Which would be the best choice? (20D, 1D MkII (N), or 5D; NOT a comparison thread)

Hi,

I am looking to upgrade my current camera, D60. It has served me well but I am now able to purchase a new camera replacing my D60 (anyone want to buy? hehe). Now I am shooting landscapes, indoor events, and people (not really studio portraits) but also would like to get into shooting action/sports events.

Of course money is a concern to all of us and I am NO different. However if and when I get my new camera I do not plan on upgrading it for a long time (say next 2 yrs at least). I am also considering upgrading my glass as well but right now I have my mind set on a new body.

I am just looking for people's opinions/advice/sugges​tions as to which camera would be the better choice.

Thank you for your time.

Koaster

What lenses do you have? What's your budget like? The 1D IIN and 5D both sound nice, but if you use long lenses, they're not going to seem as long on either of those - so in addition to being pricier, you'll have to get them some new glass.

Would spending $4000 for two years be worth it? or spending $1200 for two years?

high frame rate = good for sports
full frame = good for landscape

Those are the basic equations. You take your pick.

I told my self not to get suckered into another comparison thread.. but here I go again...

It's hard to beat the 20D for value. I would look that way unless there's something you know you want from one of the other cams. The 1D MkII excels at action photos, high frame rate. The 5D offers full frame sensor and lots of pixels, should be great for landscape photos. They both should offer better high ISO/noise performance i.e. low light performance. But in actual comparisons I've seen, the 20D is no slouch. I'm looking hard at a 5D because I want to eventually get a large format printer. But if Canon offers something like a triple rebate deal involving the 20D later this year I could be tempted.

Wow you have held off buying Canon's last two upgrades!! Good for you! Now that you have gotten your moneys worth out of he D60 I would not go for the 20D. Why you say? It is very soon to be replaced first off and for me this is the main point. Now Since you hold on to your gear you and are shooting landscapes, indoor events, and people I would recommend going for the new 5D and skip the 20D. I think you will love the performance and the over all resolution and the full frame! The performance is very close to the 20D on paper but with better metering. You have earned it so go for the gusto and get the latest greatest gear!! 5D is the way to go! I am not saying the 20D is bad it is a fantastic camera. But with the new full frame who can resist!! Now go place your order you have earned it!!

Angelo

Hi

Im looking at the 5D for a studio camera and think it will do that job great , my problem is I can get a new 1D MK11 or a 5D for the same money which is $5500 Au , the 1Ds is $12500 Au at the same place , looking at the specs I carnt see the 1Ds being worth more than double the money of the 5D and I have a feeling the 5D is going to hurt sales of the 1Ds , for a few weather seals and a few miner functions they want an extra $7000 for the 1Ds , not going to get it from me the 1Ds should be no more than $2000 dearer than the 5D, $7000 more is rediculas .

Rod

It's kind of funny, people that compare the 5D to the 1DS say it's a great bargain; those that compare it to the 20D say it's way overpriced! It really occupies a unique niche.

People are stupid. They're comparing it to the 20D simply because it doesn't have a built-in grip. Other than that, the two has VERY LITTLE in comon.

Hey guys,

Thanks for the responses so far, keep them coming lol!

The reason I am considering the 20D is because of its performance... that and I can get better glass along with it because it is half the price of either the 1D MkII and 5D. However, I would love to have a solid body that I will be happy with for yrs to come, like I said 2 years but that may change. Also (I know I shouldn't say it) but IF and WHEN (I DO NOT KNOW) the 20D replacement comes out I would much rather wait to see if that will be best suited. That being said, I have always wanted a 1D MkII but always doubted that I would use the camera to its full potential.

Well thanks again for your responses. If you have anymore I don't mind reading!

Koaster

What are the limitations of your D60 that make you have to replace it now? If you know what you need to improve, it would be easier to tell what camera you need.

Personally, I would try to live with the D60 until January or February 2006 and see if Canon is going to bring out an affordable camera that outshines the Nikon D2X.

Scott

Good idea, I think I will hold off til' Feb when they have the show for now...


mainly my limitations is time. With the D60, it will take great pictures but now I need something that will allow me to ensure most of my pictures are good. The startup time is slow (obviously cuz its old), review on pictures is slow as well. The autofocus isn't the best in its class. These are my main areas of improvement; speed. Everyone knows sometimes you miss the perfect and ONLY opportunity due to gear that can't react as fast as you.
Koaster

Have some fun and go with the 1 series...............i​ts the best in class......even the 1D MKII (NO N!!!) will probably be a good upgrade for you.

Ro1

I have the D20 and think is great, now the D5 is out and priced at £2500, £1500 more than the D20 (£1000) there is no way I would spend that on that camera, where as if I when another £500 I could get a EOS 1D Mark II N .. I know which one I would go for ... But it's all a dream as my lovely wife would NEVER let me spend that on a camera..

Ask yourself...
1) Do you have US$1.5k or US$3.3k or US$8k to spend?!?! Very different strokes for very different budgets.
2) How important is wide angle, how important are long lenses, and what existing glass do you have to meet those needs? or what new glass are you considering, and in place of what? (It helps decide 1.6 crop vs. FF needs)
3) Do you ***really*** think you will exploit the difference in pixel count?

Also ask: (Why) Would I need an Eos1 body . . .