Canon 6d vs 5d mark 3 – Canon 6D vs 5D Mark III: Stepping into the world of full-frame photography can be exciting, but choosing between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III can be a tough decision. These cameras, both released in different eras, cater to different needs and offer unique strengths.
The Canon 6D, known for its affordability and excellent low-light performance, appeals to enthusiasts and professionals seeking a portable full-frame option. On the other hand, the Canon 5D Mark III, with its robust build and advanced features, is a powerhouse for professional photographers and videographers.
This comprehensive comparison delves into the key features, performance, and overall value proposition of both cameras, highlighting their differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore image quality, autofocus, design, video capabilities, and more, providing insights to guide your choice based on your specific photographic needs and budget.
Introduction
The Canon 6D and Canon 5D Mark III are two popular full-frame DSLR cameras that have captured the attention of photographers of varying skill levels. While both cameras offer exceptional image quality and performance, they cater to different needs and target audiences.
The Canon 6D, known for its affordability and portability, appeals to enthusiasts and professionals seeking a lightweight and versatile option for travel, landscape, and portrait photography. Conversely, the Canon 5D Mark III, with its advanced features and robust build, targets professional photographers and videographers who demand high-end performance and versatility for demanding projects.This comparative analysis delves into the key features and specifications of both cameras, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to provide a comprehensive understanding of their capabilities and suitability for various photographic endeavors.
Key Features and Specifications
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III share several core features, including full-frame CMOS sensors, Canon’s DIGIC processor, and a range of manual controls. However, there are notable differences in their specifications that impact their performance and capabilities.
- Sensor Size and Resolution:The Canon 6D features a 20.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor, while the 5D Mark III boasts a larger 22.3MP sensor. This difference in resolution translates to slightly higher image detail in the 5D Mark III, particularly when printing large images or cropping heavily.
- Autofocus System:The 6D utilizes a 11-point autofocus system with a single cross-type sensor, while the 5D Mark III features a more advanced 61-point autofocus system with 41 cross-type sensors. The 5D Mark III’s superior autofocus system provides faster and more accurate subject tracking, particularly in low-light conditions and with fast-moving subjects.
- Continuous Shooting Speed:The Canon 6D can shoot at a maximum speed of 4.5 frames per second (fps), while the 5D Mark III offers a faster shooting rate of 6 fps. This difference in shooting speed is crucial for capturing fast-action sequences, such as sporting events or wildlife photography.
- Video Recording Capabilities:Both cameras support Full HD video recording at 1080p resolution. However, the 5D Mark III offers a higher frame rate of 30 fps, compared to the 6D’s 24 fps. This difference in frame rate provides smoother video footage and allows for slow-motion effects.
- Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS:The Canon 6D includes built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, enabling wireless image transfer and geotagging, respectively. The 5D Mark III lacks these features, requiring external accessories for similar functionality.
Image Quality and Sensor Performance
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III are both full-frame cameras, but they differ in sensor size and resolution, which significantly impacts their image quality. This section will explore the differences in sensor performance, including dynamic range, noise performance, and color rendition.
Sensor Size and Resolution
The sensor size is crucial for image quality, particularly for low-light performance and depth of field. The Canon 5D Mark III features a larger full-frame sensor with a 22.3 x 33.4 mm size, compared to the Canon 6D’s 24.2 x 36.0 mm sensor.
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III are both excellent full-frame cameras, but the 5D Mark III boasts a higher resolution sensor and faster autofocus system. Both cameras are capable of handling the demanding tasks of wildlife photography, where a long telephoto lens is essential.
For those seeking a powerful telephoto option, the Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary and Sport models are popular choices. This article provides a detailed comparison of these two lenses , helping you decide which one best suits your needs. Ultimately, the choice between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III depends on your specific shooting style and budget, and the lens you choose will significantly impact your ability to capture those distant subjects.
