Canon EOS 5D Mark II

Review Index – (updated 26 July’10)

DigitalRev has posted their video comparison of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 7D where they write – ‘We take them out to compare some of the best bits of each camera…but the weather takes a turn for the worst. Find out to see if these cameras survive the Hong Kong Typhoons.’

CPN has posted their explanation of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II custom functions where they write – ‘At first glance Custom Functions may appear to be tricky to understand. With 25 different Custom Functions available on the EOS 5D Mark II DSLR, and 71 settings within those, it’s little wonder that photographers can take some time to get to grips with them.’

Photography Review
“Strengths: Image quality, resolution, features and functions, HD video, live view screen, large LCD screen, battery and battery management system, heavy duty shutter mechanism, powerful and fast processor with 14 bit analog to digital conversion, price. . .

Weaknesses:
I still wish Canon would place a mirror lock function switch on the back or side of the camera so as not to have to scroll through custom functions menus to get to it.”
Rating:  

Photocrati
“More remarkable is control over digital noise-and that’s without invoking in-camera noise reduction! Yes, you do see luminance and color noise at high ISO levels, namely 3200 and beyond, but not at disturbing levels.”

InfoSync
“We spent a good portion of our time shooting at night, attempting to achieve optimal results. We feel that if you have a tripod and the time to spare, shoot with a lower ISO and high shutter speed. If you need to capture action, the Canon Eos 5D Mark II’s high ISO performance was very good. At ISO 1600 we encountered a light mist of noise, but it disappeared with an image resize. ISO 3200 brings more noise to the table, but it’s not as bas as we had initially feared and would certainly suffice for lower resolution image resizing.”
Rating:  

Photography Review
“The Canon EOS 5D Mark II makes me think one thing – low light, low light, low light. Yes, the 1080p HD video is cool, but that’s not enough to get me to buy it. I’m a photographer not a filmmaker. I’d buy the 5D Mark II to shoot sunset and post-sunset action photos. I’d buy it so I never have to use a flash. I’d buy it so I can shoot at ISO 800 and make prints with no noise. And I’d buy it to make huge prints with tons of detail.”

CEN
“While the 5D MkII is a well made camera its not as much of an in-the-mud slugger that the 1Ds MkIII is. However, with the 5D MkII you gain that ability to shoot beautiful quality 1080p/30 fps video. So if you’re like me and your idea of grand adventuring is going up to Mammoth and Mono Lake to shoot the Fall scenery then the 5D MkII won’t disappoint. In fact I will predict that you’ll come back with the best shots of your life.”

RegHardware
“The video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D MkII make it ideal for news gatherers, indie filmmakers or even the all-consuming Internet. After all, why shouldn’t on-line video content be good-looking? As a DSLR, it’s a real upgrade from the old 5D. It’s easier to navigate and produces better images, thanks to a hefty megapixel count. While it appears reassuringly expensive, when you consider what you are getting, it doesn’t really seem that much.”
Rating:  

Pocket-lint
“The EOS 5D Mk II had a tough act to follow in the 5D and it has some tough competition with Nikon’s D700 and Sony’s Alpha 900 being its primary targets. However, it almost pulls it off, offering Alpha 900-like resolution and D700-like high ISO performance. But it has that 1080p video trick to no doubt help smooth the new Canon into your kit bag. “
Rating:  

DigitalCameraReview
“As appealing as the camera’s HD video feature is (especially for wedding photographers, photojournalists, and underwater shooters), the 5D Mark II is, first and foremost, a digital still camera. Excellent image quality and a full feature set are the camera’s two biggest selling points; HD video is the icing on the cake. Whether you’re stepping up from another Canon DSLR or want a back-up for a higher Canon model, the 5D Mark II is certain to appeal to the most discerning photographer-even those who will never (or almost never) utilize the video feature.”

Photography Bay
“While the camera is not without its flaws, the 5D Mark II is by far the best bang-for-buck DSLR that Canon has ever produced. Unfortunately, the achilles heel of the flagship camera is its dated autofocus system. It’s great to have low noise at high ISOs; however, that low noise is of little benefit if you can’t autofocus in low light. Studio shooters will adore this camera, as will many other photographers who shoot in environments where light abounds. Those who venture into dimmer locations may be left with a bit of frustration when the 5D Mark II’s autofocus begins to hunt.”

Neutralday
“It’s 21.1 megapixel sensor is capable of taking breathtaking imagery, it’s AF system is very fast and entirely competent (if a bit dated), and it’s ISO performance opens up possibilities likely not seen by most photographers, especially those moving up from prosumer level cameras. All of this in a pro-like camera body with light to moderate dust and moisture resistance.”

CNET Australia
“The 5D Mark II is an astounding camera for most uses, and the added bonus of high-definition recording is most welcomed. It does have its limitations as stated, but for the most part this camera is worth the money and really does deliver a satisfying photography experience for the advanced photographer and semi-professional alike.”
Rating:  

DCResource
“All things considered, the Canon EOS-5D Mark II is a very impressive digital SLR. For the Canon enthusiast who wants to step up to a full-frame body, it’s an excellent choice. I’m not quite sure that it’s the ideal camcorder replacement, due to the lack of continuous AF when you’re recording a movie. I’ve spent time with all three of the “budget” full-frame D-SLRs, and I’d place the Mark II second on my list. My favorite camera in this class is the Nikon D700, with its slightly better photo quality, faster continuous shooting, more elaborate autofocus system, and built-in flash (though it lacks a movie mode).”

TomsGuide
“Sure, the 1Ds has major advantages over the 5D (primarily the sturdiness of the body and the better focusing system, as well as a more extensive feature set), but color is equal or better with the 5D. This camera is also only $1,300 more than Canon’s 50D, which is a true consumer DSLR. The EOS 5D Mark II bridges the gap to professional quality and could be an excellent investment.”

Luminous Landscape
“Bottom line: in the inevitable world of compromises that is photography, the 5DII lets photographers shoot better in lower light than ever before. The limits are there, but they’ve been given another good, hard shove towards the corner.”

GoodGearGuide
“Enthusiast and semi-professional users looking to step up to a full-format camera should consider the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, especially as it has the ability to capture Full HD video in addition to massive still shots. It’s well suited to photographers who want to crop in to fine details in their photos, or who just want to shoot and print very large landscapes and portraits. We do wish some of its controls were better implemented, but it’s not hard to use once you get used to it.”
Rating:  

Shutterbug
“Indeed, the 5D Mark II ($2699, retail) might in many ways be regarded as a 50D ($1399, retail) in 5D clothing, at least in terms of handling, but that difference becomes greater when you consider the larger sensor, megapixel count, and of course video capability and stronger body heft, weight, and build.”

Steve Huff
“It truly is a semi-pro body in a smaller package. My complaints were minor and would not bother most serious shooters. In the end, its about image quality and the 5D Mark II delivers it while keeping the same signature “Canon” look to the images. The added video features push it over the top IMO. I love the 5D video.”

DPExpert
“There are now three outstanding cameras in this market niche. The Canon 5D was the first by three years and the MkII is not a lot different from the MkI. Nikon and Sony have come at the design from fresh points of view. For anyone with an investment in Canon lenses the choice is easy, but for the lucky few with the (lots of) money it is a little harder. But the good news is, whichever you choose you will have a superb camera. It was sheer pleasure being reacquainted with the Canon 5D type.”

Wins Best Digital SLR in Professional Photographer’s 2009 Product Awards
“With its groundbreaking full-frame HD video capability, was the most highly anticipated camera model to be released this year, and it impressed the judges enough to secure Professional Photographer’s 2009 Hot One Award in the highly contested Digital SLR, $1,000 to $3,000, category.”

Gizmodo As compared to the Nikon D700
“In the end, for me, I give the trophy to the 5D Mark II for the 1080p video. It’s got its drawbacks, sure, but being able to switch seamlessly from stills to beautiful movies with my awesome 35mm DSLR lens is just too good to be true. The D700 has an edge, albeit a slight one, in some categories like high ISO, but in the new world order, 1080p video from your DSLR is an ace that can’t be beat.”

TrustedReviews
“The Canon EOS 5D Mk2 represents the state of the art of current digital SLR design. Its combination of professional-level build quality, superb handling, high-speed performance, class-leading image quality and the added bonus of HD video recording and its other advanced features will be more than enough to satisfy even the most demanding photographer, and it is sure to match the popularity of its illustrious predecessor.”
Rating:  

MacWorld
“Like its predecessor, Canon’s EOS 5D Mark II is a great camera that offers exceptional image quality and a great interface. I’d like to see a few additional features (better auto bracketing and an intervalometer, for starters) but these are quibbles. For users who’ve been wanting a full-frame SLR, there’s no doubt that the EOS 5D Mark II is a great option.”
Rating:  

Luminous-Landscape
“So what do I draw from this short story? I believe the Canon 5D MKII is a great first (sorry Nikon – second) step toward a new breed of camera that can capture both still & video work well. But since the video portion of the 5Dii’s functionality appears to be an afterthought, video handling and implementation are rudimentary. However the files promise well for the future since the underlying technology is very strong. The failure of this particular camera is in its build and operation for video and general lack of reliability in normal field conditions.”

DPReview
“We have always placed a heavy emphasis on image quality, and all other things aside this means the 5D Mark II has to receive our highest rating. When you consider the price of the EOS-1Ds Mark III, the 5D Mark II seems like quite a bargain.”
Rating:  

LetsGoDigital
“It’s a pleasure to work with the Canon 5D Mark II; it is the lightest 20+ camera ever and the buttons are well-placed. The beautiful screen and the clear viewfinder are also a joy with which to work. Equally important are the pictures that are produced with the Canon 5D Mark II.”

Frits van Eldik
“The ‘problem’ with this camera is that it is too good – you don’t have to think with this camera. But as a professional photographer I want to have full control. Overall this camera is almost perfect.”

Photo.net
“It’s not perfect of course. It still uses linear AF sensors for 8 out of the 9 visible AF zones, it doesn’t track focus or allow control of ISO and aperture when recording video, it’s not fully weather sealed and it doesn’t have a built-in flash or built-in image stabilization, but no camera is perfect and Canon has to save something for the EOS 5D MkIII as well as give users some reasons to choose the 1DS MkIII.”

DigitalCameraInfo
“Our lab testing revealed exceptional image sharpness and color accuracy, with acceptable automatic white balance results and outstanding custom white balance accuracy. Dynamic range was another strong suit for the 5D Mark II, where it outperformed our other test cameras by a significant margin.”

PDNGearGuide
“Excellent image quality over a range of lighting conditions from bright sunshine to dimly lit tunnels; one of the best cameras we’ve seen for shooting in low-light at high ISOs; particularly strong at ISO 6400 which looks like ISO 400 in some older competing models; similar, comfortable design to its predecessor; HD movie mode produced beautiful, “dreamy, creamy” results.”

CPN
“He concludes: Overall it reminds me a lot of the IQ and features of the 1Ds Mark III. I will happily be using one alongside my EOS-1Ds Mark III cameras for all my future assignments.”

What Digital Camera
“Perhaps critically, we not only get the best EOS image quality yet, but at less than half the price of the existing 1Ds Mark III. Nikon and Sony are hardly taking this lying down, but they certainly have a fight on their hands, because in our estimation the EOS 5D Mark II is, all things considered, probably the best ever Canon DSLR.”
Rating:  

ImagingResource
“The Canon 5D Mark II is one amazing photographic tool, designed and built to be used by serious photographers, without a lot to distract from making great pictures. That’s the beauty of the line, and one of the key carry-overs from the 5D itself: elegant utility borrowed from the Canon 20D and 40D designs, combined with revolutionary image quality brought down from Canon’s professional line of cameras.”

CNET
“After shooting with it for about a month, I have to admit, I’m sold. I want this camera. I love the Nikon D700 as well, but the 5D Mark II’s higher resolution and surprisingly good video capture put it over the top for me.”
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The Digital Journalist
“So, while waiting for my new 5D to arrive started out as a test of patience, it has turned into a pretty fulfilling design challenge. In order to shoot video, the mirror flips up and the camera’s live view engages and the photographer (operator, cameraman, whatever?!?) views the scene on the vertically mounted 3-inch screen. Not quite ideal from an ergonomic perspective. Enter the challenge: the adaptation and installation of a professional video finder.”

TechRadar
“Like other EOS SLRs, this camera produces clean, noise-free JPEGs but at the cost of fine, high-frequency information. It doesn’t affect every image by any means, but there are some subjects in some lighting where the surfaces and the details seem to drop below the camera’s detail ‘threshold’ and are rendered with a characteristically ‘glassy’ look.”
Rating:  

B & H Photo
“Impressive camera that enables the user to capture monstrous, pro-quality still and video image files for far less than half the price of Canon’s flagship EOS 1Ds Mark II. Is the EOS 1Ds Mark II better built, faster, and more dependable when shooting under enemy fire?”

StevesDigicams
“The Canon 5DMk2 is the first digital SLR I have used that offers a “movie mode” like that of a consumer digicam. At first, I felt this was a ridiculous addition. However, after using the full HD (1920×180) and SD (640×480) video modes on this camera, I’ve changed my mind.”

DigitalTrends
“Shooting indoors in a dimly lit room at 25,600 ISO is a bad move—especially if you want an 8.5×11 print; it’s a pixilated mess. Dropping down to 12,800, the results were much better, and we’ve gotten worse prints from 10MP point-and-shoots shooting at 800, not 12,800! 6400 was surprisingly good, as was 3200, which is about the limit we’d go for a fairly noise-free image for a large print.”
Rating:  

The Digital Picture
“Compared to the 1D the 5D has a nicer rear LCD, a more intelligent battery and more Live View features – including 1080p HD video and HDMI connectivity. The 5D II has slightly better image quality and has higher ISO settings available. The 5D II has more in-camera image control features including Peripheral Illumination Correction and Auto Lighting Optimizer (ALO). Pressing the Multi-controller (joystick) on the 5D II results in a new Quick Control Screen displayed on the LCD. “

LuminousLandscape (Canon 5D and Sony A900 Head-to-Head)
“You know this was coming – right? No, Canon still doesn’t understand the necessity of mirror lock-up, and buries it down in Custom Function hell, several button presses away. How many years has it been now that we’ve all been bitching about this? Are they being stubborn, or just stupid? “

Wired
“The picture quality is terrific, even at ISO 1600 and 3200, but at 6400, 12800 and 25600 the resulting images are quite noisy. At ISO 100 the full-resolution shots are simply stunning.”
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OutbackPhoto
“Even for a 21 MP camera the high ISO noise behavior is very good – Live View is a plus – Video maybe a strong selling point too – We consider dust removal also a must have feature in 2008 – LCD much improved – Black Dots can be annoying.”

Roland Dim
“The image quality is simply amazing with very high resolution and very good high ISO performance. As far as image quality is concerned, I think most users would be more than pleased with the 5D Mark II.”

CNET Asia
“For most serious photographers, however, the real strengths of the 5D II will be its versatility and ability to record high-quality still images and, in this field, it will match – or better – most rivals.”
Rating:  

PhotoReview
“For most serious photographers, however, the real strengths of the 5D II will be its versatility and ability to record high-quality still images and, in this field, it will match – or better – most rivals.”
Rating:  

CameraTown
“While I can definitely find area’s to improve upon, the end result is that no other camera on the market, regardless of brand, can match the overall price/ performance ratio that the EOS 5D Mark II offers, at least not as of this writing. 2009 will surely be interesting!.”

The Online Photographer
“The 5D Mark II is a brilliant camera in many ways. It has more, and better, of most of the good things we like. But my holistic overall impression is that its images just look more digital, in some fundamental way, rather than just “photographic.”

CameraLabs
“Many will also be disappointed not to find a popup flash, 100% viewfinder, or a more sophisticated AF system, but it’s not altogether surprising given the former is rare on a high-end body and in Canon’s world, the last two are normally reserved for its top 1D series only.”

PopPhoto
“And the vast amount of detail that goes along with 21.1MP, as well as the sophisticated image processing served up by its new DIGIC 4 engine, cannot be understated — it’s a wow! The low-light image quality is almost life-changing.”

Ken Rockwell
“The auto-adjusting backlight really works. It looks great in daylight, and doesn’t burn out your eyes at night. THis means, for the first time I can use my LCD at night to evaluate exposure, and not have to add a stop as I do on Nikons with thier fixed brightness levels.Yay!”

ArtbyPhil
“Compared to the original 5D I feel the 5D Mark II is slightly improved in the auto focus department. Especially the center point. However, I do loathe the spacing of the 9 auto focus points and prefer a wider spread.”

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Overview Video

PhotographyBlog
“The 5D Mark II doesn’t stack up too well in terms of continuous shooting speed, viewfinder coverage or autofocus points, particularly when compared to the Nikon D700, so you still need to carefully consider what you’ll be mainly using the camera for.”
Rating:  

Digital Rev (Hands-on)
“With Creative Auto mode and other user friendly settings like Auto ISO, Canon has made this full frame DSLR a lot more approachable to enthusiast who can handle its price tag.”

DigitalProTalk (Hands-on)
“The phenomenally high ISO capabilities promise some unbelievable benefits especially to us event shooters. The video capabilities, as I’ve said before, also open many new doors of opportunity that we don’t even yet understand. All way cool stuff.”

The Digital Journalist (digitaljournalist.org)
“Unless you are going to use a tripod or steadicam mount you need to understand that this camera is NOT a video camera. It is a superb still camera, at a reasonable price, and can do wonderful things within reason. “

MetroPhotography
“Put in its amazing video recording capability and the new Canon 5D Mark 2 just opened the floodgates to all our creativity to flow. It’s a definite upgrade for Metrophoto when it finally comes out to the market, we can’t imagine curtailing our creativity by not acquiring this new camera.”

Bebbblopg (Hands on Preview)
“Is it a revolutionary camera? Well, that depends a lot of whether we, as a group, have the foresight to see the potential in what Canon has given us. In my personal opinion, this camera changes everything – and I cannot wait to integrate everything it has to offer. We haven’t been able to sleep just thinking about the possibilities and where we can take this.”

DSLUser.co.uk (Hands on Video Preview)

DPReview (Hands on Preview)
“So here is the 5D Mark II, which punches high in terms of both resolution and features, headlining: 21 megapixels, 1080p video, 3.0″ VGA LCD, Live view, higher capacity battery. In other words, a camera that aims to leapfrog both its direct rivals, either in terms of resolution (in the case of the D700) or features (in the case of the DSLR-A900).”