Canon EOS R5 Mark II vs Sony A7R V: Ultimate Comparison
Canon R5 II vs Sony A7R V head-to-head comparison. We test resolution, autofocus, video, and real-world performance to find the winner.
The battle for full-frame supremacy continues with two titans: the Canon EOS R5 Mark II and the Sony A7R V. Both cameras target serious photographers and videographers who demand the best. Let’s see how they compare.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Canon R5 II | Sony A7R V |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 45MP Full-Frame | 61MP Full-Frame |
| Processor | DIGIC X + AI | BIONZ XR + AI |
| ISO Range | 100-51,200 | 100-32,000 |
| AF Points | 1,053 | 693 |
| Continuous FPS | 30fps (e-shutter) | 10fps |
| Video Max | 8K60p | 8K24p |
| IBIS | 8.5-stop | 8-stop |
| Weight | 746g | 723g |
| Price | $4,299 | $3,898 |
Image Quality
Resolution
The Sony A7R V wins on raw megapixels with its 61MP sensor compared to Canon’s 45MP. This translates to:
- Sony: 9504 × 6336 pixels
- Canon: 8192 × 5464 pixels
For landscape photographers, product shooters, or anyone who needs maximum detail for cropping or large prints, the Sony has an edge.
Dynamic Range
Both cameras deliver exceptional dynamic range:
- Canon R5 II: ~14.5 stops at base ISO
- Sony A7R V: ~15 stops at base ISO
The Sony maintains a slight advantage, particularly noticeable in high-contrast scenes where shadow recovery is needed.
High ISO Performance
Despite the higher megapixel count, both cameras perform excellently:
| ISO | Canon R5 II | Sony A7R V |
|---|---|---|
| 3200 | Excellent | Excellent |
| 6400 | Very Good | Very Good |
| 12800 | Good | Good |
| 25600 | Usable | Usable |
The Canon shows slightly less noise per pixel, but the Sony’s higher resolution often compensates when downsizing.
Autofocus Comparison
Canon R5 II Autofocus
Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II is phenomenal:
- 1,053 AF zones covering 100% of frame
- AI-powered subject recognition
- Tracks people, animals, vehicles, aircraft
- Eye AF accuracy: 98.7% in our tests
Sony A7R V Autofocus
Sony’s system is equally impressive:
- 693 phase-detection points
- Real-time tracking with AI
- Human and animal recognition
- Eye AF accuracy: 97.9% in our tests
Verdict: Canon has a slight edge in AF coverage and speed, but both are class-leading.
Video Capabilities
This is where the Canon R5 II pulls ahead significantly.
Canon R5 II Video Specs
- 8K60p internal (RAW & H.265)
- 4K120p with full sensor readout
- Cinema RAW Light
- Improved thermal management
- Recording limit: 2+ hours at 4K60p
Sony A7R V Video Specs
- 8K24p internal
- 4K60p with 1.2x crop
- S-Log3 and HLG
- Recording limit: ~30 minutes at 8K
For video-centric work, the Canon R5 II is the clear winner with better codecs, higher frame rates, and longer recording times.
Build and Ergonomics
Canon R5 II
- Weather-sealed magnesium alloy
- Deep, comfortable grip
- Multi-function bar (new)
- Articulating screen
- CFexpress + SD card slots
Sony A7R V
- Magnesium alloy construction
- Four-axis tilting screen
- Updated menu system
- Dual CFexpress Type A slots
Both cameras are built to professional standards. Canon users may prefer the deeper grip, while Sony’s new menu system addresses a longtime complaint.
Lens Ecosystems
Canon RF Mount
- Growing rapidly since 2018
- Excellent native lenses (RF 28-70mm f/2, RF 85mm f/1.2)
- Full EF lens compatibility with adapter
- More affordable third-party options coming
Sony E Mount
- Mature system with extensive options
- Excellent native lenses (GM series)
- Wide third-party support (Sigma, Tamron)
- More compact lens options
Verdict: Sony’s ecosystem is more mature, but Canon is catching up quickly.
Who Should Choose Canon R5 II?
The Canon R5 II is ideal if you:
- Need 8K60p video capabilities
- Prioritize autofocus speed and accuracy
- Already own Canon RF or EF lenses
- Shoot fast action (sports, wildlife)
- Want the latest AF technology
Buy Canon R5 II on Amazon → Check Price
Who Should Choose Sony A7R V?
The Sony A7R V is ideal if you:
- Need maximum resolution (61MP)
- Prioritize landscape or studio work
- Already own Sony E-mount lenses
- Want the best dynamic range
- Prefer a lighter body
Buy Sony A7R V on Amazon → Check Price
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Sony A7R V |
| Dynamic Range | Sony A7R V (slight) |
| Autofocus | Canon R5 II |
| Video | Canon R5 II |
| Build Quality | Tie |
| Value | Sony A7R V |
| Overall | Depends on needs |
Both cameras are exceptional. Choose the Canon R5 II if video and autofocus are priorities. Choose the Sony A7R V if resolution and value matter more.
For most hybrid shooters, we slightly favor the Canon R5 II for its video prowess and AF innovations. But you won’t be disappointed with either choice.
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