Canon 550D vs Canon 5D MIII

Here is a comprehensive comparison of the Canon 550D and Canon 5D MIII, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Advanced DSLR and both of them are sold by Canon. The sensor resolution of the 550D (18MP) and the 5D MIII (22MP) is pretty well matched but the 550D (APS-C) and 5D MIII (Full frame) feature different sensor size.

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The 550D was revealed 3 years before the 5D MIII and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Canon 550D being a Compact SLR camera and the Canon 5D MIII being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the 550D grades vs the 5D MIII with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon EOS 550D & Canon EOS 5D Mark III. The full galleries are viewable at Canon 550D Gallery & Canon 5D MIII Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to factor its weight and proportions. The Canon 550D has got outside dimensions of 129mm x 98mm x 62mm (5.1" x 3.9" x 2.4") with a weight of 530 grams (1.17 lbs) and the Canon 5D MIII has measurements of 152mm x 116mm x 76mm (6.0" x 4.6" x 3.0") having a weight of 950 grams (2.09 lbs).

Contrast the Canon 550D and Canon 5D MIII in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at the time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the 550D vs the 5D MIII.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 550D and 5D MIII is 70 and 55 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to picture the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at specifications. The photograph underneath will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the 550D and 5D MIII.

To sum up, both cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The 550D having a tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF harder and the Canon 5D MIII will give extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The older 550D is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.