Testbench
SECOND-HAND CLASSIC
It was a must-have full-frame DSLR in its day. Now it’s possible to pick one up for under £500 in good used condition
Recommended
When Canon unveiled the EOS 5D Mark III in 2012, it received a lot of interest from enthusiasts and working pros. Its 22.3MP resolution wasn’t a big increase over its predecessor, but it promised improved dynamic range and low-light performance. Its sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600 (expandable to ISO 50-102,400) and 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type AF points were identical to the then-flagship EOS-1D X. Other features include 6fps shooting, a reliable 63-zone metering system, fixed 3.2in 1.04k-dot screen and an optical viewfinder with 0.71x magnification and 100% coverage. Full HD video (30p) and dual card slots (CF & SD) are supported too.
What we said
● ‘The viewfinder is bright, clear and offers 100% coverage’
● ‘Those more interested in video may be left wanting a little more’
● ‘The 5D Mark III focuses faster than its predecessor and has all the advanced settings one would expect’
● ‘There are signs of noise at ISO 800, but it is only when ISO 6400 is reached that luminance noise really becomes visible’
How it fares today
The EOS 5D Mark III is starting to show its age, yet it remains a great option for enthusiasts looking to get into full frame and those seeking a capable and reliable DSLR for well under £1,000. It lacks Dual Pixel AF, meaning focusing in live view is clumsy, and the dynamic range, high ISO performance and burst speed are other areas where newer mirrorless cameras present an advantage.
What to pay
The EOS 5D Mark II cost £2,999 when we reviewed it in 2012. Today you can pick one up in ‘good’ used condition with a shutter count of under 20,000 between £460 and £510. Examples with a shutter count in excess of 100,000 frames in ‘well used’ condition sell for around £380, while the very best examples in excellent condition typically sell closer to £600.
New alternatives
If 24MP resolution is suitable for your needs, don’t overlook the EOS R6 Mark II. Working out 280g lighter than the 5D Mark III, this mirrorless sensation and Gold Award winner features superb low-light capabilities (ISO 50-204,800), 12fps burst shooting, 3in 1.62m-dot fully articulated touchscreen, 4K 60fps video and dual SD card slots. Battery life isn’t as good, however.
See over to find out what Canon EOS 5D Mark III owners have to say
At a glance
£460-£525 body only (good used con
