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Canon EOS 5DS vs Pentax 645Z Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 5DS

canon eos 5ds
69%

Pentax 645Z

pentax 645z
Winner!
73%
Canon EOS 5DS
vs
Pentax 645Z
Price
Brand
Canon
Pentax
Model
EOS 5DS
645Z
Released
2015
2014
Announcement Date
February 06, 2015
April 15, 2014
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Pentax 645Z outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS with a score of 73/100 versus 69/100. Both cameras are DSLRs and were released in the mid-2010s, with the Canon EOS 5DS in 2015 and the Pentax 645Z in 2014. They share similarities in dimensions, with the Canon measuring 152 x 116 x 76mm and the Pentax at 156 x 117 x 123mm.

The Pentax 645Z excels with its higher score, but it comes at a significantly higher launch price of $8499 compared to the Canon’s $3700. However, the Canon EOS 5DS has the advantage of being lighter, weighing 930g (2.05lbs) against the Pentax’s 1550g (3.42lbs).

Taking into account the scores, price, and weight, the Pentax 645Z is the superior camera but at a higher cost, while the Canon EOS 5DS offers a more affordable and lightweight option.

Canon EOS 5DS vs Pentax 645Z Overview and Optics

The Pentax 645Z wins in optics with a score of 79/100, compared to the Canon EOS 5DS, which scores 73/100. Both cameras have CMOS sensors, processors, and lack image stabilisation. They also share similarities in megapixels, with the Pentax 645Z having 51.4 and the Canon EOS 5DS having 50.6.

The Pentax 645Z outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS with its medium format sensor size, which is larger than the full-frame sensor size of the Canon EOS 5DS. This larger sensor size contributes to the Pentax 645Z’s higher DXOMARK score of 101, compared to the Canon EOS 5DS’s score of 87. The Pentax 645Z also has a 4:3 aspect ratio, which is more versatile for various shooting scenarios than the Canon EOS 5DS’s 3:2 aspect ratio.

The Canon EOS 5DS has some advantages over the Pentax 645Z. It has a faster shooting speed of 5 frames per second, compared to the Pentax 645Z’s 3 frames per second. This makes the Canon EOS 5DS better for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the Canon EOS 5DS uses a dual Digic 6 processor, which ensures faster image processing than the Pentax 645Z’s Prime III processor.

To conclude, the Pentax 645Z is the superior camera in terms of optics, with a larger sensor size, higher DXOMARK score, and more versatile aspect ratio. However, the Canon EOS 5DS offers advantages in shooting speed and image processing, making it better for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Optics
Optics
73%
79%
Megapixels
50.6 MP
51.4 MP
Image Resolution
8688 x 5792 px
8256 x 6192 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 36 mm
32.8 x 43.8 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Medium Format
Frame Rate
5 fps
3 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF
Pentax 645AF2
Image Processor
Dual Digic 6
Prime III
Aspect Ratio
3:2
4:3
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
6,400
204,800
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
100
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
12
204800
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 4000 s
Autofocus Points
61
27
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Optical (pentaprism)

Canon EOS 5DS vs Pentax 645Z Video Performance

The Pentax 645Z outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS in video capabilities, with a 13-point difference in their video scores (70/100 for the 645Z and 57/100 for the 5DS). Both cameras share a few common video specifications, such as Full HD video resolution and 1920 x 1080 video dimensions. Additionally, both have time-lapse functionality built in, allowing users to create stunning time-lapse videos with ease.

The Pentax 645Z’s superior video performance stems from its higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the 5DS’s 30fps. This allows for smoother video playback and provides the option for slow-motion effects in post-production. The higher frame rate makes the 645Z more versatile for a range of video applications, from fast-paced action shots to capturing subtle movements in nature.

The Canon EOS 5DS, while lagging behind in video frame rate, still offers solid video capabilities. Its Full HD resolution and time-lapse functionality cater to the needs of many photographers looking to incorporate video into their work. However, it does not excel in this area compared to the 645Z.

Considering these factors, the Pentax 645Z emerges as the better choice for those prioritizing video capabilities. Its higher frame rate provides smoother footage and greater versatility for various video projects. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5DS remains a decent option for photographers who occasionally shoot video, but its lower video score and frame rate limit its potential in this aspect.

Video
Video
57%
70%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
30 p
60 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MOV, AVI

Canon EOS 5DS vs Pentax 645Z Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 5DS and the Pentax 645Z both scored 59 out of 100 in their feature comparison, indicating a tie in this category. They share several specifications, including a 3.2-inch screen size and the absence of a touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth. However, the Canon EOS 5DS has a marginally higher screen resolution at 1,040,000 dots, compared to the Pentax 645Z’s 1,037,000 dots.

The Pentax 645Z outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS in two key areas: it has a flip screen and built-in WiFi. The flip screen provides added flexibility for composing shots from various angles, while the WiFi functionality allows for easy image transfer and remote control of the camera using a compatible device.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5DS does not have any significant advantages over the Pentax 645Z, aside from the slightly higher screen resolution. This minor difference may not have a noticeable impact on the overall user experience or image quality.

Taking these factors into account, the Pentax 645Z emerges as the better choice due to its flip screen and WiFi capabilities, offering users more versatility and convenience. The Canon EOS 5DS, while having a marginally higher screen resolution, lacks these additional features and does not provide any significant advantage over its competitor. Therefore, the Pentax 645Z is the recommended choice for photographers seeking a camera with a strong feature set.

Features
Features
59%
59%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3.2"
Screen Resolution
1,040,000 dots
1,037,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS 5DS vs Pentax 645Z Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5DS and the Pentax 645Z both have a storage and battery score of 65/100. They share similarities in this category, including two memory card slots and compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. Both cameras lack USB charging capabilities.

The Canon EOS 5DS has a slight advantage in battery life, offering 700 shots per charge compared to the Pentax 645Z’s 650 shots. The 5DS uses an LP-E6 battery, while the 645Z uses a D-LI90 battery. Additionally, the 5DS accepts Compact Flash cards, making it more versatile in terms of storage options.

Although the Pentax 645Z has a marginally shorter battery life, it still provides a respectable 650 shots per charge. However, it does not accept Compact Flash cards, which may limit storage options for some users.

Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses in the storage and battery category. The Canon EOS 5DS offers slightly better battery life and more storage options, while the Pentax 645Z provides a decent battery life but lacks support for Compact Flash cards.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
65%
65%
Memory Card
SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Compact Flash
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E6
D-LI90
Battery Life
700 shots
650 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
87%
101%
Portrait (Color Depth)
24.7 bits
26 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
12.4 EVs
14.7 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2381
4505
Scores

Canon EOS 5DS vs Pentax 645Z – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5DS vs Pentax 645Z 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 5DS or the Pentax 645Z:

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