CameraReview
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
58
SCORE
Canon · DSLR · 21 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video

Canon EOS 5D Mark II

General 58Optics 59Video Performance 43Features and Benefits 54Storage and Battery 71
From $391.09 — 3 offers
KEY FACTS
BrandCanon
ModelEOS 5D Mark II
Released2008
Announcement date17/09/2008
Camera typeDSLR

General 58

Brand
Canon
Model
EOS 5D Mark II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2008
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
17/09/2008
Camera type
DSLR
Camera size
152 x 114 x 75 mm
Camera weight
850 g

Optics 59

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
21 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5616 x 3744
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
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
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full 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.
3.9 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 EF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 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.
3:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
10030200
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.
64003003280000
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.
5030200
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.
256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
3044080
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.
800080032000
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.
90300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
No
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)
Viewfinder dots
N/A
Read our notes on optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II receives a score of 56/100 for its general specifications. Announced on September 17, 2008, this DSLR camera was initially priced at $2199. Measuring 152 x 114 x 75mm and weighing 850g, the camera is fairly compact and lightweight for a DSLR. Although released over a decade ago, the 5D Mark II still offers decent features for photography enthusiasts. However, considering the advancements in camera technology, newer models surpass it in terms of performance and capabilities.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II receives an optics score of 59/100. Its specifications include 21 megapixels, a shooting speed of 3.9, a CMOS sensor type, a Digic 4 processor, a DXOMARK score of 79 for the sensor, a full-frame sensor size, a Canon EF lens mount, no image stabilization, and a 3:2 aspect ratio.

In today’s market, these specifications reveal certain limitations. For instance, the 21-megapixel resolution and the 3.9 shooting speed are lower compared to many modern cameras. The lack of image stabilization also presents challenges for handheld photography, especially in low light conditions.

Despite these limitations, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II still has a full-frame sensor and a Canon EF lens mount, offering compatibility with a wide range of high-quality lenses. This camera maintains a respectable position in the market, but newer models provide better optics and additional features for photographers seeking advanced performance.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Video Performance 43

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full 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.
1920 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.
30 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.
No
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
Read our notes on canon eos 5d mark ii video performance

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II has a video score of 43 out of 100. This camera offers Full HD video resolution with a maximum dimension of 1920 x 1080. The video frame rate peaks at 30fps, which is satisfactory for casual video shooting but may not be sufficient for professional videographers.

In today’s market, the 5D Mark II’s video capabilities lag behind more advanced cameras, which offer higher resolution, faster frame rates, and additional features. Notably, the 5D Mark II lacks built-in time-lapse functionality, a feature found in many modern cameras.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II’s video performance is acceptable for everyday use but falls short for those seeking top-notch video capabilities. While it was once a groundbreaking camera, it now struggles to compete with newer models offering more advanced video features.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Features and Benefits 54

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
No
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.
Yes
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Yes
Screen type
TFT LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
No
Screen size
3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
9200001150001500000
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.
No
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Yes
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No
Read our notes on canon eos 5d mark ii features and benefits

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II receives a feature score of 54 out of 100. The camera’s screen size measures 3 inches, with a resolution of 920,000 dots. However, the camera lacks a touchscreen and a flip screen, which are popular features in modern cameras. Additionally, the camera does not have GPS or Bluetooth capabilities, but it does include Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity.

Comparing these features to the current market, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II falls short in some aspects. Touchscreens and flip screens have become standard in many cameras, offering more convenience and versatility. The absence of GPS and Bluetooth may not be significant for some users, but it could limit the camera’s appeal to those who value seamless connectivity and geotagging.

Despite these shortcomings, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II still offers decent specifications, especially considering its Wi-Fi connectivity. However, potential buyers should consider the lack of touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and Bluetooth before making a decision.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Storage and Battery 71

Memory card
Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive
Dual memory card slots
No
Battery type
LP-E6
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
850 shots1505000
USB charging
No
Read our notes on canon eos 5d mark ii storage and battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II receives a storage and battery score of 37/100. The camera has a single memory card slot, accepting Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive cards. In today’s market, this limited storage capacity may not meet the needs of professional photographers who require multiple card slots for backup and increased storage.

Regarding battery life, the 5D Mark II offers 850 shots per charge with its LP-E6 battery type. However, USB charging is not available. Compared to modern cameras with longer battery life and convenient charging options, the 5D Mark II falls short in this aspect.

Thus, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II’s storage and battery specifications are not as competitive as current market offerings.