TopTenReviews Editor's Review:
Canon Eos 5D Mark II
The Canon 5D Mark II takes the convergence of still cameras and video to a new level in the consumer market. The camera, to be released in November, offers full 1080p HD video recording as well as a 21 megapixel full frame CMOS sensor that builds on the quality of the sensor in the original 5D. The camera also boasts a larger 3” lcd screen with liveview capability for easy control while shooting your next video. For a price ($2700) that is less than the original 5D ($3300) when first released, you get an awesome camera and the video feature tacked on for good measure. The best part is that you can you any of you EF lenses to record up to 12 minutes of video at a time.
This camera opens up a world of possibility for the documentary photographer or the serious amateur. Quickly switch from video to stills by firing off single or continuous frames. The video recording will pick up after the final frame is captured. The small sturdy build allows you to remain relatively inconspicuous and non-threatening as you capture video and stills with this powerful camera.
Standout Features
- 21.1 MP sensor
- Full 1080p HD video
- 3.9 FPS
- 3” LCD
- Digic IV processor for faster write speed
- Weather resistant build
Features
This camera also features several image size modes in both JPEG and RAW is you find yourself not needing the full 21MP or need to skimp on storage space. Smaller JPEG sizes are available in 11.1 and 5.2 mega pixels and smaller RAW sizes are available in 10 and 5.2 mega pixels.
The 5D Mark II offers the usual range of controls including manual, aperture priority, shutter priority and full automatic. Canon continues to provide an excellent metering system and auto focus capabilities. New since the prior 5D model is an expanded ISO range from 50 up to a whopping 25600 allowing you to shoot in near darkness.
In addition to the 1080p video feature, the camera also provides full audio support with a built in microphone and speaker as well as a input for an external microphone. Connecting to a computer is made easier with the HDMI and standard composite (AV) video out.
Experts
Compared to other cameras in its class, the 5D Mark II stands above all of them and costs a few hundred dollars less. The only thing lagging in the Canon is the burst mode. This is due to the lower resolution in the Nikon D700 with a mere 12.1 MP and the double processor in the Sony A900. With a burst buffer of 78 large JPEGs and 13 RAW frames, the camera still leaves little to complain about.
The one thing that hasn’t really been widely reported is the audio input that accompanies the video. Little information is available as the camera has not been released yet. If it is any indicator, most of the videos released displaying the camera’s video capability make use of a soundtrack as opposed to natural sound. This leaves a lot of room to speculate that the audio may not be that great, something you may want to know before plunking down your $2700.
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