Canon R5 vs Sony A7 IV: Which Should You Buy?

The Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV are two of the most highly regarded models on the market.

Both cameras offer a range of advanced features and impressive performance, making them popular choices for photographers of all levels.

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.

To kick things off…

How does the Canon R5 vs Sony A7 IV compare – which is the best?

When it comes to key specs, the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV both have a lot to offer.

• The R5 has a 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, 5,940 phase-detection AF points, and the ability to capture 8K video at 30 fps.
• The A7 IV has a 33-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, 759 phase-detection AF points, and the ability to capture 4K video at 60 fps.

Both cameras also offer in-body image stabilization, dual card slots, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, and durable construction.

Canon R5 vs Sony A7 IV price: 

• The Canon R5 cost = £4399 (in the USA $3899)
• The Sony A7 IV cost = £2199 (in the USA $2499)

Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the photographer. which is why we will go into more detail on the features and specs and decide which is the best camera to buy and why.

Let’s take a closer look at both cameras side by side to see what they offer!

Canon EOS R5 Features & Specs

The Canon EOS R5 is a high-end mirrorless camera with a 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and an impressive autofocus system with 5,940 phase-detection AF points.

It offers fast continuous shooting, with the ability to capture up to 20 frames per second using its mechanical shutter or up to 12 fps using its electronic shutter.

The R5 also has in-body image stabilization effective up to 8 stops and the ability to capture 4K video at up to 120 fps and 8K video at 30 fps.

It has a 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD, an electronic viewfinder, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, and dual card slots for CFexpress and SD cards.

The R5 is durable, weather-sealed, has a battery life of up to 320 shots and weighs 738g and has dimensions of 138 x 98.5 x 88.4mm.

Sony A7 IV Features and Specs

The Sony Alpha A7 IV is a high-end mirrorless camera with a 33-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and a fast Hybrid AF system with 759 phase-detection AF points.

It offers continuous shooting of up to 10 frames per second with either a mechanical or electronic shutter.

The A7 IV also has in-body image stabilization effective up to 5.5 stops and the ability to capture 4K video at up to 60 fps.

The camera has a 3-inch touchscreen LCD, an electronic viewfinder, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, and dual card slots for SD cards.

The A7 IV is durable and weather-sealed, has a battery life of up to 740 shots and weighs 658g with dimensions of 131.3 x 96.4 x 79.8mm.

Canon R5 vs Sony A7 IV: Image Quality & Lowlight Performance

When it comes to choosing a camera, image quality and low-light performance are two of the most important factors to consider.

The ability to capture crisp, detailed images with accurate colours, and to perform well in low-light conditions, can make all the difference in getting the perfect shot.

These two are very popular full-frame mirrorless cameras that are known for their excellent image quality.

We will compare the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV and see how their spec will deliver on the image quality and low-light performance.

Which would you buy for the sensor and resolution: Canon EOS R5 – ✅

One key difference between the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV is the size and resolution of their sensors.

• The R5 has a 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
• The A7 IV has a 33-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor

The R5 is capable of capturing higher-resolution images, with more detail and more pixels to work with when it comes to cropping and printing.

When it comes to image processing, both the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV offer high-quality image processing capabilities.

• The R5 has a powerful DIGIC X image processor
• The A7 IV has a BIONZ XR image processor

Both processors found in these cameras enable fast image processing and various features, such as fast continuous shooting and 4K video capture.

If as a photographer you need the highest possible resolution and the ability to capture extremely detailed images, the R5 will be the better choice.

Which would you buy for the low light performance: Sony A7 IV – ✅

When it comes to low-light performance, both the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV are capable of producing good-quality images in challenging lighting conditions.

Both cameras have good high ISO performance, with

• The R5 has a native ISO range of 100-51,200 (expandable to 50-102,400)
• The A7 IV has a native ISO range of 100-51,200 (expandable to 50-204,800).

Both cameras are able to capture good quality images in low light conditions, although the A7 IV has a slightly wider ISO range, which will give it an advantage in very low light situations.

Which would you buy for image stabilisation: Canon EOS R5 – ✅

In terms of image stabilisation, the R5 and A7 IV offer in-body stabilization systems that can help to reduce camera shake and improve image quality.

• The R5 has a 5-axis system that is effective up to 8 stops,
• The A7 IV has a 5-axis system that is effective up to 5.5 stops.

There is also a difference in the image stabilisation with the Canon R5 having in-body stabilisation and the Sony A7 IV having sensor stabilisation.

This means that the R5 has the potential to be slightly better at reducing camera shake, particularly when shooting at longer exposures or with longer focal lengths.

Image Quality & Lowlight Performance Summary:

When it comes to the sensor and resolution of the cameras, the Canon EOS R5 is the better choice.

The higher resolution sensor with 45 megapixels compared to the Sony Alpha A7 IV’s 33 megapixels will give you much more extra detail in your images.

If low light performance is a key concern, the Sony Alpha A7 IV may be the better choice, as it has a slightly wider ISO range but the Canon R5 in-body image stabilisation will be able to help shoot slower shutter speeds handheld reducing that extended ISO need.

Both cameras are capable of shooting excellent image quality, low light performance, and stabilisation, and the best choice will depend on your budget and the specific requirements of the photographer.

Burst shooting and autofocus performance on the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV:

When it comes to wildlife and sports action photography, burst shooting and autofocus performance are two of the most important factors to consider in a camera.

The ability to capture fast-moving subjects at a high frame rate, and to focus quickly and accurately, can make all the difference in getting the perfect shot.

We will compare the burst shooting and autofocus performance of the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV to determine which camera is the best for action and sports photography.

Which would you buy for the autofocus: Canon EOS R5 – ✅

A key difference between the two cameras is the number of autofocus points they have.

• The R5 boasts an impressive 5,940 phase-detection AF points and 2,850 contrast-detection AF points
• The A7 IV has a more modest 759 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection AF points

The R5 has the potential to be faster and more accurate when it comes to focusing, particularly in challenging lighting conditions or when tracking moving subjects.

Both of these cameras have very impressive eye detect autofocus being able to get tact sharp images where it matters most.

Which would you buy for continuous shooting: Canon EOS R5 – ✅

When it comes to continuous shooting, the R5 and A7 IV both offer impressive performance.

• The R5 can shoot at up to 20 frames per second using its mechanical shutter, or at up to 12 fps using its electronic shutter.
• The A7 IV, on the other hand, can shoot at up to 10 frames per second using either its mechanical or electronic shutter.

Both cameras also offer a range of other shooting modes, including timelapse and focus bracketing, to help photographers capture the perfect shot.

Both cameras would be ideal for wildlife and sports photography but for a chance not to miss that shot The Canon EOS R5 is the better camera here.

Burst shooting and autofocus performance summary:

When it comes to choosing a camera based on burst shooting and autofocus performance, both the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV are excellent choices.

The EOS R5 has a fast burst shooting speed of up to 20 frames per second and features a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system with a large number of focus points and excellent tracking performance.

The A7 IV also has a fast burst shooting speed of up to 10 frames per second and features a hybrid AF system with a large number of focus points and excellent tracking performance.

If you need the fastest burst shooting speed and the most advanced autofocus system, the EOS R5 is the be the better choice.

Canon R5 vs Sony A7 IV, How Do They Compare In Video – Which would you choose?

When it comes to choosing a camera for video production, it’s important to consider a range of factors including resolution, frame rate, autofocus performance, and other features that may be relevant for professional-level video production.

We will compare the video resolution and frame rate of each camera, the autofocus system and its performance, and other features that may be relevant for videographers.

Which would you buy for the Video: Canon EOS R5 – ✅

Both the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV are excellent choices for videographers, as they both offer a range of features and capabilities that are suitable for professional-level video production.

