A Comparison of the T6, T6i, T7, T7i, and T8i
The Canon Rebel T-series has long been a popular choice for beginner photographers and those looking to upgrade from a point-and-shoot camera. The T6, T6i, T7, T7i, and T8i may look similar on the surface, but each has unique features that cater to different types of photographers.
I remember when I was choosing my first DSLR—I spent hours comparing specs, reading reviews, and watching videos to make sure I was getting the best camera for my needs. If that sounds like you right now, don’t worry! This guide breaks down each Rebel model in simple terms, so you can confidently decide which one is the perfect fit for your photography journey.
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Why Choose a Canon Rebel Camera?
Picking a camera can feel like a big decision, but Canon Rebel cameras make it easy. They’re designed for beginner to intermediate photographers who want something that’s simple to use but still packs a punch. These cameras are lightweight, affordable, and compatible with a wide range of lenses, so you can start small and grow your setup over time.
What I love about the Rebel series is that they give you just the right amount of control—you can shoot in auto mode when you’re just getting started, then slowly explore manual settings as you get more comfortable. Plus, they have all the fun features you’d want, like built-in Wi-Fi (on most models), solid video capabilities, and touchscreen options. Whether you’re snapping photos of friends, capturing your latest adventure, or even getting into vlogging, a Canon Rebel is a fantastic place to start!
Understanding the “i” vs. Non-“i” Models
One of the most common questions when comparing Canon Rebel cameras is: What’s the difference between the “i” and non-“i” models? The “i” versions of Canon Rebels are essentially upgraded versions of their non-“i” counterparts, offering better performance, enhanced features, and more advanced technology.
Here are the key differences:
- Autofocus System – The “i” models generally have a more advanced autofocus system with additional focus points, making them faster and more accurate, especially for action shots.
- Processor – The “i” versions often come with a newer DIGIC processor, leading to better image processing, faster performance, and improved noise reduction in low-light conditions.
- Touchscreen and Vari-Angle LCD – The “i” models usually include a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, making them much more versatile for vlogging, creative angles, and easy menu navigation.
- Faster Burst Shooting – If you need to capture fast-moving subjects, the “i” versions typically offer higher continuous shooting speeds.
- Better Low-Light Performance – Higher ISO ranges and improved noise reduction in the “i” models make them better suited for low-light photography.
- Wireless Connectivity – The “i” models tend to include built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, or Bluetooth for easier file transfers and remote shooting.
In short, the “i” models are designed for those who want more flexibility, faster performance, and additional features that make shooting easier and more intuitive. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option and don’t need these extra features, the non-“i” versions still offer excellent image quality and basic functionality.
Key Differences Between the Cameras
| Feature | Canon T6 | Canon T6i | Canon T7 | Canon T7i | Canon T8i |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2016 | 2015 | 2018 | 2017 | 2020 |
| Sensor | 18MP APS-C | 24MP APS-C | 24MP APS-C | 24MP APS-C | 24MP APS-C |
| Processor | DIGIC 4+ | DIGIC 6 | DIGIC 4+ | DIGIC 7 | DIGIC 8 |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 | 100-12,800 | 100-6400 | 100-25,600 | 100-25,600 |
| Autofocus Points | 9 AF points | 19 AF points | 9 AF points | 45 AF points | 45 AF points |
| Continuous Shooting | 3 fps | 5 fps | 3 fps | 6 fps | 7 fps |
| Video | 1080p @ 30fps | 1080p @ 30fps | 1080p @ 30fps | 1080p @ 60fps | 4K @ 24fps |
| Screen | 3″ Fixed LCD | 3″ Vari-angle LCD | 3″ Fixed LCD | 3″ Vari-angle Touchscreen | 3″ Vari-angle Touchscreen |
| Touch screen | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi / NFC | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | ~485g | ~555g | ~475g | ~532g | ~515g |
| Battery Life | ~500 shots | ~440 shots | ~500 shots | ~600 shots | ~800 shots |
| Price | $200 – $400 | $350 – $450 | $449 – $500 | $650 – $700 | $799 – $900 |
| Best For | Budget, beginners | Hobbyists, better AF | Beginners, budget | Beginners who want better AF | Best overall for beginners |
- Sensor: The T6 has an 18MP sensor, while all the other models feature 24MP sensors, offering better image quality and detail.
- Autofocus: The T7i and T8i shine with 45 autofocus points, making them better for tracking moving subjects.
- Video Quality: The T8i is the only model with 4K video, making it the best option for videographers.
- Screen: The T6 and T7 have fixed screens, while the T6i, T7i, and T8i have vari-angle touchscreens for creative shooting.
- Price: The T6 is the most affordable, while the T8i is the most expensive, but it offers the latest features.
Comparison of Canon Rebel T-Series Cameras
Canon T6
The Canon T6 is one of the most budget-friendly options in the Rebel line, offering a simple interface and an affordable price. It features an 18MP APS-C sensor, which, while lower in resolution than newer models, still delivers good image quality for everyday photography. The 9-point autofocus system is basic but effective for still subjects, making it less ideal for fast action or sports photography.
The T6 supports 1080p video recording at 30fps, but it lacks advanced video options like 60fps recording or 4K. The fixed 3-inch LCD screen is another limitation, as it doesn’t offer touch functionality or articulation, making it less convenient for vlogging or shooting at unconventional angles.
Despite these limitations, the T6 is a solid entry-level DSLR that allows beginners to explore manual settings, different lenses, and the fundamentals of photography. It’s an excellent stepping stone for those transitioning from smartphone photography to a dedicated camera.
- Best For: Budget-conscious beginners looking for an easy-to-use DSLR.
- Price: Around $200 – $400
Canon T6i
The Canon T6i is a significant step up from the T6, offering a 24MP APS-C sensor that delivers sharper and more detailed images. With a 19-point autofocus system, it provides better subject tracking and faster focusing, making it a superior choice for action shots and portrait photography.
One of its standout features is the 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen, allowing users to compose shots from different angles and navigate settings more easily. The touchscreen also enhances the overall usability of the camera, making menu navigation and focus selection much more intuitive.
In addition, the T6i comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing users to quickly transfer images to a smartphone or tablet for sharing. Its expanded ISO range (up to 12,800, expandable to 25,600) enables better low-light performance than the T6.
Overall, the T6i is an excellent mid-range DSLR for those who want more creative control and better autofocus performance without breaking the bank.
This was actually my first DSLR. I remember doing months of research trying to find the best DSLR for me, saving my money while in college, and how excited I was the day it arrived. I learned the ropes on this camera. It treated me very well and it taught me a lot about the world of photography. If you’re looking for a good entry level DSLR to learn on, this would be an amazing camera body for you.
- Best For: Hobbyists and creatives who want a touchscreen, better autofocus, and improved image quality.
- Price: Around $350 – $450
Canon T7
The Canon T7 is a direct successor to the T6 and is more or less a similar model with a few improvements. The Canon T7 is an upgraded version of the T6, featuring a higher-resolution 24MP APS-C sensor that significantly improves image quality. This increased resolution makes a noticeable difference in detail and sharpness, especially for landscape and portrait photography.
However, despite the improved sensor, the T7 retains the same 9-point autofocus system and 3fps continuous shooting speed as the T6. This means it doesn’t offer a significant performance boost for fast-moving subjects. If you frequently shoot action, wildlife, or sports, the autofocus limitations may be a drawback.
The T7 does come with built-in Wi-Fi, making it easy to transfer photos wirelessly to your phone or tablet. However, like the T6, it lacks a touchscreen or articulating screen, limiting its versatility for vlogging and creative shooting angles.
Ultimately, the Canon T7 is a great choice for beginners who want the best image quality at an entry-level price but don’t need extra features like a touchscreen or advanced autofocus.
- Best For: Beginners who want solid image quality on a budget.
- Price: Around $449 – $500
Canon T7i
The T7i is a step up from the t6i, and two steps up from the the T7. The T7i offers a significant leap forward with 45 autofocus points, making it better suited for fast-moving subjects. This vastly improves its focusing speed and accuracy, making it an excellent choice for action, wildlife, and sports photography.
Equipped with a DIGIC 7 processor, the T7i delivers enhanced image processing, better noise reduction, and faster performance overall. It supports 6fps continuous shooting, making it much more capable of capturing fast-moving subjects than its predecessors.
