CameraReview

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

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

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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✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III
Canon
Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III
DSLR · 21.1 MP · Full Frame
58
SCORE
$523.90
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20072007
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
22/02/200720/08/2007
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 156 x 157 x 80 mm150 x 160 x 80 mm
Camera weight 1335 g1385 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
10.1 MP05021.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
3888 x 25925616 x 3744
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.
18.7 x 28.724 x 36
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-HFull 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 fps0455 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 IIIDigic 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.
3200300328000016003003280000
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.
6400300328000032003003280000
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 3"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 / SDHC, Compact Flash (Type I or II)SD, Compact Flash (Type I or II)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E5LP-E4
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
2200 shots15050001800 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III leads with a score of 58/100, compared to the Canon EOS 1D Mark III‘s score of 52/100. Both cameras are DSLR types, released in 2007, and have similar dimensions, with the 1Ds Mark III being slightly larger and heavier at 150 x 160 x 80mm and 1385g, while the 1D Mark III measures 156 x 157 x 80mm and weighs 1335g.

Despite the higher launch price of the 1Ds Mark III ($7100), it outperforms the 1D Mark III ($4050) in certain aspects, justifying its higher score. However, the 1D Mark III has the advantage of being lighter, which can be beneficial for photographers who prefer a more portable camera.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III proves to be a better camera, as evidenced by its higher score. However, the Canon EOS 1D Mark III may still be a suitable choice for those who prioritize portability.

Canon EOS 1D Mark III vs EOS 1Ds Mark III Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III is the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 60/100, while the Canon EOS 1D Mark III scores 50/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, Digic III processor, Canon EF lens mount, and lack of image stabilization. However, there are some key differences that set them apart.

The Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III has a higher megapixel count, at 21.1 compared to the 1D Mark III’s 10.1. This results in sharper, more detailed images. The 1Ds Mark III also boasts a full-frame sensor, which provides better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. Its DXOMARK score for the sensor is 80, which is higher than the 1D Mark III’s 71.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 1D Mark III has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, double the 1Ds Mark III’s 5. This makes it more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife. Additionally, the 1D Mark III has an APS-H sensor size, which offers a smaller crop factor and a wider field of view when compared to full-frame sensors.

In terms of optics, the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III excels in image quality and low-light performance, making it an excellent choice for photographers who prioritize detail and depth of field. The Canon EOS 1D Mark III, however, is a better option for those who require a faster shooting speed and a wider field of view.

Canon EOS 1D Mark III vs EOS 1Ds Mark III Video Performance

When discussing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 1D Mark III and the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III, it is important to note that neither camera has video functionality. Both cameras lack this feature, so there is no comparison to be made in terms of video performance. The absence of video functionality does not make one camera better than the other, as their scores are based on other aspects of their performance.

Canon EOS 1D Mark III vs EOS 1Ds Mark III Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III and Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III have identical feature scores of 49/100. This reveals that both cameras possess similar capabilities in terms of features. Let’s delve into the details to understand their similarities and differences.

Both cameras share a screen size of 3 inches and a screen resolution of 230,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, or Bluetooth. Both cameras have WIFI, allowing for easy photo sharing and remote control.

Despite their equal feature scores, there are areas where one camera may be superior to the other. The Canon EOS 1D Mark III distinguishes itself with a faster continuous shooting speed, better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects. This makes it ideal for sports and wildlife photography. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III has a higher sensor resolution, resulting in more detailed images. This camera is better suited for landscape and portrait photography, where capturing fine details is crucial.

However, the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III falls short in low light performance compared to the Canon EOS 1D Mark III. The 1D Mark III has better high ISO performance, making it more versatile for shooting in various lighting conditions.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 1D Mark III is the better choice for photographers who require fast continuous shooting and better low light performance. Meanwhile, the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III is more suitable for photographers focusing on high-resolution images and fine details. While both cameras share the same feature score, their specialized strengths cater to different photography needs.

Canon EOS 1D Mark III vs EOS 1Ds Mark III Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III and the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III both have a storage and battery score of 84/100. These cameras share common specifications, such as having two memory card slots and accepting SD, SDHC, and Compact Flash (Type I or II) cards. Additionally, neither camera offers USB charging.

The Canon EOS 1D Mark III has a longer battery life of 2200 shots, compared to the 1Ds Mark III’s 1800 shots. This advantage is due to its LP-E5 battery type. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III uses an LP-E4 battery type, which results in a shorter battery life. However, there are no other notable advantages for the 1Ds Mark III in storage and battery.

Both cameras perform equally well in terms of storage and battery, with the only difference being the 1D Mark III’s longer battery life. This difference may be important for photographers who need extended shooting time without changing batteries. However, the overall performance remains consistent between the two models.

Canon EOS 1D Mark III vs EOS 1Ds Mark III – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 1D Mark III vs EOS 1Ds 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 III or the Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III: