Full frame, or newer camera

[\\'anderer]

I am interested in getting a camera to replace my Canon XTI. I have seen the older 5D's for about the same price as a 50D body. Most of my lenses are "L" glass, so full frame is not a problem.

My question is about image quality. Would an older full frame sensor have a better quality over the newest smaller sensor? Logically a larger sensor seems like it could get better pictures. The 50D sensor is supposed to have better image quality, even at higher ISO speeds. Any thoughts???

 

[ThomD]

Very complex question, but I don't think it has to do with IQ. Either camera is capable of producing very high quality images.

Start with answering the question, "What is wrong with your current camera?".

I don't know much about the details of the 5D or 50D, but if I were to pick without regard to price, I'd compare reports of focus speed, tests of high ISO noise and my evaluation of ergonomics. Of course if you want wide angle, then the 5D has an advantage there. Is live view important to you, then the 50D has an advantage.

I bought a 40D and I'm happy. The 50D didn't exist at the time.

 

[jorge]

Mike,

You may find your answer here: http://www.dxomark.com
make sure your read the "Insights" section..

Saludos

 

[ThomD]

Mike,

You may find your answer here: http://www.dxomark.com
make sure your read the "Insights" section..

Saludos

Ah yes, I forgot about that site. So comparing the cameras I see that the pixel pitch on the 5D is 8, vs 4.7 on the 50D. All things being equal, the high ISO performance on the 5D should be better. But things aren't equal. the 50D is new and the 5D isn't. Technology changes. According to that site, the 50D should edge out the 5D in most technical comparisons. Does that mean that anyone could actually see the difference? I doubt it for most photos.

I do notice that the 50D does 6 fps, vs 3 fps. That's enough for me to pick the 50D because I do shoot sports some times. If wide angle shots were my bread and butter, I'd take the 5D.

 

[ExploringNH]

If its sports you are after, the 50D will be a more useful camera. If its studio or portrait, the 5D will be a better choice.

The 5D has much better noise performance than the XTi. I cant speak for the 50D since I have never used one.

 

[\\'anderer]

Thanks for all the input and a great website too. It answered many questions, and brought up even more.

I am looking for better low light performance, ergonomics (larger camera body), and would like 6 fps at times. live view does not interest me. Wide angle shots are a favorite.

 

[esh]

I am holding off a little, but looking like I'll pull the trigger on a 5DmkII. Should be a solid body of reviews in by spring.

The 5D has been a great success.

I've enjoyed photography-on-the.net forums immensely. Great knowledge and help there.

The first pic in the below thread is pretty much what the 5D is all about-

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=462416&highlight=5d

My 20D couldn't touch that range.

 

[neliconcept]

Thanks for all the input and a great website too. It answered many questions, and brought up even more.

I am looking for better low light performance, ergonomics (larger camera body), and would like 6 fps at times. live view does not interest me. Wide angle shots are a favorite.

i have a 30d and have shot at upwards of 1000 iso and get pretty good low noise levels.

50d is supposed to have better grain control in the higher iso and can go up to 12800 iso (not really needed imo though)

and it shoots 6.3fps

5d only shoots 3fps and the noise control wont be sooo much better that you have to have it over the 50d, good thing is that it will take full use out of your L lenses that you have.

but get if you want the best of both worlds, 1dsmkIII is your only option i think.

50d would be best imo for now though