Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
Canon · DSLR · 20.1 MP · Full Frame · 4K video

Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
Independent Lab Scores
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Canon |
| Model | EOS 1D X Mark III |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 7, 2020 |
| Camera type | |
| Camera size | 158 x 168 x 83 mm |
| Camera weight | 738 g |
Optics74/100 | |
About the OpticsDespite being a 2020 release, the EOS 1D X Mark III holds its ground among newer models, offering an impressive set of features and specifications for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. Canon EOS 1D X Mark III Overview and OpticsThe Canon EOS 1D X Mark III receives a score of 74/100 for its optics. This camera features a 20.1-megapixel CMOS sensor paired with a powerful Digic X processor. The full-frame sensor has a DXOMARK score of 91 and an aspect ratio of 3:2. Despite its high-quality specifications, it does not include image stabilisation. Equipped with a Canon EF lens mount, the 1D X Mark III has a shooting speed of 20 frames per second. This makes it a strong contender in the professional photography market, particularly for action and sports photographers. However, the absence of image stabilisation may be a disadvantage for some users. The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III boasts impressive optics specifications, making it a competitive choice in today’s market. However, the lack of image stabilisation may deter some photographers from selecting this camera. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.1 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5472 x 3648 |
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. | |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 20 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 X |
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. | |
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. | 1024003003280000 |
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. | 8192003003280000 |
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. | 1910300 |
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 |
Video91/100 | |
About the VideoThe Canon EOS 1D X Mark III receives a video score of 91/100, showcasing its impressive video capabilities. The camera offers a maximum video resolution of 4K, providing exceptionally clear and detailed footage. With dimensions of 4096 x 2160, the camera captures high-quality visuals, ensuring a professional output. The camera’s maximum video frame rate is 120fps, allowing for smooth and dynamic videos. This high frame rate is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects or creating stunning slow-motion effects. Additionally, the built-in time-lapse functionality enables users to create captivating time-lapse videos with ease. The video capabilities of the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III stand up well in today’s market, making it a top choice for videographers and enthusiasts alike. Its high-resolution 4K video, fast frame rate, and time-lapse functionality combine to deliver a powerful and versatile camera suitable for various video projects. | |
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. | |
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. | 4096 x 2160 |
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. | 120 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. | MPEG-4, MOV |
Features74/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Canon EOS 1D X Mark III has a feature score of 74/100. With a 3.2-inch screen size and a resolution of 2,100,000 dots, the camera offers a sharp and clear display. The touchscreen functionality enhances user experience, making it easier to navigate menus and adjust settings. However, the absence of a flip screen may limit its versatility in certain shooting situations. The camera is equipped with GPS, allowing users to geotag images and track their shooting locations. Additionally, the presence of WiFi enables wireless image transfer and remote shooting, simplifying the workflow for professional photographers. On the other hand, the lack of Bluetooth connectivity may be a drawback for some users. Considering the features and specifications, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III is a strong contender in today’s market, offering advanced capabilities for professional photographers. Despite some limitations, the camera’s features cater to the needs of its target audience and ensure a reliable performance. | |
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. | |
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 | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 21000001150001500000 |
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. | |
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. | No |
Storage & Battery87/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe Canon EOS 1D X Mark III achieves an impressive storage and battery score of 87/100. This camera offers dual memory card slots, both accepting CFexpress Type B cards, providing ample storage for high-resolution images and videos. In today’s market, the use of CFexpress Type B cards ensures fast performance and efficient storage management. Equipped with an LP-E19 battery, the camera boasts a remarkable battery life of 2850 shots, placing it among the top-performing DSLRs in terms of endurance. However, the absence of USB charging may limit its convenience for on-the-go photographers requiring frequent recharging. To conclude, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III excels in storage and battery performance, making it a reliable and powerful choice for professional photographers. | |
| Memory card | CFexpress Type B |
| Dual memory card slots | |
| Battery type | LP-E19 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 2850 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | No |