Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 6D Mark II Comparison
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS 5D Mark III | EOS 6D Mark II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2012 | 2017 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 02, 2012 | June 29, 2017 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II takes the lead with a score of 71/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III trails behind with a score of 65/100. Both cameras are DSLRs and were launched at different times – the 5D Mark III in 2012 and the 6D Mark II in 2017. They share similarities in size, with the 6D Mark II being slightly smaller and significantly lighter, weighing only 1.00lbs compared to the 5D Mark III at 2.09lbs.
The 6D Mark II excels with its more recent release and lower launch price of $2000, compared to the 5D Mark III’s $3499. The 5D Mark III, however, has a higher weight, which can be a preference for some photographers looking for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the 6D Mark II offers better value and a more compact design, while the 5D Mark III may appeal to those who prefer a heavier camera.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 6D Mark II Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II edges out the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in the optics department with a score of 69/100 compared to 67/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a full-frame CMOS sensor, Canon EF lens mount, and a lack of image stabilization.
The 6D Mark II’s higher score is due to its superior megapixel count and shooting speed. With 26.2 megapixels, it captures more detail than the 5D Mark III, which has 22.3 megapixels. Additionally, the 6D Mark II has a faster shooting speed at 6.5 frames per second compared to the 5D Mark III’s 6 frames per second. The 6D Mark II also boasts a better processor, the DIGIC 7, which contributes to its improved image quality and speed.
The 5D Mark III, however, has its own advantages. It features a DIGIC 5+ processor, which, while not as advanced as the DIGIC 7, still delivers reliable performance. The 5D Mark III’s DXOMARK sensor score of 81 is only slightly lower than the 6D Mark II’s 85, indicating that the difference in image quality between the two cameras may not be drastic.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is the better camera in terms of optics. Its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and more advanced processor give it an edge over the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. While the 5D Mark III remains a competent camera, the 6D Mark II’s improvements make it the superior choice for those prioritizing optical performance.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 22.3 MP | 26.2 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. | 5760 x 3840 px | 6240 x 4160 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 | 24 x 35.9 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 6 fps | 6.5 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 | |
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 7 | |
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. | 25,600 | 40,000 | |
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 | 50 | |
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. | 102400 | 102400 | |
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/ 4000 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. | 61 | 45 | |
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 III vs EOS 6D Mark II Video Performance
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II takes the lead in video capabilities with a score of 57/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III trails closely behind with a score of 56/100. Both cameras feature Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, the similarities in their video specifications end here.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the 6D Mark II in terms of maximum video frame rate, offering 60fps compared to the 6D Mark II’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and is especially beneficial when capturing fast-moving subjects or creating slow-motion footage.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II boasts a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the 5D Mark III lacks. This feature enables users to easily capture time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software, making it a more convenient option for those interested in this type of videography.
While the Canon EOS 5D Mark III offers a higher video frame rate, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II’s built-in time-lapse functionality makes it the winner in terms of video capabilities. The 6D Mark II’s additional feature provides an advantage for users looking to create time-lapse videos without extra hassle. However, for those prioritizing smooth playback and slow-motion footage, the 5D Mark III’s higher frame rate might be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras for video capabilities will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences.
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Video
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 6D 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. | 60 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 | MP4, MOV |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 6D Mark II Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II emerges as the winner in the features category with a score of 83/100, significantly outperforming the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, which scored 59/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as a 3-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots. However, the 6D Mark II surpasses the 5D Mark III in various aspects, making it the superior choice in terms of features.
The 6D Mark II offers a touchscreen, enabling users to navigate menus and settings with ease, while the 5D Mark III lacks this functionality. Additionally, the 6D Mark II provides a flip screen, allowing users to capture images from different angles and perspectives more conveniently. In terms of connectivity, the 6D Mark II comes equipped with GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities, ensuring seamless sharing and transfer of images, whereas the 5D Mark III does not include these features.
The 5D Mark III does not offer any advantages over the 6D Mark II in the features category. As a result, the 6D Mark II is the clear winner in this comparison, providing users with a more versatile and user-friendly experience. The inclusion of a touchscreen, flip screen, and multiple connectivity options make the 6D Mark II the better choice for photographers seeking advanced functionality and ease of use in their camera.
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Features
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 6D 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 |  3.2" |  3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,040,000 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 III vs EOS 6D Mark II Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III triumphs over the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in the storage and battery category, scoring 76 points against 45. Both cameras share common specifications, including the use of SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and the absence of USB charging capabilities. However, the 5D Mark III offers two memory card slots and accepts Compact Flash and UDMA cards, providing more storage options than the 6D Mark II, which has only one memory card slot.
In terms of battery life, the 6D Mark II outperforms the 5D Mark III with 1200 shots per charge compared to 950 shots, using the LP-E6N battery type. Despite this advantage, the overall superiority in storage options and compatibility makes the 5D Mark III a more versatile choice for photographers.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | |
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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. | 950 shots | 1,200 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 6D 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.' | 24 bits | 24.4 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.' | 11.7 EVs | 11.9 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' | 2293 | 2862 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 6D Mark II Alternatives
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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