What To Know
- In the realm of professional photography, the Canon 1D Mark II and 5D Mark II stand as iconic cameras that have revolutionized the industry.
- The 5D Mark II, on the other hand, offers full-frame image quality, a wider field of view, and a more versatile autofocus system for a broader range of photographic applications.
- The 5D Mark II offers a wider range of features and is suitable for a wider range of subjects, making it the more versatile camera overall.
In the realm of professional photography, the Canon 1D Mark II and 5D Mark II stand as iconic cameras that have revolutionized the industry. Both cameras offer exceptional image quality, speed, and durability, but they differ in their specific strengths and target audiences. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Canon 1D Mark II and 5D Mark II, helping you determine which camera best aligns with your photographic needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
Canon 1D Mark II:
- APS-H-sized CMOS sensor with 8.2 megapixels
- Cropping factor of 1.3x
- Known for its exceptional low-light performance and high ISO sensitivity
Canon 5D Mark II:
- Full-frame CMOS sensor with 21.1 megapixels
- No cropping factor
- Offers wider field of view and higher resolution for landscapes and portraits
Autofocus System
Canon 1D Mark II:
- 45-point autofocus system with 19 cross-type points
- Advanced autofocus algorithms for fast and accurate tracking
- Designed for fast-paced action photography, such as sports and wildlife
Canon 5D Mark II:
- 9-point autofocus system with 6 cross-type points
- Slower autofocus speed compared to the 1D Mark II
- Suitable for a wider range of subjects, including portraits, landscapes, and studio photography
Speed and Performance
Canon 1D Mark II:
- Continuous shooting speed of up to 8.5 frames per second (fps)
- Large buffer capacity for extended burst shooting
- Ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects and high-speed sequences
Canon 5D Mark II:
- Continuous shooting speed of up to 3.9 fps
- Smaller buffer capacity than the 1D Mark II
- Better suited for slower-paced photography, such as portraits and landscapes
Build and Durability
Canon 1D Mark II:
- Magnesium alloy body with weather sealing
- Robust and durable construction designed to withstand harsh conditions
- Ideal for professional photographers who work in demanding environments
Canon 5D Mark II:
- Polycarbonate body with weather sealing
- Lighter and more compact than the 1D Mark II
- Still durable enough for professional use, but not as rugged as the 1D Mark II
Price and Availability
Canon 1D Mark II:
- Discontinued, but still available used for around $500-$1,000
- Less expensive than the 5D Mark II
Canon 5D Mark II:
- Discontinued, but still available used for around $1,000-$1,500
- More expensive than the 1D Mark II
Target Audience
Canon 1D Mark II:
- Professional sports photographers
- Wildlife photographers
- Photojournalists
- Anyone who needs a fast and durable camera for fast-paced action photography
Canon 5D Mark II:
- Professional portrait photographers
- Landscape photographers
- Studio photographers
- Anyone who values full-frame image quality and a more versatile camera for a wider range of subjects
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Camera
The Canon 1D Mark II and 5D Mark II are both exceptional cameras that offer different strengths and target audiences. The 1D Mark II excels in fast-paced action photography with its high-speed performance, advanced autofocus system, and rugged build. The 5D Mark II, on the other hand, offers full-frame image quality, a wider field of view, and a more versatile autofocus system for a broader range of photographic applications. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences as a photographer.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: The 5D Mark II has a higher resolution and full-frame sensor, resulting in better image quality for landscapes and portraits.
Q: Which camera is better for sports photography?
A: The 1D Mark II has a faster continuous shooting speed, advanced autofocus system, and more durable build, making it the better choice for sports photography.
Q: Which camera is more versatile?
A: The 5D Mark II offers a wider range of features and is suitable for a wider range of subjects, making it the more versatile camera overall.
Q: Which camera is less expensive?
A: The 1D Mark II is less expensive than the 5D Mark II, especially on the used market.
Q: Which camera is still in production?
A: Both the Canon 1D Mark II and 5D Mark II have been discontinued.