The 5D Mark III boasts a higher resolution of 22.3 megapixels, while the 6D has 20.2 megapixels.
The larger sensor size of the 6D provides a slightly wider field of view and better low-light performance. The 5D Mark III’s higher resolution allows for more detail in images, particularly when cropping or printing large prints.
Dynamic Range
Dynamic range refers to the camera’s ability to capture detail in both the highlights and shadows of an image. The Canon 6D has a slightly better dynamic range than the 5D Mark III. This means that the 6D can capture more detail in high-contrast scenes, with less clipping in the highlights or shadows.
For example, when photographing a sunset with a bright sky and dark foreground, the 6D will capture more detail in both the sky and the foreground.
Noise Performance
Noise is random fluctuations in image data that can appear as grain or speckles in images. The Canon 6D generally exhibits slightly less noise than the 5D Mark III, especially at higher ISO sensitivities.
This means that images taken with the 6D at high ISO settings will appear cleaner and less grainy than images taken with the 5D Mark III at the same ISO.
Color Rendition
Color rendition refers to the accuracy and richness of the colors captured by the camera. Both the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III are known for their accurate and pleasing color reproduction. However, there may be subtle differences in the color profiles and white balance settings, resulting in slightly different color tones.
For example, the 6D may produce slightly warmer tones, while the 5D Mark III may have a slightly cooler color profile.
Autofocus and Performance
The autofocus systems of the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III, though both capable, exhibit significant differences in their implementation and performance. These differences can impact the shooting experience, particularly in situations requiring fast and accurate focusing, like capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in low light.
Autofocus System Comparison
The Canon 6D utilizes a 11-point autofocus system with a single cross-type sensor in the center, while the 5D Mark III boasts a 61-point autofocus system, including 19 cross-type sensors strategically placed across the sensor. This difference in sensor arrangement and density directly impacts the autofocus performance, particularly in terms of speed, accuracy, and tracking capabilities.
Autofocus Performance Comparison
The 5D Mark III’s superior autofocus system offers a clear advantage in terms of speed, accuracy, and tracking capabilities. Its 61-point autofocus system, with its higher density of cross-type sensors, enables faster and more accurate focusing in a wider range of shooting situations.
The 6D’s single central cross-type sensor, while adequate for general photography, can struggle to lock focus quickly and accurately on fast-moving subjects or in low light conditions.
Shooting Experience: Continuous Shooting Speed and Buffer Depth
The 5D Mark III’s autofocus performance translates into a more responsive and enjoyable shooting experience, particularly when shooting action or fast-moving subjects. The 5D Mark III can achieve a continuous shooting speed of up to 6 frames per second (fps) with full autofocus and continuous shooting, while the 6D can only manage 4.5 fps.
This difference in shooting speed can be crucial for capturing decisive moments and creating compelling action sequences.The buffer depth of the 5D Mark III is also larger than that of the 6D, allowing for a greater number of images to be captured in continuous shooting mode before the camera slows down or stops.
This is especially beneficial for photographers who shoot bursts of images or who require a high-speed burst to capture a specific moment.
Design and Ergonomics
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III are both full-frame DSLR cameras, but they differ in their design and ergonomics. The 6D is designed to be more compact and lightweight, while the 5D Mark III is more robust and features a larger grip.
These differences are important for photographers who prioritize portability or handling, respectively.
Physical Design and Ergonomics
The Canon 6D is a more compact and lightweight camera than the 5D Mark III. This is due to its smaller body and the use of lighter materials. The 6D weighs approximately 760 grams (1.68 lbs) with a battery and memory card, while the 5D Mark III weighs 950 grams (2.1 lbs).
Choosing between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III boils down to your needs. The 6D offers a more compact body and excellent low-light performance, while the 5D Mark III boasts a higher resolution sensor and faster autofocus. If you’re seeking a versatile lens to pair with either camera, the Nikon 24-120mm f/4G ED VR lens, reviewed in detail here , provides a great balance of wide-angle and telephoto capabilities, making it ideal for landscapes, portraits, and even some wildlife photography.
Ultimately, the choice between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III depends on your priorities and the type of photography you plan to pursue.
This difference in weight can be significant for photographers who carry their camera around for extended periods. The 6D’s smaller size also makes it easier to hold and maneuver. However, some photographers may find the grip to be a bit small, especially if they have large hands.
The 5D Mark III, on the other hand, has a larger and deeper grip that provides a more secure hold.
Button and Control Layout
The layout of buttons, dials, and controls on both cameras is similar. However, there are some notable differences. The 6D features a smaller LCD screen and fewer buttons than the 5D Mark III. This can be a benefit for photographers who prefer a simpler interface, but it can also make it more difficult to access certain settings quickly.The 5D Mark III, on the other hand, has a larger LCD screen and more buttons.
This provides photographers with more control over their camera settings, but it can also make the interface feel more cluttered.
Button and Control Layout Comparison
| Feature | Canon 6D | Canon 5D Mark III |
|---|---|---|
| LCD Screen Size | 3.0″ | 3.2″ |
| Button Count | Fewer | More |
| Grip Size | Smaller | Larger |
The 6D features a dedicated ISO button, which is absent on the 5D Mark III. This allows for quick and easy adjustments to ISO sensitivity. However, the 5D Mark III offers a dedicated button for the “Live View” mode, which is missing on the 6D.
This allows for convenient switching to Live View mode, a feature that’s becoming increasingly popular for photographers.
Size and Weight Comparison
| Feature | Canon 6D | Canon 5D Mark III |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (with battery and memory card) | 760 grams (1.68 lbs) | 950 grams (2.1 lbs) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 144.5 x 110.5 x 71.2 mm | 150 x 116.4 x 76.2 mm |
The 6D’s smaller size and lighter weight make it a more portable option for photographers who travel frequently or prefer to carry their camera around for extended periods. The 5D Mark III, on the other hand, offers a more robust build and a larger grip, making it a better choice for photographers who prioritize handling and stability.
Video Capabilities
While both the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III were released during an era when DSLR video was still in its infancy, they offered impressive video capabilities for their time. Let’s explore the video features of these cameras and see how they stack up against each other.
Video Resolution, Frame Rates, and Codecs
The video recording capabilities of the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III are summarized in the table below.
| Feature | Canon 6D | Canon 5D Mark III |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Video Resolution | 1080p (1920 x 1080) | 1080p (1920 x 1080) |
| Frame Rates | 30p, 25p, 24p | 30p, 25p, 24p |
| Codecs | H.264 (MOV) | H.264 (MOV) |
| Maximum Bitrate | 35 Mbps | 35 Mbps |
Both cameras support 1080p video recording at various frame rates, including 30p, 25p, and 24p, making them suitable for a wide range of video projects. The H.264 codec, used by both cameras, is a popular choice for its balance of quality and file size efficiency.
Limitations and Strengths
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III share some limitations in their video recording capabilities. Both cameras lack support for 4K video recording, which was becoming increasingly popular at the time of their release. They also lack features like internal 4K recording, slow-motion video capture, and time-lapse capabilities that are common in modern DSLRs.
However, these cameras do offer some strengths in video recording. Their full-frame sensors provide excellent image quality with low noise, even in low-light conditions. The ability to record video in various frame rates allows for flexibility in post-production editing.
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III also feature a built-in microphone, which is useful for recording audio directly to the camera.
Additional Video Features
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III include several additional video features:
- Manual Exposure Control: Both cameras offer manual control over aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, allowing for creative control over exposure and depth of field.
- Zebra Pattern: This feature helps to identify areas of the frame that are overexposed, which can be useful for ensuring proper exposure in high-contrast scenes.
- HDMI Output: Both cameras allow for the output of video to an external monitor or recorder, providing a larger and more accurate preview of the footage.
Connectivity and Features
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III offer distinct connectivity features, catering to different needs of photographers. While both cameras provide essential connectivity options, the 5D Mark III boasts more advanced features, including Wi-Fi and GPS, which enhance its versatility for professional workflows.
Connectivity Options
The connectivity options available on both cameras facilitate seamless data transfer and remote control capabilities.
- Canon 6D: The Canon 6D offers a standard set of connectivity options, including a USB 2.0 port for transferring images and videos to a computer, an HDMI port for connecting to external displays, and a microphone input for recording audio.
Additionally, it features a remote control terminal for triggering the camera remotely using a dedicated remote control unit.
- Canon 5D Mark III: The Canon 5D Mark III builds upon the connectivity options of the 6D by adding a dedicated Wi-Fi module, enabling wireless image transfer to smartphones and tablets using the Canon Camera Connect app. This feature allows for convenient image sharing and remote control capabilities.
Additionally, the 5D Mark III features an NFC (Near Field Communication) chip, enabling quick pairing with compatible devices for effortless image transfer.
GPS Features
The 5D Mark III offers an integrated GPS receiver, a feature absent in the 6D. This allows for geotagging images with location information, enhancing their value for photographers who require precise location data. The GPS receiver automatically records the latitude, longitude, and altitude of each image, enabling users to track their travel routes and document the locations of their photographs.
Geotagging images provides valuable context, allowing photographers to revisit locations, retrace their steps, and organize their images based on their geographical locations.
In-Camera RAW Processing
Both the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III offer in-camera RAW processing capabilities, allowing photographers to adjust image parameters directly on the camera. This feature provides flexibility for photographers who prefer to make basic adjustments on the go or in situations where a computer is not readily available.
- Canon 6D: The 6D offers basic RAW processing options, including white balance adjustments, contrast, sharpness, and saturation control. These adjustments allow photographers to fine-tune their images directly on the camera before transferring them to a computer for further editing.
- Canon 5D Mark III: The 5D Mark III provides more comprehensive in-camera RAW processing capabilities, allowing photographers to adjust a wider range of parameters, including highlights, shadows, and color balance. This expanded control provides more flexibility for photographers to achieve their desired image look directly on the camera.
Time-Lapse Capabilities
Both the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III offer built-in time-lapse capabilities, enabling photographers to capture a sequence of images over a set interval, creating captivating time-lapse videos. This feature allows for capturing dynamic scenes, such as cloud movements, plant growth, or traffic patterns, in a compressed timeframe.
- Canon 6D: The 6D offers basic time-lapse functionality, allowing photographers to set the interval between images and the total number of images to be captured. The camera automatically captures the images, creating a time-lapse sequence that can be later assembled into a video using external software.
- Canon 5D Mark III: The 5D Mark III provides more advanced time-lapse capabilities, allowing photographers to set the interval between images, the total duration of the time-lapse sequence, and the frame rate of the resulting video. This enhanced control allows for greater flexibility in creating custom time-lapse videos.
Lenses and Compatibility
Both the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III cameras utilize the Canon EF lens mount, a robust and widely adopted system that offers exceptional compatibility with a vast range of lenses. This compatibility ensures a diverse selection of lenses, catering to various photographic needs and styles.
Lens Availability
The Canon EF lens mount boasts a vast array of lenses, offering a wide range of focal lengths, apertures, and specialized designs. These lenses cater to various photographic genres, including portraiture, landscape, wildlife, macro, and sports photography. Canon’s EF lens lineup comprises a diverse collection of lenses, including:* Prime lenses:These lenses offer fixed focal lengths and often deliver exceptional image quality, particularly at wide apertures.
Zoom lenses
Zoom lenses provide a range of focal lengths, offering flexibility for capturing different perspectives and compositions.
Specialized lenses
Canon also offers specialized lenses, such as macro lenses for close-up photography, tilt-shift lenses for architectural photography, and fisheye lenses for unique perspectives.The availability of these lenses allows photographers to choose the ideal optics for their specific shooting requirements.
Advantages of Using Canon EF Lenses
Utilizing Canon EF lenses on both the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III cameras offers several advantages, including:* Image quality:Canon EF lenses are renowned for their exceptional image quality, delivering sharp details, accurate color reproduction, and minimal distortion.
Performance
Canon EF lenses are designed to work seamlessly with Canon cameras, ensuring optimal performance in terms of autofocus speed, accuracy, and image stabilization.
Compatibility
Canon EF lenses are compatible with a wide range of Canon cameras, providing flexibility and future-proofing for photographers.
Availability
Choosing between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III often hinges on your shooting style and budget. The 6D, with its full-frame sensor and lower price, might appeal to those prioritizing affordability. However, the 5D Mark III boasts a faster autofocus system and higher resolution, making it ideal for action photography.
A key consideration is the memory card size. To understand how many images you can store on a 16 GB card, check out this helpful resource: how many pictures is 16 gb. Ultimately, the best camera depends on your individual needs and the type of photography you enjoy.
Canon EF lenses are widely available, making it easy for photographers to find the right lenses for their needs.
Disadvantages of Using Lenses from Different Systems, Canon 6d vs 5d mark 3
While Canon EF lenses offer numerous advantages, using lenses from other systems can pose some challenges:* Compatibility issues:Lenses from other systems may not be compatible with Canon cameras, requiring adapters or modifications that can introduce image quality degradation or autofocus issues.
Autofocus limitations
Some lenses from other systems may not support autofocus on Canon cameras, requiring manual focusing, which can be challenging in certain situations.
Image quality variations
The image quality of lenses from other systems may vary, potentially affecting the overall image quality produced by the Canon camera.
Limited availability
Lenses from other systems may not be as readily available as Canon EF lenses, making it more difficult to find specific lenses for specific needs.While using lenses from other systems can offer some advantages, such as potentially lower costs or access to specialized lenses, the potential drawbacks should be carefully considered.
Choosing between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III often hinges on the photographer’s needs. The 6D offers a more affordable entry point, while the 5D Mark III boasts a faster autofocus system and higher resolution. For those seeking an alternative to bulky DSLRs, attaching a high-quality lens to a smartphone using a mobile phone camera attachment provides a surprisingly capable option.
However, the 6D and 5D Mark III remain the preferred choices for professional photographers who require the control and image quality only a dedicated DSLR can offer.
Battery Life and Performance
Powering your photographic adventures is crucial, and both the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III offer different battery life capabilities. Understanding their battery performance in various shooting scenarios can help you make informed decisions about your photography needs.
Battery Life Comparison
The Canon 6D boasts a longer battery life than the 5D Mark III, a significant advantage for photographers who need to shoot for extended periods without worrying about running out of power.
- The Canon 6D utilizes a LP-E6 battery, which is rated for approximately 1090 shotsbased on CIPA standards.
- The Canon 5D Mark III uses the same LP-E6 batterybut provides a slightly lower rating of 950 shotsbased on CIPA standards.
These ratings are based on a standard test method that simulates typical usage scenarios. Real-world battery life can vary depending on factors such as:
- Shooting mode:Continuous shooting and live view drain the battery faster than single-shot mode.
- Image size and quality:Shooting high-resolution images and RAW files consumes more power than shooting JPEGs at lower resolutions.
- Use of features:Features like autofocus, flash, and image stabilization all impact battery life.
- Ambient temperature:Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance and shorten its lifespan.
Battery Performance in Different Shooting Scenarios
While the 6D generally offers longer battery life, the actual performance can vary depending on the specific shooting situation. Here are some examples:
- Landscape photography:In landscape photography, where shooting is often done in single-shot mode with minimal use of autofocus, both cameras can provide excellent battery life. The 6D may last slightly longer, allowing you to capture more images before needing a recharge.
- Wildlife photography:Wildlife photography often involves extended periods of waiting for the perfect shot, sometimes using continuous shooting mode and autofocus. In these scenarios, the 6D’s longer battery life becomes more valuable, enabling you to capture more images without interruption.
- Event photography:Event photography typically involves a combination of single-shot and continuous shooting, with flash use and autofocus. Both cameras will likely require frequent battery changes during long events, especially if using flash extensively.
- Video recording:Both cameras support video recording, but continuous video recording can significantly drain the battery. The 6D’s longer battery life can be an advantage for longer video shoots.
Battery Management and Usage Recommendations
Proper battery management can help maximize battery life and minimize interruptions during your photography sessions. Here are some recommendations:
- Charge batteries fully before use:Ensure your batteries are fully charged before heading out for a shoot to avoid unexpected battery drain.
- Carry spare batteries:It’s always wise to carry at least one spare battery, especially for longer shoots or events. This will provide a backup in case the primary battery runs out.
- Turn off features when not needed:Disable features like autofocus, image stabilization, and Wi-Fi when not in use to conserve battery power.
- Avoid extreme temperatures:Batteries perform best in moderate temperatures. Avoid exposing them to extreme heat or cold, which can shorten their lifespan.
- Use a battery grip:A battery grip can extend the battery life of both cameras by allowing you to use two batteries simultaneously. This is especially helpful for photographers who shoot extensively or need to record long videos.
Price and Value
The Canon 6D and 5D Mark III, while both full-frame DSLRs, occupy different positions in the market, reflecting their distinct price points and value propositions. Understanding these differences is crucial for photographers seeking the best fit for their needs and budget.
Price Comparison
The price difference between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III is a significant factor influencing purchasing decisions. The 6D, being the more affordable option, is often considered a good entry point into the full-frame world. Conversely, the 5D Mark III, with its higher price tag, caters to professionals and enthusiasts seeking advanced features and performance.
- The Canon 6D, despite being discontinued, is still available in the used market for a considerably lower price compared to the 5D Mark III. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers.
- The Canon 5D Mark III, although also discontinued, maintains a higher resale value due to its superior features and performance, making it a more expensive option.
Value Proposition
The value proposition of each camera depends on the photographer’s individual requirements and priorities.
- The Canon 6D, despite its lower price, offers a full-frame sensor, excellent image quality, and a compact body, making it a good choice for travel, landscape, and portrait photography.
- The Canon 5D Mark III, while pricier, offers a more robust build, faster autofocus, and advanced video capabilities, making it suitable for professional photographers, wildlife photographers, and those who require high-speed performance.
Factors Influencing Purchasing Decisions
The decision between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III boils down to individual needs and priorities.
- Budget:The 6D’s lower price point makes it a more accessible option for photographers with limited budgets. However, the 5D Mark III, despite its higher cost, might be a better investment for professionals or enthusiasts who prioritize advanced features and performance.
- Features and Performance:The 5D Mark III offers a more robust set of features, including faster autofocus, higher burst rate, and advanced video capabilities. If these features are essential, the 5D Mark III is a better choice. However, if the focus is on image quality and affordability, the 6D might be a better option.
- Intended Use:The 6D is a good choice for photographers who prioritize portability and affordability. The 5D Mark III, with its advanced features and performance, is better suited for professional photographers, wildlife photographers, and those who require high-speed performance.
Final Conclusion: Canon 6d Vs 5d Mark 3
Ultimately, the choice between the Canon 6D and 5D Mark III boils down to your individual priorities and budget. The 6D offers a compelling entry point into full-frame photography with excellent low-light performance and a compact design. The 5D Mark III, however, stands as a powerful workhorse for professional photographers and videographers, boasting advanced features and a robust build.
By carefully considering your needs and comparing the strengths of each camera, you can confidently select the one that best fits your photographic journey.