Canon T7i vs Fujifilm X-E2S

The Canon EOS Rebel T7i (called Canon 800D in some regions) and the Fujifilm X-E2S are two digital cameras that were announced, respectively, in February 2017 and January 2016. The T7i is a DSLR, while the X-E2S is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. Both cameras are equipped with an APS-C sensor. The Canon has a resolution of 24 megapixels, whereas the Fujifilm provides 16 MP.

As their names suggest, both the Canon EOS Rebel T7i and the Fujifilm X-E2S belong to Canon's Rebel line of DSLR cameras. This range of APS-C cameras, which started out with the Canon EOS Digital Rebel in 2003, has been a big commercial success and the backbone of Canon's dominance in the digital camera market. The popularity of the Rebel cameras is the result of them inheriting much of the sensor and shooting technology from earlier released professional DSLRs, while being sold at a much more budget-friendly price point. The strong brand reputation of Canon and the comprehensive EOS system of compatible lenses and accessories further contributes to the appeal of the Rebel cams, including the Canon T7i and Fujifilm X-E2S. Below is an overview of the main specs of the two cameras as a starting point for the comparison.

Headline Specifications

Canon T7i		Fujifilm X-E2S
Digital single lens reflex		Mirrorless system camera
Canon EF mount lenses		Fujifilm X mount lenses
24 MP, APS-C Sensor		16 MP, APS-C Sensor
1080/60p Video		1080/60p Video
ISO 100-25600 (100-51200)		ISO 200-6400 (100-51200)
Optical viewfinder		Electronic viewfinder (2360k dots)
3.0" LCD, 1040k dots		3.0" LCD, 1040k dots
Swivel touchscreen		Fixed screen (not touch-sensitive)
6 shutter flaps per second		7 shutter flaps per second
600 shots per battery charge		350 shots per battery charge
131 x 100 x 76 mm, 532 g		129 x 75 x 37 mm, 350 g

Going beyond this snapshot of core features and characteristics, what are the differences between the Canon EOS Rebel T7i and the Fujifilm X-E2S? Which one should you buy? Read on to find out how these two cameras compare with respect to their body size, their imaging sensors, their shooting features, their input-output connections, and their reception by expert reviewers.

Body comparison

An illustration of the physical size and weight of the Canon T7i and the Fujifilm X-E2S is provided in the side-by-side display below. The two cameras are presented according to their relative size. Three consecutive perspectives from the front, the top, and the back are available. All size dimensions are rounded to the nearest millimeter.

The X-E2S can be obtained in two different colors (black, silver), while the T7i is only available in black.

If the front view area (width x height) of the cameras is taken as an aggregate measure of their size, the Fujifilm X-E2S is notably smaller (26 percent) than the Canon T7i. Moreover, the X-E2S is markedly lighter (34 percent) than the T7i. In this context, it is worth noting that neither the T7i nor the X-E2S are weather-sealed.

The above size and weight comparisons are to some extent incomplete since they do not consider the interchangeable lenses that both of these cameras require. Both cameras have similarly sized sensors, but DSLRs have a larger flange-to-focal plane distance than mirrorless cameras, which imposes contraints on the optical engineering process and generally leads to bigger and heavier lenses. You can compare the optics available for the two cameras in the Canon EF Lens Catalog (T7i) and the Fujinon X Lens Catalog (X-E2S). Mirrorless cameras, such as the X-E2S, have moreover the advantage that they can use many lenses from other systems via adapters, as they have a relatively short flange to focal plane distance.

Concerning battery life, the T7i gets 600 shots out of its LP-E17 battery, while the X-E2S can take 350 images on a single charge of its NP-W126 power pack.

The following table provides a synthesis of the main physical specifications of the two cameras and other similar ones. If you want to switch the focus of the display and review another camera pair, just select a new right or left comparator from among the camera models in the table. Alternatively, you can also move across to the CAM-parator tool and choose from the broad selection of possible camera comparisons there.