In terms of video resolution and frame rate,

• The R5 is capable of recording 8K video at 30 frames per second and 4K video at up to 120 frames per second.
• The Sony A7 IV is only capable of recording 4K at up to 60 frames per second.

Both these cameras are capable of fast and accurate autofocus, real-time tracking and real-time eye AF capabilities. during video recording.

The Canon EOS R5 is the better camera here on the specs due to offering faster frame rates when shooting in 4k allowing even slower slow-mo editing, and the option of 8k video where you can take a high megapixel frame.

Which would you buy for the longest recording time: Sony A7 IV – ✅

The length of time to record without interruption or overheating is very important to the videographer so they can continue creating.

• The EOS R5 is capable of recording up to 20 minutes of 8K video or up 30 minutes of 4K video before overheating.
• The A7 IV is capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second for up to approximately 60 minutes.

However, these recording times may be shorter if the camera is used in high ambient temperatures or if it is recording at high bitrates for an extended period of time.

The Sony A7 IV is a much more reliable camera here when it comes to recording continuously for longer periods of time.

Video spec summary:

Both cameras offer excellent video performance and a range of features that make them suitable for professional-level video production.

They both also have a wide range of features, including built-in image stabilization, microphone and headphone ports, and support for external recording devices.

The R5 has the added advantage of being able to capture 8K video, which may be a key consideration for some videographers and hybrid shooters being able to pull a high megapixel frame as an image.

The Canon EOS R5 is the best choice in terms of specs but we actually would recommend the Sony A7 IV as 4k 60p is still very professional level and the risk of overheating in the Canon R5 means your workflow will be interrupted.

What Makes The Canon R5 and Sony A7 IV Physically & Visually Different

When it comes to choosing a camera, the physical and visual design of the camera can be an important consideration.

We will look at the size, weight, and overall design of each camera, as well as any distinctive visual features and additional features that set them apart.

Which would you buy for the LCD display: Canon EOS R5 – ✅

The higher LCD resolution the camera has can benefit you with a clear and detailed view of the scene, which can be helpful when composing shots, checking focus, and reviewing images.

It can also make it easier to see the display in bright light conditions, which can be useful when shooting outdoors.

• The Canon EOS R5 has a 3.2-inch LCD display with a resolution of 2.1 million dots.
• The Sony A7 IV has a 3-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1.04 million dots

The Canon EOS R5 display is slightly larger and has a higher resolution, which may make it easier to compose shots and review images and videos.

However, the Sony A7 IV display is still quite capable and may be sufficient for many photographers and videographers.

In terms of other features, both cameras have adjustable LCD touchscreen displays that can be tilted and swivelled, which can be useful for shooting from different angles.

Which would you buy for the Viewfinder: Canon EOS R5 – ✅

A high viewfinder resolution in a camera benefits the user by providing a clear and detailed view, making it easier to compose shots and check focus, especially in bright light. It can also reduce eyestrain during extended use.

• The Canon EOS R5 has an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 5.76 million dots
• The Sony Alpha A7 IV has an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 3.68 million dots.

Both cameras have an excellent viewfinder but the higher resolution in the Canon EOS R5 is exceptional when comparing the two.

Which would you buy for the Storage: Sony A7 IV – ✅

In terms of storage, both cameras have dual card slots, which allows photographers to use multiple cards or to back up their images for added security.

• The R5 offers support for CFexpress and SD cards
• The A7 IV offers support for SD cards only

The Sony A7 IV actually makes this a more viable camera with its dual SD card slots.

Makes it easier if you are upgrading from a camera that already has SD cards but if you did choose the R5 then you would have to buy an additional card and card reader with CFexpress reading capabilities.

Which would you buy for size and weight: Sony A7 IV – ✅

The Canon EOS R5 is slightly larger and heavier than the A7 IV.

• Canon R5 has dimensions of 138 x 98.5 x 88.4mm and a weight of 738g.
• The A7 IV, on the other hand, has dimensions of 131.3 x 96.4 x 79.8mm and a weight of 658g.

When it comes to how compact and lightweight the Sony A7 IV is the better choice.

However, if you are willing to trade a little bit of size and weight for additional features and performance, the EOS R5 may be the better option.

Which would you buy for battery life: Sony A7 IV – ✅

One area where the A7 IV has a clear advantage over the R5 is in battery life.

• The A7 IV can capture up to 740 shots on a single charge
• The R5 can capture up to 320 shots on a single charge

This means that the A7 IV is better suited to extended shooting sessions, and maybe a more convenient choice for photographers who don’t want to worry about constantly changing batteries.

Which would you buy for durability: Canon EOS R5 – ✅

In terms of durability, both the R5 and A7 IV are built to withstand a range of shooting conditions.

Both cameras are constructed from magnesium alloy and are weather-sealed, which makes them resistant to dust, moisture, and other environmental factors.

Both cameras also have a durable shutter that is rated for hundreds of thousands of actuations, which means that they should be able to withstand heavy use for many years.

What the Canon R5 and A7 IV do have is the shutter mechanism that shuts down in front of the sensor when turned off, helping keep out the dust and microbes.

Canon EOS R5 vs Sony A7 IV? The Verdict

In conclusion, the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV are both excellent full-frame mirrorless cameras that are known for their excellent image quality and performance that any photographer or video creator can get a lot out of these cameras.

For what reason would I choose the Canon EOS R5?

• High-resolution sensor: The EOS R5 features a 45-megapixel CMOS sensor, which is one of the highest resolutions available in a full-frame camera. This can be especially useful for photographers who need to capture large amounts of detail, or who want to make large prints or aggressively crop their images.
• Fast burst shooting: The EOS R5 has a fast burst shooting speed of up to 20 frames per second, which can be useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or for shooting sports and action. It also has an advanced autofocus system with a large number of focus points, which can help to ensure that images are sharp and in focus.
• Excellent image quality: The EOS R5 produces high-quality images with excellent dynamic range, colour accuracy, and low noise. It also has a wide range of video capabilities, including 8K video recording, which can be useful for videographers.
• Build quality and weather sealing: The EOS R5 is built with a durable magnesium alloy body and is weather sealed, which can be useful for photographers who need a camera that can withstand challenging conditions.

For what reason would I choose the Sony A7 IV?

• High-resolution sensor: The A7 IV features a 33-megapixel CMOS sensor, which is one of the highest resolutions available in a full-frame camera. This can be especially useful for photographers who need to capture large amounts of detail, or who want to make large prints or aggressively crop their images.
• Fast burst shooting: The A7 IV has a fast burst shooting speed of up to 10 frames per second, which can be useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or for shooting sports and action. It also has an advanced autofocus system with a large number of focus points, which can help to ensure that images are sharp and in focus.
• Excellent image quality: The A7 IV produces high-quality images with excellent dynamic range, colour accuracy, and low noise. It also has a wide range of video capabilities, including 4K video recording, which can be useful for videographers.
• Compact and lightweight: The A7 IV is one of the smaller and lighter full-frame cameras on the market, making it a good choice for photographers who need a portable camera that they can take with them on the go.

Conclusion

After comparing these two cameras in depth, it’s clear that both the EOS R5 and A7 IV have their own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

One factor that hasn’t been mentioned yet is the price. The Canon EOS R5 is the clear winner in terms of specs but actually is about £1000 more expensive.

Being dearer in value you would expect it to be a better camera and actually, it’s such a good camera we believe it is worth the extra investment.

Whatever you decide both the Canon EOS R5 and Sony Alpha A7 IV are excellent mirrorless cameras that offer a range of advanced features and impressive performance.

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 or the Sony A7 III vs Sony A7 IV.

Sony A7 IV vs Canon R5 FAQ