For video, the T7i records in 1080p at 60fps, providing smoother motion capture compared to older models. The fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen adds flexibility for vlogging, selfies, and shooting at unique angles. Its interface is beginner-friendly, making it easy to navigate settings and autofocus points using touch controls.
With better low-light performance, faster autofocus, and improved video features, the T7i is ideal for those who want a more advanced beginner-friendly camera that can grow with them.
Right after I got my T6i, my friend got a T7i and let me use it for a few weeks. The T7i is definitely better than the T6i, but with a heftier price tag. So if you can afford to get this camera over any of the previous models, I recommend getting the T7i. But if you can afford the T8i (below,) that is the best DSLR in the “i” series and in the Rebel series.
- Best For: Those who need fast autofocus, better video quality, and a camera that adapts to their evolving skills.
- Price: Around $650 – $700
Canon T8i
The T8i is the most advanced Rebel model and the most advanced “i” series model, offering professional-grade features in an entry-level DSLR body. It shares the same 24MP APS-C sensor as the T7i but introduces a more powerful DIGIC 8 processor. This results in faster image processing, better color accuracy, and improved noise reduction in low-light conditions.
One of the standout features of the T8i is its ability to record 4K video at 24fps. This is a significant upgrade from previous Rebel models, making it a great choice for content creators and videographers. Additionally, its improved Dual Pixel Autofocus (DPAF) system ensures smooth and accurate focus tracking in live view and video recording.
The T8i also boasts a continuous shooting speed of 7fps, making it the fastest camera in the Rebel lineup. This makes it an excellent choice for sports, wildlife, and action photography. With a battery life of up to 800 shots per charge, it’s also one of the longest-lasting Rebel cameras, ensuring extended shooting sessions without frequent recharging.
For those who want a future-proof Rebel camera that excels in both photography and videography, the T8i is the best option available.
- Best For: Photographers and videographers who want the best performance in the Rebel series.
- Price: Around $799 – $950
Which Canon Rebel T-Series Camera is Right for You?
- Canon T6: Ideal for those starting photography on a budget.
- Canon T6i: Perfect for those who want more creative control with a touchscreen and vari-angle display.
- Canon T7: A solid all-rounder for beginners who don’t need extra features.
- Canon T7i: Great for users who want better autofocus, video features, and versatility.
- Canon T8i: Best for photographers and videographers who want the best performance in the Rebel series.
Which Would I Get / Which Would I Recommend?
After comparing all the Canon Rebel T-series cameras, here’s my personal take on which one I would choose and which one I recommend for different types of photographers:
Which Would I Get?
- If I were looking for a camera for myself and had the budget for it, I’d go with the Canon Rebel T8i. Why? It offers everything I need to take my photography and vlogging to the next level with its 4K video, excellent autofocus, and vari-angle touchscreen. Plus, it’s packed with features that will keep me growing as a photographer and content creator without needing to upgrade for a while. The ease of use and extra versatility is something I personally value.
Which Would I Recommend?
- For beginners on a budget, I’d recommend the Canon Rebel T6. It’s affordable and simple to use, making it a perfect starter camera for someone who’s just dipping their toes into photography. You’ll still get amazing photo quality without breaking the bank.
- If you’re a beginner who wants something a bit more flexible, I’d say go with the Canon Rebel T7i or the Canon Rebel T8i. The fast autofocus, vari-angle screen, and solid performance make it a great option as you start to develop your skills. It’s a camera that will grow with you and won’t feel limiting as you progress.
- For video creators and vloggers, I’d recommend the T6i, T7i, or T8i. The flip-out screen is a game-changer for filming yourself, and both of these cameras offer great video quality. The T8i is the more advanced choice with 4K, but the T6i and T7i are still solid for vloggers starting out.
A Personal Note:
When I was just starting out in photography, my first camera was the Canon Rebel T6i. I absolutely loved it! It was a fantastic entry-level camera with a flip-out screen, solid performance, and great image quality. If you’re looking for a great camera to grow on, I recommend this one. If you’re looking for something similar, but with more up-to-date features, I double-recommend the Canon Rebel T8i. It’s the newer version, and with its 4K video, improved autofocus, and overall upgraded specs, it’s a solid step up from where I started. If you’re ready to dive into something more advanced while still keeping things beginner-friendly, the T8i is a great option!
