Canon EOS 5D Mark II Specs and Scores
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General
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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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. | September 17, 2008 |
Camera Type |  DSLR |
Camera Size | |
Camera Weight |
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.
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Optics
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 21 MP |
Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5616 x 3744 px |
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 mm |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  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. | 3.9 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 |
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 |
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 |
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. | 6,400 |
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 |
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. | 25600 |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 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 |
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. | 9 |
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) |
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.
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Video
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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 |
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 |
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 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 |
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.
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Features
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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 |
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" |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 920,000 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 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.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive |
Dual Memory Card Slots |  |
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 shots |
USB Charging |  |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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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.' | 23.7 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.' | 11.9 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' | 1815 |
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Scores
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User Scores
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B&H photo video |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II Alternatives
Do you want to know how the Canon EOS 5D Mark II compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:
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- Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 6D Mark II
Canon EOS 5D Mark II FAQ
Does the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Have Built-in Image Stabilization?
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II does not have built-in image stabilization. However, it can utilize lenses with built-in image stabilization to help reduce camera shake and improve image quality.
Does the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Support 4K Video Recording?
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II does not support 4K video recording. Its maximum video resolution is Full HD 1080p, which still provides high-quality footage for various purposes.
What Size Sensor Does The Canon EOS 5D Mark II Have?
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II features a full-frame 35mm sensor, which provides excellent image quality, low light performance, and a wide dynamic range.
Does the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?
No, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II has a single memory card slot that supports CompactFlash cards. This may limit storage capacity and backup options for some users.
Does the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Have a Touch Screen?
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II does not have a touch screen. Users will need to navigate through menus and settings using physical buttons and dials on the camera body.
Does the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II has built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer and remote control, but it does not have Bluetooth connectivity.
Does the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Have GPS?
No, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II does not have built-in GPS functionality. Users will need to add GPS information manually or use an external GPS device for geotagging purposes.
Is the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Weather Sealed?
Yes, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II features weather sealing, providing protection against dust and moisture. This allows photographers to use the camera in various environmental conditions with confidence.
Does the Canon EOS 5D Mark II Have a Built-in Flash?
No, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II does not have a built-in flash. Users will need to utilize an external flash or other lighting sources for low light or creative photography.