Canon 1D X III has a
20.0MP Full frame (36 x 24 mm ) sized CMOS sensor and features Digic X processor. On the other hand, Canon 5D MIV has a
30.0MP Full frame (36 x 24 mm ) sized CMOS sensor and features Digic 6+ processor.
Canon 5D MIV's sensor provides 10MP more than Canon 1D X III's sensor, which gives a significant advantage in real life. You can print your images larger or crop more freely.
On the other hand, please keep in mind that Max sensor resolution is not the only determinant of resolving power. Factors such as the optical elements, low pass filter, pixel size and sensor technology also affects the final resolution of the captured image.
Below you can see the 1D X MIII and 5D MIV sensor size comparison.
Canon 1D X III and Canon 5D MIV have the same sensor sizes so they will provide same level of control over the depth of field when used with same focal length and aperture. On the other hand, since Canon 1D X III has 50% larger pixel area compared to Canon 5D MIV, it has potential to collect more light on pixel level hence have less noise in low light / High ISO images.
DxOMark Sensor Scores
At Camera Decision, we also look at Dxo Mark sensors when available as we think it is a good indicator of image quality.
Model |
Overall |
Color Depth |
Dynamic Range |
Low-light ISO |
Canon 1D X III |
91 |
24.2 bits |
14.5 Evs |
3248 ISO |
Canon 5D MIV |
91 |
24.8 bits |
13.6 Evs |
2995 ISO |