Best full frame pro DSLR
If you look inside any professional photographer’s kit bag, the chances are you’ll find a full-frame DSLR. These are bigger, heavier and more expensive than the consumer DSLRs used by the rest of us, but the bigger sensor size, tougher construction and pro-spec features are worth the extra outlay for those who take pictures for a living.
Full-frame DSLRs aren’t just for pros though, as lower-cost versions are out there if you want great image quality on a tighter budget. Many serious amateurs and enthusiasts have made the swap to full-frame photography and camera makers are paying more and more attention to this market.
We should also mention full-frame mirrorless cameras. These aren’t DSLRs strictly, but the Sony A7 series cameras and now the Leica SL are muscling in on the full-frame DSLR market, and are particularly interesting for those who also need to shoot video.
Stunningly detailed images Great AF, metering and white balance Huge file sizes No Wi-Fi
With 50.6 million effective pixels, the 5DS is by far the highest resolution full-frame DSLR on the market. The same goes for the 5DS R, which is identical to the 5DS, but features an anti-aliasing cancelation filter over the sensor to help resolve a little more detail. Pixel-packed sensors can be compromised, but not here. Image quality is superb, with fantastic detail, well controlled noise and good dynamic range. The 5DS is now the benchmark for full-frame image quality, but it’s not quite perfect. There’s no Wi-Fi or Ultra HD video recording, and huge image file sizes necessitate decent memory cards and a fast computer.
2. Nikon D810
It may have recently been ousted from the top spot, but this is still a terrific choice
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 36.3 | Autofocus: 51-point AF, 15 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 1,228,800 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 5fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Expert
AA-filterless, high-res sensor 5fps continuous shooting No built-in Wi-Fi Large file sizes
Ok, so the 5DS has stolen some of the D810’s thunder, but not much. Images from Nikon’s megapixel monster are bursting with detail, whilst its 1200-shot battery life puts the 5DS in the shade. We’re also fans of the D810’s clarity micro-contrast adjustment with its video-friendly Flat mode for maximum dynamic range. The 51-point AF system copes well with tricky focussing situations, mainly because both the AF and metering systems are taken from the now ex-range-topping Nikon D4S. Relatively compact dimensions and the unusual (at this level) inclusion of a pop-up flash further ensure that the D810 doesn’t disappoint.
3. Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Canon’s full-frame jack of all trades continues to impress
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 22.3 | Autofocus: 61-point AF, 41 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 6fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Expert
See more Canon EOS 5D Mark III deals
Detailed, low noise images Excellent HDR mode Relatively low pixel count AF effective, but complicated
Aimed squarely to compete with the Nikon D810, the 5D Mark III is a perfect example of a pro-spec SLR that also appeals to serious amateurs. While this is a very powerful camera, it weighs nearly 400g less than Canon’s range-topping EOS-1D X Mark II. Next to the 5DS, the 22.3MP sensor is starting to look slightly average, but it still delivers good detail levels. The 61-point AF system is terrific though, with 41 cross-type sensors and five which are dual cross-type. It’s a pity there’s no built-in flash like you get with the D810, and the fixed rear screen is another minor niggle.
4. Nikon D750
A full frame DSLR packed with features for a reasonable price? Yes please
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 24.3 | Autofocus: 51-point AF, 15 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch tilting, 1,228,800 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 6.5fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Enthusiast/expert
New 24MP sensor High performance AF system Disappointing special effects Tiltable screen doesn’t fully articulate
Can’t quite stretch to one of our top three options? The D750 still packs a cracking 24.3MP sensor and is as weatherproof as the D810, yet it’s roughly 25% cheaper. Compared to its baby brother, the D610, the D750 has superior AF, metering and video systems, as well as a wider sensitivity range. Its continuous shooting speed isn’t quite as fast as some may have hoped for, whilst the HDR and other special effect modes have limited use. But on the plus side, you do get a useful tilting screen and Wi-Fi connectivity. The D750 is a well-rounded, well-priced choice for enthusiasts.
5. Nikon D5
Nikon’s flagship DSLR has the best AF we’ve ever seen
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 20.8 | Autofocus: 173-point AF, 99 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 2,359,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 12fps | Maximum video resolution: 4K | User level: Expert
Incredible AF performance Massive ISO range 4K recording limited to 3mins Heavy
The D5 is Nikon’s latest flagship DSLR, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. 20.8 megapixels might seem a bit stingy, but it means the D5 can shoot at 12fps continuous shooting, while the extended ISO range of ISO 3,280,000 has never been seen before. That’s even before we get to the autofocus system – with a coverage of 173 AF points (99 of which are cross-type), the sophistication and speed of the AF is staggering. The ability to shoot 4K video is restricted to three minutes however, but that aside the D5 is a phenomenal camera.
6. Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
Canon’s latest top-flight DSLR is a speed machine
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 20.2 | Autofocus: 61-point AF, 41 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 1,620,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 14fps | Maximum video resolution: 4K | User level: Expert
See more Canon EOS-1D X Mark II deals
Excellent control layout 14fps burst shooting Menu could be clearer Touchscreen functionality limited
Choosing between the 1D X Mark II and Nikon D5 will most likely depend on which manufacturer you’re already tied to with your lens system, but the two cameras are otherwise closely matched. With EOS-1D X Mk II Canon has created a powerful and versatile camera that’s a great choice for professional sport and news photographers. It doesn’t have the outrageous sensitivity range of the Nikon D5, but it’s very capable in low light, delivering excellent images within its standard sensitivity range.
7. Pentax K-1
Pentax’s first full-frame DSLR
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 36 | Autofocus: 33-point AF, 25 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch tilting, 1,037,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 4.4fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Enthusiast/expert
Impressive features Competitive price Slow AF system Dated menu system
The K-1 offers a rugged build and a full-frame sensor at a relatively affordable price. It’s not cheap, but it compares favourably with the likes of the Nikon D810, Canon 5D Mk III and Sony Alpha 7R II. Pentax’s Pixel Shift Technology is clever, and it’s great that the company has managed to produce a mode that can be used when the camera is hand-held, although the impact is subtle. Less of an all-rounder than the 5D Mk III, the K-1 makes an excellent camera for landscape, still life and portrait photography, or any genre that doesn’t require fast autofocus and which benefits from a high pixel count for detail resolution.
8. Nikon D610
Looking to step up to a full-frame DSLR? Nikon has the camera for you
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 24.3 | Autofocus: 39-point AF, 9 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 921,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 6fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Enthusiast/expert
Resolved sensor issues Restricted AF point coverage No Wi-Fi, fixed screen
The D750 is good value, but the D610 gets you full-frame for even less. It’s only an incremental upgrade over the preceding D600, but it addresses that camera’s issues and boasts top-notch image and build quality. Although its pixel count is the same as the cheaper D7100, the increased sensor size results in greater dynamic range and less image noise. Full-frame is the name of the game, so extra features like Wi-Fi or a tilting screen are absent, but the 39-point AF system is reliable and the 6fps continuous shooting speed respectable. The D610 is slightly overshadowed by the newer D750, but it’s still an excellent camera.
9. Canon EOS 6D
Canon’s most affordable full-frame DSLR punches above its weight
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 20.2 | Autofocus: 11-point AF, 1 cross-type | Screen type: 3-inch, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 4.5fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Enthusiast/expert
Comprehensive controls High image quality No flash 97% viewfinder coverage
The 6D is Canon’s answer to the D610 and is the least expensive model in the company’s full-frame DSLR range. Its 20.2-megapixel sensor may sound outclassed, but there are hidden depths. Image quality is superb and photos impress with a three-dimensional feel that’s the result of the larger sensor’s ability to create shallow depth of field effects. However, the 6D’s real trump card is price. It’s one of the cheapest routes to a new full-frame DSLR, and though its autofocus system and continuous shooting speed are nothing special, you do get integrated Wi-Fi and GPS. If you can do without a built-in flash, the 6D is decent value.
10. Nikon Df
Nikon goes back to the future with this beautifully retro style statement
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS | Megapixels: 16.2 | Autofocus: 39-point AF, 9 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 921,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 5.5fps | Maximum video resolution: N/A | User level: Enthusiast/expert
Covered with manual controls Petite, stylish body No video recording Pricey
Given the Df is arguably the most stylish new full-frame DSLR available, you might be surprised it’s this far down our list. Well, that’s not due to its looks, which are designed to emulate Nikon’s classic FM-series 35mm film SLRs. The retro styling also extends to an extensive array of traditional controls, whilst the surprisingly compact weatherproof body adds further appeal. But despite great low light performance, the sensor’s 16.2-megapixel resolution is now hard to justify next to more pixel-packed rivals, and the Df wont record video. Don’t expect these drawbacks to keep the price down, either, as style doesn’t come cheap.
Source: techradar.com
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AHAHA Canon EOS 1DX "No in-camera HDR"… A real bummer for any professional photographer who is really looking to capture images in sharp focus in a matter of miliseconds
Absolute garbage list… You didn't even include the #1 award winning full frame camera on the market: The Sony A7rII… Fire whoever made this list.
Well, yeah. It's a tech site in general, not a specific-gadget site. As a photographer myself, I'll tell you this. This is a great starting place to narrow down some choices based on some characteristics. Those looking to spend the amount of money these full frame DSLRs cost should be doing further research than just this article. Those that wouldn't do that extra bit of research won't likely understand the significance of sensor size anyway.
Full frame cameras should be considered with the entire system in mind. I'd take a close look at the available lenses and flash accessories before you make your decision. These cameras do not take photos without lenses. Don't think you can buy one of these and get by with a cheap consumer zoom. You will probably be disappointed. In my opinion, the lens selection is even more important than the camera body. All these manufacturers make great lenses, but the selection can be uneven. Also, the prices vary greatly. The camera is just one piece of the puzzle.
Seems rather contradictory (ironic?) to praise the image quality and resolution on one hand, then complain about the huge file sizes on the other.
You just can't make some people happy.
If you understood 'full frame' you'd know that that already tells you the sensor size, to within a fraction of a millimetre. Moreover, the exact sensor size IS listed for every camera on this page.
dear tech radar, why do you do these graph photos and then host them like you put them on a gameboy colour and took a photo. For a tech website, I keep saying this….the website functions are poor!! Please sort it all out
I miss the points used to lower the score of the cameras, eg eos 1DX not have HDR really like many of the other cameras. It's like you recess the rating to the Ferrari 458 that can only go two people inside.
Contact your credit card company to dispute the charge. They'll typically side with you in cases such as you described.
Best review I've read comparing full frame cameras. Thank you!!
To post a DSLR roundup like this and not post Sensor Size in the specs or summary shows that TechRadar is not a professional Camera Reviewer
Just a warning! I tried to order a Nikon d810 from Digital outlets, the next day I received a phone call from their customer service verifying my credit card information. I was notified the camera I ordered only came with the Japanese language on it, I told them that was not what I wanted I don't speak Japanese. The salesman tried to force me into buying a lesser camera that he recommended, But that was not the camera I wanted. I was then told there was a 10% fee on an order that wasn't even 16 hours old yet. I told he salesman that I felt I was being railroaded and having my arm bent to buy a camera I didn't want or lose 10% of 1699.00 dollars over a misunderstanding ( The web page never said the camera was in Japanese only, nice surprise). I felt totally setup and said I did not want to do business with them now. The salesman repeatedly called me a "jerk", and said I deserved to pay the 10% restock fee and he felt fine enforcing it. I finally hung up the phone since he got on a rant telling me how big a "Jerk" I was for not appreciating his strong arm tactics. Buyers beware these people are cruel and once you order you will pay even if all you got from them is slurs and someone taking your money and not providing any service.
Not included because the A7 RII is a 'Mirrorless' Camera, not a DSLR? the article is for full frame DSLRs
Way to miss the Sony A7RII. What's up with that?