Canon R5 Review: The Good, The Bad, and The 8K

The Canon EOS R5 has been generating a lot of buzz in the photography world for a good reason. This full-frame mirrorless camera is packed with advanced features and has the potential to be a game-changer for photographers and videographers alike.

In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Canon R5, its key features, as well as the pros and cons of this camera. But first, let’s start with the basics.

Key Features of the Canon R5

The Canon R5 is a 45-megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera that can shoot 8K video and 20 fps stills. It has a dual card slot for both CFExpress and SD cards and is equipped with in-body image stabilization (IBIS) to help reduce camera shake.

Other notable features include:

• 5-axis IBIS: The Canon R5 has a 5-axis IBIS system that helps to stabilize both stills and video. This is especially useful for low-light situations and when using longer focal lengths.
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF: The Canon R5 has a highly advanced autofocus system that utilizes Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. This allows fast and accurate focusing, even when shooting in low light or tracking moving subjects.
• 8K video: One of the standout features of the Canon R5 is its ability to shoot 8K video. With a resolution of 7680 x 4320, this camera can capture incredibly detailed and cinematic footage.
• 20 fps stills: In addition to its impressive video capabilities, the Canon R5 can also shoot stills at 20 fps. 20 fps stills allow for action photography and capturing fast-moving subjects.
• OLED viewfinder: The Canon R5 has a high-resolution OLED viewfinder that lets you see your shots clearly and accurately.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: The Canon R5 has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which makes it easy to transfer files and control the camera remotely.

Pros of the Canon R5

Now that we’ve covered the key features of the Canon R5, let’s take a look at some of the pros of this camera:

• It’s not a Nikon (thanks DJ Lance)

• Impressive image quality: The Canon R5 has a 45-megapixel full-frame sensor that delivers remarkable image quality. Photos are sharp, detailed, and have excellent dynamic range.
• Excellent autofocus: As mentioned earlier, the Canon R5 has a highly advanced autofocus system that performs exceptionally well. It’s fast, accurate, and can track moving subjects with ease.
• Versatile video capabilities: The ability to shoot 8K video is a central selling point of the Canon R5, and it doesn’t disappoint. The video quality is stunning, and the camera’s in-body image stabilization helps to produce smooth and stable footage.
• Fast continuous shooting: With the ability to shoot stills at 20 fps, the Canon R5 is perfect for action photography. It can easily capture fast-moving subjects, making it an excellent choice for sports and wildlife photographers.
• Good battery life: The Canon R5 has a good battery life, especially considering its impressive video capabilities. It can shoot up to 330 shots on a single charge, which is more than enough for most photographers.

Cons of the Canon R5

While the Canon R5 has many impressive features, it’s not without its flaws. Here are some of the cons of this camera:

Expensive: The Canon R5 is pricier, which may be a deterrent for some photographers. It’s a significant investment, so make sure you’re prepared to spend a decent chunk of cash before making the purchase. You can pick up a Canon R5 Body for $3,699 on Amazon [click here].

• Limited buffer size: While the Canon R5 has impressive continuous shooting capabilities, its buffer size is somewhat limited. This means it can only shoot a few photos quickly before the buffer fills up and the camera slows down.
• No built-in flash: Unlike some competitors, the Canon R5 does not have a built-in flash. You’ll need to carry an external flash if you want to use flash photography.
• No built-in grip: The Canon R5 does not come with a built-in grip, making it awkward to hold for long periods. Some photographers may find it more comfortable to use a camera grip, which can be purchased separately.
• No front dial: The Canon R5 does not have a front dial, which some photographers may find frustrating. You’ll have to rely on the rear dial or the touchscreen to adjust your settings, which can be inconvenient in some situations.

Verdict: Should You Buy the Canon R5?

So, is the Canon R5 worth the investment? Ultimately, it depends on your needs as a photographer.

If you’re a professional photographer or videographer who needs a high-quality camera that can handle a wide range of tasks, the Canon R5 is worth considering. It has impressive image quality, excellent autofocus, and versatile video capabilities, making it a great choice for a wide range of subjects.

However, if you’re a hobbyist photographer who doesn’t need the advanced features of the Canon R5, consider a more budget-friendly option like the Canon R6 ($2,099) or even the Canon R7 is a good choice ($1,499).

Overall, the Canon R5 is a top-of-the-line camera that delivers excellent results. It’s a bit expensive and has a few minor drawbacks, but it’s worth considering for photographers who need a high-quality camera that can handle a wide range of tasks.

I hope this review of the Canon R5 was helpful. While it’s pricier, it’s a high-quality camera that delivers excellent results for photographers and videographers. If you’re in the market for a new camera and have the budget, the Canon R5 is worth every penny.