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

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 5D Mark III

canon eos 5d mark iii
65%

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

canon eos 5d mark iv
Winner!
75%
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
vs
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Price
Brand
Canon
Canon
Model
EOS 5D Mark III
EOS 5D Mark IV
Released
2012
2016
Announcement Date
March 02, 2012
August 25, 2016
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a score of 75/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, announced in 2016 and 2012 respectively, with launch prices of $3500 and $3499. They share similar dimensions, with the Mark IV being slightly smaller at 151 x 116 x 76mm, and lighter at 890g, compared to the Mark III’s 152 x 116 x 76mm and 950g.

The Mark IV’s higher score reflects its improvements over the Mark III. These include a lighter and more compact design, making it more convenient for photographers to carry around. However, the Mark III still holds its own with a slightly lower launch price and similar dimensions.

Considering the specifications, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the better choice due to its enhanced features and design. Despite this, the Mark III remains a viable option for those looking for a more budget-friendly camera with comparable dimensions.

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

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in optics, scoring 76/100 compared to the Mark III’s 67/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, Canon EF lens mount, and absence of image stabilization.

The Mark IV surpasses the Mark III in several areas. With 30.4 megapixels, it offers a higher resolution than the Mark III’s 22.3 megapixels, allowing for more detailed images. The Mark IV also has a faster shooting speed at 7 frames per second compared to the Mark III’s 6 frames per second. This difference enables users to capture quick-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the Mark IV boasts a superior processor (Digic 6+), which contributes to its improved performance. Finally, the Mark IV’s DXOMARK score for the sensor is 91, indicating a higher overall image quality than the Mark III’s score of 81.

On the other hand, the Mark III does not have any notable advantages over the Mark IV in terms of optics. Therefore, it is clear that the Mark IV is the superior camera in this regard.

Considering the differences in specifications and performance, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV proves to be the better choice for those seeking improved optics. Its higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and better sensor quality make it a more advanced option than the Canon EOS 5D Mark III.

Optics
Optics
67%
76%
Megapixels
22.3 MP
30.4 MP
Image Resolution
5760 x 3840 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
6 fps
7 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF
Canon EF
Image Processor
Digic 5+
Digic 6+
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
32,000
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
102400
102400
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
61
61
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Optical (pentaprism)

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

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in video capabilities with a score of 91/100 compared to the Mark III’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution and a maximum video dimension of 1920 x 1080. However, the Mark IV surpasses the Mark III in several aspects, making it the superior choice for video recording.

The 5D Mark IV offers 4K video resolution, allowing for more detailed and high-quality footage compared to the Mark III’s Full HD resolution. Additionally, the Mark IV’s maximum video dimensions are significantly larger at 4096 x 2160, providing a wider and more immersive viewing experience. The Mark IV also boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, double that of the Mark III’s 60fps. This higher frame rate enables smoother slow-motion footage and more flexibility in post-production. Furthermore, the 5D Mark IV has built-in time-lapse functionality, a feature absent in the Mark III.

On the other hand, the 5D Mark III has no clear advantages over the Mark IV in terms of video capabilities. Its lower score reflects its limitations compared to the more advanced Mark IV.

Given these differences, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the better choice for those prioritizing video capabilities. Its higher score reflects its superior performance in video resolution, dimensions, frame rate, and time-lapse functionality. The 5D Mark III, while still a solid camera, falls short in these areas, making the Mark IV the clear winner for videographers.

Video
Video
56%
91%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
4096 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
120 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MOV, MP4

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

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV emerges as the winner in features, with a score of 74 points, compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s score of 59 points. Both cameras have a 3.2-inch screen size and lack a flip screen and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the Mark IV outperforms the Mark III in several aspects, while the Mark III has few advantages.

Both cameras have the same screen size, but the Mark IV boasts a higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots, offering clearer and sharper image previews than the Mark III’s 1,040,000 dots. The Mark IV also has a touchscreen, which simplifies navigation and makes it more user-friendly than the Mark III.

The Mark IV surpasses the Mark III in terms of connectivity options. It comes equipped with GPS and WiFi, allowing users to geotag images, transfer files wirelessly, and remotely control the camera. The Mark III lacks these features.

On the other hand, the Mark III has no significant advantages over the Mark IV in terms of features. Its lower score is due to the absence of several key features present in the Mark IV.

Based on these comparisons, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the superior camera in terms of features, offering a higher screen resolution, touchscreen capabilities, and better connectivity options. In contrast, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a less advanced option, with fewer features and a lower score.

Features
Features
59%
74%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
TFT LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3.2"
Screen Resolution
1,040,000 dots
1,620,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

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

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 76/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV scores 71/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC, as well as Compact Flash cards. Neither camera has USB charging capabilities.

The 5D Mark III has a slightly longer battery life, allowing for 950 shots compared to the 5D Mark IV’s 900 shots. This advantage makes the 5D Mark III more suitable for extended shooting sessions. The 5D Mark III uses the LP-E6 battery type, while the 5D Mark IV uses the LP-E6N battery type.

The 5D Mark IV has a minor advantage in memory card compatibility, as it supports UHS-I compatible SD cards. This allows for faster data transfer rates and can be an advantage in certain situations.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III comes out on top with a longer battery life. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a slight edge in memory card compatibility.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
76%
71%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Compact Flash
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E6
LP-E6N
Battery Life
950 shots
900 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
81%
91%
Portrait (Color Depth)
24 bits
24.8 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
11.7 EVs
13.6 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2293
2995
Scores

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 5D Mark IV Alternatives

User Scores
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