CameraReview

Canon EOS 90D vs Canon EOS 5D Mark III — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 90D
Canon
Canon EOS 90D
DSLR · 33 MP · APS-C · 4K video
67
SCORE
$929.75
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
DSLR · 22.3 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
65
SCORE
$696.75
best of 6 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model 90DEOS 5D Mark III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192012
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
28/10/201902/03/2012
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 141 x 105 x 77 mm152 x 116 x 76 mm
Camera weight 701 g950 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
33 MP05022.3 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6960 x 46405760 x 3840
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 fps0456 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 5+
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.
256003003280000256003003280000
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.
5120030032800001024003003280000
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.
450300610300
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
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4KFull HD
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 21601920 x 1080
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 fps60 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.
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.264MOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
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.
Screen size 3"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000010400001150001500000
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.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NLP-E6
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1300 shots1505000950 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 90D edges out the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a score of 67 to 65. Both cameras are DSLR models, with the 90D being released in 2019 and the 5D Mark III in 2012. They share similar dimensions, but the 90D is lighter at 701g compared to the 5D Mark III’s 950g.

The EOS 90D’s higher score reflects its advantages, including a more recent release and a lower launch price of $1199 compared to the 5D Mark III’s $3499. The 5D Mark III, though slightly behind in score, still holds its ground as a reliable camera option.

After considering the specifications, the Canon EOS 90D emerges as a better option due to its higher score, lighter weight, and more affordable price. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III remains a viable choice for those seeking a dependable DSLR camera.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 5D Mark III Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 90D in optics, scoring 67/100 compared to the 90D’s 62/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, no image stabilisation, and a Canon EF lens mount. However, the 5D Mark III has a full-frame sensor, while the 90D has an APS-C sensor.

The 5D Mark III’s superiority in optics is evident in its higher DXOMARK sensor score of 81, compared to the 90D’s 58. This means that the 5D Mark III provides better image quality and low-light performance. Additionally, the 5D Mark III has a Digic 5+ processor, which contributes to its impressive performance in image processing.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 90D has some advantages over the 5D Mark III. It offers a higher megapixel count of 33, compared to the 5D Mark III’s 22.3, which allows for more detailed images and better cropping capabilities. Furthermore, the 90D has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, while the 5D Mark III only reaches 6 frames per second. This makes the 90D a better choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Despite these advantages, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III still maintains its lead in optics due to its superior sensor and image processing capabilities. The Canon EOS 90D, however, offers higher resolution and faster shooting speed, making it a strong contender for specific photography needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the individual photographer’s priorities and preferences.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 5D Mark III Video Performance

The Canon EOS 90D outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in video capabilities, with a video score of 91/100 compared to the 5D Mark III’s 56/100. Both cameras share some video specifications, but the 90D’s superior features make it the clear winner in this comparison.

Both cameras offer video recording, but the 90D has a higher max video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160) compared to the 5D Mark III’s Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. This means that the 90D records videos with higher detail and clarity. Additionally, the 90D has a max video frame rate of 120fps, which is double the 5D Mark III’s 60fps. This allows for smoother, more fluid video capture and better slow-motion capabilities on the 90D.

The EOS 90D also has built-in time-lapse functionality, a feature absent in the 5D Mark III. This enables the user to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software, further enhancing the 90D’s video versatility.

The 5D Mark III, however, doesn’t have any notable advantages over the 90D in terms of video capabilities. Its lower resolution, frame rate, and lack of built-in time-lapse functionality make it a less appealing choice for videographers.

Therefore, the Canon EOS 90D is the better choice for those prioritizing video performance. Its higher video score reflects its superior video quality, resolution, frame rate, and added time-lapse functionality. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III falls short in these aspects, making it less suitable for users focused on video capabilities.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 5D Mark III Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 90D outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in features with a score of 83/100 against the 5D Mark III’s 59/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as screen size and screen resolution. They both possess a 3-inch screen and a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots. However, the 90D surpasses the 5D Mark III in several aspects.

The 90D is equipped with a touchscreen, while the 5D Mark III lacks this feature. Additionally, the 90D has a flip screen that allows for more flexibility when shooting at different angles. The 5D Mark III does not have this feature. The 90D offers better connectivity options, as it includes both WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, which the 5D Mark III does not have. These features make the 90D a more versatile and user-friendly camera.

Despite the lower feature score, the 5D Mark III has a slightly larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the 90D’s 3 inches. This difference may provide a slightly better viewing experience for some users. However, this advantage is minor compared to the additional features offered by the 90D.

Taking these points into account, the Canon EOS 90D is the superior camera in terms of features. Its touchscreen, flip screen, and connectivity options make it more versatile and convenient for users. The 5D Mark III’s marginally larger screen size is not enough to outweigh the benefits of the 90D’s additional features. Therefore, the Canon EOS 90D is the better choice for those prioritizing features in their camera selection.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 5D Mark III Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 90D in storage and battery with a score of 76/100, compared to the 90D’s 48/100. Both cameras share the same battery type (LP-E6) and do not have USB charging capabilities. They also accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.

The 5D Mark III has two memory card slots, allowing for more storage and flexibility. It also accepts Compact Flash and UDMA cards, providing additional storage options. However, the 90D has a longer battery life, offering 1300 shots per charge compared to the 5D Mark III’s 950 shots. This makes the 90D more suitable for extended shooting sessions.

Despite the 90D’s longer battery life, the 5D Mark III’s superior storage capabilities and additional memory card slot make it the better option in this category. Both cameras have their strengths, but the 5D Mark III’s advantages in storage outweigh the 90D’s battery life advantage.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 5D Mark III – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS 5D Mark III Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 90D or the Canon EOS 5D Mark III: