Is the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV Still A Good Option?

Last Updated on May 15, 2023 by cameraconsumer

Buying a discontinued camera can be a very satisfying experience. Especially when it’s a camera that ages like fine wine!

If you aren’t a professional photographer, and/or if you don’t need all of the latest and greatest features, then a discontinued model, such as the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV can provide you with a great camera at an amazing price.

Sometimes, cameras receive modifications just for the sake of change. And sometimes the “new” version is different, but not better. And then that leaves us yearning for the retro model. Canon’s EOS 1D Mark IV is a good example.

The EOS 1D Mark IV has been discontinued since 2012. Its successor – the Canon EOS-1D X – has also since been discontinued, having been replaced by the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, and then the EOS-1D X Mark III. Check out the price differences between the 3 models!

The 1D Mark IV was Canon’s flagship camera at the time, but at the moment, it is multiple generations behind. And mirrorless cameras have made DSLR cameras old news. So does that make it obsolete, or a great bargain?

Well, let’s take a look.

 

Canon EOS 1D Mark IV Features and Capabilities

Even though the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV DSLR camera has been discontinued, there are plenty of stores where you can find one for a bargain.

Similar to the D3 model from Nikon, this digital camera has an impressive image processing system that drives the speed needed to power many of the unique features of this DSLR camera.

This might be a lightweight digital camera, but the magnesium alloy camera body is extremely durable.

 

Newly Developed AF Sensor

The EOS 1D Mark IV camera has a high-precision sensor that has 45 manually selected points which include 39 cross-type. Regardless of the subject matter, this fast-focusing camera creates exact still images of exceptional quality.

 

Imaging Processors and Sensor

Unique to the EOS 1D Mark IV DSLR camera is a high-resolution 16.1-megapixel sensor that features dual DIGIC four image processors which can take full-resolution images at 10 frames-per-second.

So, this ensures detailed and refined images that process accurately and fast.

 

Capturing 121 Images at 10 Frames per Second

Despite being a discontinued model, the EOS 1D Mark IV DSLR Camera is a popular camera choice because it has a sturdy and rugged shutter that can shoot up to ten frames each second.

This means users can also capture 121 full-resolution JPEGS if using the camera in conjunction with ultra direct memory access mode.

 

Large 3″ Viewing Monitor

Perhaps the reason so many photographers are trying to get their hands on the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV camera is because of the large three-inch viewing screen.

It has a 160-degree angle with 920,000 dot resolution that offers users sharpness and clarity that performs admirably.

 

Flexible EOS Utility

The EOS 1D Mark IV camera is compatible with both Windows and Mac, instantly handling the USB connection when you connect the camera to your computer.

This feature opens the door for remote-controlled shooting from the computer itself, and seamlessly links to digital software or the Zoom-Browser feature.

 

Acclaimed Flash Photography

The EOS 1D Mark IV DSLR camera comes with an E-TTL II flash metering system, providing a reliable flash regardless of the location.

The flash can provide light in total darkness or fill in while shooting in sunlight. And then the metering sensor can reduce the chances of overexposure while shooting in smaller areas.

 

Compatible with a Number of Lenses

One of the reasons that the EOS 1D Mark IV DSLR camera is popular with photographers is the fact it is compatible with any of the Canon lenses that are in the EF lineup.

This also includes the EF-S lenses, whether super-telephoto or wide lenses. These lenses all utilize micron-precision and optical engineering to produce amazing results in every area of the photographic process.

 

 

Canon Support

While this model has been discontinued, it is still being supported. So, you can find the product support page here. Firmware, as well as optional software, for example, are both currently updated.

 

Why Is The EOS 1D Mark IV Still Relevant?

We looked at its features and capabilities, but is this camera still worth buying today? Even years after being discontinued? Check out this quick video to see why it’s still an attractive option!

 

 

 

What Has Since Been Updated

The Canon EOS-1D X was the new and improved version, and it was succeeded by the EOS-1D X Mark II. So, with two full rounds of updated features, let’s take a closer look at what changed.

 

First, let’s look at what the EOS-1D x improved over the EOS 1D Mark IV:

 

Canon EOS-1D X

• Full frame
• Dual DIGIC 5+ processor
• 18.1 megapixels
• 45 AF points with 39 cross-type AF points
• Better low-light performance
• 100,000-pixel RGB sensor
• Improved minimum shutter speed in auto ISO
• 14 fps continuous shooting
• 3.2″ LCD screen with 1040K pixels 

 

 

Now let’s look at what the EOS-1D X Mark II improved over the Canon EOS-1D X:

 

EOS-1D X Mark II

• Dual DIGIC 6+ processor
• 20.2 megapixels
• 61 AF points with 41 cross-type AF points
• 360,000-pixel RGB+IR sensor
• 16 fps continuous shooting in live mode
• 3.2″ screen with 1620K pixels
• DCI 4K video recording

From one generation to the next, the changes are marginal. Once you’re two generations removed, for instance, the differences are quite noticeable. For example, 16 megapixels vs 18mp – not a big deal. But then 16mp vs 20.2 – that’s a 20% upgrade!

For the most part, we’re just talking about numbers. Having the top of the line specs is great – but will they actually benefit you? And even if so, will you take advantage of them? And are they worth 5x the cost? Maybe.

Let’s take a look at where you’ll notice the differences, and where the EOS 1D Mark IV is still sufficient for most people:

 

Where You’ll Notice A Difference

If we’re using the EOS-1D X Mark II as the current standard, you’re going to notice a huge difference, specifically in video capability, format, and processor.

 

Video Capabilities

The EOS 1D Mark IV holds its own in terms of video recording. It’s still the only Canon APS-H DSLR to offer HD video recording in 1080p. And this was great – in 2012 – but now in 2023, DCI 4K already feels old.

For the casual photographer or enthusiast, you might be envious, but (at least for the next few years) it won’t be the biggest inconvenience.

But, if you’re a professional videographer, and you need up-to-date standards, like DCI 4k – the Mark IV is very close to being obsolete – if not already. Video standards seem to update much faster than image standards!

 

Format – APS-H vs Full-frame

It all depends on where you fall in the cropped sensor vs full-frame debate. If you actually prefer the APS-H 1.3x crop sensor, and its extra reach, you’ll be more comfortable with the EOS 1D Mark IV. 

And if you’re indifferent, or if you just tolerate the crop sensor, it won’t make too much of a difference, but you’ll probably lean toward the newer generation.

But if you absolutely hate the crop sensor and are frustrated by the fact that it took Canon four years to upgrade the 1D to full-frame, well then your choice is an easy one – the EOS-1D X or the  EOS-1D X Mark II.

Given that the EOS 1D Mark IV has the benefit of price, it’s important to examine your photography habits. Does the cropped sensor satisfy your needs? For the average person – probably. Is your photography limited to a crop-friendly scope like sports, or nature?

You might be envious of full-frame camera owners, but the APS-H format will actually suit your needs just fine.

Dual DIGIC 4 vs [Current Generation Image Processor]

The quirky part of this debate is that the DIGIC 6 processor found in the EOS-1D X Mark II isn’t the current version. Digic 7, itself now 2 generations behind is from 2016.

Here is a comparison:

The DIGIC 8 processor in the Canon EOS M50 is from 2018. This means that we’re already had about 2 generations of upgrades over the DIGIC 6! And DIGIC X just came out a few years ago.

With that said, updates don’t necessarily mean that the image processor was completely overhauled. Most iterations just involve updates to a handful of specifications.

For example, the DIGIC 6 processor improved upon the DIGIC 5 mainly by improving low-light performance (ISO 6400), and improved AF times and reduced lag – which is what made shooting at 14 fps possible. 

In other words, a DIGIC X process might be amazing – but previous generations will still be more than sufficient for the average person. Most improvements are minute and are only apparent under close examination.

 

Final Thoughts

The Canon EOS-1D Mark IV was one of the most popular DSLR cameras of its time – and still remains popular today. A new EOS-1D X Mark II will set you back around $6,000. Check out what the EOS-1D Mark IV sells for these days.

That’s an exceptional bargain, right?

For me, it mainly comes down to the video capability of the Mark IV. Do you need DCI 4k video? Then this isn’t for you.

On the other hand, if you’re considering a Canon EOS-1D Mark IV, then 4k video probably isn’t your top priority. In this case, I would assume that there’s a lot that you will appreciate about a Mark IV.

Finally, we don’t usually recommend buying additional warranties. But a discontinued camera is an exception Fixing a discontinued camera can sometimes be expensive, and an added warranty can definitely be worthwhile!