What To Know
- For continuous shooting, the 7D Mark II has a clear advantage in both speed and buffer capacity, making it ideal for sports and wildlife photography.
- Both can shoot 1080p video at up to 60fps, but the 5D Mark IV has an edge in 4K video, capable of recording up to 4K at 30fps.
- The 7D Mark II is built with a magnesium alloy body, while the 5D Mark IV has a more robust magnesium alloy chassis.
The Canon 7D Mark II and Canon 5D Mark IV are two of Canon’s most popular DSLR cameras, renowned for their exceptional image quality, autofocus performance, and versatility. However, they cater to different photography needs and budgets. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two cameras to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The 7D Mark II features a 20.2MP APS-C sensor, while the 5D Mark IV boasts a 30.4MP full-frame sensor. The larger sensor in the 5D Mark IV provides a wider dynamic range, better low-light performance, and shallower depth of field. However, the 7D Mark II’s APS-C sensor offers a crop factor of 1.6x, giving it a reach advantage for wildlife and sports photography.
Autofocus System
Both cameras excel in autofocus performance, but the 7D Mark II has a slight edge in speed and accuracy due to its 65-point all cross-type autofocus system. This makes it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as athletes or wildlife. The 5D Mark IV features a 61-point autofocus system with 41 cross-type points, which is still highly capable but may struggle with extremely fast-moving subjects.
Burst Shooting and Buffer
The 7D Mark II can shoot up to 10 frames per second (fps) for up to 100 JPEGs or 31 RAW images. The 5D Mark IV has a slightly lower burst rate of 7 fps but can buffer up to 21 RAW images or 150 JPEGs. For continuous shooting, the 7D Mark II has a clear advantage in both speed and buffer capacity, making it ideal for sports and wildlife photography.
Video Capabilities
The 7D Mark II and 5D Mark IV offer excellent video capabilities. Both can shoot 1080p video at up to 60fps, but the 5D Mark IV has an edge in 4K video, capable of recording up to 4K at 30fps. The 7D Mark II is limited to 1080p at 30fps.
Build Quality and Weather Resistance
The 7D Mark II is built with a magnesium alloy body, while the 5D Mark IV has a more robust magnesium alloy chassis. Both cameras are weather-sealed, making them suitable for use in challenging conditions. However, the 5D Mark IV has a slightly better weather sealing rating, making it more resistant to dust and moisture.
Ergonomics and Handling
The 7D Mark II is designed for comfort and ergonomics, with a deep grip and well-placed controls. The 5D Mark IV is larger and heavier, but its ergonomics are also excellent. Both cameras have customizable buttons and dials, allowing you to tailor them to your shooting style.
Price and Value
The Canon 7D Mark II has a lower price point than the Canon 5D Mark IV. If you’re on a budget or prioritize speed and reach, the 7D Mark II is an excellent value. However, if you demand the highest image quality, low-light performance, and 4K video capabilities, the 5D Mark IV is worth the investment.
Recommendations: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Canon 7D Mark II and Canon 5D Mark IV are both exceptional cameras, but they cater to different photography needs and budgets. The 7D Mark II is ideal for sports, wildlife, and action photography, where speed, reach, and autofocus accuracy are paramount. The 5D Mark IV excels in studio work, landscape photography, and videography, where image quality, dynamic range, and 4K capabilities are essential. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific photography interests and budget.
Common Questions and Answers
1. Which camera has better low-light performance?
The Canon 5D Mark IV, due to its larger full-frame sensor.
2. Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
The Canon 7D Mark II, due to its faster burst rate, more accurate autofocus, and longer reach.
3. Which camera has a better video autofocus system?
The Canon 5D Mark IV, with its Dual Pixel CMOS AF system.
4. Which camera has a longer battery life?
The Canon 5D Mark IV, with a battery life of up to 900 shots.
5. Which camera has a built-in GPS receiver?
The Canon 5D Mark IV.
