Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 80D Comparison
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Canon EOS 80D
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Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS 5D Mark III | EOS 80D | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2012 | 2016 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 02, 2012 | February 18, 2016 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III narrowly outperforms the Canon EOS 80D with a score of 65/100 compared to 64/100. Both cameras are DSLRs and share similar specifications. However, the 5D Mark III has its advantages, such as being released in 2012 with a launch price of $3499, showcasing its premium quality. Its dimensions are 152 x 116 x 76mm, and it weighs 950g (2.09lbs).
On the other hand, the EOS 80D was released in 2016 with a more affordable launch price of $1200. It is slightly smaller and lighter, with dimensions of 139 x 105 x 79mm and a weight of 730g (1.61lbs). Despite the close scores, the 5D Mark III’s higher score reflects its superior performance, while the 80D offers a more budget-friendly option with a compact design.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 80D Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III wins the optics comparison with a score of 67/100, while the Canon EOS 80D scores 63/100. Both cameras share some common specifications: they both have a CMOS sensor, a Canon EF lens mount, and no image stabilization. However, the 5D Mark III has a few advantages over the 80D that contribute to its higher score.
The 5D Mark III has a full-frame sensor, which is larger than the APS-C sensor found in the 80D. This larger sensor allows the 5D Mark III to capture more light, resulting in better image quality and improved low-light performance. Additionally, the 5D Mark III has a higher DXOMARK score of 81 for its sensor, compared to the 80D’s score of 79.
The 5D Mark III also features a Digic 5+ processor, which is a slightly more advanced version than the Digic 6 processor found in the 80D. This difference in processors may contribute to the 5D Mark III’s better image quality and overall performance.
On the other hand, the 80D has a higher megapixel count (24.2) than the 5D Mark III (22.3). This means that the 80D can capture more detail in images, which can be an advantage for certain types of photography, such as landscapes or architecture. The 80D also has a faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second, compared to the 5D Mark III’s 6 frames per second. This could be beneficial for action or sports photography.
Despite the 80D’s advantages in megapixel count and shooting speed, the 5D Mark III’s larger sensor, better low-light performance, and more advanced processor make it the winner in this optics comparison.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 80D
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 22.3 MP | 24.2 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 | 6000 x 4000 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 22.5 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. | 6 fps | 7 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 5+ | 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. | 25,600 | 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. | 102400 | 25600 | |
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. | 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 80D Video Performance
The Canon EOS 80D is the winner in video capabilities, scoring 70/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III scores 56/100. This 14-point difference shows that the EOS 80D has a more advanced video feature set compared to the 5D Mark III.
Both cameras share some common specifications, such as Full HD (1920 x 1080) maximum video resolution and 60fps maximum video frame rate. However, the EOS 80D possesses a key advantage: built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software, making it more convenient for videographers.
Despite the EOS 5D Mark III’s lower video score, it still offers reliable Full HD video recording at 60fps. This makes it suitable for capturing high-quality footage in various scenarios. However, its lack of built-in time-lapse functionality may be a drawback for some users who require this feature for their projects.
Comparing the two cameras, the Canon EOS 80D is superior in terms of video capabilities due to its higher score and built-in time-lapse functionality. This makes it an ideal choice for videographers who prioritize convenience and advanced features. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III remains a viable option for those who can overlook the absence of time-lapse functionality and still want a camera with solid video performance. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the user.
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Video
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 80D
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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 | MOV, MP4 |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 80D Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 80D emerges as the winner in the features category with a score of 70 out of 100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III trails behind at 59 points. Both cameras share some common specifications such as screen resolution, which is 1040000 dots, and the absence of GPS and Bluetooth features.
The EOS 80D outperforms the 5D Mark III in several aspects. It boasts a touchscreen, allowing users to navigate menus and settings with ease. Additionally, the 80D has a flip screen, providing flexibility while shooting from different angles or capturing self-portraits. The inclusion of Wi-Fi in the 80D is another advantage, as it enables seamless image transfer and remote control via a smartphone.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark III has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the 3-inch screen of the 80D. However, this does not make a significant difference in the overall user experience as both cameras have the same screen resolution.
In terms of features, the Canon EOS 80D is a better choice due to its touchscreen, flip screen, and Wi-Fi capabilities. These added features enhance the user experience and provide added convenience for photographers. The 5D Mark III falls short in this comparison, with its only advantage being a slightly larger screen. However, this does not outweigh the benefits offered by the 80D. Therefore, the Canon EOS 80D is the superior choice when considering features.
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Features
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 80D
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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 80D Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Canon EOS 80D in storage and battery, scoring 76/100 compared to the 80D’s 43/100. Both cameras share similarities such as accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and lacking USB charging capabilities. However, the 5D Mark III has two memory card slots, compared to the 80D’s single slot, and also accepts Compact Flash and UDMA cards. This additional storage capacity makes the 5D Mark III superior in this aspect.
In terms of battery life, the 80D does have a slight edge, offering 960 shots compared to the 5D Mark III’s 950 shots. Both cameras use similar battery types, with the 5D Mark III using the LP-E6 and the 80D using the LP-E6N. Despite the 80D’s marginally better battery life, the 5D Mark III’s overall storage and battery capabilities make it the stronger choice between the two.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 80D
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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 | 960 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 80D
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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 | 23.6 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 | 13.2 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 | 1135 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 80D
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs EOS 80D – 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 III or the Canon EOS 80D:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Canon EOS 80D
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B&H photo video |
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