Canon EOS 5D

Photo answers review

Photo answers rating

Features & handling

At the heart of the EOS 5D’s specification is the 12.8 million pixel, full-frame sensor, making it the smallest camera with a resolution that high. This means that Canon’s range of EF-S lenses and any independent manufacturers’ Digital Only lenses are not compatible and cannot be used.

In addition to the standard range of ISO settings (100-1600), there are optional Low and High settings of 50 and 3200. While it makes sense for the high ISO setting to be taken off the standard options, it’s a little unclear why you need to scroll through more options to enable the Low 50 ISO setting.

It’s the size and weight of the EOS 5D may initially surprise those expecting a professional SLR. It’s only slightly larger and heavier than the EOS 20D, making it far easier to manage than the EOS-1D models.

There’s also a larger 2.5in LCD screen compared to the 1.8in version of the 20D, making reviewing images and accessing the menu options easier. The greatest change for anyone trading up from an EOS 10D, 20D, 30D or 40D is the size of the viewfinder. Having a larger viewfinder really makes a big difference and is well worth it.

All the menus can be scrolled through using the rear command dial, while the most commonly used options are accessed by buttons on the top-plate and then changed using the relevant dial.

However, if you prefer your cameras a bit bigger, the optional battery pack can really improve the handling. Firstly, it offers a vertical grip to make shooting with the camera held upright much easier, and it accepts two Lithium-ion batteries or six AAs to make sure you don’t run out of power while you are out and about. It’s also made from the same magnesium alloy as the exterior of the camera, making the camera feel and look just like a standard pro sized model.

Performance

While most of the specification meets the needs of professional users, the frame rate may be an issue for some. At three frames-per-second (fps) it’s a little slow compared to other, more recent D-SLR releases. The frame rate may not be impressive, but good write times and an image buffer means that the camera rarely locks up when shooting JPEGs. Remembering that the EOS 5D came out around two years ago so still uses the DIGIC II processor, while the rest of Canon’s current line-up features at least one DIGIC III.

The results are excellent at low ISO settings, with low noise levels and loads of detail. Even the ISO 400 and 800 settings are useable for all but the most critical situations. As you’d expect, the noise levels increase at higher speeds, but the levels of sharpness and detail are impressive at all but the ISO 3200 setting. While the camera is capable of superb results the full-frame sensor puts massive demands on the lenses you use.

Verdict

Pitched directly between the amateur and professional models, assessing the value of the EOS 5D depends on your needs. No other model on the market can match the EOS 5D for the money though. So for this alone it’s good value, even if the price keeps it beyond the budget of most enthusiasts. For anyone looking for professional quality results without the size, weight or cost of one of the top professional models, the 5D is a great option. For others, the sheer fact of having a full-frame digital SLR will be enough for them to make a choice. There are plenty of Canon users outs there waiting for this older camera to be replaced soon…