CameraReview

Canon EOS 50D vs Canon EOS 5D — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 50D
Canon
Canon EOS 50D
DSLR · 15.1 MP · APS-C
48
SCORE
$209.99
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Canon EOS 5D
Canon
Canon EOS 5D
DSLR · 12.7 MP · Full Frame
40
SCORE
$299.99
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS 50DEOS 5D
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20082005
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
26/08/200822/08/2005
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 146 x 108 x 74 mm152 x 113 x 75 mm
Camera weight 822 g895 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
15.1 MP05012.7 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4752 x 31684368 x 2912
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.
14.9 x 22.324 x 36
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull 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.
6.3 fps0453 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-SCanon EF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 4Digic 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.
3:23:2
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.
1003020010030200
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.
12800300328000032003003280000
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.
9030090300
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 TFT LCDTFT 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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
92000011500015000002300001150001500000
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 Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMACompact Flash (Type I or II)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type BP-511ABP-511A
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
800 shots1505000400 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 50D emerges as the winner with a score of 48/100, outperforming the Canon EOS 5D, which scored 40/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2008 and 2005 respectively. They share similarities in size, with the 50D measuring 146 x 108 x 74mm and the 5D measuring 152 x 113 x 75mm. Additionally, both cameras have a similar weight, with the 50D weighing 822g and the 5D weighing 895g.

The Canon EOS 50D is a better camera due to its higher score, and it comes at a more affordable price of $1300 compared to the 5D’s $2000. On the other hand, the EOS 5D is slightly larger and heavier, which may be a disadvantage for some users.

Taking into account the specifications, the Canon EOS 50D is the superior camera, offering a better performance at a lower cost. While the EOS 5D may have its merits, the 50D’s higher score and affordability make it the better choice between the two.

Canon EOS 50D vs EOS 5D Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 50D narrowly wins the optics comparison with a score of 47/100, while the Canon EOS 5D scores 46/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, the lack of image stabilization, and the compatibility with Canon EF lenses. However, there are differences in their performance that give the 50D a slight edge.

The 50D has a higher megapixel count at 15.1 compared to the 5D’s 12.7, allowing for more detailed images. Additionally, the 50D boasts a faster shooting speed of 6.3 frames per second, making it better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects. The 50D is also equipped with a more advanced Digic 4 processor, which contributes to improved image processing and overall performance.

On the other hand, the 5D has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 71 compared to the 50D’s 63. This difference suggests that the 5D may produce better image quality in certain conditions. Moreover, the 5D features a full-frame sensor, which is generally preferred by professional photographers for its ability to capture more light and produce a shallower depth of field.

Despite these advantages, the 5D has a slower shooting speed of 3 frames per second, making it less suitable for action photography. Additionally, its older Digic II processor may result in slower image processing and overall performance compared to the 50D.

When comparing the optics of the Canon EOS 50D and Canon EOS 5D, the 50D has a slight advantage due to its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and more advanced processor. However, the 5D’s full-frame sensor and higher DXOMARK score make it a strong contender in terms of image quality. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Canon EOS 50D vs EOS 5D Video Performance

When examining the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 50D and Canon EOS 5D, it is important to note that neither camera has video functionality. Both the Canon EOS 50D and the Canon EOS 5D lack this feature, so there is no difference in their video capabilities.

Canon EOS 50D vs EOS 5D Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 50D wins in terms of features, scoring 54/100, while the Canon EOS 5D scores 30/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including the lack of a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and Bluetooth.

The EOS 50D outperforms the EOS 5D in screen size and resolution. It boasts a 3-inch screen, larger than the EOS 5D’s 2.5-inch screen. This larger screen allows for better image viewing and menu navigation. Additionally, the EOS 50D has a higher screen resolution of 920,000 dots, compared to the EOS 5D’s 230,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and more detailed image preview.

On the other hand, the EOS 5D has Wi-Fi capabilities, a feature not present in the EOS 50D. This allows for easier image sharing and remote camera control using a smartphone or tablet. However, this is the only major advantage the EOS 5D has over the EOS 50D in terms of features.

Considering the features of both cameras, the Canon EOS 50D is superior to the EOS 5D. Its larger screen size and higher resolution offer a more enjoyable and efficient user experience. While the EOS 5D’s Wi-Fi capabilities are useful, they do not make up for its smaller screen and lower resolution. The EOS 50D’s higher feature score reflects its better overall performance and functionality.

Canon EOS 50D vs EOS 5D Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 50D outperforms the Canon EOS 5D in storage and battery with a score of 35/100, while the 5D scores 24/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, including having one memory card slot, accepting Compact Flash (Type I or II) cards, and using the same battery type, BP-511A. Additionally, neither camera offers USB charging.

The 50D’s advantage lies in its battery life, which allows for 800 shots, double the 5D’s capacity of 400 shots. This difference makes the 50D a more reliable option for extended shooting sessions.

Although the 5D loses in this comparison, it maintains parity with the 50D in terms of memory card compatibility and battery type. However, its lower battery life may be a drawback for some users.

Considering their storage and battery capabilities, the Canon EOS 50D emerges as the superior choice due to its significantly longer battery life, while the Canon EOS 5D offers similar storage options but falls behind in terms of battery performance.

Canon EOS 50D vs EOS 5D – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 50D vs EOS 5D Comparison image.

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