THE winner IS... Canon EOS 5D Mk IV

For most of us, Canon’s flagship 1D X isn’t the best buy, this is…

as a versatile all-rounder, the 5D Mk IV eclipses even the prestigious 1D X Mk II. It’s relatively compact and easily manageable, but its main advantage is its new-generation 30.4Mp image sensor. This enables superb retention of ultra-fine detail, as well as squeaky-clean image quality at high ISO settings. The next best all-rounder is the older 5D Mk III, which packs in plenty of advanced features and delivers sumptuous image quality. The 1D X Mk II is only really worth the money if a super-fast drive rate is top of your wish list, and you’re willing to settle for a lower megapixel count to get it. Similarly, the 5DS and 5DS R are rather specialist cameras, their 50.6Mp sensors capturing the ultimate in fine detail at the expense of noisier high-iso performance. The 6D produces beautiful image quality but has a very basic AF system and is overdue a refresh. Even so, it’s terrific value at the price.