Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7R II Comparison
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Sony a7R II
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS 5D Mark III | a7R II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2012 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 02, 2012 | June 10, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7R II outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a score of 70/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras share some similarities, such as being announced in the early 2010s and having a launch price above $3000.
The Sony a7R II excels with its compact size (127 x 96 x 60mm) and lighter weight (625g), making it more portable than the Canon EOS 5D Mark III (152 x 116 x 76mm, 950g). This mirrorless camera is also more recent, having been released in 2015, three years after the Canon model.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, a DSLR, is still a reliable camera despite its age and bigger size. It may offer some advantages in specific situations or for certain users.
Considering these specifications, the Sony a7R II stands out as the better option due to its compact design and more recent release. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III remains a viable choice for those who prefer DSLR cameras.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7R II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7R II outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in optics with a score of 81/100 compared to 67/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as full-frame CMOS sensors, which contribute to their high-quality image production. Additionally, they each utilize their respective lens mounts, with the Canon using the Canon EF mount and the Sony using the Sony FE mount.
The Sony a7R II surpasses the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in several aspects. With 42.4 megapixels, the Sony a7R II has almost double the resolution of the Canon’s 22.3 megapixels, resulting in more detailed and sharper images. The Sony a7R II also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 98, compared to the Canon’s 81, which indicates better overall image quality. Furthermore, the Sony a7R II has built-in image stabilization, a feature absent in the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. This helps reduce camera shake and contributes to sharper images, especially in low light situations.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second (fps) compared to the Sony a7R II’s 5 fps. This makes the Canon more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects like sports and wildlife.
In terms of optics, the Sony a7R II is the superior camera due to its higher resolution, better sensor score, and image stabilization. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III may be more suitable for photographers who prioritize capturing fast action. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
|
Optics
|
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
|
Sony a7R II
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 22.3 MP | 42.4 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
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 | 7952 x 5304 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 | 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 FE | |
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 | 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 | 25,600 | |
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/ 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 | 399 | |
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 | 2,359,296 dots |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7R II Video Performance
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III and the Sony a7R II have the same video score of 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as the lack of built-in time-lapse functionality. However, there are differences in their video capabilities that set them apart.
The Sony a7R II is superior in terms of video resolution and dimensions, as it can shoot 4K video at a maximum resolution of 3840 x 2160. This feature allows the Sony a7R II to capture more detail and produce higher quality video content compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, which can only shoot Full HD videos with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080. The higher video resolution of the Sony a7R II makes it more suitable for professional videographers and filmmakers who require the best possible video quality.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has an advantage in terms of video frame rate, as it can shoot at a maximum of 60 frames per second (fps), compared to the Sony a7R II’s maximum of 30fps. This higher frame rate allows the Canon EOS 5D Mark III to produce smoother video footage, which is especially useful for recording fast-moving subjects or capturing slow-motion footage.
Taking these factors into account, it is clear that the Sony a7R II has the edge in video resolution and dimensions, making it more suitable for users who prioritize video quality. Meanwhile, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s higher frame rate makes it a better choice for those who need smoother footage, such as sports or action videographers. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific video requirements and priorities of the user.
|
Video
|
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
|
Sony a7R II
|
|
|
|
|
||
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 HD |  4K | |
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 | 3840 x 2160 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 | 30 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 | XAVCS, AVCHD, MP4 |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7R II Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III edges out the Sony a7R II in the feature score comparison, scoring 59/100 points while the Sony a7R II scores 57/100 points. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the absence of a touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the Sony a7R II’s 3-inch screen. However, the Sony a7R II has a higher screen resolution of 1,228,800 dots, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III offers 1,040,000 dots.
The Sony a7R II surpasses the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in two aspects: the presence of a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity. The flip screen feature provides flexibility for shooting in different angles, while Wi-Fi connectivity allows for easy transfer of images and remote camera control.
In terms of features, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III wins by a slight margin due to its larger screen size. However, the Sony a7R II offers a higher screen resolution along with the added benefits of a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity. These additional features can be valuable for photographers who require flexibility in shooting angles and convenient image transfer options.
Considering the feature scores and specifications, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is slightly better in terms of overall features. However, the Sony a7R II provides useful additional features that may appeal to specific photography needs.
|
Features
|
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
|
Sony a7R II
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in 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 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 | 1,228,800 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 a7R II Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III triumphs over the Sony a7R II in storage and battery with a score of 76/100 to 16/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the 5D Mark III also supports Compact Flash and UDMA cards, while the a7R II is compatible with Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards. The 5D Mark III has a significant advantage with two memory card slots compared to the a7R II’s single slot.
In terms of battery life, the 5D Mark III outperforms the a7R II, offering 950 shots per charge compared to the a7R II’s 290 shots. Both cameras use different battery types; the 5D Mark III uses the LP-E6, and the a7R II uses the NP-FW50. Neither camera supports USB charging.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III provides better storage options and longer battery life, making it the superior choice in this category. The Sony a7R II falls short in these aspects, but its compatibility with Memory Stick cards may be a positive feature for some users.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
|
Sony a7R II
|
|
|
|
|
||
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-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 950 shots | 290 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
|
Sony a7R II
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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 | 26 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 | 13.9 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 | 3434 |
|
Scores
|
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
|
Sony a7R II
|
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7R 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 a7R II:
|
User Scores
|
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
|
Sony a7R II
|
|
B&H photo video |
|---|