AF Speeds on Different Canon EOS Bodies

[PhotoShine]

Hi,

What contributes to the EOS bodies speed and accuracy when focusing (all with same lens)?

What are the differences between:

• Rebels
• 60D (similar to this)
• 7D
• 5D Series
• 1D Series

-PhotoShine

[koolman]

Auto focus accuracy is a function of the equipment + user skill. This means using good light, and a high contrast area for the focus to lock - as apposed to something with a solid color and no pattern.

[neuroanatomist]

Lots of variables, so there no consistent way to rank them.  Using a cross-type point can mean faster acquisition. An f/2.8 point is more accurate than an f/5.6 point. Newer bodies and/or higher-end may have better AF algorithms and/or faster AF chips, meaning faster acquisition.

One thing that is definitive is that the 1-series bodies focus faster - they use a battery with a higher voltage, and that drives the lens' AF motor faster.

[rs]

Single shot AF, central focus point, they're all accurate (AFMA which is missing from the bottom end of your list does come in handy though), and the speed even on a rebel is far from unusable. The real difference becomes apparent using the outside points, and/or in servo mode. That's where the bodies with better AF such as the 7D, 5D3 and especially the 1D X comes into play.

[Mt Spokane Photography]

There is some evidence that the new bodies like the 5D MK III focus more accurately and consistently, at least with the center point (with some of the newer lenses).  Certainly, FoCal users find it more consistent than a 5D MK II.
No one knows exactly why that is.
http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2012/07/autofocus-reality-part-ii-1-vs-2-and-old-vs-new

[nightbreath]

There is some evidence that the new bodies like the 5D MK III focus more accurately and consistently, at least with the center point (with some of the newer lenses).  Certainly, FoCal users find it more consistent than a 5D MK II.
No one knows exactly why that is.
http://www.lensrentals.com/blog/2012/07/autofocus-reality-part-ii-1-vs-2-and-old-vs-new

I think I read somwhere there's a new focusing mechanism in the new bodies that also requires support from the lens side. And relatively new lenses already have this thing implemented. Can someone confirm that?