CameraReview

Canon EOS 90D vs Canon EOS 1D X Mark III — Which Is Better?

Canon EOS 90D versus Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
Side by side47 specifications
Canon · DSLR · 33 MP · APS-C · 4K video Canon EOS 90D
67
SCORE
Canon · DSLR · 20.1 MP · Full Frame · 4K video Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
75
WINNER
Canon EOS 90D
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
General
Released
ⓘ
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192020
Announcement date
ⓘ
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
October 28, 2019January 7, 2020
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 141 x 105 x 77 mm158 x 168 x 83 mm
Camera weight 701 g738 g
Optics62/10074/100
Read the Optics Comparison

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 1D X Mark III Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 90D in optics, scoring 74/100 compared to the 90D’s 62/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including CMOS sensors, Canon EF lens mounts, and a lack of image stabilization.

The 1D X Mark III excels with its Digic X processor, 20 shooting speed, and a DXOMARK sensor score of 91. The advanced processor contributes to faster performance, while the higher shooting speed enables capturing fast-moving subjects more effectively. The impressive DXOMARK score indicates superior image quality and low-light performance, thanks to its full-frame sensor size.

On the other hand, the EOS 90D has a higher megapixel count at 33, allowing for more detailed images. However, its shooting speed is only 10, and the Digic 8 processor is not as advanced as the 1D X Mark III’s. Additionally, the 90D’s DXOMARK sensor score is lower at 58, and its APS-C sensor size is smaller, which may result in poorer low-light performance.

Despite the 90D’s advantage in megapixels, the 1D X Mark III’s superior performance in other areas, such as shooting speed, processor, and sensor size, make it the better choice for optics. The full-frame sensor and higher DXOMARK score ensure better overall image quality. However, if high-resolution images are the primary concern, the 90D may be a suitable option.

Ultimately, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III is the clear winner in optics, providing better performance and image quality. The Canon EOS 90D, while offering higher resolution, falls short in other crucial aspects, making it the less desirable choice for those prioritizing optics.

Megapixels
ⓘ
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
33 MP05020.1 MP050
Image resolution
ⓘ
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6960 x 46405472 x 3648
Sensor type
ⓘ
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
ⓘ
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
22.3 x 14.924 x 36
Sensor format
ⓘ
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull Frame
Continuous shooting
ⓘ
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
10 fps04520 fps045
Lens mount
ⓘ
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EF/EF-SCanon EF
Image processor
ⓘ
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Digic X
Aspect ratio
ⓘ
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
2560030032800001024003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
100302005030200
Max ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
5120030032800008192003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
ⓘ
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
ⓘ
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000800080032000
Autofocus points
ⓘ
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
4503001910300
In-body stabilisation
ⓘ
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
✗✗
Viewfinder type
ⓘ
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video91/10091/100
Read the Video Comparison

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 1D X Mark III Video Performance

The Canon EOS 90D and the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III both have a video score of 91/100, indicating that they share similar video capabilities. Both cameras offer 4K video resolution, with the 90D providing a maximum video dimension of 3840 x 2160, while the 1D X Mark III has a slightly larger maximum dimension of 4096 x 2160. Both cameras can also record video at a maximum frame rate of 120fps and have built-in time-lapse functionality.

Despite having the same video score, the 1D X Mark III has an advantage in its larger maximum video dimensions. This means it can capture more details and produce a slightly higher quality video than the 90D. The 1D X Mark III is better in this aspect.

However, the Canon EOS 90D has its own strengths. While both cameras offer 4K video resolution and a 120fps frame rate, the 90D is generally a more affordable option for those who do not require the additional features found in the 1D X Mark III. The 90D is better in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Both the Canon EOS 90D and the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III have strong video capabilities, with the 1D X Mark III having a slight edge in maximum video dimensions. The 90D, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option for those who do not need the extra features of the 1D X Mark III. The choice between these two cameras ultimately depends on the specific needs and budget of the user.

Video
ⓘ
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
YesYes
Max video resolution
ⓘ
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K4K
Max video format
ⓘ
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
3840 x 21604096 x 2160
Max video frame rate
ⓘ
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
120 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
ⓘ
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
YesYes
Video file format
ⓘ
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4, H.264MPEG-4, MOV
Features83/10074/100
Read the Features Comparison

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 1D X Mark III Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 90D outperforms the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III in features, with a score of 83/100 compared to 74/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as touchscreen capabilities and WIFI connectivity. However, each camera has its unique strengths and weaknesses.

The EOS 90D is superior in several aspects. It has a flip screen, which allows for more versatile shooting angles and is beneficial for vloggers and content creators. Additionally, the 90D includes Bluetooth connectivity, providing an extra option for transferring files and remote control.

On the other hand, the EOS 1D X Mark III has its advantages. Its screen size is slightly larger at 3.2 inches, compared to the 3-inch screen on the 90D. Furthermore, the 1D X Mark III boasts a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, ensuring a clearer and more detailed image preview. This camera also features GPS functionality, which is useful for geotagging photos and tracking the location of shoots.

Despite the higher feature score of the EOS 90D, the EOS 1D X Mark III holds its ground with a larger and higher-resolution screen and GPS capabilities. However, the 90D’s flip screen and Bluetooth connectivity make it a more versatile option for various shooting scenarios. When considering which camera to choose, photographers should weigh the importance of these specific features for their individual needs and preferences.

Builtin flash
ⓘ
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
YesNo
External flash
ⓘ
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
YesYes
GPS
ⓘ
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
NoYes
Weather sealing
ⓘ
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
YesYes
Screen type LCDTFT LCD
Touch screen
ⓘ
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
YesYes
Screen size 3"3.2"
Screen dots
ⓘ
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000021000001150001500000
Flip screen
ⓘ
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
YesNo
Live view
ⓘ
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
YesYes
Wi-Fi
ⓘ
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
YesYes
Bluetooth
ⓘ
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
YesNo
Storage & battery48/10087/100
Read the Storage & battery Comparison

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 1D X Mark III Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 90D in storage and battery, scoring 87/100 compared to the 90D’s 48/100. Both cameras lack USB charging capabilities. However, the 1D X Mark III has a significant advantage with its two memory card slots and compatibility with CFexpress Type B cards, whereas the 90D only has one slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards.

Moreover, the 1D X Mark III boasts a remarkable battery life of 2850 shots, using the LP-E19 battery type. The 90D falls short with 1300 shots using the LP-E6N battery. This difference makes the 1D X Mark III superior in terms of battery performance.

The 90D does have one advantage, though: it supports UHS-II cards, which are widely available and affordable. Despite this, the 1D X Mark III remains the better camera for storage and battery capabilities. This superiority in storage options and battery life make it the clear winner in this comparison.

Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)CFexpress Type B
Dual memory card slots NoYes
Battery type LP-E6NLP-E19
Battery life
ⓘ
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1300 shots15050002850 shots1505000
USB charging ✗✗

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