4 Ways to Decide between the Canon 6D or Canon 5D Mk III

Are you trying to figure out which full frame camera to buy? Here are 4 isolated cases that buying the 5D MK III might be better for you. They represent a few photographers. For everyone else I recommend the Canon 6D.

Case 1

You are a videographer with an established RAW video workflow

Reason

The 5D Mk III is the first DSLR to have the ability to record RAW video. It’s hugely beneficial but requires a mostly safe hack called Magic Lantern. Here is a test video showing the difference. Editing this means you own a high-end video editing program like FCP X or Premiere Pro and are capable of advanced video color grading.

The 5D’s headphone is another quoted benefit for videographers. My thought though is if you spend $1000 for the RAW capture of the 5D then you likely have graduated to the level of using a field recorder. This makes the headphone jack a moot point.

Case 2

You frequently photograph very very very fast subjects

Example would be in particularly fast-moving sports and you are getting action perpendicular to the direction the lens is pointing.

The 5D has WAY more AF points (61 vs. 11), it’s noticeable faster FPS (6 vs. 4.5), and it’s max shutter speed (1/8000 vs 1/4000).

It’s very hard to see stats that stack up in the favor of one side and not perceive the camera as “better” especially when it’s more expensive. The important thing here is knowing if those are stats you will use. I have other factor to discuss later that are detrimental to the 5D.

The number of AF points will be mentioned later but lets discuss them for their ability to aid in AI Servo focus. Having extra AF points means the algorithm will be more effective at tracking an object across the frame. That assumes though you need to use AI Servo to get focus. Who needs that feature. Well anyone with a predictable (you must start at the center AF point) very fast-moving subject. It’s not a feature I need or could even use based on what I shoot.

What about the faster FPS or shutter speed? Simply put I’ve photographed sprinters running right at my camera and didn’t need those two parameters.

Case 3

The added safety of a second backup is worth $1000

Reason

Flash memory fails. It fails at roughly after 100,000 cycles. I have no clue how that translates to taking pictures. I just know I’ve used 5 cameras and taken over 150,000 pictures over the last 11 years and have never gotten a failed card. Many pro’s say it happen couple times a year but could find no stats, not because I didn’t try. Needless to say this factor is a consideration. How much? Combine how grave losing a photo is combined with how likely losing one is and compared it to the added cost. This is not trivial by any means.

Case 4

You shoot with f/1.2 or f/1.4 lenses.

Reason

The center AF point on the 6D is superior, hands down. Using this AF alone with the focus and recompose technique is a very effective, very efficient way to shot. The issue is when you do this, even when using “focus and slide” technique, at a VERY narrow Depths of Field then the focus might be lost. This is likely only going to matter when close to a subject at f/1.4 or more frequently when at f/1.2. These are not common lenses for most types of photography but are cherished by some wedding photographers. So if you plan on using these lenses you may consider the need to get a 5D MK III simply so you can select a different AF point during focusing. The 6D has one cross type AF and drastically fewer AF points to pick from when selecting a different focus.

Perceived differences

• The 5D “takes better pictures”- This is impossible since they both have the exact same processor and identical sensor technology
• Nearly equal ISO capabilities – This is true, but it’s only because it captures slightly less pixels. The difference is not noticeable nearly every practical case.
• Equally weather sealed (4)

Conclusion

Everyone else just assumes it must be better because it’s more expensive. Facts are facts. It’s actually worse of a camera for me and my style. If you use the center AF point most of the time, like I do, and need to shoot in low light, like I frequently do, the 6D is measurably better for sound physical reasons. It can get focus faster and more accurately.

Here are other reasons that are benefits though were no decision makers for me:

• 24% lighter (2) (you can hold it longer and, if dropped, it will hit the ground with less force (1) if dropped)
• 6D is half the cost (2)
• WiFi (3) (for client proofs or mobile editing/sharing for off site designers)
• GPS (3) (Helps SEO when sharing images on the web. GPS metadata is crawl able by Google.)
• Smaller (2)

If you’re interesting in reading more about how and why the 6D’s center AF point is better than the 5D MKIII here is one article and another.

Oh, 5D MK III has 3 custom channels and the 6D has 2. For a Manual shooter this is the only thing about the 5D I crave.

For tips on how to set up your Canon 6D check this out!

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Affiliate links with best price from Amazon. Canon 6D and 5D MK III

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