Plieku69 Loc: The Gopher State, south end

I keep thinking I "need" to upgrade from my T3i to something better. Problem is $$$ and camera features. And understanding Canon's descriptions. I am looking at the T6i and the 70D. From what I read the T6i is equal or better than the more expensive 70D.

I do hobby outdoor photography with the primary use to photograph old tools indoors in a studio setting.

Full frame models are too costly as I would have to replace too many -S lenses.

Ken

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I love buying new cameras and lenses, but I am finally satisfied with what I have. Take a look at the comparisons in the links below. When you finally decide, just remember that no one was ever disappointed because his camera was too good. Many of my cameras have been bought used and refurbished.

Read comparisons and specs, and decide what features are important to you.
(Reviews) https://www.youtube.com/user/TheCameraStoreTV/videos
http://cameras.reviewed.com/
http://camerasize.com/
http://www.imaging-resource.com/IMCOMP/COMPS01.HTM
http://snapsort.com/compare
http://www.dpreview.com/products/compare/cameras?utm_campaign=internal-link&utm_source=mainmenu&utm_medium=text&ref=mainmenu

bobmcculloch Loc: NYC, NY

What do you need/want that the T3i does not do? I get the urge for an 80D but cannot justify the $$, my T4i does all I ask of it, Bob.

machia Loc: NJ

The T6i is basically a T5i but with a higher megapixel count . The T5i now sells for under 400.00 so if things are tight money wise , you may want to consider it . I went digital 2 years ago and the T5i is one solid camera . Of course if you have another 350.00 you can pick-up the T6i . 18 MP works for me but you may want a few extra megs that does give you slightly better dynamic range . I've been investing in a lot of glass so that's where my money has been going . I basically did the same thing when I was shooting film . I had the same camera for over 40 years but kept investing in new glass as needed . But DSLR's are a bit different . While the T5i and T6i are basically the same camera , the higher megapixel count on the latter is equivalent to upgrading to a better roll of film . It's all about what you expect out of the sensor . For me there was no looking further than Kodachrome 25 & 64 even though many people loved Fuji when that hit the market .
More megapixels doesn't necesssarily mean it's a better camera either . It's what pleases your eye .
Good luck in finding your new camera . Looks like Jerry took the time to provide you with a lot of comparisons . Good luck .

DRG777 Loc: Metro Detroit

My wife had been using a T5i, and I was not happy with the image graininess or the dynamic range. I have a Canon 6D and a Nikon D7200, both of which I like. We sold her camera and lens on Ebay, and bought a used Nikon D5300 and lens. The difference was about $200.

Linda From Maine Loc: Yakima, Washington

I love my T3i so much I purchased a second body last year as back-up Are you sure you don't want a better lens or another studio light instead?

anotherview Loc: California

Consider buying a used or refurbished Canon T6i. I own and use this camera. Its only significant drawback, although fixable: Noise begins showing at 800 ISO.

Ken Rockwell has a write-up for this camera: http://www.kenrockwell.com/canon/t6i.htm

All the lenses you have for your Canon T3i will work with the T6i. So you will just need to buy the T6i body.

Good luck.

LFingar Loc: Claverack, NY

It is always nice to get a new camera, but your budget should be the decider. If you have to put a strain on it that makes you uncomfortable then it may not be the best time to upgrade.Have you compared the features of the T3i to the cameras you are looking at to see if they have anything you really want or feel a need for? My first DSLR was a T3i and even by today's standards they are still excellent cameras. I also had a 70D and it too did a fine job plus it has a much better auto-focus.
Dollar-wise I think the T6i is a better choice. It is a bit newer then the 70D and appears to be nearly as capable.
Have you considered refurbished? Good as new with the same warranty for less money.
http://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/cameras/refurbished-eos-digital-slr-cameras
Right now they are showing an 80D for about the new price of the 70D. That would be my choice.
My opinion: If you have the budget and a real desire to upgrade, then go for it whenever you are ready. Just don't over strain your budget. That can take all the fun out of it.

billnourse Loc: Bloomfield, NM

70D has some features that the t6i does not. Adjustment wheel on the rear of the camera(faster and easier adjustments), LED window on top of the camera, faster shooting(7 fps vs. 5 fps) faster shutter )1/8000 vs. 1/4000. Ability to make micro focus adjustments of lenses. That being said, I would go with the 70D, but if you have the budget, the 80D would be great.

Bill

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

Before you buy anything new, look at the pricing for EX or EX+ rated models at KEH and see if you can stretch your $$ by buying a slightly used model.

Haydon

You might want to look at the 80D as well. It's using the newer sensor tech and has a much better focus system with 45 cross type points. For the $100.00 difference, it's a substantial upgrade over the 70D.

robertjerl Loc: Corona, California

My choice of those would be the T6i, better yet the T6s. The 70D has been replaced by the 80D but my local Sam's Club over stocked on 70Ds and still has a display of two lens kits discounted to sell them.

TriX Loc: Raleigh, NC

You can pick up a good used 7D for $400-$500. Definitely worth considering. A serious, rugged, weather sealed pro/advanced-amateur body with good AF that will not disapoint.

rmorrison1116 Loc: Near Valley Forge, Pennsylvania

I own a bunch of Canon DSLR'S and, if budget is a major factor and the 80D is not an option, I seriously recomended the 70D. I've had one since it first came out and even though I have the 80D and the 7D II, my 70D still gets used quite often. When the wife is in the mood for taking pictures, she always uses my 70D. If you are into making videos, the 70D does a really good job. I've used mine to record many concerts and the end results are quite good. The dual pixel auto focus in live view works well. I don't know if you've ever attended a Trans Siberian Orchestra show, they are an amazing audio visual experience and I've used my 70D to record them in a few different venues and the resulting videos are amazing.
The T6i may have 4 more megapixels than the 70D but the 70D is by far a better camera, and all your lenses from your T3i will work.

Peterff Loc: O'er The Hills and Far Away, in Themyscira.

The T6i or T6s are a significant upgrade from the T2i, T3i, T4i, T5i models from the sensor perspective. But why do you need the upgrade? I have a T3i, and sure I'd be happy to get an 80D, but it is hard to justify the dollars at this time. I might replace a lens or two first, but it's really a toss up. If you need a new body, I think that the 80D would give you the best bang for the buck from a functionality point of view, but do you need it? It is probably the best value upgrade you could do for your described work, better than any Rebel, but only you can make the choice.

If money was no object I would have a 5Dmk IV and a bunch of new lenses, but we all need to work within the scope we have available.