Canon EOS 5D (Body Only)
Manufacturer: Canon Part number: 0296B002
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Accessories
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- A decent midrange digital SLR camera built around a superb sensor, the Canon EOS 5D delivers great images and the familiar 35mm-film-format shooting experience for a comparatively low (though still hefty) price.
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CNET editors' review
Canon EOS 5D (Body Only) price range: $3,268.95
- Reviewed by: Eamon Hickey
- Edited by: Aimee Baldridge
- Reviewed on: 11/10/2005
- Released on: 10/15/2005
The good: Top-notch, high-resolution images; 35mm-size sensor obviates focal-length conversions; big 2.5-inch LCD; unmatched low-noise images at ISO 1,600 and 3,200.
The bad: Overall build quality and performance typical of much cheaper cameras; no constant ISO display; images show occasional red fringing around highlight transitions; automatic white balance occasionally inconsistent.
The bottom line: A decent midrange digital SLR camera built around a superb sensor, the Canon EOS 5D delivers great images and the familiar 35mm-film-format shooting experience for a comparatively low (though still hefty) price.
User reviews
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Top Notch (Almost 1Ds) Image Quality
by rizmalik on November 13, 2005
Pros: Image Quality,Finish, Speed, CMOS, Value, LCD
Cons: Need "L" Lenses for perfect snaps, Battery Life, No flash
Summary: Bought this a few days ago, absolutely fabulous camera. Takes high resolution excellent pictures (better than Nikon D2X), easy to use and built like a tank. Although you will need ...
Summary: Bought this a few days ago, absolutely fabulous camera. Takes high resolution excellent pictures (better than Nikon D2X), easy to use and built like a tank. Although you will need Canon "L" lenses to get the best pics. My suggestion, get a 24-105mm f/4 ($1249) and you are all set. Also dont forget the Canon 580EX speedlite for indoors..its a must for E TTL-II function. Yes! you'll spend around $5000 but its worth it...much better than 20D or the heavier 1D Mark II N.I would have given it a perfect 10 if it had the built in flash. If you budget is tight, wait a few weeks for the new Nikon D200 which is going to be a hot seller..but I am a Canon guy, so I highly recommend 5D.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Puts the 20D to sleep
by texmex10 on September 8, 2005
Pros: Huge buffer blows away 20D
Cons: 20D's underpowered flash was still handy
Summary: Who wants to buy my 20D??
- heck, it is too nice to throw away but it is an antique now...I got my hands on this model at the ...Summary: Who wants to buy my 20D??
- heck, it is too nice to throw away but it is an antique now...I got my hands on this model at the press release shindig and wow!!
The fps is lower than the 20D but only a novice picks numbers over performance - the buffer on this thing is huge and will roll over the 20D. If you need fast fps - you must be a sports photag and you wouldn't be using the 20D but the EOS-1D Mark II N anyway.
I wish the street price was lower - Three grand is a lot but I guess you have to pay to play with the big boys!
I am going to miss the built-in flash - I know... everyone knows...the 20D's flash was underpowered - but it was handy for casual shots and for outdoor activities that needed fill. I wish they could have incorporated some sort of flash - I guess they got so much grief for the 20D's flash they decided to shuck it completely, which I think is a mistake.
I also wish that the camera would hold a compact flash card and another type of card (smart media, SD, etc.) as the RAW files are going to fill my 2G card very quickly and I would rather shell out for another card which I could keep secure in the camera than to pay for a 4G card.
Overall, I cannot wait until Christmas - Santa better bring me one of these.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Nicely done, Canon!
by jackppp on August 25, 2005
Pros: Full frame digital SLR, 2.5" LCD,12.8m pixels!
Cons: Slow Continuous speed , 1/200 sec sync, no built in flash.
Summary: Another semi-pro level digital slr made by Canon. At this time of last year, Canon released a very very good slr- eos 20D. Now they made a Eos 5D, which ...
Summary: Another semi-pro level digital slr made by Canon. At this time of last year, Canon released a very very good slr- eos 20D. Now they made a Eos 5D, which comes with a awesome 12.8 m pixel full frame CCD. Compare the 20D, 5D's Continuous speed is slow, also the syne speed. I dont think this is the replacement for the 20D, both of the cameras has their own benefit, and this camera is not listed in the 1D series, seems Canon wants to make first step in full frame "consumer level SLR" market, anyway, well done, superb camera.
6 out of 12 users found this user opinion helpful.
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review editor asleep??
by danjmccoy on May 13, 2006
Pros: fantastic camera, easy to use, a professionals dream producing great images.
Cons: the only con is not putting a flash on top and perhaps not having better seals..
Summary: as a professional of 58 years..this is one hell of a great camera. after looking at some other cnet reports am feeling...can one trust these people and do ...
Summary: as a professional of 58 years..this is one hell of a great camera. after looking at some other cnet reports am feeling...can one trust these people and do they have a hidden agenda? The higher 16 megapixel canon produces fine images but is the worse camera i have ever seen in using. take a 5d file to the new pro printers, do a five foot print, look down and see if you still have socks on.
2 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Best on the Market.
by chillindave on September 23, 2007
Pros: Excellent color depth, full-frame image sensor, low-noise at high ISO, great results.
Cons: Price being the main one, but it's a professional camera, so that's expected. Performance wise, this is the camera to have.
Summary: I've owned my 5D for several months now and I love it! I shoot weddings, so top performance in low-light conditions is a must and this camera rises to ...
Summary: I've owned my 5D for several months now and I love it! I shoot weddings, so top performance in low-light conditions is a must and this camera rises to the occasion. At 1600 ISO, it has the noise level compared to a XT, 20D, or 30D at about 800 ISO, which is great. The color depth is probably one of the features that stands out the most to me. I've compared it to my 30D and the 5D is by far better at rendering more accurate colors and recording a greater spectrum in RAW format.
The full-frame image sensor is a big plus as well, especially when wanting to get the full use out of wide angle lenses. It does not work with the digital only lenses, but if you're looking to buy this, you're probably planning on using "L" series lenses with it, which make this camera really shine. I recommend this camera for portrait, landscape, and wedding photographers. Sports photographers will probably want something with a faster burst speed.
The price is a little high, as I stated under the "Cons", but for the serious photographer it's worth every dollar spent. For the hobbyist, it may be a little too much unless you have extra to spend.
I truly believe this camera is the best on the market and it's no wonder why so many professionals use it as their primary camera. The only thing better will be the replacement model Canon makes.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Expensive for a reason
by excelguru on November 17, 2006
Pros: Does Nikon have a full-frame digital camera? No, they don't. Low noise levels at high ISO. Quieter shutter. Large buffer. Huge display.
Cons: Not cheap (read on). No constant display of ISO. Mirror lock is still hidden.
Summary: If you research what's required to actually manufacture a full-frame CMOS chip, you will very quickly understand why this camera and the full-frame 1Ds Mk II cost so much. ...
Summary: If you research what's required to actually manufacture a full-frame CMOS chip, you will very quickly understand why this camera and the full-frame 1Ds Mk II cost so much. However, the 5D costs less than HALF what the 1Ds MkII will set you back. Some of us have been waiting for this for quite a while.
The quiet shutter is great news for those of us who shoot weddings. Now whenever I use my 20D it sounds like a rifle. I don't miss the pop-up flash one damned bit. Good riddens. I'm surprised that it has an "Auto" mode. I could do without that, too.
Personally, I think the fit/finish of the camera is just fine. The high price is caused by the sensor, not the weather-proofing. It is understandable and reasonable.
The tonal range appears to be fantastic. I shoot in RAW mode constantly, and I'm able to save underexposed photos with ease because of the range of this sensor. the background blur afforded by the sensor is also quite nice for those who shoot with large-aperture lenses. This camera really shines with fast lenses. Speaking of lenses, if you learn how to change them quickly and efficiently, then dust will not be a problem except in extreme environments. I change lenses all the time and have little or no dust problems.
But it's really all about the sensor, isn't it? Attach a 15mm fisheye on your 30D and look through the eyepiece. Now attach it to a 5D. HUUUUGE difference! The eyepiece is also a bit larger and brighter than the 20D/30D which is a welcome change.
The ISO value does appear in the eyepiece, but only when it's being adjusted using the button/wheel. Mirror lock-up is still a PITA.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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An excellent camera, Superb!
by Slotkar on June 15, 2006
Pros: This is the finest digital camera for the your money!
Cons: Too insignificant to mention
Summary: It's obvious that Mr. Hickey did not spend a lot of time (or took many pictures) with the EOS 5D. If he did he would have appreciated the fine ...
Summary: It's obvious that Mr. Hickey did not spend a lot of time (or took many pictures) with the EOS 5D. If he did he would have appreciated the fine attributes of this camera.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Editor's rating highly dubious
by Defender2 on May 9, 2006
Pros: Full Frame CMOS sensor!
Cons: No internal flash
Summary: The editor's rating of 7.9 is highly suspect for a variety of reasons.
For a full frame 12.8 MP sensor priced at $3,000, this camera has ...Summary: The editor's rating of 7.9 is highly suspect for a variety of reasons.
For a full frame 12.8 MP sensor priced at $3,000, this camera has set a precedent in the market place, no doubt. You will not find any competition even close to this price point.
I have both the 30D and the 5D (using the 30D as a backup) and I can tell you that the features offered by this camera are pro quality- excellent multi-point autofocus, custom picture controls, exceptional build quality and images that must be seen to be appreciated. Though it has no internal flash, this is not a serious flaw-- most professional DSLRs do not have this feature since studio work will entail external flash setups. And the flash synch and metering for this camera are second to none.
For those who truly love photography and need great resolution in their products, the 5D is a winner.
I do not intend to address everything point by point, but I recommend those interested in this excellent camera look at other review sites and form their own opinion. Better yet, find someone who has the 5D and put it in your hands.
This camera is a 10 for all the RIGHT reasons. A benchmark DSLR for those serious about photography.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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It's bringing pro features within the reach of enthusiasts
by Batford on March 3, 2006
Pros: Full size 35mm sensor, 12.8Mp and a huge range of useable lenses available
Cons: If you want to use a pro camera body you will have to pay for a very good lens and a good flashgun
Summary: The first thing I had to come to terms with was the high cost of a suitable lens.
The first obvious effect of using the 5d was that the good ...Summary: The first thing I had to come to terms with was the high cost of a suitable lens.
The first obvious effect of using the 5d was that the good lens and 12.8Mp resolution was making the slightest camera shake obvious when viewed at high magnification even with an image stabilised lens. But with care, I found that it can produce wonderful results.
Perhaps a good way of thinking about this is that if you want to move towards more professional quality equioment, you will have to improve your techniques to take full advantage of the qualities it has to offer.
Up to now, digital camera specifications have usually been the limiting factor, but as they improve it is moving more towards the skills of the users. A good thing too I say.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Wow!! Let's hope the street price is lower
by deecee on August 22, 2005
Pros: Full Frame !!
Cons: 3fps is a bit slow, but Canon need to protect the 1D Mark2 somehow
Summary: This is a great update to the Canon line, rumor has been flying around for a while now. Let's hope the street price for this unit is lower, one ...
Summary: This is a great update to the Canon line, rumor has been flying around for a while now. Let's hope the street price for this unit is lower, one can always hope...
3 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Canon
- Part number: 0296B002
- Description: The Canon EOS 5D offers advanced photographers a lightweight, robust digital SLR that uses Canon's superlative EF lenses without a conversion factor. Its full-frame 12.8 Megapixel CMOS sensor combines with Canon's DIGIC II Image Processor, a high-precision 9-point AF system with 6 assist points, and "Picture Style" color control to deliver images of superior quality with enough resolution for any application. With its wide-angle capabilities, 2.5 inch LCD and magnesium-alloy body, the 5D is the perfect addition to the Digital EOS line.
General
- Packaged Quantity 1
- Product Type Digital camera - SLR
- Resolution 12.8 megapixels
- Optical Sensor Type CMOS
- Total Pixels 13,300,000 pixels
- Effective Sensor Resolution 12,800,000 pixels
- Optical Sensor Size 23.9 x 35.8mm
- Image Processor DIGIC II
- Auto Focus TTL phase detection
- Auto Focus Points (Zones) Qty 9
- Image Recording Format JPEG,
RAW,
RAW + JPEG - AV Interfaces Composite video/audio
Exposure & White Balance
- Light Sensitivity ISO 3200,
ISO 100-1600,
ISO 50,
ISO auto (100-400) - Exposure Metering Partial (8%),
Evaluative,
Center-weighted,
Spot - Exposure Metering Zones 35
- Exposure Modes E-TTL II program flash,
Program,
Automatic,
Shutter-priority,
Manual,
Aperture-priority - Shooting Programs Portrait mode,
Landscape - Special Effects Black & White,
Sepia,
Neutral,
Faithful - White Balance Automatic,
Presets,
Custom - White Balance Presets Cloudy,
Fluorescent light (daylight),
Daylight,
Tungsten light,
Shade - Max Shutter Speed 1/8000 sec
- Min Shutter Speed 30 sec
- Exposure Compensation ±2 EV range, in 1/2 or 1/3 EV steps
- Auto Exposure Bracketing 3 steps in 1/2 or 1/3 EV steps
- White Balance Bracketing Yes
- X-sync Speed 1/200 sec
- Exposure Range EV 1-20 ( ISO 100 )
Lens System
- Focus Adjustment Manual
- Zoom Adjustment Manual
- Lens System Mounting Canon EF
Camera Flash
- Camera Flash None
- Flash Modes Red-eye reduction
Additional Features
- Continuous Shooting Speed 3 frames per second
- Self Timer Delay 10 sec
- Flash Terminal PC terminal,
Hot shoe - Status LCD Display Illumination Yes
- Status LCD Display Information Photo quality,
Photos remaining,
Exposure compensation,
Aperture,
Shutter speed,
Frame counter,
Autofocus mode,
Focus area,
Battery condition,
Program,
Remote control indicator,
Metering mode,
White balance indicators,
Self-timer mode,
Film speed,
Manual focus mode,
Drive mode - Additional Features Display brightness control,
AF lock,
DPOF support,
RGB primary color filter,
FE lock,
Depth-of-field preview button,
AE lock,
Auto power save,
Digital noise reduction,
Histogram display,
PictBridge support,
USB 2.0 compatibility,
Direct print Viewfinder
- Viewfinder Type Optical - Fixed eye-level pentaprism
- Viewfinder Color Support Color
- Field Coverage 96%
- Magnification 0.71x
- Dioptric Correction Range -3 to +1
- Viewfinder Frames Autofocus frame
- Viewfinder Information Flash charge completion,
AE lock,
AF-in-focus,
White balance,
Exposure compensation,
Shutter speed,
Aperture Display
- Type 2.5 in LCD display
- Resolution 230,000 pixels
- Display Features Built-in
Connections
- Connector Type 1 x Composite video output,
1 x USB,
1 x Remote control,
1 x Flash terminal Software
- Software Canon Digital Photo Professional 2.0,
Drivers & Utilities Miscellaneous
- Included Accessories Battery charger,
Body cap,
Neck strap - Body Material Magnesium alloy
Battery
- Supported Battery Canon BP-511A
- Supported Battery 1 x Li-ion rechargeable battery - 1390 mAh ( Included )
Memory / Storage
- Memory Card Slot CompactFlash Card
- Supported Memory Cards CompactFlash,
Microdrive - Included Memory Card CompactFlash Card
- Image Storage Fine JPEG 4368 x 2912 - 4.6 MB,
Normal JPEG 4368 x 2912 - 2.3 MB,
Fine JPEG 3168 x 2112 - 2.7 MB,
Normal JPEG 3168 x 2112 - 1.4 MB,
Fine JPEG 2496 x 1664 - 2 MB,
Normal JPEG 2496 x 1664 - 1 MB,
RAW 4368 x 2912 - 12.9 MB Dimensions & Weight
- Width 6 in
- Depth 3 in
- Height 4.4 in
- Weight 1.8 lbs
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature 32 °F
- Max Operating Temperature 104 °F
Accessories
- Canon BP-511 Lithium Ion Battery
- Canon EF 70-200 mm f/4L USM lens
- Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras
- BP-511A Battery Pack for Select Canon EOS/PowerShot Digital Cameras / Optura Pi Camcorder
- Speedlite 580EX
- Tamron AF 28-300mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di LD IF lens (A061, Canon EF mount)
- Tamron AF 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) Macro Zoom Lens
- Tamron A017 - macro zoom lens - 70 mm - 300 mm
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Canon products on Shopper.com
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- Manufacturer:Canon
- Address:
One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042 - Phone: 516-328-5000
- Email: mediacontact@cusa.canon.com



