Scene
For a fair assessment, I used the R100's 18-45mm kit lens, setting the camera to scene intelligent auto mode, which automatically adjusts the settings based on the scene it identifies. With the iPhone, I used its default camera app, capturing photos using its range of lenses, without any added effects.
On the video front, I used 4k 60fps on the iPhone and, due to some limitations on the R100, I opted for 1080p at 60fps.
Photo Comparison
After examining several shots, I found that the iPhone photos often appeared sharper and more vibrant compared to the R100 equipped with its kit lens. This observation held even in low-light conditions, with the iPhone outperforming the R100 in terms of noise reduction and image clarity.
Video Comparison
Similarly, videos taken on the iPhone in automatic mode appeared more refined than those from the R100. For those who wish to remain in auto mode without delving deep into the intricacies of manual settings, the R100 might not be the best investment.
However, the real power of the R100 emerges for those willing to go beyond the auto mode. By shooting in manual mode and post-processing in editing software, the R100's potential begins to shine. Moreover, the ability to swap lenses is where the R100 has a distinct edge. To demonstrate this, I tested Canon's affordable 50mm F 1.8 lens. The depth, sharpness, and low-light performance improved significantly, offering a challenge to the iPhone's output.
Sharpness Face-off
I also compared the sharpness potential of both devices. Adjusting the settings for optimum sharpness, the R100 marginally outperformed the iPhone, though both provided impressive results.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the R100 and relying solely on your iPhone is contingent on your requirements and aspirations:
For Casual Shooters: If you're seeking an out-of-the-box solution that offers better quality than your iPhone, the R100 might not be the right choice. Consider investing in a higher-end model.
For Budding Enthusiasts: For those with a limited budget but an eagerness to delve deep into photography, the R100 offers a great starting point. Its interchangeable lens capability provides room for growth and experimentation.
That said, if you're in the market for your first interchangeable lens camera, I'd recommend checking out the Canon R50. For an additional $200, it offers numerous upgrades, such as a touch screen, enhanced sensor, and processor.
Whatever your decision, the rapid advancements in camera technology, both in dedicated cameras and smartphones, is a boon for photography lovers. Let me know your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned for more comparisons!