CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Canon EOS 60D — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
DSLR · 22.3 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
65
SCORE
$696.75
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Canon EOS 60D
Canon
Canon EOS 60D
DSLR · 18 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
47
SCORE
$213.36
best of 5 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS 5D Mark IIIEOS 60D
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20122010
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
02/03/201226/08/2010
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 152 x 116 x 76 mm145 x 106 x 79 mm
Camera weight 950 g755 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
22.3 MP05018 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5760 x 38405184 x 3456
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.
24 x 3614.9 x 22.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameAPS-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.
6 fps0455.3 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 EFCanon 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 5+Digic 4
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.
256003003280000128003003280000
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.
50302005030200
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.
1024003003280000128003003280000
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.
61030090300
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.
Full HDFull 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 10801920 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.
60 fps30 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.
MOVMOV
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 LCDLCD
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"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000010400001150001500000
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 SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMASD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6LP-E6
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
950 shots15050001100 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 60D with a score of 65/100 compared to the latter’s 47/100. Both cameras are DSLRs released in 2012 and 2010, respectively. They share common specifications, such as camera type and dimensions, with the 5D Mark III measuring 152 x 116 x 76mm and the 60D at 145 x 106 x 79mm.

The 5D Mark III excels with its higher score, which is due to its superior features and performance. However, the 60D has its advantages, such as being lighter at 755g compared to the 5D Mark III’s 950g, and having a significantly lower launch price of $1199 against the 5D Mark III’s $3499.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is the better camera in terms of performance, while the Canon EOS 60D is more budget-friendly and lightweight.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 60D Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 60D in optics, with a 24-point difference in our scores (67/100 vs. 43/100). Both cameras have several common specifications, including CMOS sensor type, Canon lens mounts, and the absence of image stabilization.

The 5D Mark III’s superiority in optics is evident in its 22.3-megapixel resolution, higher than the 60D’s 18-megapixel resolution. This difference allows for more detailed and sharper images. The 5D Mark III also boasts a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second (fps), compared to the 60D’s 5.3 fps, enabling it to capture fast-moving subjects more efficiently. Additionally, the 5D Mark III features a more advanced Digic 5+ processor and a higher DXOMARK score of 81 for its full-frame sensor, compared to the 60D’s Digic 4 processor and DXOMARK score of 66 for its APS-C sensor. These factors contribute to the 5D Mark III’s better overall image quality and low-light performance.

The Canon EOS 60D does have some advantages, such as its compatibility with both EF and EF-S lenses, offering more lens options for users. However, this benefit is not enough to outweigh the 5D Mark III’s superior optics.

Considering the significant differences in optics performance, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III proves to be the better choice for photographers seeking higher image quality, faster shooting speeds, and better low-light capabilities. The Canon EOS 60D could be a more suitable option for those prioritizing lens versatility, but its optics performance falls short compared to the 5D Mark III.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 60D Video Performance

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III emerges as the superior camera in terms of video capabilities, scoring 56 out of 100, while the Canon EOS 60D scores 43 out of 100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.

The 5D Mark III excels due to its higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, which provides smoother and more fluid video playback compared to the 60D’s 30fps. This advantage means that the 5D Mark III is better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects and action scenes with greater clarity and detail.

On the other hand, the 60D does not have any specific advantages over the 5D Mark III in terms of video capabilities. Its lower video score is due to its lower maximum frame rate. This makes the 5D Mark III the clear winner in this comparison.

Taking into account the significant difference in video scores and the higher maximum video frame rate, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is the better choice for those who prioritize video capabilities. While the Canon EOS 60D is still a reliable camera for Full HD video recording, it falls short in comparison to the 5D Mark III, particularly when capturing fast-paced action.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 60D Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III wins in the features comparison with a score of 59/100, while the Canon EOS 60D scores 57/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, lack of touchscreen, GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities.

The 5D Mark III outperforms the 60D in terms of screen size, offering a larger 3.2-inch display compared to the 60D’s 3-inch screen. This larger screen provides a better viewing experience for photographers when reviewing images and navigating menus.

On the other hand, the 60D has one advantage over the 5D Mark III – a flip screen. This feature allows for flexible shooting angles and is particularly useful for capturing images from difficult positions or when filming video. The 5D Mark III lacks this feature, making the 60D more versatile in certain situations.

In terms of features, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is the better camera, mainly due to its larger screen size. This advantage enhances the user experience by providing a clearer and more comfortable view of images and menu options. However, the Canon EOS 60D does not fall far behind, as it offers the convenience of a flip screen, making it a suitable choice for those who require more flexibility when shooting. Both cameras lack modern connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which may be a drawback for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and the specific requirements of each photographer.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 60D Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III triumphs over the Canon EOS 60D in storage and battery, with a score of 76/100 compared to 45/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, using the same LP-E6 battery type, and lacking USB charging capabilities.

The 5D Mark III outperforms the 60D by offering two memory card slots, including compatibility with Compact Flash and UDMA cards. This provides greater storage flexibility and capacity for photographers. On the other hand, the 60D has a slight advantage in battery life, capable of capturing 1100 shots compared to the 5D Mark III’s 950 shots. However, this difference is not significant enough to outweigh the 5D Mark III’s superior storage options.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III proves to be the better camera in terms of storage and battery capabilities, despite the EOS 60D’s marginally longer battery life. The additional memory card slot and compatibility in the 5D Mark III make it a more versatile and practical choice for photographers.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 60D – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 60D Comparison image.

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 III or the Canon EOS 60D: