5d3 Vs 5d4

[Mars1954]

As a wedding photographer and real estate photographer I own 2 5D Mark III's and 1 5 D Mark IV I loved the upgrade from the Mark II to the Mark III several years ago but I will say this once I started using the Mark IV I never go back to MarkIII's any more I love how you can bring out the shadows in post and control the highlights much better among other things I am going to sell one of my Mark III's soon to purchase anther MarkIV so at weddings we are using nothing but MarkIV's and my other Mark III would be solely a back up.

 

[Quirkz]

I know you mentioned full frame and low light as important, but....

Go play with a EOS m5. It's very light and compact in comparison with decent low light for aps c. I got one recently and am impressed. I love my 5d4, but you'd only call it a light travel camera in comparison to a 1dx....

If low light and smaller size are critical, then a sony a7s with a wide prime is a reasonable option, but the ecosystem is expensive to buy in to. I got one with a 0.95 50mm manual focus. Gorgeous low light, but I ended up hardly taking it on trips. Not so much lighter, and I didn't want to spend more money on making it versatile with a couple of zooms - which were just as large as my canon ones anyway.

In summary, 5d4 is not going to make much a difference in your backpack after you pack a couple decent lenses. An m5 will, and might be good enough for you.

 

[sanj]

I know you mentioned full frame and low light as important, but....

Go play with a EOS m5. It's very light and compact in comparison with decent low light for aps c. I got one recently and am impressed. I love my 5d4, but you'd only call it a light travel camera in comparison to a 1dx....

If low light and smaller size are critical, then a sony a7s with a wide prime is a reasonable option, but the ecosystem is expensive to buy in to. I got one with a 0.95 50mm manual focus. Gorgeous low light, but I ended up hardly taking it on trips. Not so much lighter, and I didn't want to spend more money on making it versatile with a couple of zooms - which were just as large as my canon ones anyway.

In summary, 5d4 is not going to make much a difference in your backpack after you pack a couple decent lenses. An m5 will, and might be good enough for you.

I was confused to begin with. Now you confuse me more!!! ;D
If I was to buy the smaller sensor then it would be Fuji XT2. The lenses available are better....

 

[Quirkz]

I was confused to begin with. Now you confuse me more!!! ;D
If I was to buy the smaller sensor then it would be Fuji XT2. The lenses available are better....

Sorry :

Just ask yourself and think really carefully, why is the 1dx too big, what size do you want it, and how many lenses do you want to carry.

I love my 5d4, but it's not going to save you space unless you limit yourself to a single moderate zoom like a 24-70 2.8

If you want smaller than that you have to sacrifice some lowlight and go aps-c. But I think you know this, you're just reluctant to make that call . Fuji is also a great option vs the EOS m5, though with the m5 you can carry some of your existing smaller canon primes with the adapter.

For me, it's always the lenses that weigh down my backpack

If it's NOT about the weight of your bags, but about carrying around a less intimidating 'pro' camera than the 1dx, then the 5d4 will serve. That's why I chose the 5d4 instead of 1dx2 when refreshing recently.

Only you know which answer is right for you another fun option is a fixed lens 35mm equivalent Fuji. They're really pocketable and force you to think creatively.

Good luck!

 

[tomscott]

I have no experience with the 5DMKIV.

I did have a very high milage 5DMKIII that I loved. Took it round the world in some of the most inhospitable environments, hundreds of weddings and motorsport events. Unfortunately my house was burgled and the camera was stolen with a 100mm L macro.

Ive been struggling to decide on a replacement with the decision between a III IV or an SR.

The III is such a good camera, love the files and the file size but have hit the wall of the DR a couple of times mostly in Landscape and dark wedding environments where you can't illuminate everything. What I do have experience with is I the 7DMKII.

After the original reviews I thought the 7DMKII was a lacklustre update. But I wanted a little more FPS and focal length for wildlife. So I took the 5DMKIII 7DMKII 100-400mm 24-105mm and 16-35mm F2.8 traveling, quite weighty but traveled around 100,000 miles and didn't really find it difficult.

The 7DMKII seemed a logical choice and although it is a crop camera the files even at high ISO are impressive I think. I shot gorillas in between 1600-6400ISO in the jungles of Uganda and got some fantastic images and for a crop camera incredible results. Obviously the crop sensors don't have the magical look and feel of full frame but impressive so much so that the 5DMKIII started to get left in the bag.

What I didn't expect was how it feels so much more responsive and a joy to use just the small things like the viewfinder, AF selection dial, GPS, Dual pixel AF etc makes the day to day use such a pleasure and tbh the MKIII did feel a little old in that respect.

Im sure the 5DMKIV would feel a very similar in terms of all the little updates actually becoming a much better all round camera.

But a low milage <20k 5DMKIII is around £1400 and a new IV is £3500 and a low milage SR is around £2000.

Struggling to justify the cost to myself although I know I will love it, I just have a feeling that there will be a sharp price decrease like the 5DMKIII after around a year. Its not overly inspiring compared to some of the competition but they just work so well. Difficult one that I can't quite decide on! Watching reviews some think its amazing others think lacklustre.

 

[sanj]

I have no experience with the 5DMKIV.

I did have a very high milage 5DMKIII that I loved. Took it round the world in some of the most inhospitable environments, hundreds of weddings and motorsport events. Unfortunately my house was burgled and the camera was stolen with a 100mm L macro.

Ive been struggling to decide on a replacement with the decision between a III IV or an SR.

The III is such a good camera, love the files and the file size but have hit the wall of the DR a couple of times mostly in Landscape and dark wedding environments where you can't illuminate everything. What I do have experience with is I the 7DMKII.

After the original reviews I thought the 7DMKII was a lacklustre update. But I wanted a little more FPS and focal length for wildlife. So I took the 5DMKIII 7DMKII 100-400mm 24-105mm and 16-35mm F2.8 traveling, quite weighty but traveled around 100,000 miles and didn't really find it difficult.

The 7DMKII seemed a logical choice and although it is a crop camera the files even at high ISO are impressive I think. I shot gorillas in between 1600-6400ISO in the jungles of Uganda and got some fantastic images and for a crop camera incredible results. Obviously the crop sensors don't have the magical look and feel of full frame but impressive so much so that the 5DMKIII started to get left in the bag.

What I didn't expect was how it feels so much more responsive and a joy to use just the small things like the viewfinder, AF selection dial, GPS, Dual pixel AF etc makes the day to day use such a pleasure and tbh the MKIII did feel a little old in that respect.

Im sure the 5DMKIV would feel a very similar in terms of all the little updates actually becoming a much better all round camera.

But a low milage <20k 5DMKIII is around £1400 and a new IV is £3500 and a low milage SR is around £2000.

Struggling to justify the cost to myself although I know I will love it, I just have a feeling that there will be a sharp price decrease like the 5DMKIII after around a year. Its not overly inspiring compared to some of the competition but they just work so well. Difficult one that I can't quite decide on! Watching reviews some think its amazing others think lacklustre.

I used the 7D1 for a bit. Did not like the IQ so got rid of it. So many things you thinking, I keep thinking too.

 

[sanj]

I was confused to begin with. Now you confuse me more!!! ;D
If I was to buy the smaller sensor then it would be Fuji XT2. The lenses available are better....

Sorry :

Just ask yourself and think really carefully, why is the 1dx too big, what size do you want it, and how many lenses do you want to carry.

I love my 5d4, but it's not going to save you space unless you limit yourself to a single moderate zoom like a 24-70 2.8

If you want smaller than that you have to sacrifice some lowlight and go aps-c. But I think you know this, you're just reluctant to make that call . Fuji is also a great option vs the EOS m5, though with the m5 you can carry some of your existing smaller canon primes with the adapter.

For me, it's always the lenses that weigh down my backpack

If it's NOT about the weight of your bags, but about carrying around a less intimidating 'pro' camera than the 1dx, then the 5d4 will serve. That's why I chose the 5d4 instead of 1dx2 when refreshing recently.

Only you know which answer is right for you another fun option is a fixed lens 35mm equivalent Fuji. They're really pocketable and force you to think creatively.

Good luck!

If I get M5 I want the smaller lenses without adaptors. I think I should check high ISO results of Fuji XT2. I will go will just the kit lens and 23mm 1.4 lens. That will be a huge size reduction. Thanks again.

 

[docsmith]

So, my camera line up is 5DIII, M3, G7X II, and iPhone. iPhone images are pretty much only good, IMO, when viewed on an iPhone. Put it on a monitor and it is better than nothing, but the flaws really start becoming apparent. Especially the screen side "selfie" camera.

Assuming we are talking about personal and not professional use, the G7X II is actually pretty darn capable. So far I really like the images I am getting off of it. They are noticeably better than the iPhone and it can fit in my jeans/pants pocket. Very portable. Other nice feature is that the battery can be recharged in the camera. This was a significant selling feature for me, but I should forewarn, so far I have only been able to do it with certain combinations. But, I have figured it out and I usually have at least this camera with me while traveling for work. Also, f/1.8 to f/2.8 does allow some DoF and subject separation (just a little).

The M3 is actually pretty impressive. The big issue is AF on moving subjects and flare from the lenses. But on static subjects it is very good. I used to own both the m1 and 7D. I'd say the images coming off the M3 are better. The on camera flash works very well for short distances, but I often travel with a 270 II. Today, I'd be looking at the M5 or M6. But I have built a mini-kit around the M3 including the 11-22 (great lens), 22 f/2 (good but do not love even though others seem too), 18-55 (good, most used), and 28 f/3.5 macro (interesting, but little used). I am likely to add the 55-200.

Then the 5D III. I actually do not mind travelling with it, even for non-photography dedicated trips. I usually do something like 16-35 f/4 IS or 24-70 II with the 70-300 L. Two to three lenses and body really fit in a backpack nicely.

But I will say that I enjoy having the smaller cameras for times when I do not or cannot have a camera backpack with me. The G7X II goes right in my computer back, and then the M3 can travel well even in my carryon bag.

It is good to have options and, as they say, the best camera is the one you have with you.

 

[Quirkz]

I'm curious: what did you decide in the end, and how has it worked out?

 

[cayenne]

I'd say one point in the 5D3's favor...is that you can put Magic Lantern on it, and get some very interesting added capabilities......

Something to consider.

HTH,

cayenne

 

[sanj]

I'm curious: what did you decide in the end, and how has it worked out?

Decided on buying the 5d4. Will buy it shortly. Thanks for asking.
Or I may decide on not selling the 1dx and continue with it.
Thanks buddy

 

[rlarsen]

I enjoyed the many comments here. I decided not to upgrade until major price reductions become availabe. Going to the 5Dlll from the 1Dmkll was a treat. My favorite features are the silent shutter and high iso quality. I have issues that I hope are improved with the mk4. Excess red/magenta in skintone. Auto exposure / metering easily fooled, hard to see AF sensors in dim light, TTL flash metering mostly unreliable. Still I love my mklll bodies and will wait however long it takes for big price reductions.

 

[ScottyP]

I enjoyed the many comments here. I decided not to upgrade until major price reductions become availabe. Going to the 5Dlll from the 1Dmkll was a treat. My favorite features are the silent shutter and high iso quality. I have issues that I hope are improved with the mk4. Excess red/magenta in skintone. Auto exposure / metering easily fooled, hard to see AF sensors in dim light, TTL flash metering mostly unreliable. Still I love my mklll bodies and will wait however long it takes for big price reductions.

Sorry to say you didn't get your red AF points wish in the 5d4. Maybe the 5d5, eh? It is the reason I don't own one now. Had it in my hand but I couldn't even keep track of my selected AF point in the B&H showroom when aiming at a darker corner or black things. I am holding out to see the 6d2 in July.

 

[cpsico]

You would love everything about the 5DIV, its amazingly customizable, great dynamic range, very quiet shutter.
Good up to iso 6400 with proper noise reduction in post, 1600 is a dream out of camera. One drawback... Battery life is still very good but not on par with the 5d III or 6d

I have no experience with the 5DMKIV.

I did have a very high milage 5DMKIII that I loved. Took it round the world in some of the most inhospitable environments, hundreds of weddings and motorsport events. Unfortunately my house was burgled and the camera was stolen with a 100mm L macro.

Ive been struggling to decide on a replacement with the decision between a III IV or an SR.

The III is such a good camera, love the files and the file size but have hit the wall of the DR a couple of times mostly in Landscape and dark wedding environments where you can't illuminate everything. What I do have experience with is I the 7DMKII.

After the original reviews I thought the 7DMKII was a lacklustre update. But I wanted a little more FPS and focal length for wildlife. So I took the 5DMKIII 7DMKII 100-400mm 24-105mm and 16-35mm F2.8 traveling, quite weighty but traveled around 100,000 miles and didn't really find it difficult.

The 7DMKII seemed a logical choice and although it is a crop camera the files even at high ISO are impressive I think. I shot gorillas in between 1600-6400ISO in the jungles of Uganda and got some fantastic images and for a crop camera incredible results. Obviously the crop sensors don't have the magical look and feel of full frame but impressive so much so that the 5DMKIII started to get left in the bag.

What I didn't expect was how it feels so much more responsive and a joy to use just the small things like the viewfinder, AF selection dial, GPS, Dual pixel AF etc makes the day to day use such a pleasure and tbh the MKIII did feel a little old in that respect.

Im sure the 5DMKIV would feel a very similar in terms of all the little updates actually becoming a much better all round camera.

But a low milage <20k 5DMKIII is around £1400 and a new IV is £3500 and a low milage SR is around £2000.

Struggling to justify the cost to myself although I know I will love it, I just have a feeling that there will be a sharp price decrease like the 5DMKIII after around a year. Its not overly inspiring compared to some of the competition but they just work so well. Difficult one that I can't quite decide on! Watching reviews some think its amazing others think lacklustre.

 

[Pookie]

I bought a 5D4 and a 35mm II for our month in Maui. I've been shooting UW free diving and scuba with both the 5D3 and 5D4 with over 3000 shots on both rigs. I can honestly say there is little difference between the two bodies in some of the most demanding low light situations I can think of. The 5D4 is a slight improvement but nothing to rave about or make the 5D3 obsolete. I'll have plenty of examples up in about a week once back to the mainland.

The other body i picked up for this trip is the 6D... A so called low light body. What a joke that is, I'll take the 5D3 any day of the week over that body. It struggles when the D3 or D4 just chugs along.

 

[Hjalmarg1]

I currently have 1dc and 1dx2 but am looking to buy a travel camera which is lighter. I thought long and hard about Fuji Xt2 but am thinking not mainly because my travel photography involves low light situations and crop sensor is not ideal then. Also I will have to invest in new lenses etc.

So thinking 5d4 or 5d3 (Not 6D as I want good focus points). So what advantages of 5d4 over 5d3 in my situation please? Appreciate. Since I have the 2 1D series, I want to save few bucks on a camera which will not be used so much.

I will clear your concern about low light and high ISO with the X-T2. X-T2 AF performs admirably and output noise of my 5D3 and X-T2 at ISO 3,200-6,400 is essentially the same. On the other hand, once you get the X-T2 you'll be tempted to purchase more lenses that you may expect. I started with the kit lens and now I have 6 lenses

 

[tomscott]

I bought a 5D4 and a 35mm II for our month in Maui. I've been shooting UW free diving and scuba with both the 5D3 and 5D4 with over 3000 shots on both rigs. I can honestly say there is little difference between the two bodies in some of the most demanding low light situations I can think of. The 5D4 is a slight improvement but nothing to rave about or make the 5D3 obsolete. I'll have plenty of examples up in about a week once back to the mainland.

The other body i picked up for this trip is the 6D... A so called low light body. What a joke that is, I'll take the 5D3 any day of the week over that body. It struggles when the D3 or D4 just chugs along.

Interesting. All the raw files I have looked at 5d3vs4 the 4 doesnt show the banding and colour noise issues that the 3 does which shows its head in many situations. The usable DR of the 4 seems much better than the 3 too.

Whether that is worth the £1000 extra is down to what you shoot I suppose. I shoot weddings and in the dark environments I think a worthy improvement from what ive seen.

I made my mind up and going for the 4 after 4 years with the 3 just waiting for some deals.

 

[tomscott]

You would love everything about the 5DIV, its amazingly customizable, great dynamic range, very quiet shutter.
Good up to iso 6400 with proper noise reduction in post, 1600 is a dream out of camera. One drawback... Battery life is still very good but not on par with the 5d III or 6d

Thanks for your feedback appreciate it!

 

[hbr]

The other body i picked up for this trip is the 6D... A so called low light body. What a joke that is, I'll take the 5D3 any day of the week over that body. It struggles when the D3 or D4 just chugs along.

Hi, Pookie.

Could you elaborate a little more about your struggles with the 6D? I have a choice to make soon between the 6D II, (when it comes out), vs the 5D III. My budget is give or take about $2.000 USD. I see that the Canon store has refurbished 5D III's in stock for $2,000. I must wait and see the specs of the 6D II before I make my decision.

With my current 6D, I use the 70-200 F/2.8 L USM and the 24-70 F/2.8 L II and have never had any problems focusing with the center point in almost complete darkness. I know that many people have called the 6d, "the low light king," but in reality I think that they are talking about the AF center point in low light.

It will be a hard decision.

Brian

 

[privatebydesign]

I'm curious: what did you decide in the end, and how has it worked out?

Decided on buying the 5d4. Will buy it shortly. Thanks for asking.
Or I may decide on not selling the 1dx and continue with it.
Thanks buddy

There is a very noticeable difference in the raw files and the processing capacity within them of the 5D MkIII to the 5D MkIV and the 1DX to the 1DX MkII. If you never touch the shadows slider in post then you could be forgiven for not seeing that huge change.

The more difficult thing to not notice is the improvements in the AF, the newer two cameras have snappier and more accurate AF. Now depending on your general subject matter the earlier cameras are great and more than capable, model shoots, landscapes etc etc are easily served by any camera, but start to shoot lower light, more difficult subject movement or contrast conditions and the 5D MkIV and 1Dx MkII are going to get you more keepers (as newer models should).

I was testing my AF last night and was achieving good focus at -2.33 EV (1/6 sec, f2.8, ISO 25,600) with a 100mm L Macro, not the best focusing lens out there.

As a last standout difference between the newer and older cameras has to be customization, if you are a 'use it out of the box' kind of person (I have been until this latest iteration) you won't notice the differences, however if you are the kind of person who shoots varied situations in quick order and like to have a button for that then the newer cameras are good improvements.