Camera Body Specifications

	Camera Model	Camera Width	Camera Height	Camera Depth	Camera Weight	Battery Life (CIPA)	Weather Sealing (yes/no)	Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Canon T7i»	5.2 in	3.9 in	3.0 in	18.8 oz	600	n	Feb 2017	749			Canon T7i
	Fujifilm X-E2S«	5.1 in	3.0 in	1.5 in	12.3 oz	350	n	Jan 2016	699	-		Fujifilm X-E2S
	Canon T7« »	5.1 in	4.0 in	3.1 in	16.8 oz	500	n	Feb 2018	449			Canon T7
	Canon 77D« »	5.2 in	3.9 in	3.0 in	19.0 oz	600	n	Feb 2017	899			Canon 77D
	Canon SL2« »	4.8 in	3.7 in	2.8 in	16.0 oz	650	n	Jun 2017	549	-		Canon SL2
	Canon T6i« »	5.2 in	4.0 in	3.1 in	19.6 oz	440	n	Feb 2015	749	-		Canon T6i
	Canon T6s« »	5.2 in	4.0 in	3.1 in	19.9 oz	440	n	Feb 2015	649	-		Canon T6s
	Canon T5i« »	5.2 in	3.9 in	3.1 in	20.5 oz	440	n	Mar 2013	649	-		Canon T5i
	Canon T4i« »	5.2 in	3.9 in	3.1 in	20.3 oz	440	n	Jun 2012	849	-		Canon T4i
	Canon T2i« »	5.1 in	3.9 in	2.4 in	18.7 oz	440	n	Feb 2010	699	-		Canon T2i
	Canon T1i« »	5.1 in	3.9 in	2.4 in	18.3 oz	400	n	Mar 2009	799	-		Canon T1i
	Canon XSi« »	5.1 in	3.9 in	2.4 in	18.5 oz	500	n	Jan 2008	799	-		Canon XSi
	Fujifilm X-E3« »	4.8 in	2.9 in	1.7 in	11.9 oz	350	n	Sep 2017	899			Fujifilm X-E3
	Fujifilm X70« »	4.4 in	2.5 in	1.7 in	12.0 oz	330	n	Jan 2016	799	-		Fujifilm X70
	Fujifilm X-T10« »	4.6 in	3.3 in	1.6 in	13.4 oz	350	n	May 2015	799	-		Fujifilm X-T10
	Fujifilm X-E2« »	5.1 in	3.0 in	1.5 in	12.3 oz	350	n	Oct 2013	999	-		Fujifilm X-E2
	Fujifilm X-M1« »	4.6 in	2.6 in	1.5 in	11.6 oz	350	n	Jun 2013	699	-		Fujifilm X-M1
Convert to Metric
Note: Measurements and pricing do not include easily detachable parts, such as interchangeable lenses or optional viewfinders.

Any camera decision will naturally be influenced heavily by the price. The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices give an idea on the placement of the camera in the maker’s lineup and the broader market. The X-E2S was somewhat cheaper (by 7 percent) than the T7i at launch, but both cameras fall into the same price category. Usually, retail prices stay at first close to the launch price, but after several months, discounts become available. Later in the product cycle and, in particular, when the replacement model is about to appear, further discounting and stock clearance sales often push the camera price considerably down. Then, after the new model is out, very good deals can frequently be found on the pre-owned market.

Sensor comparison

The size of the imaging sensor is a crucial determinant of image quality. All other things equal, a large sensor will have larger individual pixel-units that offer better low-light sensitivity, wider dynamic range, and richer color-depth than smaller pixels in a sensor of the same technological generation. Further, a large sensor camera will give the photographer additional creative options when using shallow depth-of-field to isolate a subject from its background. On the downside, larger sensors are more costly to manufacture and tend to lead to bigger and heavier cameras and lenses.

Both cameras under consideration feature an APS-C sensor, but their sensors differ slightly in size. The sensor area in the X-E2S is 11 percent bigger. As a result of these sensor size differences, the cameras have format factors, respectively, of 1.6 (T7i) and 1.5. Both cameras have a native aspect ratio (sensor width to sensor height) of 3:2.

Despite having a smaller sensor, the Canon T7i offers a higher resolution of 24 megapixels, compared with 16 MP of the Fujifilm X-E2S. This megapixels advantage comes at the cost of a higher pixel density and a smaller size of the individual pixel (with a pixel pitch of 3.72μm versus 4.80μm for the X-E2S). However, it should be noted that the T7i is a somewhat more recent model (by 1 year and 1 month) than the X-E2S, and its sensor might have benefitted from technological advances during this time that partly offset its pixel-size disadvantage. Coming back to sensor resolution, it should be mentioned that the X-E2S has no anti-alias filter installed, so that it can capture all the detail its sensor resolves.

The resolution advantage of the Canon T7i implies greater flexibility for cropping images or the possibility to print larger pictures. The maximum print size of the T7i for good quality output (200 dots per inch) amounts to 30 x 20 inch or 76.2 x 50.8 cm, for very good quality (250 dpi) 24 x 16 inch or 61 x 40.6 cm, and for excellent quality (300 dpi) 20 x 13.3 inch or 50.8 x 33.9 cm. The corresponding values for the Fujifilm X-E2S are 24.5 x 16.3 inch or 62.2 x 41.5 cm for good quality, 19.6 x 13.1 inch or 49.7 x 33.2 cm for very good quality, and 16.3 x 10.9 inch or 41.5 x 27.6 cm for excellent quality prints.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7i has a native sensitivity range from ISO 100 to ISO 25600, which can be extended to ISO 100-51200. The corresponding ISO settings for the Fujifilm X-E2S are ISO 200 to ISO 6400, with the possibility to increase the ISO range to 100-51200.