Conclusion
When choosing a Canon Rebel T-series camera, it’s important to think about your specific needs, budget, and how you plan to use the camera. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for more advanced features, one of these models is sure to fit your photography journey.
Take the time to weigh the pros and cons, and choose the Rebel that will help you grow in your photography skills!
Ready to Buy?
If you’re looking to grab your Rebel T-Series Camera body today, you can find each model below:
Anyways, thanks for reading :) I hope I taught you the difference between the Canon Rebel T-Series Camera Bodies and helped you decide which you want to get! Which one sounds most interesting to you?
FAQ: Canon Rebel T-Series Cameras
1. Canon Rebel T6 vs T7 vs T8i — which should I buy?
It depends on your budget and photography needs. The T6 is affordable and simple, ideal for absolute beginners. The T7 adds minor upgrades like higher resolution and improved autofocus. The T8i is perfect if you want advanced features like Dual Pixel autofocus, a vari-angle touchscreen, and better video capabilities.
View the comparison chart – T6 vs T7 vs T8i comparison chart.
2. Which Canon Rebel is best for beginners?
The T6 and T7 are excellent entry-level DSLRs. They’re lightweight, easy to use, and offer all the essential features a beginner photographer needs. If you’re willing to invest a bit more, the T8i provides room to grow with more advanced controls.
3. Can I use modern Canon lenses on the T6, T7, or T8i?
Yes! All these models are compatible with EF and EF-S lenses. This means you can use a wide variety of lenses, from budget-friendly primes to professional zooms, giving you flexibility as you advance.
4. Which Canon Rebel is best for video in 2025?
If video is a priority, the T8i is the best choice. It offers 1080p at 60fps, a vari-angle touchscreen, and Dual Pixel autofocus, making it ideal for vlogging or casual filmmaking. The T6 and T7 only support 1080p at 30fps and lack advanced autofocus in video mode.
5. Are older Canon Rebels still worth buying in 2025?
Absolutely! Cameras like the T6 and T7 are still great for beginners or hobbyists. They offer reliable image quality, easy controls, and affordability. Older models are also widely available secondhand, which can save you money.
6. How do T6, T7, and T8i compare for low-light photography?
The T8i performs better in low light thanks to its higher ISO range and improved autofocus. The T6 and T7 handle casual low-light situations, but you may notice more noise at higher ISOs. For night photography, the T8i is the safest choice.
7. Do any Canon Rebels have image stabilization?
The Rebel bodies themselves do not have in-body image stabilization (IBIS). You’ll need lenses with IS (Image Stabilization) for shake reduction, which all modern EF/EF-S IS lenses support.
8. What does EOS mean on Canon cameras?
EOS stands for Electro-Optical System. It’s Canon’s designation for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, including the Rebel series, which ensures compatibility with Canon EF and EF-S lenses.
Related Reads
Want to dive deeper into photography? Check out these helpful guides!
- Understanding Camera Lenses: A Beginner’s Guide to Focal Length, Prime vs. Zoom, and Finding the Right Lens – Not sure which lens to get for your new Canon Rebel? This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
- Best Cameras Under $500: Quality and Performance for Every Photographer (2025) – Wondering if a Rebel is the right choice for your budget? See how it compares to other affordable options!
- If My Camera Could Talk: The Stories It Would Tell – A personal take on photography and the moments cameras help us capture.
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One response to “Which Canon Rebel T-Series DSLR Should You Choose?”
The best thing about these cameras from what I’ve read, is that none of these are bad options. Aside from specifics and what you specifically want, they’re all good for whatever you want to do. The T8i sounds the most interesting to me. What interested me was the color accuracy mentioned. For me personally I wanna make sure that what I’m seeing translates well to the camera, and if I could get the camera to translate that well then perfect. Of course I’d most likely still have to edit photos, but whatever helps take out a step if possible (if I’m thinking right).
Initially I was thinking the T6i would be the best, and it still a good one, I personally think the T8i is still the better one for me if I had decided to get one. Especially if it’ll last me longer and gives me the opportunity to grow and change. I do have a question: Is it better to have a touchscreen or no? Or is it just personally preference? I suppose like, what are the benefits of having a touch screen?
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