Is the Canon 90D Worth Getting in 2025

If you're considering investing in a Canon 90D in 2024, you’re probably wondering if this DSLR still holds up against today’s mirrorless competition. After using this camera weekly for several years—primarily for my YouTube channel I co-host with my wife—I’ve developed a clear understanding of both its strengths and limitations.

Below is my honest, in-depth review to help you decide whether the Canon 90D is still worth it in today’s fast-moving camera market.

Pros of the Canon 90D

1. Outstanding Battery Life

When I bought the Canon 90D, I received three batteries—but for most shoots, I rarely needed more than one. Even in extreme conditions like Iceland’s cold weather, the battery held up incredibly well. For anyone filming on the go or in remote areas, long battery life is a game changer.

2. Fast and Accurate Autofocus

This camera offers smooth, fast, and reliable autofocus with face and eye tracking. It’s especially useful for content creators filming themselves. Whether you're vlogging or shooting handheld, the 90D does a great job staying locked on your subject.

3. High-Resolution APS-C Sensor

With a 32.5MP APS-C sensor, the Canon 90D provides enough resolution to crop in during editing without significantly degrading image quality. This flexibility is especially useful for run-and-gun shooting when perfect framing isn't always possible.

4. Digital Stabilization (with a Catch)

While it lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS), the 90D does offer digital video stabilization. When paired with a stabilized lens and proper shooting techniques, I’ve been able to get smooth footage. Just note that digital stabilization adds a slight crop to your footage.

5. Fully Articulating Touchscreen

One of my favorite features is the flip-out touchscreen. Whether filming yourself, shooting from awkward angles, or holding the camera high or low, the articulating screen is a huge plus for versatility.

6. Focus Peaking in Manual Mode

Manual shooters will appreciate the focus peaking feature. You can enable red, yellow, or blue outlines that highlight what's in focus. It’s a great tool for ensuring sharp focus, especially in creative or controlled setups.

7. Weather-Sealed Build

The Canon 90D is weather-sealed, making it reliable in challenging conditions—whether you're dealing with moisture, dust, or sand. This feature gives peace of mind for outdoor shoots and travel.

8. Audio Support

The camera includes both a microphone input and a headphone jack, allowing real-time audio monitoring—essential for YouTube videos, interviews, or client work.

Cons of the Canon 90D

1. Not a Full-Frame Camera

The 90D uses an APS-C sensor, which has a 1.6x crop factor. For example, a 24mm lens will behave more like a 38mm equivalent. This hasn’t been a major issue for me, but if you often shoot in tight spaces, a full-frame might suit you better.

2. 29-Minute Recording Limit

The camera stops recording automatically after 29 minutes. This isn’t a dealbreaker for most YouTube or short-form content, but it can be limiting for events like weddings or long interviews where continuous recording is necessary.

3. Limited 4K Frame Rates

While the Canon 90D can record 4K at 24fps, it does not support 4K at 60fps or 120fps. Those high frame rates are limited to 1080p. This might be a drawback for professionals aiming for cinematic slow-motion in ultra-high resolution.

Note: 120fps is available in 1080p mode, but autofocus is disabled in that setting. Thankfully, focus peaking helps you nail focus even without continuous autofocus.

4. No Canon Log Profile

The 90D doesn’t offer Canon’s Log recording options, which are important for capturing more dynamic range during video shoots. However, you can tweak the picture profile settings (like contrast and sharpness) to get a flatter image that holds up better in post-production.

5. Micro HDMI Port

This camera uses a micro HDMI output—smaller and more fragile than full-size HDMI. While it's worked fine with my Ronin RS3 gimbal, you’ll need to be gentle to avoid damaging the port.

Final Verdict: Is It Still Worth Buying in 2024?

The Canon 90D has been exactly what I needed over the past few years—and still is. It’s been a solid, reliable, and capable tool for both photography and video work.

If you're starting out or looking to upgrade from a beginner camera, the 90D offers a great balance of performance, durability, and flexibility. While it doesn’t have all the high-end features of today's mirrorless cameras, it still delivers high-quality content and an enjoyable user experience.

Who It’s Best For:

• YouTubers and content creators

• Aspiring videographers

• Travel photographers

• Budget-conscious creatives looking to grow their skills

I personally recommend the Canon 90D as a learning tool before jumping into a $5K+ full-frame setup. It helped me understand what I want from my next camera—and I’m confident it can do the same for you.

In Summary: Canon 90D Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Excellent battery life

• Accurate face and eye autofocus

• 32.5MP APS-C sensor

• Fully articulating touchscreen

• Focus peaking in manual focus

• Weather-sealed

• Mic & headphone jacks

❌ Cons:

• APS-C crop factor (1.6x)

• 29-minute video recording limit

• No 4K 60fps or 120fps

• No log profile for video

• Uses micro HDMI

Would I Still Buy It in 2025?
Absolutely! Especially if you can find it at a good price. It remains one of the most feature-rich DSLRs in its class and is an excellent stepping stone into professional content creation.