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Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 III Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 5D Mark III

canon eos 5d mark iii
65%

Sony a7 III

Sony A7 III camera
Winner!
81%
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
vs
Sony a7 III
Price
Brand
Canon
Sony
Model
EOS 5D Mark III
a7 III
Released
2012
2018
Announcement Date
March 02, 2012
February 27, 2018
Camera Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a score of 80/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras share similarities such as their release years, 2018 and 2012 respectively, and their launch prices of $2000 and $3499. However, the Sony a7 III has the advantage of being a mirrorless camera, resulting in a smaller size (127 x 96 x 74mm) and lighter weight (650g) compared to the Canon 5D Mark III’s DSLR build (152 x 116 x 76mm) and heavier weight (950g).

The Canon 5D Mark III still holds its ground with its DSLR capabilities, providing a robust and reliable camera experience. However, the Sony a7 III’s higher score reflects its modern technology and compact design, making it a more attractive option for photographers today.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 III is the winner in terms of optics, with a score of 81/100 compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s 67/100. Both cameras have some similarities in their specifications. They both feature a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and are compatible with their respective lens mounts – Canon EF for the 5D Mark III and Sony FE for the a7 III.

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in several aspects. It has a higher megapixel count of 24.2 compared to the 5D Mark III’s 22.3, which results in better image resolution. The a7 III also has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, while the 5D Mark III manages 6 frames per second. The a7 III’s sensor has a DXOMARK score of 96, whereas the 5D Mark III’s sensor scores 81, indicating better overall sensor performance. Additionally, the Sony a7 III has image stabilization, which the Canon EOS 5D Mark III lacks.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III, however, has its advantages. Its Digic 5+ processor is known for its reliability and performance, although the Sony a7 III’s Bionz X processor is also highly regarded. The 5D Mark III also has an extensive range of Canon EF lenses available, providing more options for photographers.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 III is the superior camera in terms of optics due to its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, better sensor performance, and image stabilization. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III remains a strong option for those who prefer the Canon ecosystem and have invested in EF lenses.

Optics
Optics
67%
81%
Megapixels
22.3 MP
24.2 MP
Image Resolution
5760 x 3840 px
6000 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 36 mm
23.8 x 35.6 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
6 fps
10 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF
Sony FE
Image Processor
Digic 5+
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
51,200
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
102400
204800
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
61
693
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
N/A
2,359,296 dots

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 III Video Performance

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III and the Sony a7 III both have a video score of 56/100. Despite having the same score, these cameras have different video capabilities, which will appeal to different users depending on their needs.

Both cameras share some common video specifications. Neither of them has built-in time-lapse functionality, meaning users will need external accessories or software to achieve this effect. Additionally, both cameras can record Full HD videos, with the Canon 5D Mark III having a maximum video resolution of 1920 x 1080.

The Sony a7 III surpasses the Canon 5D Mark III in terms of video resolution, as it can record 4K videos with a maximum dimension of 3840 x 2160. This higher resolution allows for more detail and clarity in the videos, making it a better choice for those who prioritize video quality. However, the Sony a7 III has a maximum video frame rate of 30fps, which is lower than the Canon 5D Mark III’s 60fps.

The Canon 5D Mark III excels in its maximum video frame rate, offering 60fps compared to the Sony a7 III’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and is particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or creating slow-motion effects. However, the Canon 5D Mark III is limited to Full HD video resolution, which may not be sufficient for users who require 4K video quality.

In conclusion, the Sony a7 III is the better choice for users who prioritize video resolution, as it offers 4K video capabilities. On the other hand, the Canon 5D Mark III is more suitable for those who value higher frame rates for smoother video playback and slow-motion effects. Despite having the same video score, these cameras cater to different user preferences in terms of video capabilities.

Video
Video
56%
56%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
30 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
XAVC S, AVCHD

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in features, scoring 81/100 compared to the Canon’s 59/100. Both cameras lack GPS, but they differ in other aspects.

The Sony a7 III and Canon EOS 5D Mark III have screen sizes of 3 inches and 3.2 inches, respectively. The Canon has a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, while the Sony has 921,600 dots. However, the Sony a7 III boasts a touchscreen and flip screen, making it more versatile and user-friendly than the Canon EOS 5D Mark III.

Additionally, the Sony a7 III is equipped with WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for seamless connectivity and sharing options. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III lacks these features, limiting its functionality in today’s technology-driven world.

Despite its lower feature score, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has a larger screen and higher resolution, which some users may prefer for a more detailed view. However, this advantage does not outweigh the numerous benefits offered by the Sony a7 III.

Ultimately, the Sony a7 III has a clear advantage in features over the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, with a higher score, touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth capabilities. The Canon’s larger screen and higher resolution are not enough to surpass the Sony’s comprehensive feature set. When comparing these two cameras, the Sony a7 III is the superior choice in terms of features.

Features
Features
59%
81%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,040,000 dots
921,600 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 76, while the Sony a7 III scores 68. Both cameras have two memory card slots and do not support USB charging. The 5D Mark III accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC, Compact Flash, and UDMA cards, whereas the a7 III takes SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.

The 5D Mark III outperforms the a7 III in battery life, offering 950 shots compared to the a7 III’s 750 shots. The 5D Mark III uses an LP-E6 battery, while the a7 III uses an NP-FZ100 battery. The a7 III does not have any notable advantages in storage and battery over the 5D Mark III.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s superior battery life and compatibility with a wider range of memory cards make it the better choice in terms of storage and battery performance. The Sony a7 III falls short in this area, offering fewer shots per charge and limited memory card options.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
76%
81%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E6
NP-FZ100
Battery Life
950 shots
750 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
81%
96%
Portrait (Color Depth)
24 bits
25.1 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
11.7 EVs
14.7 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2293
3722
Scores
Main Features
N/A
84%
Extra Features
N/A
72%
Construction and Durability
N/A
67%
Handling and Ergonomics
N/A
67%
Value for Money
N/A
110%
Total Score
N/A
81%

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 III – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 III Comparison image.

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