Canon EOS C500 Cinema Camera
The Canon EOS C500 is a 8.85 MP (4096 x 2160) Super 35 cinema camera — with 4K (4096 x 2160) video. Used copies start from $3,191.58 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Canon EOS C500 Cinema Camera
Used Canon EOS C500 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Canon EOS C500
Key Features — Canon EOS C500
Super 35 4K Sensor: 8.85MP sensor capturing up to 4096 x 2160 resolution, delivering cinematic image quality consistent with industry-standard Super 35 productions.
10-Bit Color Output: Records 10-bit color depth, giving colorists substantial latitude for grading in post-production.
Raw Output Capable: Outputs 12-bit RAW signal via 3G-SDI to a compatible external recorder such as the Codex Onboard S, enabling maximum image quality workflows.
EF Mount Compatibility: Native Canon EF mount accepts the full range of Canon EF lenses as well as third-party EF-compatible glass and PL mount adapters.
Wide Frame Rate Range: Supports frame rates from 23.976fps up to 60fps at 4K; higher frame rates available at reduced resolutions.
ISO 320–20000: Broad native sensitivity range provides usable exposure options across a variety of lighting conditions without an external gain stage.
Camera Specifications — Canon EOS C500
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Documentary, Video / Cinematography |
| Type | Other |
| Sensor | Super 35 |
| Resolution | 8.85 MP (4096 x 2160) |
| Processor | Canon DIGIC DV III |
| ISO Range | 320 – 20000 |
| AF System | Manual Focus Only |
| AF Points | N/A |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4096x2160 px |
| Burst Rate | 0 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K (4096 x 2160) |
| Max Frame Rate | 60fps |
Description — Canon EOS C500
The Canon EOS C500 cinema camera features a Super 35 sensor with 8.85 MP (4096 x 2160) resolution, processed by the Canon DIGIC DV III image processor. It records 4K (4096 x 2160) video at 10-bit color depth across a comprehensive set of frame rates: 23.976fps, 24fps, 25fps, 29.97fps, 30fps, 50fps, 59.94fps, 60fps, and 120fps. ISO sensitivity runs from 320 to 20000, with color profiles including Canon Log, Wide DR, and EOS Standard.
The camera is built into a magnesium alloy body rated as weather sealed, with dimensions of 174 x 148 x 177 mm and a weight of 2.82 kg. Monitoring is handled by a detachable 4-inch LCD at 1.23 million dots and a Color OLED EVF at 1.55 million dots / 60Hz. Connectivity includes Full HDMI output, 3.5mm stereo headphone and microphone jacks, and USB.
The camera stores footage to CompactFlash cards and is powered by BP-955 or BP-975 batteries.
Pros — Canon EOS C500
- ✓4K (4096 x 2160) video capture with 10-bit color depth for strong post-production flexibility
- ✓Wide ISO range of 320–20000 for shooting across varied lighting conditions
- ✓Extensive frame rate selection including 120fps, 60fps, 50fps, and standard cinema rates like 23.976fps and 24fps
Cons — Canon EOS C500
- ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus system, which may slow down run-and-gun or solo shooting workflows
- ✗Storage limited to CompactFlash media only, which can be harder to source compared to more current card formats
- ✗No image stabilization of any kind (no in-body IS, no digital IS)
Videos — Canon EOS C500
Canon C500 Mark II - The Best Camera I've Ever Used — Gerald Undone
Frequently Asked Questions — Canon EOS C500
What video resolutions and frame rates does the Canon EOS C500 support?+
The C500 captures video at up to 4K (4096 x 2160) resolution. Supported frame rates include 23.976fps, 24fps, 25fps, 29.97fps, 30fps, 50fps, 59.94fps, 60fps, and 120fps, providing significant versatility across different production requirements.
What color profiles are available on the C500?+
The camera offers three color profiles: Canon Log, Wide DR, and EOS Standard. These are available for both video capture and still image output.
Does the Canon EOS C500 have autofocus?+
No. The C500 is manual focus only with no autofocus system. This is typical for cinema production workflows where precise, repeatable focus pulls are prioritized over automated focusing.
What storage media does the C500 use?+
The Canon EOS C500 records to CompactFlash (CF) cards. No other storage formats are listed in the specifications.
Is the Canon EOS C500 weather sealed?+
Yes, the body design is rated as weather sealed and is constructed from magnesium alloy, providing a degree of protection in challenging shooting environments.
What monitoring options does the C500 offer?+
The camera includes a detachable 4-inch LCD monitor with 1.23 million dots and a Color OLED electronic viewfinder with 1.55 million dots running at 60Hz, giving operators flexible on-set monitoring choices.