Canon eos 5ds/5ds r
In the game of Canon camera Top Trumps, the 5DS wins out for the sheer grandeur of the megapixel count
the 5DS and 5DS R are mostly based on the retired 5D Mark III, but with one major exception. Whereas the Mark III had a modest megapixel count, the ‘S’ versions really pushes the envelope with 50.6MP image sensors. That’s 2.5x the resolving power of even the mighty 1D X Mark II.
The only real difference between the 5DS and 5DS R is that the ‘R’ edition has no anti-alias correction in the low-pass filter that sits in front of the image sensor. This gives the potential of a further increase in the capture of incredibly fine detail, but with a greater risk of moire patterning and false colour. Even so, the risk is very small with such a highresolution sensor.
Build and handling
The physical build looks basically identical to that of the 5D Mark III, with exactly the same layout of control buttons and dials. However, the S models are slightly more rigid, despite shaving 105g off the weight. There’s also a new shutter module that reduces vibrations, along with more advanced mirror lockup/shutter delay modes. These are useful extras in the fight to minimize camera-shake and really make the most of the ultra-high resolving power.
A further upgrade over the Mark III is a newer-generation DIGIC 6 image processor. And to help with the output of large data files when shooting 50.6MP images, dual processors are featured rather than just one. The trusty autofocus system of the 5D Mark III is retained but the metering system is based on a new 252-zone sensor
(instead of 63 zones) with intelligent scene analysis.
Performance
There’s no beating the 5DS and 5DS R for capturing ultra-fine detail and texture, compared with any other Canon camera on the market. In our tests, the 5DS R offered negligible additional benefit. Both cameras pay dividends for extremely large format printing. But that high megapixel count comes at a price, and we’re not just talking about the cost of the camera.
To get the most out of all those megapixels, you need the sharpest glass and many of Canon’s popular optics don’t make it onto the approved list of recommended lenses. The camera is a poor choice for low-light photography as well, with a standard sensitivity range that tops out at just ISO6400, where image noise is, unfortunately, quite clearly visible.
File sizes are also incredibly large, which can make for laborious Raw image conversion and editing. That being said, the dual processors at least keep the maximum drive rate to a more respectable 5fps. If you’re looking to maximize your resolution in video capture as well as for stills, the lack of 4k UHD will be quite a disappointment to you here.