The lack of weather sealing comes from the swivel touch screen on the 70d.
1.The 7d has the joystick for AF point selection, helping to quickly choose the AF point that you want. You can keep your eye to the viewfinder.
The 70d i find i like to use the touchscreen to choose the AF point, but you have to look at the camera and remember where you wanted the AF point to be.
If you are an at all experienced photographer, this should not be an issue as i know it isn't for me. You can still choose the AF point as with a rebel, it isn't touch screen only.
Both cameras have a one button to press to choose single, zone or auto AF point without looking away from the viewfinder.
2. 70d has cleaner useable iso. How much, you would have to find some reviews on it. (look at the review at the end of the post) He claims nearly 1 stop and i agree.
3.7d shoots 8fps while 70d shoots 7fps. If you already burst shoot wildlife and find that every shot counts, this is about the only time you would notice wanting the 7d over the 70d. (or sports).
7d has a faster buffer, so more raw images in a row with shutter held down. With jpeg, you would never see a difference.
*thank you Crbinson, the 7d mkii is 10fps, i edited this post for proper fps of the 7d.
4. 7d uses cf cards (faster but more expensive, keeps up with 10fps)
70d uses sd cards (keeps up with the cameras 7fps)
5.7d has a longer battery life compared to the 70d. A second battery is essential with the 70d.
6. The 70d has 20.1mp compared to 7d 18mp. This will help retain the image sharpness when cropped. (refer to review)
They are very similar cameras. You won't be disappointed in either of them. Especially if coming from a rebel series.
I personally went with the 70d. I don't need the extra fps and wanted to pay less for cards and yes, i do shoot some video.
I have used the 70d under a waterfall, but kept it under my jacket when not shooting on a tripod with no issue. But i would not want to risk it again without a bag around the camera.
I hope to others opinions on the matter and please, let us know what you decide.
http://www.grantatkinson.com …and-canon-eos-7d-compared