Full frame DSLR vs. Crop Sensor
Jan 31, 2015 09:52:06 #
Having lived with a Canon 5DII for a couple of years now, I have discovered some aspects of this comparison that I did not realize in years past. I have seen this subject posted here more than a few times, but I think a few of these points were missed, and thought it worth sharing to anyone making that decision. By no means is this intended to be a complete list. And my experience is primarily with Canon.
Full frame benefits:
Lower noise at a given ISO (this varies with model of course)
Easier to achieve bokeh
Lens focal lengths actually makes sense to former film shooters
A bit Higher dynamic range and image quality (this varies too)
Benefits of crop sensor DSLR (Rebels for example)
Lighter weight
Less expensive lenses (and technically a wider selection)
Larger focus depth of field (that bokeh thing can really bite you!)
Lower cost (less than half)
Almost always more advanced features (Canon is way slower to update full frame cameras)
I have to say that I bought in to the concept that full frame cameras were better in every single way. This is just not so. In fact, I wish I'd kept my T3i too. At about half the weight and size for basically the same lens combo, it sure was handy. Holding a 5DII up to your face with a long lens and a flash gets tiring very fast.
Full frame benefits:
Lower noise at a given ISO (this varies with model of course)
Easier to achieve bokeh
Lens focal lengths actually makes sense to former film shooters
A bit Higher dynamic range and image quality (this varies too)
Benefits of crop sensor DSLR (Rebels for example)
Lighter weight
Less expensive lenses (and technically a wider selection)
Larger focus depth of field (that bokeh thing can really bite you!)
Lower cost (less than half)
Almost always more advanced features (Canon is way slower to update full frame cameras)
I have to say that I bought in to the concept that full frame cameras were better in every single way. This is just not so. In fact, I wish I'd kept my T3i too. At about half the weight and size for basically the same lens combo, it sure was handy. Holding a 5DII up to your face with a long lens and a flash gets tiring very fast.
Jan 31, 2015 10:07:32 #
my guess is that for half of us uhh'ers the difference will not be an issue.
Jan 31, 2015 10:08:33 #
Yes, crop lenses are less expensive than full frame lenses -- but (at least in the case of Nikon) the full frame cameras tend to be between one and two stops better in terms of picture quality under poor light.
The implications are that you can purchase less expensive lenses since you can use f/4 on your full frame camera where on a crop camera you would need that more expensive f/2.8 lens to attain the same image quality.
As a result the total system cost may actually be less when using a full frame camera. :D
Jerry
The implications are that you can purchase less expensive lenses since you can use f/4 on your full frame camera where on a crop camera you would need that more expensive f/2.8 lens to attain the same image quality.
As a result the total system cost may actually be less when using a full frame camera. :D
Jerry
Jan 31, 2015 10:09:06 #
Jan 31, 2015 10:15:58 #
When ever I get the urge to spend all that money I think about the weight, I'm not getting any younger, I'd rather go further with the lighter camera, eventually I'll be down to my G 15 or whatever is the equivalent by then but for now I'm good with my T4i, Bob.
Jan 31, 2015 10:17:00 #
jgitomer wrote:
Yes, crop lenses are less expensive than full fram... (show quote)
I think this might have more to do with what you shoot. Landscapes in sunshine don't really need the f2.8.
Jan 31, 2015 10:51:36 #
natureshot
Loc: Kirkwood, IL
Just received a canon 6D, and have not given it a fair chance yet, but I really hope I get used to it. I already am wondering if I should have stayed with a crop sensor upgrade, I was surprise my 150-500 lens does not reach very far compared to my rebel T2i. I bought this in a kit at a great price but still wondering.
Jan 31, 2015 10:52:19 #
jgitomer wrote:
Yes, crop lenses are less expensive than full fram... (show quote)
I was thinking of comparing a Canon 24 to 70 2.8 vs. a 18-55 F2.8. Same aspect and speed. APS-C version is $800 and the full frame is $1700.
This may be different on Nikon, but I would be surprised if it were that much so.
Jan 31, 2015 11:18:00 #
They both have their strong points and those points are rather well known. It comes down to what you and how you plan to shoot. Up till now I've been shooting mostly relatively stationary subjects and my full frame 6D does a great job for those. I've also decided that I want to shoot more wildlife, sports, etc and for that I just ordered an APS-C 7DII. I expect it will do a a far better job for those subjects then the 6D. A 5DIII could have taken the place of the 6D with ease, and done a lot of the 7DII's work, so there was always that option, but I chose to go with separate bodies. (Due to weather delays, the 7DII is sitting at the UPS terminal 6 miles from my house. Should have had it yesterday. I'll have it Monday morning instead. I can hear it calling my name.....)
Jan 31, 2015 12:33:15 #
There is one additional disadvantage with the crop sensor cameras primarily the DSLR from Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony is that the lens mount was designed for full frame and it's not best for an APS-C camera. The flange distance is too far and because of this the normal lens for a crop sensor camera is more expensive than for the full frame.
Jan 31, 2015 15:56:43 #
LFingar wrote:
They both have their strong points and those point... (show quote)
Is that sobbing sound and "so close, so close" that is bleeding over my net connection coming from you?
Jan 31, 2015 16:30:40 #
robertjerl wrote:
Is that sobbing sound and "so close, so close" that is bleeding over my net connection coming from you?
Dang! I didn't think anyone could hear me! :lol:
Jan 31, 2015 16:41:29 #
natureshot wrote:
Just received a canon 6D, and have not given it a fair chance yet, but I really hope I get used to it. I already am wondering if I should have stayed with a crop sensor upgrade, I was surprise my 150-500 lens does not reach very far compared to my rebel T2i. I bought this in a kit at a great price but still wondering.
Crop and enlarge the 6D image and compare it to the T2i image and see if you are disappointed.
Jan 31, 2015 16:42:47 #
LFingar wrote:
Dang! I didn't think anyone could hear me! :lol:
Loud and clear, causing dogs to howl and cats to hide.
Go online, find tutorials etc for 7DMkII and watch all of them to kill time until Monday. If it is still snowing Monday than find a neighbor with a 4X4 and snow tires or chains, call the shipper and arrange to pick up in person, offer a bribe if necessary.
Jan 31, 2015 16:57:18 #
robertjerl wrote:
Loud and clear, causing dogs to howl and cats to hide.
Go online, find tutorials etc for 7DMkII and watch all of them to kill time until Monday. If it is still snowing Monday than find a neighbor with a 4X4 and snow tires or chains, call the shipper and arrange to pick up in person, offer a bribe if necessary.
Go online, find tutorials etc for 7DMkII and watch all of them to kill time until Monday. If it is still snowing Monday than find a neighbor with a 4X4 and snow tires or chains, call the shipper and arrange to pick up in person, offer a bribe if necessary.
GMC Sierra 1500 4x4. Snow will be no problem! I'll pick it up around 8 or so. After coffee! Anytime I have anything important coming I always call the terminal and have them hold it for me anyway. Can you recommend any good tutorials? Just got an EF 100-400mm L II a couple of weeks ago. Should be a fun combination. I love the results with that lens so far on my 6D.
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