So I definitely agree that being cautious about sellers is key, tbh. I've had gear from random people show up with internal fungus or dying shutters that they "forgot" to mention in the listing. If ur planning to keep this camera for the next 5+ years, that long-term reliability is everything!! Anyway, some thoughts from someone who’s been in this ecosystem forever: - Just go with Canon and don't look back. You really can't go wrong with any of their professional gear. The color science and ergonomics are industry standards for a reason, and they just feel right in the hand.
- These pro-grade bodies are built like absolute tanks. I've seen them survive drops and storms that would kill modern entry-level tech, so as long as the shutter count isn't astronomical, it’ll likely last u a decade.
- The ecosystem is massive. Just grab any high-end glass for this mount and you’ll have a setup that rivals brand-new kits for a fraction of the price. Basically, if u stick to the pro-level stuff from this brand, ur making a solid long-term investment. Just focus on the build quality and u'll be fine!

Bookmarked, thanks!

Hey there! I totally get the excitement of upgrading gear – it's a great feeling! I actually went through a similar process a few years back when I was eyeing the 5D Mark IV myself. While I ultimately went in a slightly different direction (ended up grabbing a used Sony A7III because I was tempted by the mirrorless world), I did a TON of research on getting the best deals on the 5D Mark IV. So, hopefully, my experience can help you out.

My top recommendation, and something that often gets overlooked, is to check out reputable local camera stores. Don't just think about the big box stores; I'm talking about the smaller, independent shops. Many of them take trade-ins and often have certified pre-owned equipment that comes with a limited warranty. The prices can sometimes be surprisingly competitive, and the big advantage is that you can actually handle the camera, check its shutter count, and inspect it for any cosmetic issues *before* you buy. This is HUGE, especially when you're buying used.

I remember one local shop near me had a 5D Mark IV listed for around $1800 at the time (this was in late 2021), and they were open to negotiation. Online prices were hovering around $2200-2400 then, so it was a significant difference. Another tip: try to bundle the purchase with something else you need, like a lens or a memory card. Shops are often more willing to give you a discount on the camera body if you're buying something else too.

Also, don't underestimate the power of building a relationship with the staff. If they know you're seriously looking, they might remember you when they get a good trade-in. Good luck with the hunt, and I hope you score a fantastic deal on your 5D Mark IV in 2025! Let us know if you find anything interesting!

Hey! I get wanting a 5D Mark IV, they're solid. But before you commit, maybe consider the used mirrorless market in 2025? Canon's R series might have some similarly priced options with better tech by then. I know the 5D is full-frame, but those mirrorless lenses are super sharp. Plus, you can adapt EF lenses. I had issues with older DSLRs not being as good as expected after a few years, unfortunately. Just a thought! Let me know if you want to brainstorm R series options.

Hey, planning ahead is smart! Since you're aiming for 2025, I'd suggest setting up price alerts on sites like CamelCamelCamel for Amazon. It tracks price history, which is super helpful. Also, KEH Camera is great for used gear; their grading is usually conservative. Be careful about buying from individual sellers without a return policy. I've been tracking camera prices for years, and those sites gave me the most accurate price data. Hope it helps!

Hey! Seeing your interest in the 5D Mark IV, a solid choice. But before settling, have you considered Sony's Alpha series or Nikon's D850 as alternatives? In my experience, these often see steeper price drops on the used market. Check KEH Camera or MPB for certified pre-owned options – they grade rigorously, offering some protection, and compare prices across brands. Also, monitor trends with those brands in mind!

Hey! I see you're planning to grab a 5D Mark IV in 2025 – cool choice! While everyone's focused on deals and price tracking (and those are definitely important!), I wanted to throw in a word of caution about *where* you're buying it from, especially if you're going used. I've been burned before, and it's not fun.

Specifically, I'd be extra careful about buying from individual sellers on marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist, even if the price seems amazing. I learned this the hard way about 8 years ago when I bought a used lens that turned out to have a fungus issue. The pictures looked fine at first, but after a few weeks, it became super obvious. Getting a refund was a HUGE hassle.

So, my advice is to stick with reputable retailers, even if it means paying a bit more. Canon's refurbished program is a solid bet because they thoroughly inspect and warranty their refurbs. KEH Camera is another one I've had good experiences with. They have a grading system, and they're pretty conservative with it, so you generally get what you pay for, and their return policy is great. B&H and Adorama also sell used gear, and they're generally trustworthy. I've bought gear from them for years.

Think of it as buying peace of mind. A slightly higher price is worth it to avoid the risk of getting a camera with hidden problems like sensor dust, focus issues, or even being outright scammed. No one wants to start their photography journey with a lemon! Happy shooting in 2025, and feel free to ask if you have any more questions!