Consistent information on actual sensor performance is available from DXO Mark for many cameras. This service is based on lab testing and assigns an overall score to each camera sensor, as well as ratings for dynamic range ("DXO Landscape"), color depth ("DXO Portrait"), and low-light sensitivity ("DXO Sports"). The following table provides an overview of the physical sensor characteristics, as well as the sensor quality measurements for a selection of comparators.

Many modern cameras are not only capable of taking still images, but also of capturing video footage. Both cameras under consideration are equipped with sensors that have a sufficiently high read-out speed for moving images, and both provide the same movie specifications (1080/60p).

Feature comparison

Beyond body and sensor, cameras can and do differ across a range of features. For example, the X-E2S has an electronic viewfinder (2360k dots), while the T7i has an optical one. Both systems have their advantages, with the electronic viewfinder making it possible to project supplementary shooting information into the framing view, whereas the optical viewfinder offers lag-free viewing and a very clear framing image. The viewfinder in the X-E2S offers a wider field of view (100%) than the one in the T7i (95%), so that a larger proportion of the captured image is visible in the finder. On the other hand, the viewfinder of the T7i has a higher magnification (0.51x vs 0.41x), so that the size of the image transmitted appears closer to the size seen with the naked human eye. The table below summarizes some of the other core capabilities of the Canon T7i and Fujifilm X-E2S in connection with corresponding information for a sample of similar cameras.

One differentiating feature between the two cameras concerns the touch sensitivity of the rear screen. The T7i has a touchscreen, while the X-E2S has a conventional panel. Touch control can be particularly helpful, for example, for setting the focus point.

The reported shutter speed information refers to the use of the mechanical shutter. Yet, some cameras only have an electronic shutter, while others have an electronic shutter in addition to a mechanical one. In fact, the X-E2S is one of those camera that have an additional electronic shutter, which makes completely silent shooting possible. However, this mode is less suitable for photographing moving objects (risk of rolling shutter) or shooting under artificial light sources (risk of flickering).

The Fujifilm X-E2S has an intervalometer built-in. This enables the photographer to capture time lapse sequences, such as flower blooming, a sunset or moon rise, without purchasing an external camera trigger and related software.

Concerning the storage of imaging data, both the T7i and the X-E2S write their files to SDXC cards. Both cameras can use UHS-I cards, which provide for Ultra High Speed data transfer of up to 104 MB/s.

Connectivity comparison

For some imaging applications, the extent to which a camera can communicate with its environment can be an important aspect in the camera decision process. The table below provides an overview of the connectivity of the Canon EOS Rebel T7i and Fujifilm X-E2S and, in particular, the interfaces the cameras (and selected comparators) provide for accessory control and data transfer.

The T7i is a recent model that features in the current product line-up of Canon. In contrast, the X-E2S has been discontinued (but it can be found pre-owned on eBay). As a replacement in the same line of cameras, the X-E2S was succeeded by the Fujifilm X-E3. Further information on the two cameras (e.g. user guides, manuals), as well as related accessories, can be found on the official Canon and Fujifilm websites.

Review summary

So what conclusions can be drawn? Which of the two cameras – the Canon T7i or the Fujifilm X-E2S – has the upper hand? Is one clearly better than the other? The listing below highlights the relative strengths of the two models.

Reasons to prefer the Canon EOS Rebel T7i:

• More detail: Offers more megapixels (24 vs 16MP) with a 23% higher linear resolution.
• Better moiré control: Has an anti-alias filter to avoid artificial patterns to appear in images.
• Brighter framing: Features an optical viewfinder for clear, lag-free composition.
• Larger viewfinder image: Features a viewfinder with a higher magnification (0.51x vs 0.41x).
• More flexible LCD: Has a swivel screen for odd-angle shots in portrait or landscape orientation.
• Fewer buttons to press: Is equipped with a touch-sensitive rear screen to facilitate handling.
• More selfie-friendly: Has an articulated screen that can be turned to be front-facing.
• Longer lasting: Can take more shots (600 versus 350) on a single battery charge.
• Easier device pairing: Supports NFC for fast wireless image transfer over short distances.
• Easier wireless transfer: Supports Bluetooth for image sharing without cables.
• More modern: Is somewhat more recent (announced 1 year and 1 month after the X-E2S).

