Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 5D Comparison
Canon EOS 40D
Canon EOS 5D
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Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS 40D | EOS 5D | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2007 | 2005 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 20, 2007 | August 22, 2005 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 40D emerges as the winner, scoring 42/100, while the Canon EOS 5D receives a score of 40/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2007 and 2005, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the 40D being slightly smaller at 146 x 108 x 74mm and lighter at 822g, compared to the 5D’s 152 x 113 x 75mm and 895g. Additionally, the 40D had a lower launch price of $899, making it a more affordable option.
The 40D’s higher score reflects its advantages, such as its compact size and lighter weight, which make it more convenient for on-the-go photography. However, the 5D, despite its lower score, was initially a more expensive camera, possibly offering higher-end features, which could still appeal to some photographers.
Taking these factors into account, the 40D stands out as a more practical and affordable option, while the 5D may cater to those seeking specific high-end features.
Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 5D Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 5D narrowly wins in the optics comparison with a score of 46/100, while the Canon EOS 40D scores 45/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, the absence of image stabilization, and the Canon EF lens mount compatibility. However, there are differences that contribute to the slight advantage of the EOS 5D.
The EOS 5D has a 12.7-megapixel sensor, compared to the 10.1 megapixels of the EOS 40D. This allows the EOS 5D to capture more detail in images. Additionally, the EOS 5D has a full-frame sensor size, while the EOS 40D has an APS-C sensor size. The full-frame sensor provides better low-light performance and a wider field of view. The DXOMARK score for the EOS 5D’s sensor is 71, higher than the EOS 40D’s score of 64, further validating its superior image quality.
On the other hand, the EOS 40D has a faster shooting speed of 6.5 frames per second, compared to the EOS 5D’s 3 frames per second. This makes the EOS 40D more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action shots. The EOS 40D also features a newer Digic III processor, while the EOS 5D uses the older Digic II processor. The newer processor contributes to the faster shooting speed and improved image processing.
Despite the EOS 5D’s slight edge in optics, the EOS 40D has its advantages in shooting speed and processing. The EOS 5D is better for photographers prioritizing image quality, low-light performance, and a wider field of view. The EOS 40D, however, is more suitable for those who require faster shooting speeds and action photography.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 40D
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Canon EOS 5D
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 10.1 MP | 12.7 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. | 3888 x 2592 px | 4368 x 2912 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. | 15 x 22 mm | 24 x 36 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C |  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. | 6.5 fps | 3 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-S | 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 II | |
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. | 1,600 | 1,600 | |
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. | 100 | 100 | |
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. | 3200 | 3200 | |
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. | 9 | 9 | |
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 40D vs EOS 5D Video Performance
When examining the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 40D and Canon EOS 5D, it is important to note that neither camera has video functionality. This means both cameras lack the ability to record video, and their scores in this category are not applicable.
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Video
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Canon EOS 40D
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Canon EOS 5D
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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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. |  | |
Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 5D Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 40D wins the features comparison with a score of 36/100, while the Canon EOS 5D scores 30/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a screen resolution of 230,000 dots, no touchscreen, no flip screen, no GPS, and no Bluetooth.
The Canon EOS 40D has a larger screen size of 3 inches, compared to the Canon EOS 5D’s 2.5-inch screen. This makes the EOS 40D more convenient for framing and reviewing images. However, the Canon EOS 5D offers Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to transfer photos wirelessly and control the camera remotely. The EOS 40D does not have this feature.
Despite the Wi-Fi advantage of the Canon EOS 5D, the Canon EOS 40D still comes out on top due to its larger screen size. The screen size of the EOS 40D contributes to a better user experience when composing and reviewing shots, which is a significant aspect of a camera’s features.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D’s Wi-Fi connectivity is a valuable feature for those who prioritize wireless image transfer and remote camera control. Although this feature is beneficial, it does not outweigh the advantage of the larger screen size found in the EOS 40D.
Taking all the features into account, the Canon EOS 40D is the superior camera in this comparison due to its larger screen size. The Wi-Fi connectivity of the Canon EOS 5D is a notable advantage, but the overall user experience is improved with the EOS 40D’s larger screen.
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Features
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Canon EOS 40D
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Canon EOS 5D
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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 | 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" |  2.5" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 230,000 dots | 230,000 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 40D vs EOS 5D Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 40D outperforms the Canon EOS 5D in storage and battery aspects with a score of 35/100, while the 5D scores 24/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept Compact Flash (Type I or II) cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The 40D’s superior score is primarily due to its better battery life, providing 800 shots per charge compared to the 5D’s 400 shots. Both cameras use similar battery types, with the 40D utilizing the BP-511 and the 5D using the BP-511A.
The 5D does not have any significant advantages in storage and battery over the 40D. Thus, the Canon EOS 40D is the better choice in this category, offering double the battery life without sacrificing any storage capabilities.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 40D
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Canon EOS 5D
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Memory Card | Compact Flash (Type I or II) | Compact Flash (Type I or II) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | BP-511 | BP-511A | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 800 shots | 400 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 40D
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Canon EOS 5D
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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.' | 22.1 bits | 22.9 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.' | 11.3 EVs | 11.1 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' | 703 | 1368 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 40D
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Canon EOS 5D
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Canon EOS 40D vs EOS 5D – 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 40D or the Canon EOS 5D:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 40D
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Canon EOS 5D
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