Manage updates with the Download AppCanon EOS 5D (Body Only)
Manufacturer: Canon Part number: 0296B002
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- 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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What was he thinking (Eamon Hickey, CNET.com's 5D reviewer)?
by samscott on March 16, 2006
Pros: Full frame CMOS, 2.5" LCD, weight, relative price, huge buffer
Cons: Slower burst relative to 20D, yet comparable to the 1DS II
Summary: I was stupefied by the Editor's review of the 5D on this website. To rate this camera only a 7.9 on a scale of 10, in particular given ...
Summary: I was stupefied by the Editor's review of the 5D on this website. To rate this camera only a 7.9 on a scale of 10, in particular given the contradictory evidence provided within the review, is insane.
“… a definite step down from the pro-level build quality and weather resistance you'll find in other digital SLR cameras priced at more than $3,000.”
For only $2,900, what in God's name do you expect? You're comparing it straight up with the 1Ds (well over double the price,) D2X ($2,000 more), Mark II N (not full frame but still $1,000 more), etc. as though they were all the same price. Be fair. I can't believe the editor had the audacity to ding the sub-3K SLR boasting a 35mm sensor because it isn't fully weather-sealed as well.
“We have no significant complaints about this system, but it's starting to look a bit dated.”
Well, what did you have in mind as an alternative? If it isn't broken (the reviewer didn't criticize it), then why fix it?
“The camera will shoot at 3fps in drive mode, a spec matched by several sub-$1,000 cameras.”
The $7,000+ 1DS II shoots at 4 fps. Why just the comparison with a camera like the Nikon D70 1.6 crop? The EOS 5D is closer in price to sub-1K cameras than it is to the 1DS II. Who in his or her right mind would expect a full frame sensor to shoot as fast as a 20D which, admittedly, would be "nice"? Pretty wishful thinking.
Pretty much the rest of the editor review is a list of glowing compliments, aside from the occasional trite complaint such as mirror lock-up not being right where he would like it, or preferring neutral over standard picture mode.
Hickey summarizes that the 5D is "A decent midrange digital SLR camera built around a superb sensor". Yes, and for under three grand. Essentially the 7.9 seems to be saying that the 5D should have all the features of the 1DS, but for under three grand.
Unless you need to shoot for hours in dusty or heavily rainy conditions or perhaps throw it against a wall, the 5D is a perfect 10, perhaps even for $4,000 or $5,000. Don't let the Editor's review mislead you into thinking this camera isn't beyond outstanding for the money.
And what's with this:
"Editor's note: The Editors' Choice award that had been given to this camera has since been removed due to subsequent changes in the marketplace."
Thanks for the explanation. It sounds like the CNET editor has an axe to grind for reasons not provided.
Whoops - when attempting to preview my review of the Editor's review, I got this pop-up:
"You are about to submit an extremely high rating of 10. This means you think this product is absolutely perfect. While it's possible for a product to receive a 10, it's extremely rare."
10 it is.32 out of 35 users found this user opinion helpful.
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This isn't the EOS 20D killer expected
by Chiatzu on August 24, 2005
Pros: Spot metering, 12.8 megapixel, 2.5" LCD viewer, 35mm equivalent full frame, improved CMOS, larger buffer
Cons: Slower FPS than other models, no built-in flash, no environmental sealing, no EF-S lens support
Summary: There is a lot to like about the Canon EOS 5D D-SLR. Located somewhere between the EOS 20D and the EOS 1D, the 5D is likely to appeal to those ...
Summary: There is a lot to like about the Canon EOS 5D D-SLR. Located somewhere between the EOS 20D and the EOS 1D, the 5D is likely to appeal to those looking for a step up from the 20D without the environmental sealing found in the professional models. One noteworthy feature of the 5D is spot metering, a helpful feature missing in the 20D. The EOS 5D body is approximate in dimensions and weight to the EOS 20D while having a larger 2.5" LCD view screen. If action photography speed isn't of the essence, you're likely to experience severe gadget lust. The price alone, currently at $3300 usd, will make this a must-buy or pass among all types of digital photographers. And primarily leave this camera to the semi-pro to pro buyers market. Canon's newest digital SLR camera again confirms Canon's commitment to improving its digital SLR line of cameras.
