Canon EOS 90D review

Canon proves that DSLRs still have a place in a mirrorless age

(Image: © Future)

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Verdict

The main difference between an entry-level camera and an enthusiast-grade one is versatility. The latter let you shoot in a wider variety of conditions, with finer levels of control, without ever becoming too complex or expensive. Like its predecessor, the Canon EOS 90D again does a fantastic job of delivering on that score, even with rumors circling of two more EOS M cameras being announced in early 2020.

That's because the 90D really plays to the strengths of DSLR cameras, which some photographers understandably prefer over mirrorless. Water- and dust-resistance means it’s good for any condition but the harshest of weather, plus it’s comfortable to use over long periods of time. Its metering system is top-notch, producing beautifully exposed images across a wide range of situations, and its burst speed is sufficient for most users. 

As expected, the 90D produces excellent results too, whether you’re shooting landscapes or trying to capture the perfect serve during a tennis match, provided you don’t need to shoot at high ISO settings. The bump in resolution means anyone printing their pictures will find the results looking a lot better on paper compared to a print from a lower-resolution snapper.

It also comes in at a pretty good price point, which should appeal to beginners and enthusiasts alike. Also worth mentioning is the already extensive stable of lenses available for the new camera, especially for anyone already invested in Canon's ecosystem. 

The question, though, is whether it’s worth upgrading if you already use the Canon EOS 80D or the 7D Mark II. That will depend on whether you shoot a lot of video or not. Uncropped 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 120fps make it worthwhile, and a recent Canon firmware update has recently added the option of shooting in cinema-like 24fps. For still photographers, the EOS 80D is still available and, despite its age, does a remarkable job for a lower price.

Competition

Sharmishta Sarkar
Managing Editor (APAC)

Sharmishta is TechRadar's APAC Managing Editor and loves all things photography, something she discovered while chasing monkeys in the wilds of India (she studied to be a primatologist but has since left monkey business behind). While she's happiest with a camera in her hand, she's also an avid reader and has become a passionate proponent of ereaders, having appeared on Singaporean radio to talk about the convenience of these underrated devices. When she's not testing camera kits or the latest in e-paper tablets, she's discovering the joys and foibles of smart home gizmos. She's also the Australian Managing Editor of Digital Camera World and, if that wasn't enough, she contributes to T3 and Tom's Guide, while also working on two of Future's photography print magazines Down Under.