Canon EOS 5DS Review

Welcome to Canon EOS 5DS Review – a powerful full-frame DSLR camera designed for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts. Above all, it stands out for its impressive 50.6-megapixel sensor, which delivers unparalleled image resolution and detail. Because of this, the 5DS is ideal for commercial, landscape, and studio photography, where image clarity is paramount. In addition, it features dual DIGIC 6 image processors that ensure fast performance and accurate color reproduction, even when handling such large files.

While it shares the same robust body design as the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, the 5DS offers improved mirror vibration control to reduce camera shake, making it more suitable for high-resolution shooting. Furthermore, it includes an advanced autofocus system with 61 AF points, 41 of which are cross-type, allowing for precise focusing, even in low-light conditions.

After capturing your shot, you can review your images on the vibrant 3.2-inch Clear View II LCD monitor. Then, transfer them effortlessly via USB 3.0 connectivity for rapid file transfer. However, it is important to note that the 5DS is primarily tailored for still photography, as it lacks some of the video capabilities found in other models. In comparison to other cameras in its class, the Canon EOS 5DS offers a unique blend of high resolution, durability, and performance that sets it apart as a formidable tool in the world of digital photography.

Brand	Canon
Model Name	0581C002
Compatible Mountings	Canon RF, Canon EF
Photo Sensor Technology	CMOS
Supported File Format	JPEG
Image Stabilization	Digital
Maximum Focal Length	300 Millimeters
Expanded ISO Minimum	100
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution	50.6 MP
Photo Sensor Size	Full Frame (35mm)
Best Place To Buy	Buy On Amazon

1. Image Quality

Sensor and Resolution: The EOS 5DS features a 50.6-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, one of the highest resolutions available in the DSLR category. This allows for incredibly detailed images, making it an excellent choice for landscape, studio, and commercial photography where detail is crucial.
Dynamic Range and Color Depth: The camera offers a wide dynamic range, capturing a good amount of detail in both highlights and shadows. Its color reproduction is accurate, providing rich and vibrant images with natural skin tones.
Low-Light Performance: While the high resolution provides stunning detail, it can also lead to more noise in low-light situations. The native ISO range is 100-6400 (expandable to 50-12800), which is sufficient for most lighting conditions but may not perform as well in extreme low-light compared to lower-resolution counterparts.

2. Build and Design

Body Construction: The 5DS has a robust magnesium alloy body, similar to the EOS 5D Mark III, offering durability and weather resistance. It’s built to withstand the rigors of professional use, including tough outdoor environments.
Ergonomics: The camera is ergonomically designed, with a comfortable grip and well-placed controls that make it easy to handle during extended shooting sessions. The button layout is intuitive, and it features a top LCD panel for quick access to settings.
Weight: It weighs approximately 930g (2.05 lbs) with the battery and memory card, which is on the heavier side but manageable for a full-frame DSLR.

3. Autofocus and Shooting Speed

Autofocus System: The 5DS is equipped with a 61-point high-density reticular AF system, with 41 cross-type points. This ensures accurate and fast focusing, even in challenging lighting conditions. The iTR (Intelligent Tracking and Recognition) system improves focus tracking, making it useful for portrait and action photography.
Shooting Speed: It offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 5 frames per second (fps), which is decent for a camera of this resolution but slower compared to some other high-speed professional DSLRs. This makes it more suitable for static or slow-moving subjects rather than fast action.

4. Image Processing and Storage

Dual DIGIC 6 Processors: The camera utilizes dual DIGIC 6 processors to handle the massive file sizes and ensure quick performance, including fast write speeds and reduced lag.
Storage Options: It supports dual memory card slots (CF and SD), providing flexibility for backup, overflow, or separate RAW and JPEG storage. This is a valuable feature for professional photographers who need reliable and high-capacity storage.

5. Viewfinder and LCD

Viewfinder: The optical viewfinder offers 100% coverage with a 0.71x magnification, providing a clear and accurate representation of the scene.
LCD Screen: The 5DS is fitted with a 3.2-inch Clear View II LCD monitor with 1.04 million dots, which is bright and sharp. It’s useful for reviewing images and navigating menus, though it is not a touchscreen, which some users may find limiting.

6. Video Capabilities

Basic Video Features: The Canon EOS 5DS does support full HD video recording at 1080p up to 30fps. However, it lacks advanced video features such as 4K recording, making it less suitable for videographers compared to other models like the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.
Time-Lapse: The camera includes a time-lapse movie feature that can create time-lapse sequences in-camera, a useful tool for creative photography projects.

7. Additional Features

Mirror Vibration Control System: This system helps minimize vibrations caused by mirror movement, which is especially important when shooting at high resolutions to maintain sharpness.
Customizability: The 5DS offers various customization options, including multiple exposure modes, custom shooting modes, and an intervalometer for time-lapse shooting.

8. Battery Life

The Canon EOS 5DS uses the LP-E6N battery, which provides a respectable battery life, allowing for approximately 700 shots per charge. This is sufficient for most shooting situations but may require additional batteries for extended shoots.

9. Connectivity

Ports: The camera includes a USB 3.0 port for fast data transfer, an HDMI output, and a microphone input for audio recording. However, it lacks built-in Wi-Fi, which might be a drawback for those who rely on wireless connectivity.
GPS and Wi-Fi: There is no built-in GPS or Wi-Fi, though these can be added via external accessories. This omission is somewhat surprising for a camera at this level.

10. Price and Value

Cost: As a high-end camera, the Canon EOS 5DS is priced accordingly. It offers excellent value for photographers who need the extreme resolution and image quality it provides. However, it may be overkill for those who do not require such high resolution or who prioritize other features like video capability.
The best price which you can get the Canon EOS 5DS on Amazon

Canon EOS 5DS Pros and Cons

Canon EOS 5DS Review

Pros:

High Resolution: With a 50.6-megapixel full-frame sensor, the Canon EOS 5DS offers exceptionally high resolution, making it ideal for capturing fine details in landscapes, studio, and commercial photography.
Excellent Image Quality: The camera produces images with outstanding sharpness, vibrant color reproduction, and a wide dynamic range, ensuring high-quality outputs suitable for large prints.
Robust Build Quality: Constructed with a durable magnesium alloy body, the 5DS is both weather-resistant and built to withstand professional use in harsh environments.
Advanced Autofocus System: The 61-point autofocus system, with 41 cross-type points, offers fast and precise focusing, which is beneficial for portrait and still-life photography.
Dual DIGIC 6 Processors: These processors handle the high-resolution data efficiently, ensuring quick image processing, reduced noise, and overall smooth camera operation.
Mirror Vibration Control: The built-in mirror vibration control system reduces the chance of camera shake, which is critical for maintaining image sharpness, especially at such high resolutions.
Customizable Settings: Offers a variety of customization options, including multiple exposure modes, custom shooting modes, and a built-in intervalometer, allowing photographers to tailor the camera to their specific needs.
Dual Card Slots: Features both CompactFlash (CF) and SD card slots, providing flexibility for storage and backup options.
Time-Lapse Feature: The built-in time-lapse movie function allows for creative time-lapse photography directly in-camera.

Cons:

Limited ISO Range: With a native ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 50-12800), the 5DS is not as effective in low-light situations as some of its competitors, which may produce less noise at higher ISOs.
Slower Continuous Shooting Speed: The maximum continuous shooting speed is 5 frames per second (fps), which might be limiting for sports or fast-action photography where higher frame rates are beneficial.
Basic Video Capabilities: The camera only supports full HD video recording (1080p) at up to 30fps, with no 4K video option, making it less suitable for videographers or hybrid shooters who require advanced video functionality.
No Built-in Wi-Fi or GPS: The absence of built-in Wi-Fi and GPS limits wireless connectivity and geotagging capabilities. These features are available only through external accessories.
Heavy and Bulky: Weighing around 930g (2.05 lbs) with the battery and memory card, the 5DS can be cumbersome for long shoots or travel, especially when combined with large lenses.
No Touchscreen: The 3.2-inch LCD screen is not a touchscreen, which some users might find less convenient for navigating menus and reviewing images.
High File Size: The extremely high resolution results in large file sizes, requiring more storage space and potentially slower post-processing times, especially on older computers.
High Price Point: As a high-end camera with a specialized feature set, the EOS 5DS is relatively expensive, which might not be justified for users who do not need its ultra-high resolution.
No Articulating Screen: The fixed LCD screen limits flexibility in shooting from various angles, which might be a disadvantage for certain types of photography, such as macro or street photography.

Who is Canon EOS 5DS Best For?

Canon EOS 5DS Review

1. Landscape Photographers

Landscape photographers benefit from the 50.6-megapixel sensor because it captures intricate details, textures, and colors found in nature. The high resolution allows for large prints with exceptional clarity, which is often required for gallery displays or fine art sales.

2. Studio Photographers

In controlled environments where lighting and stability can be managed, the high resolution of the 5DS shines. Studio photographers who focus on product, portrait, and fashion photography will appreciate the ability to capture fine details, textures, and colors, making it easier to perform post-processing and retouching tasks.

3. Commercial Photographers

Commercial photographers who need to produce high-quality images for advertising, billboards, and large-format printing will find the EOS 5DS ideal. Its resolution allows for significant cropping without losing image quality, making it versatile for various marketing materials.

4. Fine Art Photographers

Fine art photographers, who often produce large prints for galleries and exhibitions, will find the 5DS’s high resolution invaluable. It allows them to present their work in the highest possible quality, showcasing fine details and creating visually impactful pieces.

Final Verdict – Is Canon EOS 5DS worth Purchasing?

Canon EOS 5DS Review

The Canon EOS 5DS is worth purchasing if you prioritize high-resolution still photography. Above all, its 50.6-megapixel sensor delivers exceptional detail. However, it lacks advanced video features and high-speed shooting. While it’s ideal for studio, landscape, and commercial work, those needing versatility might consider other options. In comparison, it excels in image quality but not in versatility.

Thank you for reading my Canon EOS 5DS Review, I hope it was helpful!

Brand	Canon
Model Name	0581C002
Compatible Mountings	Canon RF, Canon EF
Photo Sensor Technology	CMOS
Supported File Format	JPEG
Image Stabilization	Digital
Maximum Focal Length	300 Millimeters
Expanded ISO Minimum	100
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution	50.6 MP
Photo Sensor Size	Full Frame (35mm)
Best Place To Buy	Buy On Amazon

Canon EOS 5DS Review – Is it a Quality Camera?