Canon 5ds vs 5d Mark Iv: Which Canon Dslr Reigns?
Choosing the right camera can feel like navigating a minefield of specs and features. If you’re a Canon enthusiast, the decision often boils down to a battle between titans. Today, we’re pitting two formidable contenders against each other: the Canon 5DS and the 5D Mark IV.
Both cameras represent the pinnacle of Canon’s DSLR technology, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Canon 5DS boasts an impressive megapixel count, while the 5D Mark IV focuses on a more balanced approach with enhanced video capabilities and improved autofocus.
This comparison aims to dissect the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, helping you determine which one is the perfect fit for your photographic journey. We’ll delve into image quality, performance, features, and overall value to guide you in making an informed decision between the Canon 5DS and the 5D Mark IV.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 5DS | 5D Mark IV |
|---|---|---|
| Megapixels | 50.6MP | 30.4MP |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 (expandable to 50-12800) | 100-32000 (expandable to 50-102400) |
| Autofocus Points | 61 points | 61 points |
| Continuous Shooting | 5 fps | 7 fps |
| Video Recording | 1080p at 30fps | 4K at 30fps |
| Sensor Type | Full-Frame CMOS | Full-Frame CMOS |
| Processor | Dual DIGIC 6 | DIGIC 6+ |
| LCD Screen | 3.2-inch, 1.04 million dots | 3.2-inch, 1.62 million dots, Touchscreen |
| Built-in GPS | No | Yes |
| Weather Sealing | Yes | Yes |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| Weight (Body Only) | 930g | 800g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Megapixels
- Canon 5ds: Boasts a 50.6MP full-frame CMOS sensor, offering incredibly detailed images. This high resolution is great for large prints and cropping, but can lead to larger file sizes and potentially slower processing.
- 5d Mark Iv: Features a 30.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor, providing excellent detail while balancing resolution with manageable file sizes and improved low-light performance compared to the 5DS. It offers a good balance between resolution and overall performance.
- Winner: 5DS
Autofocus System
- Canon 5ds: Utilizes a 61-point High Density Reticular AF system, similar to that of the 5D Mark III. It’s reliable but may struggle slightly in challenging lighting conditions compared to newer systems.
- 5d Mark Iv: Upgraded to a 61-point AF system with improved precision and expanded coverage, including Dual Pixel CMOS AF for live view shooting. This leads to faster and more accurate focus acquisition, especially in difficult situations.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
ISO Performance
- Canon 5ds: Native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 12800. While capable, its high megapixel count can make it more susceptible to noise at higher ISO settings.
- 5d Mark Iv: Native ISO range of 100-32000, expandable to 50-102400. The improved sensor and processing allow for significantly better low-light performance and noise handling.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Video Capabilities
- Canon 5ds: Primarily designed for stills photography; video capabilities are limited to Full HD (1080p) at 30fps with no advanced features like 4K.
- 5d Mark Iv: Offers 4K video recording at 30fps, along with Full HD at up to 60fps. Includes features like Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth focusing during video, making it a much more versatile video camera.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Canon 5ds: Shoots at approximately 5 frames per second (fps). The high resolution can impact the buffer, leading to shorter bursts.
- 5d Mark Iv: Shoots at approximately 7 fps, allowing for capturing more action sequences. The improved processing also contributes to a slightly larger buffer.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Processor
- Canon 5ds: Uses Dual DIGIC 6 image processors. While capable, the processing speed can be a bottleneck when dealing with large 50MP files.
- 5d Mark Iv: Equipped with a DIGIC 6+ image processor, offering faster processing speeds, improved noise reduction, and better overall performance, particularly in terms of autofocus and video.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
LCD Screen
- Canon 5ds: Features a 3.2-inch LCD with a resolution of 1.04 million dots. It’s a standard screen for its time.
- 5d Mark Iv: Boasts a 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with a resolution of 1.62 million dots. The touchscreen functionality allows for easier navigation and focus point selection.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Connectivity
- Canon 5ds: Offers standard connectivity options, but lacks built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, which can be inconvenient for transferring images wirelessly.
- 5d Mark Iv: Includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling easy image transfer and remote control via a smartphone or tablet. This modern convenience streamlines workflow.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Canon 5DS |
| Video Quality | 5D Mark IV |
| Continuous Shooting | 5D Mark IV |
| ISO Performance | 5D Mark IV |
| Autofocus | Tie |
| Features | 5D Mark IV |
| Portability | 5D Mark IV |
What They Have in Common
- Full-Frame Sensor: Both cameras utilize a full-frame CMOS sensor, which provides excellent image quality, shallow depth of field, and superior low-light performance compared to cameras with smaller sensors.
- Professional Build Quality: Both the 5DS and 5D Mark IV are built with durable materials and offer robust weather sealing, making them suitable for demanding shooting conditions and professional use.
- 61-Point Autofocus System: Both cameras share the same advanced 61-point autofocus system, ensuring precise and reliable focus acquisition for capturing sharp images, even with moving subjects.
- Compatibility with Canon Ef Lenses: Both cameras are compatible with the extensive range of Canon EF lenses, providing users with a vast selection of lenses to choose from for various photography needs.
- High-Resolution Lcd Screen: Both cameras feature a high-resolution LCD screen on the back for image review and menu navigation, allowing for clear and detailed viewing of captured photos and videos.
