What To Know
- The Canon 5D Mark III and 5D Mark IV are two of the most popular models in the series, offering a range of features and capabilities that cater to both amateur and professional photographers alike.
- The Canon 5D Mark III has an ISO range of 100-25600, expandable to 102400, while the 5D Mark IV has an expanded ISO range of 100-102400.
- Additionally, the 5D Mark IV has a wider dynamic range than the 5D Mark III, enabling it to capture a greater range of tones and details in high-contrast scenes.
The Canon 5D series has been a mainstay in the world of photography for years, renowned for its exceptional image quality and versatility. The Canon 5D Mark III and 5D Mark IV are two of the most popular models in the series, offering a range of features and capabilities that cater to both amateur and professional photographers alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Canon 5D Mark III and 5D Mark IV to help you make an informed decision about which camera best suits your photography needs.
Image Sensor and Resolution
The Canon 5D Mark III features a 22.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, while the 5D Mark IV boasts a higher-resolution 30.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor. The higher resolution of the 5D Mark IV allows for larger prints and more detailed cropping options. However, it also means that image files will be larger in size.
ISO Range and Dynamic Range
The Canon 5D Mark III has an ISO range of 100-25600, expandable to 102400, while the 5D Mark IV has an expanded ISO range of 100-102400. The higher ISO range of the 5D Mark IV gives it an advantage in low-light situations, allowing you to capture images with less noise and blur.
Additionally, the 5D Mark IV has a wider dynamic range than the 5D Mark III, enabling it to capture a greater range of tones and details in high-contrast scenes.
Autofocus System
The Canon 5D Mark III features a 61-point autofocus system, while the 5D Mark IV boasts a more advanced 61-point Dual Pixel CMOS AF system. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system offers faster and more accurate focusing, especially in live view mode and when shooting video.
Continuous Shooting Speed
The Canon 5D Mark III can shoot up to 6 frames per second (fps), while the 5D Mark IV can shoot up to 7 fps. This higher continuous shooting speed makes the 5D Mark IV more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or sequences of action.
Video Capabilities
Both the Canon 5D Mark III and 5D Mark IV can shoot full HD (1080p) video, but the 5D Mark IV offers several additional video features. The 5D Mark IV can shoot 4K video at up to 30 fps, and it also has a built-in time-lapse mode and a headphone jack for audio monitoring.
Connectivity and Storage
The Canon 5D Mark III and 5D Mark IV both feature built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, allowing for easy wireless image sharing and geotagging. Additionally, the 5D Mark IV has a built-in NFC chip for quick pairing with compatible devices.
Both cameras have dual card slots, allowing you to record images to two memory cards simultaneously for backup or redundancy. The 5D Mark III supports CompactFlash (CF) and SDXC memory cards, while the 5D Mark IV supports CF and CFast 2.0 memory cards.
Body and Build
The Canon 5D Mark III has a rugged magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed against dust and moisture, making it suitable for use in challenging outdoor conditions. The 5D Mark IV has a similar body construction but is slightly lighter and more compact.
Which Camera is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your specific photography needs and budget. If you prioritize image resolution, low-light performance, and fast autofocus, the Canon 5D Mark IV is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable camera with solid image quality and a rugged body, the Canon 5D Mark III is a great option.
Recommendations: The Verdict
The Canon 5D Mark III and 5D Mark IV are both excellent cameras that offer a wide range of features and capabilities for photographers of all levels. The 5D Mark IV offers some advantages in terms of image resolution, low-light performance, and autofocus speed, but it comes at a higher price point. The 5D Mark III remains a solid choice for photographers who prioritize affordability and durability.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the difference between the Canon 5D Mark III and 5D Mark IV?
A: The Canon 5D Mark IV has a higher-resolution sensor, a wider ISO range, a more advanced autofocus system, a faster continuous shooting speed, and additional video capabilities compared to the 5D Mark III.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon 5D Mark IV has a wider ISO range and better low-light performance than the 5D Mark III.
Q: Which camera has a faster autofocus system?
A: The Canon 5D Mark IV has a more advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which offers faster and more accurate focusing than the 5D Mark III.
