Canon have unveiled the new EOS 5D Mark III digital SLR featuring a 22-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, six frames per second burst rate and 61-point autofocus system from the EOS 1D X. The Canon EOS 5D Mk III has a native ISO range of 100-25,600 (expandable to ISO 102,400) and offers full HD video capture with manual controls.
The Canon 5D Mark III UK launch price is £2,999 and stock is due towards the end of March. You can pre-order the EOS 5D Mk 3 at the following retailers:
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs. EOS 5D Mark II comparison
Here is a quick side-by-side feature comparison of the 5D Mark II vs. Mark III, as you can see there are significant improvements – although the megapixel count remains similar:
| Feature | EOS 5D Mark III | EOS 5D Mark II |
| Megapixels | 22.3 | 21.1 |
| Autofocus | 61-point AF | 9-point AF (+ 6 assist) |
| Native ISO range | 100-25,600 | 100-6,400 |
| Frames per second | 6 fps | 3.9 fps |
| Processor | DIGIC 5+ | DIGIC 4 |
| LCD screen | 3.2″ with 1,040k pixels | 3.0″ with 920k pixels |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% | 98% |
The autofocus and LCD screen found in the 5D Mark III are borrowed from the flagship 1D X, whereas the ergonomics are influenced by the EOS 7D. Thankfully, the 5D Mk III gains a viewfinder with 100% coverage, which makes it easier to compose accurately at the edge of the frame.
The video capabilities of the 5D MkIII have a significant upgrade over the MkII, in particular the level of manual control available. Ergonomically the process of starting video capture is easier, thanks to the movie mode/live view switch first seen on the EOS 7D.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III preview
The team at Dpreview have an excellent preview of the 5D Mark III available, including this hands-on video: