Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs EOS 5D Mark III Comparison
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS 1D X Mark III | EOS 5D Mark III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2012 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 07, 2020 | March 02, 2012 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a score of 75/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras are DSLRs and share similar specifications. However, the 1D X Mark III, released in 2020, is a more advanced camera than the 5D Mark III, which was released in 2012.
The 1D X Mark III has a smaller and lighter body, measuring 158 x 168 x 83mm and weighing 738g, making it more convenient for photographers. On the other hand, the 5D Mark III has a more affordable launch price of $3499 compared to the 1D X Mark III’s $6500.
In terms of performance, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III clearly surpasses the 5D Mark III, justifying its higher score. However, budget-conscious photographers may still find value in the Canon EOS 5D Mark III due to its lower price.
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs EOS 5D Mark III Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III takes the lead in optics, scoring 74 out of 100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III trails behind with a score of 67. Both cameras share several common specifications, including the CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, Canon EF lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization.
The 1D X Mark III outperforms the 5D Mark III in several aspects. It boasts a faster shooting speed of 20 frames per second, compared to the 5D Mark III’s 6 frames per second. This advantage allows the 1D X Mark III to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. Additionally, the 1D X Mark III’s Digic X processor is more advanced than the 5D Mark III’s Digic 5+ processor, enabling better image processing and overall performance. The 1D X Mark III also has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, with a score of 91 compared to the 5D Mark III’s 81, indicating superior image quality.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark III has a slightly higher megapixel count of 22.3, compared to the 1D X Mark III’s 20.1 megapixels. This higher resolution may provide marginally better image detail for certain applications, such as landscape photography or large print sizes.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III stands as the superior camera in terms of optics, due to its faster shooting speed, advanced processor, and higher sensor score. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III may still be a viable option for those who prioritize a higher megapixel count for specific applications.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.1 MP | 22.3 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5472 x 3648 px | 5760 x 3840 px | |
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. | 24 x 36 mm | 24 x 36 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 20 fps | 6 fps | |
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 X | Digic 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. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 102,400 | 25,600 | |
Minimum 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. | 50 | 50 | |
Maximum 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. | 819200 | 102400 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 8000 s | |
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. | 191 | 61 | |
In-body Stabilization 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) |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs EOS 5D Mark III Video Performance
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in video capabilities, with a video score of 91/100 compared to the 5D Mark III’s score of 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as having a max video frame rate of 60fps, but there are significant differences that make the 1D X Mark III superior.
The 1D X Mark III boasts a max video resolution of 4K (4096 x 2160), while the 5D Mark III has a max video resolution of Full HD (1920 x 1080). This means the 1D X Mark III can capture videos with higher resolution and more detail than the 5D Mark III. Furthermore, the 1D X Mark III has a higher max video frame rate of 120fps, enabling users to capture slow-motion footage with greater fluidity and detail. Additionally, the 1D X Mark III has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the 5D Mark III lacks.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark III still offers satisfactory video performance for casual users or those who do not require 4K resolution. Its Full HD video resolution and 60fps frame rate are sufficient for most non-professional applications. However, it falls short in comparison to the 1D X Mark III’s advanced video capabilities.
Considering the significant differences in video specifications, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities. It offers superior video resolution, higher frame rates, and built-in time-lapse functionality, making it a better choice for those who prioritize video performance. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III remains a viable option for casual users or those with less demanding video requirements, but it cannot compete with the 1D X Mark III’s advanced features.
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Video
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  4K |  Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions 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. | 4096 x 2160 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
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 p | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse 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, MOV | MOV |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs EOS 5D Mark III Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a feature score of 74/100 compared to the latter’s 59/100. Both cameras share some specifications: they have the same screen size of 3.2 inches and neither has a flip screen.
The 1D X Mark III excels in several aspects. It has a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, which is double the 5D Mark III’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference makes the 1D X Mark III’s screen sharper and clearer for better image preview and review. Additionally, the 1D X Mark III is equipped with a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and efficient to navigate through settings and modes. The 5D Mark III lacks this feature. Furthermore, the 1D X Mark III has GPS and WIFI capabilities, which the 5D Mark III does not. These features allow the 1D X Mark III to track location data and transfer files wirelessly, providing more convenience and functionality.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark III does not have any notable advantages over the 1D X Mark III. Both cameras lack Bluetooth, but this is a minor downside considering the other features they offer.
In comparing these two cameras, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III is clearly a superior choice due to its higher feature score, touchscreen, higher screen resolution, GPS, and WIFI capabilities. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III falls short in these aspects, making the 1D X Mark III the better option for photographers seeking a more advanced and feature-rich camera.
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Features
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | TFT LCD | TFT 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 |  3.2" | 3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 2,100,000 dots | 1,040,000 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs EOS 5D Mark III Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in storage and battery with a score of 87/100, compared to the latter’s 76/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots, but the 1D X Mark III uses CFexpress Type B cards, while the 5D Mark III accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC, Compact Flash, and UDMA cards. The 1D X Mark III has a significantly longer battery life, providing 2850 shots with its LP-E19 battery, as opposed to the 5D Mark III’s 950 shots using an LP-E6 battery. Neither camera supports USB charging.
The 1D X Mark III’s superior battery life offers photographers more shooting time without needing to replace or recharge batteries. In addition, its use of CFexpress Type B cards allows for faster read and write speeds, improving the camera’s overall performance.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark III provides more flexibility in memory card options, making it easier for photographers to utilize existing cards or find replacements. However, its shorter battery life may require more frequent battery changes during extended shooting sessions.
Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III excels in storage and battery life, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III offers greater memory card compatibility, but falls short in battery performance.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Memory Card | CFexpress Type B | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E19 | LP-E6 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 2,850 shots | 950 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 24.1 bits | 24 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 13.5 EVs | 11.7 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 3207 | 2293 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs EOS 5D Mark III – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III or the Canon EOS 5D Mark III:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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B&H photo video |
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