CameraReview

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs Canon EOS 5DS R — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
Canon
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
DSLR · 20.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
73
SCORE
$230.80
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Canon EOS 5DS R
Canon
Canon EOS 5DS R
DSLR · 50.6 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
68
SCORE
$1,022.07
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General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS 1D X Mark IIEOS 5DS R
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
02/02/201606/02/2015
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 158 x 168 x 83 mm152 x 116 x 76 mm
Camera weight 1530 g930 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.2 MP05050.6 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5472 x 36488688 x 5792
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.
24 x 3624 x 36
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull 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.
16 fps0455 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 EFCanon EF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Dual Digic 6+Dual Digic 6
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.
51200300328000064003003280000
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.
50302005030200
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.
4096003003280000128003003280000
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.
610300610300
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)Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
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.
4KFull HD
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.
4096 x 21601920 x 1080
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.
60 fps30 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.
MOV, MP4MOV
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 LCDTFT LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3.2"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1620000115000150000010400001150001500000
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 Compact Flash, CFast 2.0SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Compact Flash
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E19LP-E6
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1210 shots1505000700 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS R with a score of 73/100 compared to 68/100. Both cameras are DSLRs released by Canon, with the 1D X Mark II launching in 2016 and the 5DS R in 2015. They share some common specifications, such as camera type and manufacturer.

The 1D X Mark II excels with its larger size (158 x 168 x 83mm) and heavier weight (1530g / 3.37lbs), which provide better stability and durability. However, the 5DS R has its advantages as well, mainly in its lower launch price of $3900 compared to the 1D X Mark II’s $6000, and its lighter weight (930g / 2.05lbs), making it more portable and easier to handle.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II’s higher score reflects its overall superiority, while the Canon EOS 5DS R offers a more budget-friendly and lightweight option for photographers.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs EOS 5DS R Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5DS R wins in the optics comparison with a score of 73/100, while the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II scores 72/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, Canon EF lens mount, and no image stabilization.

The 5DS R’s advantage lies in its higher megapixel count of 50.6 compared to the 1D X Mark II’s 20.2 megapixels. This allows the 5DS R to capture more detail and offer higher resolution images, which is beneficial for large prints and cropping. However, the 1D X Mark II has a faster shooting speed of 16 frames per second, compared to the 5DS R’s 5 frames per second. This makes the 1D X Mark II better suited for action photography and capturing fast-moving subjects.

The 1D X Mark II also has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, scoring 88 compared to the 5DS R’s 86. This means the 1D X Mark II’s sensor performs slightly better in terms of overall image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance. Additionally, the 1D X Mark II features a more advanced processor, the Dual Digic 6+, which contributes to its faster performance.

Despite the 5DS R’s higher score, both cameras excel in different areas. The 5DS R is better for high-resolution photography, while the 1D X Mark II is more suitable for action and fast-paced shooting situations. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs EOS 5DS R Video Performance

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS R in video capabilities, scoring 69/100 compared to the 5DS R’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the ability to record video and having built-in microphone and headphone ports.

The 1D X Mark II’s higher score is due to its superior video resolution and frame rate. It can record 4K video at a maximum resolution of 4096 x 2160, while the 5DS R only reaches Full HD with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. The 1D X Mark II also has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, double the 5DS R’s 30fps. These features allow the 1D X Mark II to capture more detailed and smoother footage.

On the other hand, the 5DS R has a notable advantage with its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the 1D X Mark II lacks. This feature enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities. Its 4K resolution and 60fps frame rate provide superior video quality compared to the 5DS R. However, the 5DS R’s time-lapse functionality may appeal to those who prioritize this feature in their video projects.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs EOS 5DS R Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS R with a feature score of 74/100 compared to the latter’s 59/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size, and lack of WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities.

The 1D X Mark II boasts a higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots, as opposed to the 5DS R’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference provides the 1D X Mark II with a clearer and sharper display. Additionally, the 1D X Mark II has a touchscreen, while the 5DS R does not. The touchscreen allows for easier navigation and quicker adjustments to settings. Furthermore, the 1D X Mark II features GPS functionality, enabling users to geotag their photos, a feature absent in the 5DS R.

On the other hand, the 5DS R lacks any clear advantages over the 1D X Mark II in the features department. Both cameras have the same screen size and neither has WIFI or Bluetooth capabilities. The 5DS R’s lower screen resolution and absence of a touchscreen and GPS make it less competitive in this comparison.

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II’s higher feature score, superior screen resolution, touchscreen, and GPS functionality make it the better choice between the two cameras. The Canon EOS 5DS R, while sharing some specifications with the 1D X Mark II, does not offer any advantages in terms of features.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs EOS 5DS R Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS R in storage and battery with a score of 79/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots, with the 1D X Mark II accepting Compact Flash and CFast 2.0 cards, while the 5DS R takes SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible) and Compact Flash cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The 1D X Mark II excels with its battery life, providing 1210 shots per charge using the LP-E19 battery. In contrast, the 5DS R delivers 700 shots per charge with its LP-E6 battery. This significant difference in battery life makes the 1D X Mark II more reliable for extended shooting sessions.

The 5DS R has no clear advantages in storage and battery performance, as it shares similar memory card capabilities but falls short in battery life. In this comparison, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II proves to be the superior choice for photographers seeking better storage and battery performance.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs EOS 5DS R – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs EOS 5DS R 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 1D X Mark II or the Canon EOS 5DS R: