Canon A-1 vs AE-1: Which Canon Camera is Right for You?
Canon had for a long time struggled to compete with Nikon when it came to the production of SLRs. For years it was a few steps behind. But this struggle ended with the production of their A series SLR cameras that debuted in the mid-1970s.
The AE-1 and A-1 were among Canon’s best-selling A-body cameras. However, the two models differed in some key areas. For one, unlike the AE-1, the A-1 came with all four PASM modes. It also allows exposure compensation. The AE-1 is good for its compact build and lightweight nature. Both these cameras are conveniently affordable and suitable for beginners.
This article compares the A-1 and AE-1 cameras in detail so that you can understand their differences and similarities.
Canon A-1 vs AE-1
The A-series cameras by Canon became the turnaround moment for Canon. They were the standard-bearers for a fledging prosumer class of cameras. Below is a thorough comparison review of two common A-body cameras, A-1 and AE-1, so you can understand better.
Canon A-1 Review
In its time, the Canon A-1 was the only fully automatic SLR and among the first as well. It features in the history books of cameras as the first SLR camera with all four PASM modes.
This camera is ideal for beginners since besides from focusing, you really do not have to do much. It comes with a built-in microcontroller that is tasked with handling the aperture and shutter speed. Even with this feature, there is the full manual mode.
On top of that, this camera allows exposure compensation from +2 down to -2 stops. You can even compensate more with the ASA dial.
However, the biggest trade-off when it comes to this camera is that there is the relative complexity of the controls. You are likely to experience some difficulty trying to tweak between frames in different modes.
Pros
- It comes with a built-in microcontroller that handles the aperture and shutter speed.
- This camera allows exposure compensation
- It comes with all four PASM modes
Cons
- Its controls are relatively complex
Canon AE-1 Review
The Canon AE-1 model was introduced in the market in 1976 as the first A-body camera in its line. It was very affordable at the time so any aspiring photographer could be able to afford this model.
This camera only featured a shutter priority auto-exposure mode, with the Program mode added in 1981. Also, the AE-1 was only compatible to select lenses that were capable of automatically using the aperture recommended by the meter. It, however, lacked aperture priority.
Like the A1, this camera comes with an in-built microcontroller to handle the aperture and shutter speed. The viewfinder on the AE-1 is big, but it may be difficult to focus in low-light situations.
Its meter can be described as a simple single-needle affair with some red LEDs that indicate automatic exposure and manual modes.
Pros
- It comes with a micro-controller
- This camera features a sizeable viewfinder
- Its meter recommends the appropriate aperture based on the currently selected shutter speed.
Cons
- It lacked aperture priority
- The camera was only compatible with a few lenses
Features Compared
Body design
The A series cameras compromised on durability by using some plastic parts. This was to save on weight and production costs. Moreover, this explains why the cameras were affordable.
For instance, the battery doors on the AE-1 are notoriously delicate. They are, however, somewhat better on later models such as A-1. Despite these notable weak points, the A series cameras are quite sturdy.
Quality and ease of use
The AE-1 camera offers the perfect combination of good quality and ease of use. It has enough features that allow experimentation, but just enough so it does not overwhelm beginners with too many bells and whistles.
Its lack of too many automatic options appears to be a blessing in disguise as it encourages beginners to shoot in manual modes and to better understand the reciprocity in exposures and its effect on the final photo.
On the other hand, the A-1 has a notorious reputation of sporting complex controls. A beginner would find it difficult to tweak between frames in different modes.
The Winner
The A-1 camera is superior to its counterpart AE-1. In build, it is more durable and has a more solid body. Moreover, it beats the AE-1 with its aperture-priority and stopped-down aperture-priority modes.
FAQs
Were the A-body cameras abundant in the market?
The A-body cameras were accessible and abundant. This contributed to their rising popularity since it not only meant that they were easy to find but also that you could easily access the spare parts and there was ease in repair or replacement.
What are the key features of the AE-1 camera?
The AE acronym in its name stands for Auto exposure. Hence, this camera sports an easy-to-use auto exposure. Moreover, it has a compact small size and conveniently lightweight. The model was also abundant in the market at an affordable price.
Conclusion
Many previous users have credited the A-series with its available motor drivers, winders, Speedlite flash units, and some other semi-professional accessories—tools that are made available for the amateur and hobbyist photographer for the first time.
Both cameras are great for entry-level and while there are plenty of other excellent SLRs, these two compact cameras have captured the hearts of many photographers.
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