Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Comparison
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Sony a7 II
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS 5D Mark III | a7 II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2012 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 02, 2012 | November 20, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 II triumphs over the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in optics with a score of 78/100, outperforming the Canon by 10 points. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, a full-frame sensor size, and a similar shooting speed (Sony a7 II at 5fps and Canon 5D Mark III at 6fps). However, there are notable differences that give the Sony a7 II an edge in performance.
The Sony a7 II boasts a higher megapixel count at 24.2 compared to the Canon’s 22.3, resulting in better image resolution. Additionally, the Sony a7 II has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 90, while the Canon 5D Mark III only scores 81. This indicates the Sony a7 II captures better image quality in terms of color depth, dynamic range, and low-light performance. The Sony a7 II also features image stabilization, which the Canon 5D Mark III lacks, providing an advantage in reducing camera shake and producing sharper images.
On the other hand, the Canon 5D Mark III has a faster shooting speed of 6fps, compared to the Sony a7 II’s 5fps. This may be beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. The Canon also uses the EF lens mount, which offers a vast selection of lenses compatible with the camera.
Despite the Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s advantages in shooting speed and lens compatibility, the Sony a7 II’s higher score and superior specifications make it the better choice for optics performance. The improved image quality, resolution, and image stabilization features provide a more reliable and versatile camera for various photography needs.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Sony a7 II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 22.3 MP | 24.3 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 | 23.9 x 35.8 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 | 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 | Sony E | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic 5+ | Bionz X | |
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 | 50 | |
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 | 51,200 | |
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 | 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. | 61 | 117 | |
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) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 2,359,000 dots |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Video Performance
When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and the Sony a7 II, both cameras score equally, with a video score of 56 out of 100. This indicates that these cameras have similar video features and performance.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Sony a7 II share common video specifications. Both cameras have a maximum video resolution of Full HD, with video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, they both offer a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. Neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite having the same video score, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has some advantages over the Sony a7 II. The 5D Mark III is known for its excellent color reproduction and overall image quality in video mode. Its robust build and weather sealing make it a reliable choice for professional videographers who work in various environments.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 II also has its strengths. It is a lighter and more compact camera compared to the 5D Mark III, making it a more portable option for videographers on the go. Additionally, the a7 II features in-body image stabilization, which can be beneficial for handheld video shooting, as it helps to reduce camera shake and produce smoother footage.
In comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Sony a7 II, it is clear that both cameras offer similar performance and features. However, the 5D Mark III may be more suitable for professional videographers due to its build quality, while the a7 II could be a better option for those who prioritize portability and image stabilization.
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Video
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Sony a7 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 | XAVC S |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III triumphs over the Sony a7 II with a feature score of 59/100 to 57/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a lack of touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth. However, each camera has its own advantages.
The 5D Mark III excels with a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the a7 II’s 3 inches. Additionally, the 5D Mark III’s screen resolution is lower at 1,040,000 dots, whereas the a7 II boasts a higher resolution of 1,230,000 dots. Despite these differences, the Canon’s larger screen benefits users by providing a more comfortable viewing experience while composing shots and reviewing images.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 II offers a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity, which the Canon 5D Mark III lacks. These features enable greater flexibility in shooting angles and make it easier to transfer images to other devices without the need for cables. While these advantages may be appealing to some users, they do not outweigh the benefits of the 5D Mark III’s larger screen.
In comparing the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and the Sony a7 II, the former emerges as the winner due to its superior screen size. The a7 II’s higher screen resolution, flip screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity are valuable features, but they do not provide enough of an edge to surpass the 5D Mark III. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, with the Canon 5D Mark III offering a more comfortable viewing experience and the Sony a7 II providing additional flexibility and connectivity options.
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Features
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Sony a7 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 | 1,230,000 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 Sony a7 II Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Sony a7 II in storage and battery, scoring 76/100 compared to the Sony’s 35/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the Canon has two memory card slots while the Sony only has one. Additionally, the Canon accepts Compact Flash and UDMA cards, while the Sony is compatible with Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.
The Canon 5D Mark III’s battery life is significantly better, providing 950 shots per charge with its LP-E6 battery, while the Sony a7 II only offers 350 shots with its NP-FW50 battery.
In terms of storage and battery, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is the clear winner with more memory card slots, additional compatibility, and a longer battery life. The Sony a7 II falls short in these aspects, but its single memory card slot and compatibility with Memory Stick Duo cards may still be suitable for some users. The choice between these two cameras will ultimately depend on individual preferences and requirements.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Sony a7 II
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 950 shots | 350 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Sony a7 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 | 24.9 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 | 13.6 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 | 2449 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Sony a7 II
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 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 III or the Sony a7 II:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark III
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Sony a7 II
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B&H photo video |
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