Advantages of the Fujifilm X-E2S:

• Maximized detail: Lacks an anti-alias filter to exploit the sensor's full resolution potential.
• More framing info: Has an electronic viewfinder that displays shooting data.
• More complete view: Has a viewfinder with a larger field of view (100% vs 95%).
• Faster burst: Shoots at higher frequency (7 vs 6 flaps/sec) to capture the decisive moment.
• Less disturbing: Has an electronic shutter option for completely silent shooting.
• Easier time-lapse photography: Has an intervalometer built-in for low frequency shooting.
• More compact: Is smaller (129x75mm vs 131x100mm) and will fit more readily into a bag.
• Less heavy: Has a lower weight (by 182g or 34 percent) and is thus easier to take along.
• More legacy lens friendly: Can use many non-native lenses via adapters.
• More heavily discounted: Has been on the market for longer (launched in January 2016).

If the count of individual advantages (bullet points above) is taken as a guide, the T7i comes out slightly ahead of the X-E2S (11 : 10 points). However, the relative importance of the various individual camera aspects will vary according to personal preferences and needs, so that you might like to apply corresponding weights to the particular features before making a decision on a new camera. A professional wildlife photographer will view the differences between cameras in a way that diverges from the perspective of a family photog, and a person interested in architecture has distinct needs from a sports shooter. Hence, the decision which camera is best and worth buying is often a very personal one.

How about other alternatives? Do the specifications of the Canon T7i and the Fujifilm X-E2S place the cameras among the top in their class? Find out in the latest Best DSLR Camera and Best Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera listings whether the two cameras rank among the cream of the crop.

In any case, while the comparison of the spec-sheets of cameras can offer a general idea of their imaging potential, it says little about, for example, the shooting experience and imaging performance of the T7i and the X-E2S in practical situations. User reviews that are available, for instance, at amazon can sometimes shed light on these issues, but such feedback is all too often partial, inconsistent, and inaccurate.

Expert reviews

This is where reviews by experts come in. The following table reports the overall ratings of the cameras as published by some of the major camera review sites (cameralabs, dpreview, ephotozine, imaging-resource, and photographyblog). As can be seen, the professional reviewers agree in many cases on the quality of different cameras, but sometimes their assessments diverge, reinforcing the earlier point that a camera decision is often a very personal choice.

Review Scores

	Camera Model						Camera Launch (announced)	Launch Price (USD)	Street Price (USD)	Used Price (USD)	Camera Model
	Canon T7i»	-	80/100	4.5/5	4/5	4/5	Feb 2017	749			Canon T7i
	Fujifilm X-E2S«	-	77/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Jan 2016	699	-		Fujifilm X-E2S
	Canon T7« »	o	-	3.5/5	-	3.5/5	Feb 2018	449			Canon T7
	Canon 77D« »	-	82/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4/5	Feb 2017	899			Canon 77D
	Canon SL2« »	+ +	78/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Jun 2017	549	-		Canon SL2
	Canon T6i« »	-	75/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Feb 2015	749	-		Canon T6i
	Canon T6s« »	+	77/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Feb 2015	649	-		Canon T6s
	Canon T5i« »	-	76/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Mar 2013	649	-		Canon T5i
	Canon T4i« »	+ +	77/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Jun 2012	849	-		Canon T4i
	Canon T2i« »	+ +	77/100	4/5	5/5	4.5/5	Feb 2010	699	-		Canon T2i
	Canon T1i« »	+ +	74/100	4.5/5	5/5	4.5/5	Mar 2009	799	-		Canon T1i
	Canon XSi« »	+ +	+ +	4/5	5/5	4.5/5	Jan 2008	799	-		Canon XSi
	Fujifilm X-E3« »	+	84/100	4.5/5	4.5/5	4.5/5	Sep 2017	899			Fujifilm X-E3
	Fujifilm X70« »	-	76/100	4.5/5	4/5	4.5/5	Jan 2016	799	-		Fujifilm X70
	Fujifilm X-T10« »	+ +	80/100	5/5	4/5	5/5	May 2015	799	-		Fujifilm X-T10
	Fujifilm X-E2« »	-	80/100	4.5/5	-	5/5	Oct 2013	999	-		Fujifilm X-E2
	Fujifilm X-M1« »	+	77/100	4.5/5	-	4.5/5	Jun 2013	699	-		Fujifilm X-M1
Notes: (+ +) highly recommended; (+) recommended; (o) reviewed; (-) not available.

Care should be taken when interpreting the review scores above, though. The ratings were established in reference to similarly priced cameras that were available in the market at the time of the review. A score, therefore, has to be seen in close connection to the price and market introduction time of the camera, and comparing ratings of very distinct cameras or ones that are far apart in terms of their release date have little meaning. Also, please note that some of the review sites have changed their methodology and reporting over time.

Other camera comparisons

Did this review help to inform your camera decision process? If you would like to see a different side-by-side camera review, just make a corresponding selection in the search boxes below. As an alternative, you can also directly jump to any one of the listed comparisons that were previously generated by the CAM-parator tool.

Specifications: Canon T7i vs Fujifilm X-E2S

Below is a side-by-side comparison of the specs of the two cameras to facilitate a quick review of their differences and common features.

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