Canon 5Ds vs 5D Mark IV Buying Guide
Image Quality and Resolution
The Canon 5DS boasts a significantly higher resolution sensor, clocking in at 50.6 megapixels compared to the 5D Mark IV’s 30.4 megapixels. This difference translates to greater detail and more flexibility for cropping. However, the 5D Mark IV’s sensor offers better low-light performance due to its improved noise handling capabilities. The 5D Mark IV also offers improved dynamic range, allowing for more latitude in post-processing. Ultimately, the choice depends on your primary needs: detail vs. low-light performance and dynamic range.
Autofocus Performance
The 5D Mark IV features a more advanced autofocus system with 61 points, all of which are cross-type, offering improved accuracy and speed compared to the 5DS. The 5DS utilizes the same 61-point AF system, but it doesn’t have the advanced tracking capabilities of the 5D Mark IV, which benefits from Dual Pixel CMOS AF. This allows for accurate focusing during both still photography and video recording. The 5D Mark IV excels in tracking moving subjects.
Video Capabilities
The 5D Mark IV has significantly superior video capabilities. It can record 4K video at 30fps, while the 5DS is limited to Full HD. The 5D Mark IV also features Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth and reliable autofocus during video recording, a feature absent in the 5DS. Furthermore, the 5D Mark IV offers a wider range of video codecs and frame rates. The 5DS is not a viable option for serious videographers.
ISO Performance
The 5D Mark IV has a broader ISO range and superior high-ISO performance. While both cameras offer excellent image quality at lower ISOs, the 5D Mark IV’s noise performance is noticeably better at higher ISO settings. This allows for cleaner images in challenging lighting conditions, such as indoor events or nighttime photography. The 5D Mark IV’s improved noise reduction algorithms contribute to this advantage.
Processing Power and Speed
The 5D Mark IV benefits from a more advanced image processor, resulting in faster processing speeds and improved overall performance. It can shoot at a higher continuous shooting rate (7fps) compared to the 5DS (5fps). This difference is crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects. The 5D Mark IV also has a more responsive user interface and faster buffer clearing times, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Features and Ergonomics
The 5D Mark IV incorporates several features absent in the 5DS, including built-in Wi-Fi and GPS. These features enhance connectivity and allow for easier image sharing and geotagging. While both cameras share a similar ergonomic design, the 5D Mark IV benefits from refinements, such as a touchscreen LCD and improved weather sealing. These improvements contribute to a more user-friendly and robust camera body.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy canon 5ds If…
- You prioritize the absolute highest resolution and detail in your images for landscape, studio, or commercial photography.
- You primarily shoot still subjects and don’t require the fastest continuous shooting speeds.
- You are willing to accept a slightly slower continuous shooting speed and lack of 4K video for the increased resolution.
- You are on a tighter budget, as the 5DS can be found at a lower price point than the 5D Mark IV.
Buy 5d mark iv If…
- You need excellent image quality but also require strong video capabilities, including 4K recording.
- You shoot a variety of subjects, including action and events, and need faster continuous shooting and improved autofocus tracking.
- You value features like built-in GPS and a touchscreen LCD for added convenience and functionality.
- You require the latest image processing technology and a wider ISO range for improved low-light performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary advantage of the Canon 5DS?
The primary advantage of the Canon 5DS is its exceptionally high resolution, boasting a 50.6-megapixel sensor. This higher resolution allows for incredibly detailed images and substantial cropping capabilities. It is ideal for photographers who need to capture the finest details, such as landscape or studio photographers who may need to crop heavily or create large prints.
What is the main strength of the Canon 5D Mark IV?
The Canon 5D Mark IV excels in several areas, but its main strength is its versatility. It offers a balance of excellent image quality, a more advanced autofocus system, and superior video capabilities, including 4K recording. It’s a well-rounded camera suitable for a wide range of photography and videography applications, making it a great all-around performer.
Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Canon 5D Mark IV is the clear winner for low-light photography. Its improved noise performance at higher ISO settings allows for cleaner images in challenging lighting conditions. The 5D Mark IV’s sensor and image processing algorithms are optimized for minimizing noise, making it a more reliable choice for nighttime or indoor photography where high ISOs are necessary.
Does the 5DS have any video capabilities?
The Canon 5DS does have video capabilities, but they are limited. It can record Full HD video, but it lacks the 4K recording and advanced autofocus features found in the 5D Mark IV. The 5DS is not the best option for serious videographers due to its limited features and lack of advanced video functionality.
Which camera has a better autofocus system?
The Canon 5D Mark IV boasts a more advanced autofocus system. With 61 points, all cross-type, it offers improved speed, accuracy, and tracking capabilities compared to the 5DS. The 5D Mark IV benefits from Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which further enhances its autofocus performance, particularly during video recording and tracking moving subjects.
What are the connectivity options on each camera?
The Canon 5D Mark IV offers built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, facilitating easier image sharing and geotagging. The 5DS lacks these built-in connectivity features. Both cameras have the standard ports for external microphones, headphones, and other accessories. The 5D Mark IV’s inclusion of Wi-Fi and GPS provides a more modern and convenient user experience.
Is the Canon 5DS still a relevant camera today?
The Canon 5DS is still relevant for specific users who prioritize extremely high resolution and don’t require advanced video features or the latest autofocus technology. It remains a strong choice for landscape, studio, and commercial photographers who need maximum detail. However, for most users, the 5D Mark IV’s versatility and advanced features make it a more compelling option.
Final Verdict
The Canon 5D Mark IV emerges as the superior camera overall, offering a more well-rounded experience. While the 5DS excels in resolution, the 5D Mark IV provides better low-light performance, a more advanced autofocus system, and significantly improved video capabilities. The 5D Mark IV is a more versatile camera for both photography and videography.
Winner: Canon 5D Mark IV