CameraReview

Canon EOS 90D vs Canon EOS R3 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS 90D
Canon
Canon EOS 90D
DSLR · 33 MP · APS-C · 4K video
67
SCORE
$929.75
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✓ WINNER
Canon EOS R3
Canon
Canon EOS R3
Mirrorless · 24 MP · Full Frame · 6K video
84
SCORE
$4,399
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General
Brand CanonCanon
Model 90DEOS R3
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192021
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
28/10/201914/09/2021
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 141 x 105 x 77 mm150 x 143 x 87 mm
Camera weight 701 g1015 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
33 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6960 x 46406012 x 4016
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
22.3 x 14.924 x 36
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
10 fps04530 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EF/EF-SCanon RF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Digic X
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
2560030032800001024003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1003020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
5120030032800002048003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000800080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
45030010530300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Electronic
Viewfinder dots N/A576000009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K6K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
3840 x 21606000 x 3164
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
120 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4, H.264MPEG-4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000041500001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC, CFexpress Type B (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NLP-E19
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1300 shots1505000760 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Canon EOS 90D with a score of 84/100 compared to 67/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as being released by Canon in recent years, with the 90D in 2019 and the R3 in 2021. However, the EOS R3 is a mirrorless camera while the 90D is a DSLR.

The R3’s higher score shows its superior quality, with a launch price of $5999 reflecting its advanced features. Its larger size (150 x 143 x 87mm) and heavier weight (1015g) also indicate a more robust build. On the other hand, the 90D is more affordable at $1199 and lighter at 701g, making it a better option for budget-conscious and casual photographers.

Taking these factors into account, the EOS R3 is the better choice for professionals seeking cutting-edge technology, while the EOS 90D is a solid option for those prioritizing cost and portability.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS R3 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Canon EOS 90D in optics, scoring 84/100 compared to the 90D’s 62/100. Both cameras feature a CMOS sensor, with the R3 having a full-frame sensor and the 90D using an APS-C sensor. They also share the same lens mount compatibility, with the R3 using Canon RF lenses and the 90D compatible with Canon EF/EF-S lenses.

The R3’s higher score is due to several superior specifications. It has a faster shooting speed of 30 frames per second (fps) compared to the 90D’s 10 fps, making it more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the R3 has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 96, compared to the 90D’s score of 58, indicating better overall image quality. Furthermore, the R3 features image stabilization, which the 90D lacks, providing sharper images in various shooting conditions.

On the other hand, the 90D has some advantages over the R3. It has a higher megapixel count of 33, compared to the R3’s 24 megapixels, offering more detailed images and greater flexibility in cropping and printing. However, the R3’s lower megapixel count contributes to its faster shooting speed and potentially better low-light performance.

Considering the aforementioned points, the Canon EOS R3 emerges as the superior camera in terms of optics. Its faster shooting speed, higher sensor score, and image stabilization make it a better choice for photographers seeking optimal image quality and performance. The Canon EOS 90D, with its higher megapixel count, may still be a viable option for those prioritizing high-resolution images, but its overall optics performance falls short compared to the R3.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS R3 Video Performance

The Canon EOS R3 wins the video capability comparison with a score of 96/100, while the Canon EOS 90D scores 91/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 120fps and built-in time-lapse functionality.

The EOS R3 surpasses the 90D with its 6K maximum video resolution and larger video dimensions of 6000 x 3164. This higher resolution allows for more detailed and sharper video footage, making it a superior choice for professional videographers and content creators who require top-notch video quality.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 90D offers a maximum video resolution of 4K and video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Although lower in resolution compared to the R3, this is still a respectable video quality for many users, particularly those who do not need the additional detail provided by 6K resolution.

In terms of video capabilities, the Canon EOS R3 is the clear winner due to its higher video resolution and larger dimensions. This makes it a better choice for professionals and enthusiasts who demand the best video quality possible. However, the Canon EOS 90D still provides excellent video performance with its 4K resolution, making it a suitable option for those with less demanding video needs or budget constraints.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS R3 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R3 wins in the features category with a score of 87/100, while the Canon EOS 90D scores 83/100. Both cameras have several features in common, such as touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. However, the EOS R3 outperforms the EOS 90D in some areas, while the EOS 90D has its own advantages.

The EOS R3 has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the 3-inch screen of the EOS 90D. Additionally, the EOS R3 boasts a higher screen resolution of 4,150,000 dots, providing clearer and sharper image previews than the EOS 90D’s 1,040,000 dots. The EOS R3 also has GPS functionality, which the EOS 90D lacks. These features make the EOS R3 more versatile and user-friendly, especially for photographers who need precise location information for their work.

On the other hand, the EOS 90D still has its merits. While it may not have GPS functionality, it shares other essential features with the EOS R3, such as touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. These shared features make the EOS 90D a strong contender despite its lower feature score.

Taking these factors into account, the EOS R3 emerges as the superior camera in terms of features due to its larger screen size, higher screen resolution, and GPS functionality. The EOS 90D, however, remains a reliable option for those who may not require the added GPS feature and are content with a slightly smaller screen and lower resolution.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS R3 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS R3 triumphs in the storage and battery category with a score of 81/100, while the Canon EOS 90D scores 48/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards and are UHS-II compatible. The R3 takes the lead with two memory card slots and compatibility with CFexpress Type B cards, offering more storage and versatility. Additionally, the R3 has USB charging, providing convenience on-the-go.

In contrast, the 90D has only one memory card slot and no USB charging. However, the 90D excels in battery life, offering 1300 shots per charge with its LP-E6N battery compared to the R3’s 760 shots using the LP-E19 battery. This extended battery life makes the 90D advantageous for longer shooting sessions.

Considering the storage, battery, and charging capabilities, the R3 is the superior choice for those seeking more storage options and charging convenience. The 90D, on the other hand, is a better fit for photographers who prioritize extended battery life.

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS R3 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 90D vs EOS R3 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 90D or the Canon EOS R3: