First DSLR: 5d Mark III or D600 - Which one and why?

In my unbiased opinion, here's what I;d do. Go to Jessops or something and see which one feels best for you. You are starting from scratch so you coudl go either way just as easily. The one that feels best in your hand, and seems most intuitive to use for you is the one you get. It's as simple as that.

Technically there's not much in it, and remember, people take photographs, not cameras.

Some facts though. The MkIII is faster, and in my opinion handles better. The Nikon has a higher dynamic range sensor. Both are full frame. The Nikon enjoys a wider range of lenses and realistically, can use any lens from 1977 onwards albeit manually.

The MkIII is built better.

The D600 is slightly higher res... but you'll not notice in reality.

All of this may mean nothing however, once you hold both, but do not make ANY decision until you have used both. For some reason I just can not us Canon cameras as intuitively as Nikons, but others seem to feel the opposite is true. Neither opinion right as it's just that... an opinion.

Take them both for a test drive :)
 
The short answer...Canon every time 😃

Short, but not necessarily right.

It is simply not possible to state one system is better than the other, each has it's merits. Anyone who does not recognise that must realise they are a fanboy :)
 
My thoughts exactly. I have been using a friends DSLR 500d for the last year. I am comfortable in manual mode etc. I have saved for a while to buy a full frame and I intend to do so.

Fair play. I agree with that!

Wish I was in a financial position to do so (jealous face) :lol:

Sorry i can't be much more use in terms of reviews of the two you're considering! I'd love to buy a 5dIII next.
 
The short answer...Canon every time 😃

No.. that's the fan boy's answer :)

He should try them both. He's starting with a clean slate here so stop just telling him to get what you like.

Try them both. Use them both. Whichever feels best, handles best and is most intuitive to use is the one you get. All other advice is just someone's opinion. Both cameras will give utterly superb results.
 
In all honesty I think the 5Dmk3 is a better option.

If it was a crop sensor I'd be banging on about Nikon having better low-end lenses however, you will be buying the L series glass which is a match for other brands on their own equivalent.

Firstly the build quality is much better. It has more dedicated buttons, the AF I'm sure will be better in comparison to Nikons stupidly bunched together center only AF (what's Yves point of 3D tracking if it's only covering 40% of the frame?!

The big thing about the D600 has over the 5D Is a pop up flash - which is not to be sniffed at, when used in the right way it will be useful.

If I didn't have a set up already, liked both bodies and was purely choosing over that....I'd go with the canon.
 
Well I have been into Jessops and held both cameras and taken a few shots. Canon win with the ergonomics for me. Just it's perfectly in the hands. The D600 felt a bit small but maybe a battery grip would help that. I am pretty sure it will be the Canon. Will let you all know when I get it!
 
/thread :)
 
try the d800 before making a final decision. but either way im sure your new kit will be very impressive.
 
Ordered the 5d Mark III kit yesterday. Should have by Friday. Thanks for all the input!
 
Enjoy!
 
Back
Top