Canon EOS R5 Camera: A Full Review for 2024 – Is it Still Worth It?.
When it comes to photography and videography, the Canon EOS R5 is a name that has made waves since its release. Whether you're a professional photographer or a hobbyist aiming for the best, the R5 promises to deliver on all fronts. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the Canon EOS R5's performance, features, and why it remains a top contender in the mirrorless camera market. Let's explore why this camera could be your next best investment!
Launched in mid-2020, the Canon EOS R5 quickly gained attention due to its groundbreaking specs, such as 8K video recording, a 45-megapixel full-frame sensor, and next-generation autofocus. Fast forward to 2024, and it's still considered one of the best cameras, especially for hybrid shooters who need both stellar photo and video capabilities.
Key Features
45-Megapixel Full-Frame Sensor: The high-resolution sensor makes the R5 perfect for detailed landscape shots, portraits, and anything where image quality is paramount.
8K Video Recording: The R5 was the first Canon camera to introduce 8K RAW video recording, making it a dream for videographers.
Dual Pixel CMOS AF II: Canon’s autofocus technology is one of the best in the industry, featuring eye-tracking, animal detection, and even vehicle tracking.
IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilisation): With up to 8 stops of image stabilization, this feature helps you capture steady shots, even in low light or while on the move.
12 FPS Mechanical Shutter: With an impressive 12 frames per second (FPS) mechanical shutter (and 20 FPS electronic), you won’t miss any action in fast-moving scenes.
Dual Card Slots: One CFexpress and one SD UHS-II, providing versatility and high-speed data writing for both photography and video capture.
Advanced Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB-C port for fast data transfer, live streaming, or tethered shooting.
The Canon EOS R5's 45MP sensor is one of the highlights of this camera. It captures stunningly sharp and vibrant images, with an impressive dynamic range. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or wildlife, the detail is exquisite. The colours rendered by the camera are rich, natural, and accurate—perfect for post-production editing. Low-light performance is also strong, allowing photographers to shoot at higher ISOs (up to ISO 51,200) with minimal noise.
If you're into videography, the Canon EOS R5 is an absolute powerhouse. The ability to shoot 8K RAW video with internal recording is a game-changer. This offers flexibility in post-production for cropping, zooming, and stabilization without losing quality. If you’re looking for smoother motion, it can also shoot 4K at 120 fps, making it ideal for slow-motion footage.
The overheating issue that early adopters faced when shooting in 8K for extended periods has been addressed through firmware updates. However, it’s still something to consider if you plan on pushing the camera to its limits.
Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II is fast, accurate, and reliable. It offers eye-tracking for humans and animals, which is ideal for portraits, weddings, and wildlife photography. Autofocus tracking for moving subjects is precise, making this camera an excellent choice for sports photographers. In video mode, autofocus remains smooth and natural, ensuring your subject stays sharp even as they move.
The Canon EOS R5 is built like a tank, with weather sealing that makes it durable in challenging conditions. It has a robust magnesium alloy body, giving it a premium feel in hand. The camera's vari-angle LCD screen is a boon for vloggers and content creators, allowing you to compose shots from difficult angles. It’s 5.76 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder is bright and crisp, providing a true-to-life view of your scene.
At 738g (1.63 lb), it’s not the lightest mirrorless camera on the market, but it’s comfortable to hold for long shoots. The grip is well-sized, and the controls are intuitively placed, ensuring that professionals and enthusiasts alike will feel at home with this camera.
Battery life is average, with the LP-E6NH battery rated for around 320 shots per charge using the viewfinder and 490 shots using the LCD screen. However, for heavy 8K video shooters, the battery tends to drain quicker. If you're a professional who spends all day shooting, carrying a few extra batteries or investing in a battery grip is recommended.
Pros
Incredible 45MP resolution for top-notch image quality
8K video recording for professional filmmakers
Fast and accurate Dual Pixel AF II system with eye/animal tracking
IBIS ensures steady shots even in challenging conditions
Dual card slots (CFexpress & SD) offer flexible and fast storage options
Durable, weather-sealed build for harsh environments
Cons
High price point that’s not suitable for budget-conscious users
8K video can cause overheating after extended periods
Battery life could be better for heavy video users
Some users find CFexpress cards expensive
Who is the Canon EOS R5 For?
The Canon EOS R5 is a versatile camera suited to both professionals and serious enthusiasts. Photographers who specialize in landscapes, portraits, or wildlife will appreciate the high resolution and colour accuracy. The 8K video and autofocus make it an excellent choice for filmmakers, content creators, and vloggers. If you’re looking to future-proof your equipment and want the very best in hybrid photo/video performance, the EOS R5 is hard to beat.
However, if you're primarily a hobbyist or new to photography, this camera might be overkill, and you might find better value in models like the Canon EOS R6 or Sony A7 IV, which offer similar features at a lower price point.
As of 2024, the Canon EOS R5 is priced around £2475 for the body only, which puts it on the higher end of the market. However, for what it offers—particularly the ability to shoot 8K video and 45MP stills, the price is justifiable for professionals who need cutting-edge tech.
In summary, the Canon EOS R5 continues to be a leader in the mirrorless camera space, excelling in both photography and videography. It’s incredible 8K video, 45MP sensor, and next gen autofocus system make it a must-have for professionals. While the price may be steep, the features and performance justify the investment if you’re serious about your craft. Whether you’re capturing weddings, wildlife, or films, the Canon EOS R5 is more than capable of helping you create stunning work in 2024.
If you're ready to take your photography and videography to the next level, consider the Canon EOS R5. It's the kind of camera that truly bridges the gap between stills and video without compromise. Check it out [here] and elevate your creative projects to new heights!
As an affiliate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.