Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 7D Mark II Comparison
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS 5D Mark II | EOS 7D Mark II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2008 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 17, 2008 | September 15, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II emerges as the winner with a score of 60/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II trails behind with a score of 56/100. Both cameras share similarities as DSLR cameras released by Canon. They have comparable sizes, with the 5D Mark II measuring 152 x 114 x 75mm and the 7D Mark II at 149 x 112 x 78mm. In terms of weight, the 5D Mark II is slightly lighter at 850g, whereas the 7D Mark II weighs 910g.
The 7D Mark II’s higher score signifies its superior performance and features compared to the 5D Mark II. Moreover, it was released in 2014, six years after the 5D Mark II’s 2008 release, and boasts a lower launch price of $1800 against the 5D Mark II’s $2199.
Despite its lower score, the 5D Mark II has the advantage of being lighter and more compact, making it more convenient for photographers on the go. However, the 7D Mark II’s improved features and lower price make it the better choice for those seeking an upgrade or entering the DSLR market.
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 7D Mark II Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark II in optics, with a score of 61/100 compared to the 5D Mark II’s 59/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as 20.2 and 21 megapixels, a CMOS sensor, a Canon EF lens mount, and no image stabilization. However, the 7D Mark II has advantages over the 5D Mark II in other areas.
The 7D Mark II surpasses the 5D Mark II in shooting speed, boasting 10 frames per second compared to the 5D Mark II’s 3.9. This makes the 7D Mark II a superior choice for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. Additionally, the 7D Mark II is equipped with a Dual Digic 6 processor, providing faster image processing and improved performance.
In contrast, the 5D Mark II has a full-frame sensor, which allows for better image quality and low-light performance than the 7D Mark II’s APS-C sensor. The full-frame sensor also has a higher DXOMARK score of 79, compared to the 7D Mark II’s score of 70. This indicates that the 5D Mark II has a better overall sensor performance.
While the 7D Mark II excels in shooting speed and processing, the 5D Mark II retains an advantage in sensor quality and low-light performance due to its full-frame sensor. The choice between these two cameras depends on the photographer’s priorities and preferences, whether they require a faster shooting speed or a higher-quality sensor.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 21 MP | 20.2 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. | 5616 x 3744 px | 5472 x 3648 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 | 15 x 22.4 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame |  APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 3.9 fps | 10 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-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 | Dual Digic 6 | |
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. | 6,400 | 16,000 | |
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 | 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. | 25600 | 51200 | |
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 | 65 | |
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 5D Mark II vs EOS 7D Mark II Video Performance
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II emerges as the winner in video capabilities with a score of 56 out of 100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II trails behind with a score of 43. Both cameras share common specifications such as Full HD video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
The EOS 7D Mark II outperforms the EOS 5D Mark II primarily due to its higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, as opposed to the 5D Mark II’s 30fps. This allows for smoother video playback and better slow-motion capabilities, giving users more creative control in their videography projects.
However, the EOS 5D Mark II does have some advantages over the EOS 7D Mark II, despite its lower score. One such advantage is the larger full-frame sensor, which can potentially result in better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. This can be beneficial for videographers seeking a more cinematic look in their footage.
To conclude, the Canon EOS 7D Mark II is the superior choice for video capabilities, mainly due to its higher maximum frame rate. Despite this, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II still has its merits, particularly with its full-frame sensor, which can provide better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
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Video
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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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. |  Full HD | 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. | 1920 x 1080 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. | 30 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. | MOV | MOV, MP4 |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 7D Mark II Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II wins the features comparison with a score of 57/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II scores 54/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, absence of a touchscreen and flip screen, WIFI connectivity, and no Bluetooth.
The 7D Mark II outperforms the 5D Mark II in screen resolution and GPS functionality. With a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, the 7D Mark II offers a sharper display than the 5D Mark II’s 920,000 dots. This difference allows for better image preview and menu navigation. Additionally, the 7D Mark II features built-in GPS, which the 5D Mark II lacks. This enables users to geotag their photos, providing location data and enhancing organization.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark II does not surpass the 7D Mark II in any specific feature. Both cameras have identical specifications in all other aspects, making the 5D Mark II equally functional but not superior.
In comparing the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 7D Mark II, the 7D Mark II excels in screen resolution and GPS capabilities. While the 5D Mark II remains a reliable option, the 7D Mark II’s advantages make it a better choice for those seeking higher image preview quality and location data for their photos.
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Features
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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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 | 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 Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 920,000 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 5D Mark II vs EOS 7D Mark II Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark II in storage and battery with a score of 65/100 compared to 37/100. Both cameras share similarities, including the lack of USB charging and compatibility with the LP-E6 battery type.
The 7D Mark II excels with its dual memory card slots, accepting both SD/SDHC/SDXC and Compact Flash cards, increasing storage options. However, it falls short in battery life, offering 670 shots per charge, compared to the 5D Mark II’s 850 shots.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark II has only one memory card slot, accepting Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive cards. Its longer battery life is a notable advantage over the 7D Mark II.
Taking these factors into account, the 7D Mark II provides superior storage capabilities with its dual card slots, while the 5D Mark II offers better battery life.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Memory Card | Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | LP-E6N | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 850 shots | 670 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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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.' | 23.7 bits | 22.4 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.' | 11.9 EVs | 11.8 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' | 1815 | 1082 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 7D Mark II – 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 5D Mark II or the Canon EOS 7D Mark II:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 7D Mark II
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B&H photo video |
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