After being coaxed by my colleagues, I’m in the mood to update my beginner DSLR to a full-blooded full frame one. I’ve been looking at 2 models: the Canon 5D MkIII and the Sony A7II, matched with their respective 24-70mm f2.8 lens. Both full frame setups have their advantages and disadvantages, but come out roughly the same price in Hong Kong.
But buying a new camera is like buying a new smartphone; everyone has their own opinions on which one is better. As I’m still wading my way through the specifications on each of the models, I’m bombarded on a daily basis on which one I should get. Not only that, the truly unhelpful start suggesting alternative models: Nikon D750, Fujifilm XT1, etc. After 2 weeks of deciding I’m no closer to making a decision. And then there’s always the ‘the newer model will be out soon’, which is true with the Canon 5F MkIV being out towards the end of the year, and Sony pumping out newer better models every other week, but if we ever stopped to wait, we’d never buy anything anymore.
I like the Sony A7II. Its a much smaller and lighter body, which is rather moot when you consider I’ll be pairing this the a big piece of glass. But it does look sleek (looks are ALWAYS a major factor) but the battery life stinks a bit at only being able to take around 300 shots in real life (its quoted at 350). This will mean I’ll have to buy and carry 4-5 spare batteries……
On the other hand the Canon 5D MkIII is a monster, both in the sense of its capabilities and size against the Sony. The battery pumps out a very healthy 900 shots (only need to carry one extra), and you do get the satisfying Canon strap (I did say looks matter).
I’m still stuck, and at this rate I’ll stick be stuck at the end of the year when I’m weighing up whether on getting the Canon 5D MkIV or the Sony A7V.
