CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D vs Canon EOS 5D Mark II — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS 5D
Canon
Canon EOS 5D
DSLR · 12.7 MP · Full Frame
40
SCORE
$299.99
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✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
DSLR · 21 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
58
SCORE
$391.09
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General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS 5DEOS 5D Mark II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20052008
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
22/08/200517/09/2008
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 152 x 113 x 75 mm152 x 114 x 75 mm
Camera weight 895 g850 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.7 MP05021 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4368 x 29125616 x 3744
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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 3624 x 36
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
3 fps0453.9 fps045
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 EFCanon EF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic IIDigic 4
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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
1600300328000064003003280000
Min 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.
100302005030200
Max 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.
32003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
800080032000800080032000
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.
9030090300
In-body stabilisation
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)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
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.
N/AFull HD
Max video format
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.
N/A1920 x 1080
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.
N/A30 fps
Timelapse 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.
N/AMOV
Features
Builtin 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 LCDTFT 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 2.5"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
23000011500015000009200001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card Compact Flash (Type I or II)Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive
Dual memory card slots
Battery type BP-511ALP-E6
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
400 shots1505000850 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 5D with a score of 58/100 compared to 40/100. Both cameras are DSLRs and share similar dimensions, with sizes of 152 x 113 x 75mm for the 5D and 152 x 114 x 75mm for the 5D Mark II. The 5D Mark II, released in 2008, is an improved version of the 5D which was launched in 2005. The 5D Mark II costs slightly more, with a launch price of $2199 compared to the 5D’s $2000.

The 5D Mark II’s higher score indicates its superior performance with features like a lighter weight of 850g, making it easier to handle than the 5D which weighs 895g. However, the 5D may still be preferred by some due to its lower price. Ultimately, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II offers better specs, making it the winner in this comparison.

Canon EOS 5D vs EOS 5D Mark II Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the winner in optics with a score of 59/100, while the Canon EOS 5D trails behind with a score of 46/100. Both cameras share some similarities in their specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, Canon EF lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.

The 5D Mark II’s superiority is evident in its higher megapixel count of 21, compared to the 5D’s 12.7. This results in better image resolution and detail. The 5D Mark II also has a more advanced processor – the Digic 4, compared to the 5D’s Digic II. This allows for faster processing and improved image quality. The 5D Mark II’s shooting speed is slightly higher at 3.9, compared to the 5D’s 3, which may be beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects. Furthermore, the 5D Mark II has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 79, compared to the 5D’s 71, indicating better overall image quality and performance.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D does not have any clear advantages in optics over the 5D Mark II. The lower score of 46/100 reflects its inferior performance in terms of image resolution, processor, and sensor quality.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the clear winner in terms of optics. Its higher megapixel count, advanced processor, and superior sensor quality make it a better choice for those seeking improved image quality and performance. The Canon EOS 5D, with its lower score, is not as competitive in this aspect, and may be more suitable for those prioritizing other features or seeking a lower-cost option.

Canon EOS 5D vs EOS 5D Mark II Video Performance

When it comes to video capabilities, the Canon EOS 5D does not have any video functionality. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II offers video recording, with a video score of 43 out of 100.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II records Full HD video, providing a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080. This camera allows users to capture video at a maximum frame rate of 30 frames per second. However, it is worth noting that the Canon EOS 5D Mark II does not have built-in time-lapse functionality.

Taking into account the video capabilities, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the clear choice for users who require video recording features. The lack of video functionality in the Canon EOS 5D may not be suitable for those looking to capture both still images and video content.

Canon EOS 5D vs EOS 5D Mark II Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II surpasses the Canon EOS 5D with a feature score of 54/100, while the 5D only reaches 30/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including the absence of a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and Bluetooth. They both, however, provide Wi-Fi connectivity.

The 5D Mark II offers a larger screen size of 3 inches, compared to the 2.5-inch screen on the 5D. Moreover, the 5D Mark II boasts a significantly higher screen resolution of 920,000 dots, providing a clearer and more detailed display than the 5D’s 230,000 dots. These improvements in screen size and resolution contribute to the 5D Mark II’s higher feature score.

As for the 5D, it does not possess any specific advantages over the 5D Mark II in terms of features, as they both lack the same specifications. The only difference is the lower feature score, which puts the 5D at a disadvantage when compared to the 5D Mark II.

Considering the larger screen size and higher resolution of the 5D Mark II, it is the superior camera in terms of features. The Canon EOS 5D, with its smaller screen size and lower resolution, fails to match up to the higher standards set by the 5D Mark II. Thus, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the clear winner in this comparison, offering better display quality and an overall improved user experience.

Canon EOS 5D vs EOS 5D Mark II Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 71/100, while the Canon EOS 5D scores 24/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as accepting Compact Flash (Type I or II) memory cards and lacking USB charging capabilities.

The 5D Mark II outperforms the 5D in several aspects. It has two memory card slots, allowing for more storage and flexibility, and accepts additional card types like UDMA and Microdrive. The Mark II also boasts a longer battery life, capable of capturing 850 shots with its LP-E6 battery, compared to the 5D’s 400 shots using a BP-511A battery.

Though the Canon EOS 5D falls short in this comparison, it still provides a decent battery life and memory card compatibility for casual photographers. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II clearly stands out as the superior choice in terms of storage and battery life, making it a more reliable option for professional photography and extended shooting sessions.

Canon EOS 5D vs EOS 5D Mark II – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D vs EOS 5D Mark II Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 5D or the Canon EOS 5D Mark II: