CameraReview

Canon EOS 1D Mark II N vs Canon EOS 1D Mark III — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS 1D Mark II N
Canon
Canon EOS 1D Mark II N
DSLR · 8.2 MP · APS-H
40
SCORE
No live offers
✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 1D Mark III
Canon
Canon EOS 1D Mark III
DSLR · 10.1 MP · APS-H
52
SCORE
$335.07
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20052007
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
22/08/200522/02/2007
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 156 x 158 x 80 mm156 x 157 x 80 mm
Camera weight 1565 g1335 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
8.2 MP05010.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
3504 x 23363888 x 2592
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.
19.1 x 28.718.7 x 28.7
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-HAPS-H
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
8.5 fps04510 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 EFCanon EF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic IIDigic III
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.
1600300328000032003003280000
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.
50302005030200
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.
3200300328000064003003280000
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.
450300450300
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.
N/AN/A
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.
N/AN/A
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.
N/AN/A
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.
N/AN/A
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 LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 2.5"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
23000011500015000002300001150001500000
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,Compact Flash (Type I or II)SD / SDHC, Compact Flash (Type I or II)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-E3LP-E5
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1200 shots15050002200 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III emerges as the winner with a score of 52/100, surpassing the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N by 12 points. Both cameras share similarities as DSLRs, announced in 2005 and 2007, with almost identical sizes (156 x 158 x 80mm for Mark II N and 156 x 157 x 80mm for Mark III). However, the Mark III stands out due to its lighter weight (1335g) compared to the Mark II N (1565g) and a more affordable launch price of $4050 against the Mark II N’s $5986.

Despite the lower score, the Mark II N still has its merits, such as being a reliable camera from 2005. However, the Mark III’s higher score reflects its overall better performance and value. The choice between these two cameras ultimately depends on individual preferences and budget.

Canon EOS 1D Mark II N vs EOS 1D Mark III Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III wins the optics comparison with a score of 50/100, while the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N scores 46/100. Both cameras have some similarities in their specifications. They both feature a CMOS sensor, APS-H sensor size, Canon EF lens mount, and no image stabilization.

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III has several advantages over the Mark II N. With 10.1 megapixels, it offers a higher resolution, allowing for more detail in images. The Mark III also has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, which is beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the Mark III has a higher DXOMARK score of 71 for its sensor, indicating better overall image quality. The camera also features the more advanced Digic III processor, which improves overall performance and image processing capabilities.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N, although scoring lower in optics, still has some strengths. It features 8.2 megapixels, which is sufficient for most photography needs. Its shooting speed of 8.5 frames per second is still fast and capable of capturing action shots. Furthermore, its DXOMARK sensor score of 66, while lower than the Mark III, is still respectable and indicates decent image quality.

Given these comparisons, the Canon EOS 1D Mark III is the better option for photographers seeking higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and superior image quality. The Canon EOS 1D Mark II N, while not as strong in these areas, remains a viable option for those who prioritize affordability and are satisfied with its performance capabilities.

Canon EOS 1D Mark II N vs EOS 1D Mark III Video Performance

When comparing the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N and the Canon EOS 1D Mark III, it is important to note that neither camera has video functionality. This means that both cameras lack the ability to record video, making it unnecessary to compare their video capabilities.

Canon EOS 1D Mark II N vs EOS 1D Mark III Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III emerges as the winner with a feature score of 49/100, compared to the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N’s score of 17/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a screen resolution of 230,000 dots, no touchscreen, no flip screen, no GPS, and no Bluetooth.

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N in several aspects. Firstly, the Mark III has a larger screen size of 3 inches, compared to the Mark II N’s 2.5-inch screen. This provides a better and more comfortable viewing experience for users. Additionally, the Mark III features built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easy sharing and transfer of images. This is a significant advantage over the Mark II N, which lacks this connectivity option.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N does not have any noticeable advantages over the Mark III. Both models lack certain features such as a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and Bluetooth. The Mark II N’s lower feature score highlights its inferiority in comparison to the Mark III.

In light of these differences, the Canon EOS 1D Mark III stands as a superior camera due to its larger screen and Wi-Fi capabilities. The Mark II N, with its lower feature score and lack of distinct advantages, falls short in comparison. Therefore, the Canon EOS 1D Mark III is the better choice for photographers seeking a camera with enhanced features and a more user-friendly experience.

Canon EOS 1D Mark II N vs EOS 1D Mark III Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 1D Mark II N in storage and battery with a score of 84/100 compared to 79/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as having two memory card slots and accepting SD and Compact Flash (Type I or II) memory cards. Neither camera offers USB charging capabilities.

The 1D Mark III’s advantage lies in its superior battery life, offering 2200 shots compared to the 1D Mark II N’s 1200 shots. Additionally, the 1D Mark III uses the LP-E5 battery type, while the 1D Mark II N uses the NP-E3. The 1D Mark III also supports SDHC cards, giving users more storage options.

There are no significant advantages for the 1D Mark II N in storage and battery. The Canon EOS 1D Mark III’s longer battery life and support for SDHC cards make it a better choice in this aspect.

Canon EOS 1D Mark II N vs EOS 1D Mark III – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 1D Mark II N vs EOS 1D 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 1D Mark II N or the Canon EOS 1D Mark III: