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Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 5D Mark IV Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 5D Mark II

Canon EOS 5D Mark II camera image
58%

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

canon eos 5d mark iv
Winner!
75%
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
vs
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Price
Brand
Canon
Canon
Model
EOS 5D Mark II
EOS 5D Mark IV
Released
2008
2016
Announcement Date
September 17, 2008
August 25, 2016
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms its predecessor, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, with a score of 75/100 compared to 58/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, and they share similar dimensions, with the Mark IV being slightly larger and heavier. The Mark II was released in 2008 with a launch price of $2,199, while the Mark IV was released in 2016 with a price of $3,500.

The Mark IV’s higher score indicates its superiority in terms of features and performance. It offers a more advanced autofocus system, improved image quality, and faster continuous shooting. On the other hand, the Mark II’s lower score doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad camera. In fact, it still delivers excellent image quality and is a more affordable option for those on a budget.

Considering the differences in specifications and release dates, it’s clear that the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a better camera overall, but the Mark II remains a solid choice for those seeking a more budget-friendly option.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 5D Mark IV Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark II in optics, scoring 76/100 compared to the Mark II’s 59/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including the CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, Canon EF lens mount, and the lack of image stabilization.

The 5D Mark IV’s superiority in optics is evident in its higher megapixel count of 30.4, compared to the Mark II’s 21 megapixels. This increase in resolution enables the Mark IV to capture more detail and produce higher quality images. Additionally, the Mark IV has a faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second, compared to the Mark II’s 3.9 frames per second. This allows the Mark IV to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. The Mark IV also boasts a superior processor, the Digic 6+, which enhances image processing and overall performance. Lastly, the Mark IV’s DXOMARK sensor score of 91 indicates a better sensor performance than the Mark II’s score of 79.

Although the 5D Mark II falls short in several aspects, it still offers a reliable full-frame sensor and a compatible Canon EF lens mount, allowing users to utilize a wide range of high-quality lenses. While its shooting speed and sensor performance are not as impressive as the Mark IV’s, the Mark II remains a solid choice for photographers who prioritize affordability over the latest features.

Considering the differences in optics, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the clear winner, providing better image quality, faster shooting speed, and an improved processor. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II remains a viable option for those seeking a more budget-friendly full-frame camera with access to Canon’s extensive lens lineup.

Optics
Optics
59%
76%
Megapixels
21 MP
30.4 MP
Image Resolution
5616 x 3744 px
6720 x 4480 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 36 mm
24 x 36 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
3.9 fps
7 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF
Canon EF
Image Processor
Digic 4
Digic 6+
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
6,400
32,000
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
25600
102400
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
9
61
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Optical (pentaprism)

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 5D Mark IV Video Performance

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark II in video capabilities, as evidenced by its significantly higher video score of 91/100 compared to the Mark II’s score of 43/100. Both cameras share Full HD video resolution and a maximum video dimension of 1920 x 1080. However, the Mark IV excels with additional features and specifications that make it a superior choice for video recording.

The Mark IV’s video quality is superior due to its 4K video resolution, which is a notable improvement from the Mark II’s Full HD resolution. Additionally, the Mark IV boasts a maximum video dimension of 4096 x 2160, which allows for larger and more detailed video footage. The Mark IV also offers a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the Mark II’s 30fps. This enables the Mark IV to capture smoother and more professional-looking footage, especially during fast-paced action scenes.

The Mark IV also has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Mark II lacks. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without requiring any additional equipment or software.

The Mark II does not have any significant advantages in video capabilities over the Mark IV. The only shared specifications between the two cameras are Full HD resolution and 1920 x 1080 video dimensions, which are both surpassed by the Mark IV’s superior features.

Considering the significant differences in video capabilities, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the clear winner in this comparison. Its higher video score, 4K resolution, larger video dimensions, faster frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality make it a more versatile and powerful choice for video recording. The Mark II, while still capable of producing quality Full HD footage, falls short in comparison to the Mark IV’s advanced video capabilities.

Video
Video
43%
91%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
4096 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
30 p
120 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MOV, MP4

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 5D Mark IV Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark II with a feature score of 74/100 compared to the Mark II’s 54/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, no flip screen, WIFI connectivity, and no Bluetooth capabilities.

The Mark IV stands out with its higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots compared to the Mark II’s 920,000 dots. This difference provides the Mark IV with a clearer and more detailed display. Additionally, the Mark IV has a touchscreen, which the Mark II lacks. This feature allows for easier navigation and quicker adjustments. The Mark IV also includes GPS, enabling users to geotag their images with location data, a feature absent in the Mark II.

On the other hand, the Mark II does not offer any significant advantages over the Mark IV in terms of features. Both cameras have the same screen size and lack a flip screen and Bluetooth capabilities. The only advantage the Mark II holds is its lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Considering the specifications and features, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the better camera of the two. Its higher feature score is a result of its superior screen resolution, touchscreen, and GPS capabilities. While the Mark II may be a more affordable option, the Mark IV offers a more advanced and convenient user experience.

Features
Features
54%
74%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
TFT LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3.2"
Screen Resolution
920,000 dots
1,620,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 5D Mark IV Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV prevails over the Canon EOS 5D Mark II in the storage and battery category, both scoring 71/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including two memory card slots and the absence of USB charging. The 5D Mark IV accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible) and Compact Flash memory cards, while the 5D Mark II accepts Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive cards.

The 5D Mark IV offers a slightly better battery life with 900 shots, compared to the 5D Mark II’s 850 shots. Additionally, the 5D Mark IV uses the LP-E6N battery type, while the 5D Mark II uses the LP-E6 battery. There is no specific advantage for the 5D Mark II in this comparison.

Considering these points, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV proves to be superior in terms of storage and battery life, making it a better choice for photographers who value these features.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
71%
71%
Memory Card
Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Compact Flash
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E6
LP-E6N
Battery Life
850 shots
900 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
79%
91%
Portrait (Color Depth)
23.7 bits
24.8 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
11.9 EVs
13.6 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
1815
2995
Scores

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 5D Mark IV – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 5D Mark IV Comparison image.

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User Scores
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