Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
| Brand | Canon | Canon |
| Model | EOS 5D Mark II | EOS 70D |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2008 | 2013 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
17/09/2008 | 02/07/2013 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 152 x 114 x 75 mm | 139 x 104 x 79 mm |
| Camera weight | 850 g | 755 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
21 MP050 | 20.2 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
5616 x 3744 | 5472 x 3648 |
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 | 15 x 22.5 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Full Frame | APS-C |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. |
3.9 fps045 | 7 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 | Canon EF-S |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Digic 4 | 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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
64003003280000 | 128003003280000 |
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. |
5030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
800080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
90300 | 190300 |
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/A | N/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. |
Full HD | Full HD |
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. |
1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
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. |
30 fps | 30 fps |
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. |
MOV | MOV |
| 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 LCD | 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" | 3" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
9200001150001500000 | 10400001150001500000 |
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), UDMA, Microdrive | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✗ |
| Battery type | LP-E6 | LP-E6 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
850 shots1505000 | 920 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Canon EOS 70D outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark II with a score of 60/100 compared to 58/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, announced in 2013 and 2008, respectively. They share similarities in their size and weight, with the 70D measuring 139 x 104 x 79mm and weighing 755g, while the 5D Mark II measures 152 x 114 x 75mm and weighs 850g.
The 70D has an advantage in its lower launch price of $1199, compared to the 5D Mark II’s price of $2199. The 5D Mark II, on the other hand, is slightly larger and heavier, which may be preferred by some users for a more substantial feel.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 70D offers better value for money, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II may appeal to those who prefer a larger and heavier camera.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II wins in optics with a score of 59/100, while the Canon EOS 70D trails by just one point at 58/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as 20+ megapixels, CMOS sensor type, and the absence of image stabilization. However, there are key differences that make the 5D Mark II superior in optics.
The 5D Mark II has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 79 compared to the 70D’s 68, indicating a better overall sensor performance. Additionally, the 5D Mark II boasts a full-frame sensor, which allows for a greater dynamic range, better low-light performance, and improved image quality. The 5D Mark II is also compatible with Canon EF lenses, providing a wider selection of lenses for photographers to choose from.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 70D has a faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second compared to the 5D Mark II’s 3.9. This makes the 70D a more suitable choice for action and sports photography. Furthermore, the 70D’s processor, the Digic 5+, is more advanced than the 5D Mark II’s Digic 4, resulting in faster image processing and potentially better noise reduction.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II’s superior sensor performance and compatibility with a wider range of lenses make it the better choice for photographers prioritizing image quality. However, the Canon EOS 70D’s faster shooting speed and advanced processor could appeal to those who prioritize capturing fast-paced action.
Both the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 70D have a video score of 43/100, indicating that they share similar video capabilities. They have the same maximum video resolution of Full HD and video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, offering high-definition footage. Additionally, both cameras have a maximum video frame rate of 30fps, ensuring smooth video capture.
Despite having the same video score, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II has some advantages over the Canon EOS 70D. One of the primary benefits is its full-frame sensor, which allows for a larger field of view and better low light performance. This feature enables the 5D Mark II to capture higher quality videos in various lighting conditions, providing more versatility for filmmakers.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 70D has its own unique strengths. Its primary advantage is the Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system, which enables fast and accurate focusing during video recording. This feature allows users to track subjects more effectively and maintain focus throughout the video, resulting in a more professional-looking footage.
However, both cameras lack built-in time-lapse functionality, which may be a drawback for those looking to create time-lapse videos without external accessories or software.
To conclude, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 70D have similar video capabilities, with both offering Full HD resolution and a 30fps frame rate. The 5D Mark II excels in low light performance due to its full-frame sensor, while the 70D stands out for its Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
The Canon EOS 70D wins in features with a score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II scores 54/100. Both cameras share some specifications: 3-inch screen size, no GPS, Wi-Fi connectivity, and no Bluetooth. However, the 70D surpasses the 5D Mark II in other aspects, making it the winner in this comparison.
The 70D’s screen resolution is higher at 1,040,000 dots, providing a clearer display compared to the 5D Mark II’s 920,000 dots. Additionally, the 70D has a touchscreen, which allows for easier navigation and adjustments. The 70D also features a flip screen, useful for capturing images and videos from different angles and perspectives. These advantages contribute to the 70D’s higher feature score.
The 5D Mark II does not outperform the 70D in any specific feature. However, it is important to note that the 5D Mark II is still a capable camera despite its lower feature score. Its Wi-Fi connectivity and 3-inch screen size are notable shared features with the 70D.
Considering the differences in features, the Canon EOS 70D is the better choice due to its higher screen resolution, touchscreen, and flip screen capabilities. While the 5D Mark II does not excel in any specific area, it remains a competent camera for those who prioritize shared features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and screen size. Ultimately, the 70D’s superior features make it the recommended choice between the two cameras.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II triumphs over the Canon EOS 70D in storage and battery with a score of 71/100 compared to 37/100. Both cameras share similarities in this category, such as the LP-E6 battery type and the absence of USB charging.
The 5D Mark II outperforms the 70D with its dual memory card slots, accepting Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive memory cards. This feature allows for more storage options and flexibility while shooting. On the other hand, the 70D has a single memory card slot, compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.
Although the 70D falls short in storage capabilities, it offers a slightly longer battery life of 920 shots, compared to the 5D Mark II’s 850 shots. This advantage may be beneficial for extended shooting sessions.
Weighing the differences, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II excels in storage capacity and versatility, while the Canon EOS 70D offers a marginally better battery life.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 5D Mark II or the Canon EOS 70D: