Canon 760D Real World Review

My full review featuring numerous sample images is here -

http://davidcandlish.photography/canon-760d

My summarised conclusions below -

Pros

• New AF system is a significant improvement from predecessors, outclasses some pro-grade models
• Improvements & refinements to controls and handling
• Very good image quality at or below ISO 1600

Cons

• Higher ISO speeds (3200 and above) still "muddy", sensor sensitivity still lagging behind competition
• Cramming more megapixels on a sensor reduces the maximum "useable" aperture down to approx f/11
• Bigger & heavier than the competition, albeit not by huge amounts.

Conclusion

I like the 760D, a lot. Being totally honest, I haven't been this impressed with a Rebel-series camera since the 550D and each previous release has felt like a minor iteration rather than tangible improvement. Canon seem to have changed that with the 760D and as an overall package, it's definitely one of the best beginner-level cameras I've seen in recent months. It's not perfect, and the one area I feel is lacking the most is the sensor technology. Sony are the major competitor in this regard and their recent sensors have now "caught up" with Canon in many ways and are starting to exceed them. For Canon to remain in the race they need to show some radical innovation in this area. My worry is that the 760D will be the last of a few great APS-C cameras before they could end up being eclipsed by cameras that may not handle as well or have so many features, but do have sensors that outperform what Canon has.

Still, putting my personal "future-fears" aside, what we have here and now is great and if you are a beginner looking to get your first "proper" camera then I'd recommend the 760D without hestitation. It's a very capable camera. I shot a huge range of subjects, from a wedding, landscapes, wildlife - it proved to be up to the challenge wherever I used it. For what is in theory a "beginners" DSLR it's great!

Well, you have certainly expressed your opinions without an attempt at actual quantitative testing.  I do think you might want to research the issue of diffraction and then revise your comments accordingly.  Diffraction is related to the optics and has nothing to do with the resolution of the sensor.  "Cramming" more megapixels on a sensor makes it easier to see diffraction but does not change the softening due to diffraction.

When you shoot at high ISO with good lighting, the results are usually very good with little noise.  When the lighting is poorer, the results often show a lot of noise, especially in the shadows.  I am not sure why this happens but it has a lot of significance to our shooting.  If the lighting is pretty good but you need a high ISO to get a fast shutter speed, the final results will often be very good.

I have mentioned Canon DPP4 software several times in the past.  I will restate anyway.  This software is free and is excellent for reducing noise.  Shoot raw and use DPP4.  You can remove a very high level of noise while retaining details.  The software is not at all difficult to use.