Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Canon EOS RP with Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM – Which Wins?

The world of photography is a vast and diverse landscape, populated by countless cameras and lenses, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right gear can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the seemingly endless options available. In this blog post, we will delve into a head-to-head comparison of two popular camera and lens combinations: the Canon EOS 5D Mark III paired with the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM and the Canon EOS RP paired with the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM.

A Look at the Contenders:

Canon EOS 5D Mark III with Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM:
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a full-frame DSLR that was released in 2012. It boasts a 22.3MP sensor, 6fps continuous shooting, and a 1080p video recording capability. The Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM is a versatile standard zoom lens known for its excellent image quality and reliable performance.
Canon EOS RP with Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM:
The Canon EOS RP is a mirrorless full-frame camera that was released in 2019. It features a 26.2MP sensor, 5fps continuous shooting, and 4K video recording. The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a fast aperture portrait lens renowned for its stunning bokeh and exceptional sharpness.

Sensor Size and Resolution:

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s 22.3MP sensor is slightly smaller than the Canon EOS RP‘s 26.2MP sensor. While the EOS RP offers a higher resolution, the difference in megapixels is not significant enough to be a deciding factor for most photographers. However, the EOS RP’s larger sensor allows for better low-light performance, producing cleaner images with less noise at higher ISO settings.

Autofocus and Performance:

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III utilizes a 9-point autofocus system with a cross-type sensor in the center. While this system is reliable, it is significantly less advanced than the EOS RP‘s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system. The EOS RP’s autofocus system is faster, more accurate, and covers a wider area of the sensor, making it ideal for tracking moving subjects.

Video Capabilities:

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III can record 1080p video at 30fps, while the Canon EOS RP can record 4K video at 25fps. The EOS RP offers superior video capabilities, with its 4K resolution and higher frame rate. However, the EOS 5D Mark III still produces high-quality video, and its 1080p resolution is sufficient for most purposes.

Lens Selection:

The Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM is a versatile standard zoom lens that provides a good balance of focal lengths for everyday photography. However, it is a f/4 lens, which limits its low-light performance compared to the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM. The RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a specialized portrait lens, offering a wider aperture that allows for shallow depth of field and exceptional bokeh. This lens is ideal for creating stunning portraits and close-up shots.

Ergonomics and Design:

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a DSLR, which means it has a traditional design with a viewfinder and a physical shutter button. The Canon EOS RP is a mirrorless camera, featuring a smaller body and an electronic viewfinder. Both cameras offer comfortable grips and intuitive button layouts, but the EOS RP’s smaller size and lighter weight may appeal to some photographers.

Price and Availability:

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a discontinued model, but it can still be found used at affordable prices. The Canon EOS RP is currently available for purchase. While the EOS RP is a newer and more advanced camera, it is also more expensive than the EOS 5D Mark III.

Choosing the Right Combination:

Ultimately, the best camera and lens combination for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Here is a breakdown of which combination might be better suited for different types of photography:
Canon EOS 5D Mark III with Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM:

• Best for:
• Landscape photography
• General photography
• Travel photography
• Budget-conscious photographers

Canon EOS RP with Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM:

• Best for:
• Portrait photography
• Low-light photography
• Studio photography
• Photographers who prioritize image quality and bokeh

Beyond the Specs:

While technical specifications can be helpful, it’s important to consider other factors beyond the numbers when choosing a camera and lens combination. These factors include:

• Your shooting style: Do you prefer shooting in manual mode or using automatic settings?
• Your budget: How much are you willing to spend on your gear?
• Your personal preferences: What features and functionalities are most important to you?

The Verdict:

Both the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM and the Canon EOS RP with the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM are excellent camera and lens combinations. The EOS 5D Mark III is a reliable and affordable option for everyday photography, while the EOS RP offers advanced features and exceptional image quality. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Final Thoughts:

The world of photography is constantly evolving, with new cameras and lenses being released all the time. It’s important to stay informed and experiment with different gear to find what works best for you. Whether you choose the Canon EOS 5D Mark III or the Canon EOS RP, you’ll be well-equipped to capture stunning images and unleash your creativity.

Popular Questions

Q: Is the Canon EOS 5D Mark III still a good camera in 2023?
A: While the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a discontinued model, it remains a capable camera. Its full-frame sensor and reliable performance make it a solid choice for photographers who prioritize image quality and affordability. However, it lacks some of the advanced features found in newer models, such as 4K video recording and advanced autofocus.
Q: What are the pros and cons of the Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM?
A: The Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM is a versatile standard zoom lens known for its excellent image quality and reliable performance. Its pros include its wide zoom range, good sharpness, and effective image stabilization. However, its f/4 aperture limits its low-light performance compared to faster lenses.
Q: What are the pros and cons of the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM?
A: The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a fast aperture portrait lens renowned for its stunning bokeh and exceptional sharpness. Its pros include its wide aperture, excellent image quality, and fast autofocus. However, it is a specialized lens and may not be suitable for all types of photography.
Q: Should I buy a used Canon EOS 5D Mark III or a new Canon EOS RP?
A: The decision of whether to buy a used Canon EOS 5D Mark III or a new Canon EOS RP depends on your budget and your priorities. The EOS 5D Mark III is a more affordable option, but it lacks some of the advanced features of the EOS RP. The EOS RP is a more modern and capable camera, but it comes at a higher price.