EOS 500D vs 5D focussing

[cuthbert]

I'm saving up to upgrade my 500D to a 5D II. I've got a fair way to go yet, but after reading a few "mixed" reviews about the 5D's auto focus system, i'm just wondering how it would compare to my current body?

For what it's worth, I don't think the auto focussing on the 500D is too bad, it's accurate most of the time. The outer focus points are a bit hit and miss, but you adapt and learn to live with it.

If I get a 5D II will I see the autofocus system as a step forward, back or about equal?

I photograph mainly portraits, few landscapes and a bit of nature stuff.

I photograph my little girl running around and playing so the autofocus needs to be fairly decent, but i'm not going to be using the camera for motosport or anything like that.

Do i get the 5DII as soon as I can afford it or do I wait until the 5D III (if it ever comes out) and hang onto my 500D.

Any advice, as always great appreciated.

 

[Bendihossan]

From the sounds of it the 5DII AF system will meet your requirements. There have been some damming reviews of the 5DII's AF system but largely it's only because it isn't a major improvement over the 5D Mark I. I've used my 5D MkI to focus accurately on low flying aircraft at the Mach Loop with ease so I see no reason why the 5D MkII should be any worse.

 

[unclened]

i've had the 500D, 5D and 5DMKII and the MKII has superior AF to the 500D and 5D IMO.

 

[postcardcv]

I've not used a 500D but I have used the 5D mkII and in my opinion the AF is much the same as the AF on the 50D, so I reckon it will be as good or better than your 500D

 

[HoppyUK]

The 5DII's AF is very good! Sure, it's not as fast as the 1-Series cameras or the new 7D but, subjectively, I think it's better than my old 40D and that was pretty good. I didn't get a chance to compare them side by side but I'd be amazed if it didn't beat your 500D hands down.

I used it for motorsport on servo recently, nothing too challenging but I somehow expected it to struggle a bit (based on those reviews). It nailed it 100% every time. Nothing wrong with the 5DII's AF at all, it's well matched to the shooting speed and when setting up the micro-adjust I was honestly amazed at how accurate and consistent it was I only use it with L lenses though, which obviously doesn't do any harm.

 

[Jayst84]

The AF is fine. Some people like to bash it because they've nothing better to do. I've shot Aussie Rules footy with a 5D and 5D mk II, no problems. I think the mk II is a bit quicker to lock on in low light than the mk I.

Never used a 500D but I'd be surprised if the mk II wasn't a bit better.