33 out of 43 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Excellent full frame DSLR for the money
by edinburghphoto on September 26, 2005
Pros: Image quality at A3. Cost.
Cons: None really for the price.
Summary: I've posted a more in depth review at photo.net but here's a summary:
A lot lighter in hand.
Good build quality (seems robust).
Vewfinder seems as good ...Summary: I've posted a more in depth review at photo.net but here's a summary:
A lot lighter in hand.
Good build quality (seems robust).
Vewfinder seems as good as 1Ds. Bright. Much better than 10D.
Menus intuitive and very easy to read. Easy to setup. Very similar to 10D. It took 5 mins to get up and running. Pocket guide is a good idea.
The optional grip seems well thought out but doesn't seem as good a fit as that on the 10D (slight gap visible). The AA option is great. Playback zoom on grip buttons is a nice idea. The lack of a hand strap is a disappointment.
First shots: Power on and image review is instantaneous. Screen is bright and clear. A huge improvement. I set the picture style to neutral and initial images seem slightly soft at 100%: to be expected. Shadow detail seems good.
The BP511As batteries are excellent idea. They're small and light and last pretty well. I took 250 images on one battery, all with the 24-105 IS with IS turned on. However the older BP511s: one fully charged BP511 lasted only 50 shots.
Focus: With the 24-105 it seems very fast, even in moderate light.
I'm don't use any form of in-camera sharpening or colour tweaking so I can't comment on any of these. Opening the image in Canon Raw and processing it from there results in excellent images for my purposes. Skins are silky smooth: a quality I like from Canon DSLRs.
Not really interested in the in camera colour balance as I shoot everything raw. Still it seems fine on the camera monitor. Colour in Canon Raw is what I'd expect: i.e. easily correctable.
Misc. Likes:
Image quality at A3.
Build quality.
Interchangeable screens: a real plus.
Enough pixels for the real world.
Optional grip holds the battery cover inside so you don't loose it.
Big screen.
Exposure. latitude.
Improved flash.
Minor Dislikes:
Joystick thingy.
Mirror lock-up is a pain.
Mode dial for TV/AV etc: I prefer the 1 series layout.
Overall I would give it 9/10 until I factor in the sticker price and then it gets 10/10. Add in the lower depreciation and insurance costs in comparison to a 1Ds and it makes even more sense.
In conclusion: a very worthwhile backup to a 1Ds and much better than a 10D. It even has some advantages over the 1Ds (size, weight, batteries).20 out of 22 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A very capable, profesional level camera!
by Paradox5582 on November 16, 2005
Pros: Full frame, HUGE buffer, Unbelieavable Clarity, C mode, bright and large viewfinder, compact and light(compared to other FF SLRs, IINSANE price compared to other FF,VERY low noise, Great Battery Life
Cons: Makes less than professional lenses ( Ls) look miserable....
Summary: As I said before, this is a profesional camera, as any other complicated tool, you have to get used to it and learn its nuances (the 5D has many inlcuding ...
Summary: As I said before, this is a profesional camera, as any other complicated tool, you have to get used to it and learn its nuances (the 5D has many inlcuding picture styles and the C mode).
There are too many plusses to list, yes its considerably more expensive than a DRebel, but for what it offers compared to the 7000$ 1DsMKII its a bargain!
Also, IMHO this is not a camera that CNET should be reviewing. CNET is a consumer level website, and this is definatly not a consumer level camera (for price, and specific options). CNET should stick to the mini-digitals!5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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A Great Camera
by photojp on April 25, 2006
Pros: Pictures taken are super high quality
Cons: Heavy but lighter than 1Ds
Summary: Editor's rating is misleading. This camera is a very good camera which deserves much higher rating than 7.9 as Mr. Hickey rated.
It creates much better picture than ...Summary: Editor's rating is misleading. This camera is a very good camera which deserves much higher rating than 7.9 as Mr. Hickey rated.
It creates much better picture than Rebel XT.
I think the 12.5 mega of larger pixels makes the big difference. Dark shadow area is not all black and bright shining area is not all white. The dynamic range seems to be very well controlled.
I am very happy to get this camera. Picture is sharp and the color is very vivid which reminds me the old German lenses, such as Leica 5M and Hasselblad with Carl Zeiss lenses. There are all kinds of digital things, backed up by the highest standard of technology, supporting it, which makes much easier to take good pictures.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Top notch digital SLR with state of the art features at resonable price
by gordonrd on November 15, 2005
Pros: Image quality, workmanship, 35mm CMOS, versatility, large high res LCD, excellent layout of controls, large buffer for continuous shooting
Cons: Lack of pop flash
Summary: I just returned from a trip to Tibet with the Canon EOS 5D and I am extremely pleased with how the camera performed. The camera, typical of Canon, is well ...
Summary: I just returned from a trip to Tibet with the Canon EOS 5D and I am extremely pleased with how the camera performed. The camera, typical of Canon, is well made yet still compact and light for an SLR this well equipped. Image quality is excellent -- I am amazed at the level of detail and the accurate color in my pictures. I took a picture of a 24,000 foot peak nearly 100 miles away from where I was standing on top of a pass at 16,400 feet with a 100-300mm EOS zoom lens (regular series, not an L lens) and even after cropping/enlargement the level of detail I was able to achieve is most impressive.
Although the ISO is not constantly in the display, you can easily bring it up by pressing the ISO button near the shutter release button for a quick check, so I do not think this is a significant deficiency. It isn't necessary to take your eye away from the viewfinder to do this and a light press of the shutter button puts you right back in picture taking mode.
I missed only the convenience of having the popup flash on my 10D which I liked to use for fill-in flash when needed. But not having the popup means I didn't have those bad flash shots where I forgot to remove the lens hood, so there is a trade-off!
This camera is a gem and worth the price I paid for it. I no longer see any need for a film based camera.Updated
It makes no sense to me that the 20D is rated higher than the 5D. This model builds on the 20D with a better CMOS and expanded features. The only edge the 20D has is the faster 5 per sec continuous shooting speed, but the 3 fps of the 5D suits me fine and the 5D has a larger memory buffer for continuous shooting...and it is wonderful to look thorugh the big bright viewfinder of the 5D.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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EOS 5D fills a much needed niche
by chimeraeditions on November 15, 2005
Pros: Image quality, 2.5" LCD, price
Cons: Controls are not as well placed as on the 1Ds, no weatherproofing
Summary: This is an excellent camera and while I don't have the slightest idea of how Canon intended to fit the 5D into the market - it's the perfect ...
Summary: This is an excellent camera and while I don't have the slightest idea of how Canon intended to fit the 5D into the market - it's the perfect backup for 1Ds users. I am one of many 1Ds users that cannot afford to own two bodies. For all of the niceties on the 20D it was never really useful as a backup because the images were not nearly as detailed, and the EF-S lens (which I needed because I shoot wide) were much softer and slower than the wide primes. Now I have the best of both worlds.
I don't understand the criticisms of "no built-in flash" (I don't want a built in flash on a $3300 camera - for instance, on the 20D with a 10-22mm lens, with the lens shade, the built in flash is blocked on 1/3 of the frame) or "no EF-S lens support" (while these are good lenses they are not good enough to worry about them).
What I don't like is the layout of the controls - which I am getting used to but, I much prefer the layout of controls on the 1Ds compared to the 20D - the 5D seems to have more of the 20D's design. The controls are simple and easy to use - I just think Canon should have taken more from the 1Ds. If you are a 20D user, you will probably welcome the familiarity of the layout.
I think more people will jump at the chance to pay half the price of a 1Ds than will be willing to pay twice the price of a 20D. It seems that this camera is not so much positioned between the 20D and the 1Ds as it is against the Kodak and Nikon DSLR's.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Spectacular results...
by NomadIAM on September 30, 2007
Pros: Excellent picture quality especially at high ISO
Cons: Price can be a bit steep for the average Joe.
Summary: I have been using this camera for about 6 months and would be hard pressed to use a cropped camera. I grew up with fully manual 35mm SLR's with ...
Summary: I have been using this camera for about 6 months and would be hard pressed to use a cropped camera. I grew up with fully manual 35mm SLR's with prime 50mm lens. I feel at home with this, if somewhat guilty with a 24-105L IS lens.
I'm sorry but there really isn't another body in the sub-pro category that comes close, except maybe the Nikon D200. It is likely a better built camera but has a cropped sensor and cannot compete in the noise department. If Nikon introduced a version of the D200 with a full frame sensor it might change the landscape, but for now we are blessed with the 5D. Ask anybody with a 20D through 40D what they would like Santa to bring them this holiday, and I suspect a few will tell a 5D.
I sometimes marvel at the photos this camera has produced in my hands. That's what it's all about right? A rating of 7.9 seems a little uninformed.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Limited Review by CNet
by matthej3 on May 20, 2007
Pros: Great Camera -- Unfounded Low Rating
Cons: The limitatoins on this camera are similar to others in the same class and are minimal inpact when looking at overall performance.
Summary: Hickey's review/rating while may have some accuracies is not balanced in the overall quality of the camera. His list of "gripes" may indicate some actual problems, but he ...
Summary: Hickey's review/rating while may have some accuracies is not balanced in the overall quality of the camera. His list of "gripes" may indicate some actual problems, but he fails to put these minor limitations into perspective.
The reviews states ?Finally, it's worth noting that mediocre lenses will take a big bite out of the Canon EOS 5D's image-quality advantages.? A great camera will show the limitation of poor lenses. This is not a weakness of the camera as the review may indicate, but an indication of the excellence in collecting data to the point of showing the limitation of the lens. Think about it, do you want a camera where you can use an inferior lens and not see the imperfections? High quality lenses make a huge difference! This is like putting poor tires on a great sports car and stating it does not drive well.
I expect more from CNet.
For a much better review and actual lab test, results, and image examples go to dpreview.com for a responsible analysis.
Eamond Hickey, the reviewer of this camera also once worked for Nikon sales and marketing. The bias shows....
The editor?s choice that once belonged to this camera was moved to the Nikon D200.
Do your homework on the web and go beyond CNet. Great reviews exist that compare the Canon 5d and Nikon D200. Both great cameras, but only a responsible review would have a comparison between two great cameras and not indicate such a disparity between the two ratings.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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If you want full frame, and cant spend a ton, this camera is TOPS!
by directed on May 25, 2006
Pros: Full Frame Sensor! Excellent build quality. Light body. Great picture quality
Cons: Not weather-proof, some controls not intuitive, ISO not shown all the time
Summary: This camera is an excellent bargain, and the only direct competition it has is the nikon d200. If you are doing landscape, architectural or interior photography, ditch the Nikon and ...
Summary: This camera is an excellent bargain, and the only direct competition it has is the nikon d200. If you are doing landscape, architectural or interior photography, ditch the Nikon and go with the Canon. The reason is the full-frame sensor will give you a lot wider angle shot from the same lense class. For me, in some settings there simply is not a good lense option for anything less than a full-frame sensor.
The editor review for this camera really confused me. He complains about the rubber cover for the flash sync, saying studio photographers will just rip it off. I do studio photography, and I find it no bother at all and very easy to remove.
I love how light and comfortable the camera is to use, and I find it fairly weather resistant, but in no way weather proof.
The viewfinder is VERY bright. This is extremely useful for focusing and using at night. Autofocusing is very quick and better than the Canon 20d in a noticeable way.
The drawbacks? You can't use EF-s lenses that you got with your 20d or rebel camera body, as they don't fill the full frame sensor with even lighting (no major problem, just get EF lenses). I wish the ISO, F stop and shutter speed were always displayed so I could see it. I wish mirror lock-up was easier to do. Other than that, this camera is absolutely great. Printing high-quality 16x20 prints off a small digital camera is very nice!2 out of 2 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
-
- Manufacturer:Canon
- Address:
One Canon Plaza, Lake Success, NY 11042 - Phone: 516-328-5000
- Email: mediacontact@cusa.canon.com
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