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Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 5D Mark III

canon eos 5d mark iii
65%

Sony a7 II

sony a7 ii
Winner!
68%
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
vs
Sony a7 II
Price
Brand
Canon
Sony
Model
EOS 5D Mark III
a7 II
Released
2012
2014
Announcement Date
March 02, 2012
November 20, 2014
Camera Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 II triumphs over the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in optics with a score of 78/100, outperforming the Canon by 10 points. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, a full-frame sensor size, and a similar shooting speed (Sony a7 II at 5fps and Canon 5D Mark III at 6fps). However, there are notable differences that give the Sony a7 II an edge in performance.

The Sony a7 II boasts a higher megapixel count at 24.2 compared to the Canon’s 22.3, resulting in better image resolution. Additionally, the Sony a7 II has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 90, while the Canon 5D Mark III only scores 81. This indicates the Sony a7 II captures better image quality in terms of color depth, dynamic range, and low-light performance. The Sony a7 II also features image stabilization, which the Canon 5D Mark III lacks, providing an advantage in reducing camera shake and producing sharper images.

On the other hand, the Canon 5D Mark III has a faster shooting speed of 6fps, compared to the Sony a7 II’s 5fps. This may be beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. The Canon also uses the EF lens mount, which offers a vast selection of lenses compatible with the camera.

Despite the Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s advantages in shooting speed and lens compatibility, the Sony a7 II’s higher score and superior specifications make it the better choice for optics performance. The improved image quality, resolution, and image stabilization features provide a more reliable and versatile camera for various photography needs.

Optics
Optics
67%
78%
Megapixels
22.3 MP
24.3 MP
Image Resolution
5760 x 3840 px
6000 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 36 mm
23.9 x 35.8 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
6 fps
5 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF
Sony E
Image Processor
Digic 5+
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
50
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
51,200
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
102400
51200
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
61
117
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
N/A
2,359,000 dots

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Video Performance

When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and the Sony a7 II, both cameras score equally, with a video score of 56 out of 100. This indicates that these cameras have similar video features and performance.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Sony a7 II share common video specifications. Both cameras have a maximum video resolution of Full HD, with video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, they both offer a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. Neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.

Despite having the same video score, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has some advantages over the Sony a7 II. The 5D Mark III is known for its excellent color reproduction and overall image quality in video mode. Its robust build and weather sealing make it a reliable choice for professional videographers who work in various environments.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 II also has its strengths. It is a lighter and more compact camera compared to the 5D Mark III, making it a more portable option for videographers on the go. Additionally, the a7 II features in-body image stabilization, which can be beneficial for handheld video shooting, as it helps to reduce camera shake and produce smoother footage.

In comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Sony a7 II, it is clear that both cameras offer similar performance and features. However, the 5D Mark III may be more suitable for professional videographers due to its build quality, while the a7 II could be a better option for those who prioritize portability and image stabilization.

Video
Video
56%
56%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
60 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
XAVC S

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III triumphs over the Sony a7 II with a feature score of 59/100 to 57/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a lack of touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth. However, each camera has its own advantages.

The 5D Mark III excels with a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the a7 II’s 3 inches. Additionally, the 5D Mark III’s screen resolution is lower at 1,040,000 dots, whereas the a7 II boasts a higher resolution of 1,230,000 dots. Despite these differences, the Canon’s larger screen benefits users by providing a more comfortable viewing experience while composing shots and reviewing images.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 II offers a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity, which the Canon 5D Mark III lacks. These features enable greater flexibility in shooting angles and make it easier to transfer images to other devices without the need for cables. While these advantages may be appealing to some users, they do not outweigh the benefits of the 5D Mark III’s larger screen.

In comparing the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and the Sony a7 II, the former emerges as the winner due to its superior screen size. The a7 II’s higher screen resolution, flip screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity are valuable features, but they do not provide enough of an edge to surpass the 5D Mark III. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, with the Canon 5D Mark III offering a more comfortable viewing experience and the Sony a7 II providing additional flexibility and connectivity options.

Features
Features
59%
57%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,040,000 dots
1,230,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Sony a7 II in storage and battery, scoring 76/100 compared to the Sony’s 35/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the Canon has two memory card slots while the Sony only has one. Additionally, the Canon accepts Compact Flash and UDMA cards, while the Sony is compatible with Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.

The Canon 5D Mark III’s battery life is significantly better, providing 950 shots per charge with its LP-E6 battery, while the Sony a7 II only offers 350 shots with its NP-FW50 battery.

In terms of storage and battery, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is the clear winner with more memory card slots, additional compatibility, and a longer battery life. The Sony a7 II falls short in these aspects, but its single memory card slot and compatibility with Memory Stick Duo cards may still be suitable for some users. The choice between these two cameras will ultimately depend on individual preferences and requirements.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
76%
35%
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
950 shots
350 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
81%
90%
Portrait (Color Depth)
24 bits
24.9 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
11.7 EVs
13.6 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2293
2449
Scores
Main Features
N/A
60%
Extra Features
N/A
40%
Construction and Durability
N/A
100%
Handling and Ergonomics
N/A
80%
Value for Money
N/A
75%
Total Score
N/A
67%

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Sony a7 II Comparison image.

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