CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Canon EOS R50 — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
DSLR · 30.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
75
SCORE
$1,399.99
best of 7 retailers
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Canon EOS R50
Canon
Canon EOS R50
Mirrorless · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
70
SCORE
$678.99
best of 2 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS 5D Mark IVEOS R8
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162023
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
25/08/201608/02/2023
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 151 x 116 x 76 mm116 x 86 x 69 mm
Camera weight 890 g375 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
30.4 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6720 x 44806000 x 4000
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 3622.3 x 14.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
7 fps04512 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 RF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 6+Digic 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.
320003003280000320003003280000
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.
503020010030200
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.
1024003003280000512003003280000
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.
800080032000400080032000
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.
6103006510300
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/A236000009900000
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.
4K4K
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 21603840 x 2160
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.
MOV, MP4MP4, H.264, H.265
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 TFT 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 3.2"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1620000115000150000016200001150001500000
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-I compatible), Compact FlashSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I and II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NLP-E17
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
900 shots1505000370 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS R50 with a score of 75/100 compared to 70/100. Both cameras share some common specs, such as being released by Canon and having similar announcement dates, with the 5D Mark IV in 2016 and the R50 in 2023.

The 5D Mark IV excels as a DSLR with a larger size of 151 x 116 x 76mm and a heavier weight of 890g, making it a more robust and professional choice. On the other hand, the EOS R50 shines as a mirrorless camera with its compact size of 116 x 86 x 69mm and lighter weight of 375g, making it more portable and affordable with a launch price of just $679 compared to the 5D Mark IV’s $3500.

While the 5D Mark IV offers superior performance, the R50 provides an excellent alternative for those seeking a lightweight and budget-friendly option. Each camera serves its purpose well, catering to different photography needs and preferences.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs EOS R50 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS R50 in optics with a score of 76/100 compared to the R50’s 73/100. Both cameras share several features, including a CMOS sensor, no image stabilization, and a similar processor: the 5D Mark IV has a Digic 6+ processor, while the R50 has a Digic X processor.

The 5D Mark IV’s superiority in optics can be attributed to its higher megapixel count of 30.4, compared to the R50’s 24 megapixels. This difference allows for more detailed and higher resolution images. Additionally, the 5D Mark IV has a full-frame sensor, while the R50 has an APS-C sensor. A full-frame sensor generally provides better image quality and low-light performance. The 5D Mark IV also uses a Canon EF lens mount, which offers a wide range of compatible lenses.

On the other hand, the R50 has some advantages over the 5D Mark IV. It boasts a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, compared to the 5D Mark IV’s 7 frames per second. This makes the R50 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. Furthermore, the R50 has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, scoring 94 points compared to the 5D Mark IV’s 91 points. The R50 also utilizes the Canon RF lens mount, which is designed for mirrorless cameras and offers a new range of high-quality lenses.

While both cameras have their strengths, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV takes the lead in optics due to its higher megapixel count, full-frame sensor, and versatile lens mount. The Canon EOS R50, however, is a strong contender in speed and sensor quality, making it a suitable choice for specific photography needs.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs EOS R50 Video Performance

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and the Canon EOS R50 both have a video score of 91/100, indicating that these cameras perform equally well in terms of video capabilities. They share common features such as a maximum video resolution of 4K and built-in time-lapse functionality. Additionally, both cameras can record videos at a maximum frame rate of 120fps, ensuring smooth and high-quality motion capture.

Despite having the same video score, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a slight advantage in terms of maximum video dimensions, boasting 4096 x 2160 pixels compared to the Canon EOS R50’s 3840 x 2160 pixels. This difference allows the 5D Mark IV to capture slightly more detailed and higher resolution videos, providing a marginal edge over the R50.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R50 does not have any distinct advantages over the 5D Mark IV in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras exhibit similar performance, and their shared features make them equally suitable for capturing high-quality videos.

In comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and the Canon EOS R50, it is evident that both cameras perform exceptionally well. While the 5D Mark IV has a minor advantage in terms of maximum video dimensions, this difference is not significant enough to declare it as the clear winner. Ultimately, both cameras are excellent choices for those seeking a camera with impressive video capabilities.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs EOS R50 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV wins in the feature comparison with a score of 74/100, while the Canon EOS R50 scores 72/100. Despite the close scores, there are notable differences that set these two cameras apart.

Both cameras have a touchscreen with a screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots. They also have WIFI capabilities, making it easy to transfer photos and control the camera remotely. However, the 5D Mark IV has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the R50’s 3 inches, providing a bigger display for framing and reviewing shots.

The 5D Mark IV is superior in terms of its GPS feature, which the R50 lacks. This allows photographers to geotag their images, making it convenient to track and organize photos by location. On the other hand, the R50 has a flip screen, which the 5D Mark IV does not. This feature is beneficial for capturing shots at difficult angles or when taking selfies.

Additionally, the R50 has Bluetooth connectivity, while the 5D Mark IV does not. This provides an extra option for transferring and sharing images and allows for seamless connection with compatible devices.

Despite the 5D Mark IV’s slightly higher score, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s priorities. The 5D Mark IV is more suitable for photographers who require GPS tagging and a larger screen size. In contrast, the R50 is a better option for those who value a flip screen and Bluetooth connectivity. Both cameras offer unique features, and users must consider their specific needs when making their decision.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs EOS R50 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Canon EOS R50 in storage and battery, scoring 71/100 compared to the R50’s 35/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the 5D Mark IV has two memory card slots and is compatible with UHS-I cards and Compact Flash, while the R50 has one slot and supports both UHS-I and II cards.

The 5D Mark IV’s battery life is significantly longer at 900 shots, using the LP-E6N battery type. On the other hand, the R50’s battery life is limited to 370 shots with the LP-E17 battery type. However, the R50 has the advantage of USB charging, which the 5D Mark IV lacks.

Given these specifications, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the clear winner in storage and battery capacity, providing users with more versatility and longer shooting sessions. Despite the USB charging capability of the R50, its limited battery life and single memory card slot make it less competitive in this aspect.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs EOS R50 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs EOS R50 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 5D Mark IV or the Canon EOS R50: