Canon announced that it will be releasing two full-frame EOS 5D models that feature 50MP sensors, making the cameras the 35mm-format DSLRs with the highest resolution ever made so far.
Both the EOS 5DS and EOS 5DS R are based on the 5D Mk III, a popular DSLR by Canon. The new cameras feature many similarities with the 5D Mk III, including the layout of the controls, weather sealing and ergonomics.
The 50MP full-frame sensors are the big news with these devices, which are going to be launched into the market this summer. Professionals and hobbyists will have to shell out $3,699 for the 5DS body and $3,899 for the 5DS R body though, which is a steep price but that could prove to be worth it with the advanced technology included in the DSLRs.
The 5DS and 5DS R are almost exactly identical, with the differentiation only in the ability of the 5DS R to cancel the softening effect granted by the low-pass filter located in front of the device's sensors.
The new cameras also feature dual DIGIC 6 image processors, which are tasked with handling the massive amount of data that is generated by 50MP pictures. Shooting rate is not exceptionally quick at 5 fps, but the figure is comparable to those of other super-high resolution DSLRs in the market.
The autofocus system of the 5DS is also copied from that of the 5D Mark III, giving users a 61-point AF array along with options to adjust the behavior of the feature to be customized for different situations. The new cameras also include the "Intelligent Tracking and Recognition" feature which gives users more precision in maintaining a good focus on moving objects.
The 5DS also includes an intervalometer, which is the component used in taking time-lapse pictures. The cameras also include dual memory card slots for SD and CF cards, with compatibility for Ultra High Speed SD cards. The durability of the shutter is up to 150,000 cycles, which is the same as that of the 5D Mark III.
While it is Canon's newest product, Amadou Diallo, a contributor to Forbes, believes that it will not be replacing the 5D Mark III. Instead, the 5DS should be viewed as a partner to the 5D Mark III, which can be seen as a more versatile gadget for photographers. While the 50MP resolution for the 5DS has its uses, the tradeoff is a decreased burst rate, reduced performance in low light conditions and less options for video.
