Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2007 | 2009 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
22/02/2007 | 20/10/2009 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 156 x 157 x 80 mm | 156 x 157 x 80 mm |
| Camera weight | 1335 g | 1230 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
10.1 MP050 | 16.1 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
3888 x 2592 | 4896 x 3264 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. |
CMOS | CMOS |
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. |
18.7 x 28.7 | 18.6 x 27.9 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-H | APS-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. |
10 fps045 | 10 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 | Canon EF |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Digic III | Digic 4 |
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. |
3:2 | 3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
32003003280000 | 128003003280000 |
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. |
5030200 | 5030200 |
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. |
64003003280000 | 1024003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
800080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
450300 | 450300 |
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/A | N/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/A | Full 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. |
N/A | 1920 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. |
N/A | 30 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. |
N/A | MOV |
| 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 | LCD | 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" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
2300001150001500000 | 9200001150001500000 |
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, Compact Flash (Type I or II) | SD / SDHC, Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✗ |
| Battery type | LP-E5 | LP-E4 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
2200 shots1505000 | 1500 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV takes the lead with a score of 54/100, slightly ahead of the Canon EOS 1D Mark III, which scores 52/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, announced in 2007 and 2009 respectively. They share identical dimensions (156 x 157 x 80mm) and similar launch prices, with the Mark IV being more expensive at $5840 compared to the Mark III’s $4050.
The Mark IV has an advantage in weight, weighing 2.71lbs (1230g), making it lighter than the Mark III at 2.94lbs (1335g). Despite the higher score and lighter weight, the Mark III still holds its own with a lower launch price, making it more accessible to photographers on a budget.
Taking into account the similar specifications, the Mark IV’s slightly higher score and lighter weight make it a better choice for those who prioritize portability. However, the Mark III remains a viable option for those seeking a more budget-friendly alternative.
The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV triumphs over the Canon EOS 1D Mark III in optics with a score of 54/100, a four-point lead over the latter’s score of 50/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a 10 fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, APS-H sensor size, Canon EF lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.
The 1D Mark IV outperforms its predecessor primarily due to its higher megapixel count of 16.1, compared to the Mark III’s 10.1 megapixels. This increase in resolution allows the Mark IV to capture more detail in images, making it preferable for photographers who require high-resolution outputs. Additionally, the Mark IV boasts a more advanced Digic 4 processor, which contributes to better image processing and overall performance. Its DXOMARK sensor score of 74 further emphasizes its superior image quality compared to the Mark III’s score of 71.
On the other hand, the 1D Mark III does not have any significant advantages over the Mark IV in terms of optics. The shared specifications between the two cameras, such as shooting speed and sensor size, do not provide the Mark III with any edge in this comparison.
Given the four-point difference in optics scores and the Mark IV’s higher megapixel count, advanced processor, and better DXOMARK sensor score, it is evident that the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV offers superior optical performance compared to the Canon EOS 1D Mark III. As a result, photographers seeking better image quality and processing capabilities should opt for the Mark IV over the Mark III.
When examining the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 1D Mark III and Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, it becomes clear that the Mark III does not possess video functionality. This means that any comparison in this area must focus solely on the video features of the Mark IV.
The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV has a video score of 43 out of 100. The camera offers Full HD video recording with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080. It can record videos at a maximum frame rate of 30fps. However, it does not have built-in time-lapse functionality.
Taking into account the video features of the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, it is evident that this camera provides video recording capabilities, while the Canon EOS 1D Mark III does not. The Mark IV’s features, such as Full HD resolution and 30fps frame rate, allow users to capture high-quality video footage. However, the absence of built-in time-lapse functionality may be a limitation for some users.
The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV emerges as the winner with a feature score of 54/100, while the Canon EOS 1D Mark III scores 49/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as a 3-inch screen size, lack of touchscreen, no flip screen, and absence of GPS. However, the Mark IV outperforms the Mark III in certain aspects, while the Mark III has its own advantages as well.
The Canon EOS 1D Mark IV has a higher screen resolution of 920,000 dots, compared to the Mark III’s 230,000 dots. This difference results in a sharper and clearer display on the Mark IV, providing a better experience when reviewing images or navigating menus. Despite not having a touchscreen or flip screen, the improved resolution makes the Mark IV more user-friendly. However, the Mark IV lacks WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities, which are present in the Mark III.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 1D Mark III has WIFI capabilities, making it easier to transfer files and control the camera remotely. This feature can be beneficial for photographers who frequently need to share images or operate their camera from a distance. However, the Mark III does not have Bluetooth, and its lower screen resolution may hinder its usability compared to the Mark IV.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV has a slight edge over the Mark III in terms of features, mainly due to its higher screen resolution. However, the Mark III’s WIFI capabilities should not be overlooked, as it can be a valuable feature for some photographers. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on individual preferences and specific use cases.
The Canon EOS 1D Mark III emerges as the winner in the storage and battery category with a score of 84/100, significantly outperforming the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, which scores 48/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as accepting SD/SDHC and Compact Flash (Type I or II) memory cards, and lacking USB charging capabilities.
The 1D Mark III’s superiority lies in its two memory card slots, compared to the 1D Mark IV’s single slot, and its impressive battery life, which allows for 2200 shots per charge using the LP-E5 battery. In contrast, the 1D Mark IV offers 1500 shots per charge with the LP-E4 battery.
However, the 1D Mark IV has a slight advantage in storage options, as it also supports UDMA memory cards. Despite this, the 1D Mark III’s longer battery life and additional memory card slot make it the clear winner in this comparison. The Canon EOS 1D Mark III proves to be the better choice for those prioritizing storage and battery performance.

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 III or the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV: