The Canon EOS R5 and the Sony A7R IV are two of the most highly regarded and advanced cameras on the market, each with a unique set of features and capabilities that make them suitable for different types of photographers.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the two cameras to see how they compare in terms of their design, performance, image quality, and other key features.
How does the Canon R5 vs Sony A7R IV compare – which is the best?
The Canon EOS R5 is a professional full-frame mirrorless camera featuring a 45-megapixel sensor, a fast image processor, an advanced autofocus system with 1053 focus points, the ability to shoot 8K video, a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, dual card slots, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
The Sony A7R IV is a professional full-frame mirrorless camera featuring a 61-megapixel sensor, a fast image processor, an advanced autofocus system with 567 focus points, the ability to shoot 4K video, a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, dual card slots, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and the ability to charge the battery while in use.
Canon R5 vs Sony A7R IV price: R5 cost = £4399 (in the USA $3899), A7R IV cost = £2999 (in the USA $3499)
Let’s take a closer look at both cameras side by side to see what they offer!
Table of Contents
Sony A7R IV Overview
The Sony A7R IV is a high-end full-frame mirrorless camera that was released in 2019. It is equipped with a 61-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and a BIONZ XR image processor, which together provide excellent image quality and fast performance.
The camera has a native ISO range of 100-32000, which can be expanded to 50-102400, and is capable of shooting at up to 10 frames per second with the mechanical shutter.
In terms of autofocus, the A7R IV has a total of 567 focus points, which cover a wide area of the frame and allow for precise focusing on a wide range of subjects.
The camera also has an advanced subject-tracking system that can accurately track moving subjects.
The A7R IV is capable of capturing 8K video at up to 4320 x 7680 pixels, as well as 4K video at up to 60 frames per second.
It also offers a range of other video resolutions and frame rates to choose from and has advanced video features such as high-quality audio recording, focuses peaking, and the ability to output a clean HDMI signal for external recording.
Other notable features of the A7R IV include a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, dual card slots, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy image sharing and transferring.
The camera is powered by an NP-FZ100 battery, which is rated for up to 670 shots per charge, and has the added convenience of being able to charge the battery while it is in use with an optional AC adapter.
How much will the Sony A7R IV cost?
The Sony A7R IV price is £2999 in the UK and $3499 in the USA. You can learn more here.
Key Features of the Sony A7R IV
- 61MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor
- BIONZ X Image Processor & Front-End LSI
- 567-Point Phase-Detection AF System
- UHD 4K30p Video with HLG & S-Log3 Gammas
- 5.76m-Dot Tru-Finder OLED EVF
- 3.0″ 1.44m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- Up to 10 fps Shooting, ISO 100-32000
- 5-Axis SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization
- 240MP Pixel Shift Multi Shooting
- Bluetooth & Wi-Fi, Dual UHS-II SD Slots
For the full Sony A7R IV specs click here. For a Sony A7R IV review – click here.
Canon EOS R5 Overview
The Canon EOS R5 is a high-end full-frame mirrorless camera that was released in 2020. It is equipped with a 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and a DIGIC X image processor, which together provide excellent image quality and fast performance.
The Canon R5 lowlight capability has a native ISO range of 100-25600, which can be expanded to 50-102400, and is capable of shooting at up to 20 frames per second with the electronic shutter or up to 12 frames per second with the mechanical shutter.
In terms of autofocus, the EOS R5 has a total of 1053 focus points, which cover a wide area of the frame and allow for precise focusing on a wide range of subjects. The camera also has an advanced subject-tracking system that can accurately track moving subjects.
The EOS R5 is capable of capturing 8K video at up to 7680 x 4320 pixels, as well as 4K video at up to 60 frames per second.
It also offers a range of other video resolutions and frame rates to choose from and has advanced video features such as high-quality audio recording, focus peaking, and the ability to output a clean HDMI signal for external recording.
Other notable features of the EOS R5 include a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, dual card slots, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy image sharing and transferring.
The camera is powered by an LP-E6NH battery, which is rated for up to 320 shots per charge.
How much will the Canon EOS R5 cost?
The Canon EOS R5 price is £4399 in the UK and $3899 in the USA. You can learn more here.
Canon EOS R5 Features
- Newly Developed Full-Frame 45MP CMOS Image Sensor & DIGIC X Processor
- 8K Video Recording
- Up to 12 fps with Mechanical Shutter
- Up to a fast 20 fps with Silent Shutter
- The first camera to offer 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization
- Free Use of Canon’s Image Cloud Service
- Canon 2-year warranty included!
For the full Canon R5 specs click here. For the Canon R5 review click here.
- Canon EOS R5 BodyProduct on sale£3,799.00
What are the key difference between Canon R5 vs Sony A7R IV?
Here are the key differences between the Canon EOS R5 and the Sony A7R IV:
The camera sensor:
Both these cameras come with a very high megapixel full-frame sensor.
The EOS R5 has a 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, while the A7R IV has a 61-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor.
The larger sensor size of the A7R IV allows it to capture more detailed images, with a higher resolution and more dynamic range.
The processor:
The processors found inside these cameras are highly regarded for their fast performance and excellent image quality,
The EOS R5 is equipped with a DIGIC X image processor, while the A7R IV is equipped with a BIONZ XR image processor.
The BIONZ XR processor has a focus on improving image quality and reducing noise at high ISO settings.
Burst shooting:
When it comes to how fast these cameras can shoot.
The EOS R5 has a burst rate of up to 20 frames per second with the electronic shutter or up to 12 frames per second with the mechanical shutter.
The A7R IV has a burst rate of up to 10 frames per second with the mechanical shutter.
Autofocus:
When it comes to choosing your focus points.
The EOS R5 has a total of 1053 focus points, while the A7R IV has a total of 567 focus points.
The higher number of focus points on the EOS R5 may be an advantage for photographers who need to focus on very small or fast-moving subjects.
Shots per battery charge:
The number of shots per charge you can take on one battery
The EOS R5 uses an LP-E6NH battery that is rated for up to 320 shots per charge, while the A7R IV uses an NP-FZ100 battery that is rated for up to 670 shots per charge.
The A7R IV also has the ability to charge the battery while in use with an optional AC adapter.
Video specs:
Both cameras are also capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second and offer a range of other video resolutions and frame rates to choose from.
The R5 has the advantage of 8K videos with a resolution of up to 7680 x 4320 pixels and the option to take a high Megapixel frame from the video.
Canon R5 vs Sony A7RIV Image Quality & Lowlight Performance
Now, let’s compare the image quality and low-light performance of the two cameras.
In terms of low-light performance, both the Canon EOS R5 and the Sony A7R IV are highly capable cameras that offer excellent image quality.
However, some differences between the two cameras may affect their performance in low-light conditions.
One of the main differences is their sensors.
Which would you buy for image quality?
The R5 has a 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, while the A7R IV has a 61-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor.
The larger sensor size of the A7R IV allows it to capture more detail, which can result in higher-quality images in low-light conditions.
Which would you buy for low-light performance?
The A7R IV also has a higher native ISO range, with a range of 100-32,000 compared to the R5’s range of 100-25,600.
This means that the A7R IV may be able to produce usable images at higher ISO settings than the R5.
Another difference is their image processors.
Which would you buy for image processing?
The R5 is equipped with a DIGIC X image processor, while the a7R IV is equipped with a BIONZ XR image processor.
Both processors are known for their fast performance and excellent image quality, but the BIONZ XR processor in the A7R IV has a focus on improving image quality and reducing noise at high ISO settings.
Which would you buy for Image stabilisation?
Both the Canon EOS R5 and the Sony Alpha A7R IV have image stabilisation systems that can help to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images. The R5 has 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which means that the image stabilization is built into the camera body itself.
The A7R IV has 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization, which means that image stabilization is built into the camera’s sensor. This can also be effective at reducing camera shake and producing sharp images, but it may not be quite as effective as the R5’s IBIS system.
In summary.
Overall, the R5 and the a7R IV offer excellent image quality and low-light performance, but the A7R IV may have an advantage due to its larger sensor size, higher native ISO range, and more advanced image processor.
Both cameras also have highly effective image stabilization systems that can help to produce sharp images and smooth video footage. However, the Canon R5’s IBIS system might have a slight edge in terms of effectiveness, especially when shooting handheld or with longer focal lengths.
How Does The Canon R5 and Sony A7R IV Perform With Burst Shooting & Autofocus
Both the Canon EOS R5 and the Sony A7R IV are highly capable cameras that offer excellent burst shooting and autofocus performance. Here is a comparison of their performance in these areas:
Which would you buy for speed?
The R5 has a burst rate of up to 20 frames per second with the electronic shutter or up to 12 frames per second with the mechanical shutter. It also has a deep buffer, which allows it to capture a large number of images in a single burst.
The A7R IV has a burst rate of up to 10 frames per second with the mechanical shutter. It also has a deep buffer, but may not be able to capture as many images in a single burst as the R5.
Which would you buy for autofocus?
The R5 has a total of 1053 focus points, which cover a wide area of the frame and allow for precise focusing on a wide range of subjects. It also has an advanced subject-tracking system that can accurately track moving subjects.
The A7R IV has a total of 567 focus points, which also cover a wide area of the frame and allow for precise focusing on most subjects. It also has an advanced subject-tracking system that can accurately track moving subjects.
In summary.
Overall, the R5 and the A7R IV offer excellent burst shooting and autofocus performance. The R5 may have an advantage in terms of burst rate, the number of focus points and state-of-the-art eye tracking, for quick focus and accuracy.
But the A7R IV’s performance in these areas is still very good, particularly in eye tracking.
Canon R5 vs Sony A7R IV, How Do They Compare In Video – Which would you choose?
The Canon EOS R5 and the Sony Alpha A7R IV are both highly capable cameras that are well-suited for video work.
Here are some key points to consider when deciding between the two.
Which would you buy for Video?
The A7R IV has a higher resolution sensor than the R5, with a resolution of 61 megapixels compared to 45 megapixels for the R5.
As for Video quality, both cameras are capable of recording 4K video, but the R5 has a few features that make it particularly well-suited for video work.
It has a higher maximum frame rate of 120 fps in 1080p resolution, compared to 60 fps for the A7R IV.
The R5 also has 5-axis in-body image stabilization, which can help to smooth out handheld footage.
The R5 can even shoot video in 8K resolution.
Which would you buy for autofocus in the video?
Both cameras have highly advanced autofocus systems, but the R5 has a few additional features that make it particularly strong in this area.
It has Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which allows for fast and accurate focusing, as well as deep learning-based autofocus that can track and maintain focus on moving subjects.
In summary.
Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re primarily interested in video work, the Canon R5 might be the better choice thanks to its higher frame rate and image stabilization.
However, if you’re more interested in still photography and need a high-resolution camera, the A7R IV might be the better fit.
What Makes The Canon R5 and Sony A7R IV Physically & Visually Different
The Canon EOS R5 and the Sony Alpha A7R IV are both professional-grade mirrorless cameras that are designed to offer high image quality and advanced features.
Here are some key physical and visual differences between the two cameras:
Which would you buy for size and weight?
The R5 is slightly larger and heavier than the A7R IV.
The R5 measures approximately 138 x 98 x 88 mm and weighs approximately 738g, while the A7R IV measures approximately 126 x 95 x 73 mm and weighs approximately 665g.
Which would you buy for design and control layout?
The R5 has a more traditional DSLR-style body design, with a built-in grip. The A7R IV has a more compact style body.
Both cameras have a similar layout of physical controls, with buttons and dials for adjusting various settings.
The R5 has a few additional controls, such as a joystick for adjusting focus points and a top-mounted LCD screen that displays camera settings.
Which would you buy for the LCD display?
The R5 has a 3.2-inch, 2.1 million dot touchscreen LCD display that can be tilted and rotated. The A7R IV has a 3.0-inch, 1.44 million dot tilting touchscreen LCD display.
Which would you buy for connectivity?
Both cameras have various connectivity options, including USB-C, HDMI, and a 3.5mm microphone jack. The R5 also has a built-in Ethernet port for wired connectivity.
Overall, the Canon R5 and Sony A7R IV are similar in many ways, but they do have some physical and visual differences that may make one more appealing to you than the other.
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony A7R IV? The Verdict
In conclusion, the Canon EOS R5 and the Sony Alpha A7R IV are both highly capable cameras that offer a range of advanced features and impressive image quality.
They both have a high-resolution sensor, fast and accurate autofocus, and the ability to record 4K video.
The R5 has a few additional features that make it particularly well-suited for video work, such as a higher maximum frame rate and 5-axis in-body image stabilization and video recording in 8k.
Whereas the A7R IV has a higher resolution sensor and a more compact body design.
Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
For what reason would I choose?
If you’re primarily interested in video work, the Canon R5 might be the better choice.
If you’re more interested in still photography and need a high-resolution camera, the A7R IV might be the better fit.
In terms of how these cameras work for different styles of photography if you are more of a wildlife or sports actions photographer the Canon R5 would be a much better camera for that speed, image stabilisation and even in the hybrid shooting style being able to shoot in 8K and then take a high megapixel still image is a gamechanger for hybrid shooters.
The A7R IV high megapixel would suit those photography styles for detail like macro, landscape, interior or product photography styles that require you to slow down.
Of course, it depends on the situation you might find yourself in but both these cameras will be capable of delivering results.
We personally prefer the Canon R5 as an all-rounder camera although it is worth noting that R5 is over £1000 more expensive.
And there you have it!
We hope you found this guide useful and if you wish to purchase the Canon R5 or Sony 7R IV you can do so using the links below.
We are available 7 days a week to talk about your camera or lens purchase by phone, email and live chat.
Why not take a look at one of our other articles like the Canon R5 vs R6, Canon R6 II vs R5, Sony A7 III vs Sony A7 IV or the Canon R5 vs Sony A7 IV.
Sony A7R IV vs Canon R5 FAQ
Is Sony A7RIV better than Canon R5?
The Canon EOS R5 and the Sony Alpha A7R IV are both highly capable professional-grade cameras that offer a range of advanced features and impressive image quality.
The A7R IV has a higher resolution sensor, while the R5 has a higher maximum frame rate and 5-axis in-body image stabilization.
Both cameras have advanced autofocus systems, and both systems have a wide range of lenses available. The best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re primarily interested in video work, the Canon R5 might be the better choice, but if you’re more interested in still photography and need a high-resolution camera, the A7R IV might be the better fit.
Is the Canon R5 worth it in 2022?
The Canon EOS R5 is a highly capable camera that was well-received upon its release in 2020. It has a high-resolution sensor, fast and accurate autofocus, and the ability to record 4K video. It also has a number of features that make it particularly well-suited for video work, such as a high maximum frame rate and 5-axis in-body image stabilization. It is worth mentioning that the Canon R5 will likely get an update as the Canon ESO R5 II.
What are the main differences between the R5 and the A7R IV?
The R5 has a 45-megapixel sensor, a maximum frame rate of 120 fps for video, and 5-axis in-body image stabilization. The A7R IV has a 61-megapixel sensor, a maximum frame rate of 60 fps for video, and 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization.
Which camera R5 or the A7R IV is better for video?
The R5 might be the better choice for video work due to its higher maximum frame rate and in-body image stabilisation.
Which camera has a better autofocus system? The R5 or the A7R IV
Both cameras have highly advanced autofocus systems, but the R5 has a few additional features that make it particularly strong in this area. It has Dual Pixel CMOS AF and deep learning-based autofocus that can track and maintain focus on moving subjects.
Which camera the Canon R5 or Sony A7R IV has a better selection of lenses available?
Both the Canon and Sony systems have a wide range of lenses available, so you’ll have plenty of options no matter which camera you choose. But the advantage with Sony is there are a much wider selection available + third-party options.
Is the A7R IV better for still photography due to its higher resolution sensor?
The A7R IV’s higher resolution sensor might make it a better choice for still photography, especially if you need to capture a lot of detail or crop your images heavily. However, the R5’s lower resolution sensor might be sufficient for many photographers, and the R5’s other features (such as its higher frame rate and image stabilization) might make it a better overall camera for some users.
Canon R5 vs Sony A7R IV Comparison Table
Feature | Canon EOS R5 | Sony Alpha A7R IV |
---|---|---|
Anti-dust Shutter Mechanism | Yes | Yes |
Focus Coverage | 100% | 100% |
Number of Focus Points | 5,940 | 693 |
Min Focus Sensitivity | -6 EV | -6 EV |
Max ISO | 102,400 | 102,400 |
Sensor Pixel Area | 36.71 µm² | 35.8 µm² |
Sensor Resolution | 45 megapixels | 61 megapixels |
Colour Depth | 14-bit | 14-bit |
Dynamic Range | 15 stops | 15 stops |
Low Light ISO | 32,000 | 32,000 |
Pixel Shift High-Res Mode | Yes | Yes |
Image Stabilisation | 5-axis in-body | 5-axis sensor-shift |
RAW Support | Yes | Yes |
Face Detection Focus | Yes | Yes |
Max Resolution | 8192 x 5464 | 8256 x 5504 |
Max Continuous Shooting | 20 fps | 10 fps |
AE Bracketing | =+/- 3 EV | =+/- 3 EV |
Shutter Life Expectancy | 300,000 | 500,000 |
LCD Screen Size | 3.2 inches | 3 inches |
LCD Resolution | 2.1 million dots | 1.44 million dots |
Adjustable LCD Screen | Yes | Yes |
Touch Screen | Yes | Yes |
Top LCD | Yes | No |
Electronic Viewfinder | Yes | Yes |
Viewfinder Magnification | 0.76x | 0.78x |
Continuous Shooting | 20 fps | 10 fps |
Timelapse Recording | Yes | Yes |
Focus Bracketing | Yes | Yes |
IS Stop Effectivity | 6.5 stops | 5.5 stops |
Flash Sync Port | Yes | Yes |
Built-in Flash | Yes | No |
External Flash Shoe | Yes | Yes |
Wireless Connection | WiFi, Bluetooth | WiFi, Bluetooth |
NFC Connection | Yes | Yes |
Smartphone Remote | Yes | Yes |
Webcam Function | Yes | No |
Microphone Port | Yes | Yes |
Headphone Port | Yes | Yes |
CFexpress Card Support | Yes | Yes |
UHS Card Support | Yes | Yes |
Storage Slot | Dual CFexpress, SD | Dual SD |
Weather Sealing | Yes | Yes |
Anti-flicker | Yes | Yes |
Eye Tracking Focus | Yes | Yes |
Battery Life | 330 shots | 670 shots |
Weight | 738g | 665g |
Dimensions | 138 x 98 x 88 mm | 126 x 95 x 73 mm |
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