CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R IV — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
DSLR · 30.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
75
SCORE
$1,399.99
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✓ WINNER
Sony a7R IV
Sony
Sony a7R IV
Mirrorless · 61.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
84
SCORE
$2,481.26
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General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS 5D Mark IVa7R IV
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162019
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
25/08/201616/07/2019
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 151 x 116 x 76 mm129 x 96 x 78 mm
Camera weight 890 g665 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
30.4 MP05061.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6720 x 44809504 x 6336
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 3623.8 x 35.7
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.
7 fps04510 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 EFSony FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 6+Bionz 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.
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.
10240030032800001024003003280000
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.
6103004250300
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.
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 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, MP4XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4
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.
1620000115000150000014400001150001500000
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-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NNP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
900 shots1505000670 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, scoring 84/100 compared to Canon’s 75/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as their $3500 launch price and being released in the mid-2010s. However, the Sony a7R IV has the advantage of being a mirrorless camera, which contributes to its smaller size (129 x 96 x 78mm) and lighter weight (665g) compared to the Canon’s DSLR build (151 x 116 x 76mm and 890g).

The Sony a7R IV’s higher score reflects its superior performance in terms of size and weight, making it more convenient for photographers. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV’s DSLR system may be preferable for those who enjoy the traditional feel and handling of such cameras. Ultimately, the Sony a7R IV stands out as the better choice for most users due to its compact design and higher score.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R IV Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in optics with a score of 85/100 compared to the Canon’s 76/100. Both cameras share common specifications such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and compatible lens mounts – Sony FE for the a7R IV and Canon EF for the 5D Mark IV.

The Sony a7R IV excels in several key areas. With 61.2 megapixels, it captures more detail than the Canon’s 30.4 megapixels. Additionally, the Sony has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second (fps) compared to the Canon’s 7 fps. The a7R IV also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 99, which is 8 points higher than the 5D Mark IV’s score of 91. Most importantly, the Sony a7R IV includes image stabilization, a feature that the Canon 5D Mark IV lacks.

On the other hand, the Canon 5D Mark IV has the advantage of a more extensive range of compatible lenses due to the well-established Canon EF lens mount. This gives photographers more flexibility and options when choosing lenses for their Canon camera.

In comparing the optics of both cameras, the Sony a7R IV takes the lead with its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, better DXOMARK sensor score, and the inclusion of image stabilization. While the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV offers a wider selection of lenses, it falls short in other key optical aspects. The Sony a7R IV emerges as the superior option for those seeking top-notch optical performance.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R IV Video Performance

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV emerges as the winner in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the Sony a7R IV’s score of 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Canon 5D Mark IV outperforms the Sony a7R IV in several aspects, while the Sony a7R IV has its own advantages as well.

The Canon 5D Mark IV has a higher maximum video dimension of 4096 x 2160, compared to the Sony a7R IV’s 3840 x 2160. This difference allows the Canon 5D Mark IV to produce videos with greater detail and clarity. Additionally, the Canon 5D Mark IV boasts a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, significantly higher than the Sony a7R IV’s 30fps. This enables the Canon 5D Mark IV to capture smoother slow-motion videos, providing more flexibility for videographers.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R IV has some advantages despite its lower video score. While it may not excel in video dimensions or frame rate, it still produces high-quality 4K videos suitable for most videography needs. Furthermore, its built-in time-lapse functionality matches that of the Canon 5D Mark IV, allowing both cameras to create stunning time-lapse sequences.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV proves to be the superior camera in terms of video capabilities. Its higher video dimensions and frame rate allow for greater detail and smoothness in videos, making it an ideal choice for professional videographers. However, the Sony a7R IV remains a reliable option for those seeking high-quality 4K video and time-lapse features in a camera.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R IV Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with a feature score of 83/100 compared to 74/100. Both cameras share a few specifications, such as a touchscreen, WIFI capabilities, and similar screen sizes – 3 inches for the Sony a7R IV and 3.2 inches for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. However, the Sony a7R IV excels in certain areas, making it the superior camera in this comparison.

The Sony a7R IV has a flip screen and Bluetooth connectivity, which the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV lacks. These features provide added convenience and flexibility for photographers, allowing for easier composition and seamless transfer of images. Despite having a slightly smaller screen, the Sony a7R IV still has a high screen resolution of 1440000 dots, only slightly lower than the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV’s 1620000 dots.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV does have some advantages over the Sony a7R IV, such as GPS functionality. This feature enables photographers to geotag their images, which can be useful for tracking locations and organizing photos. However, this advantage does not outweigh the benefits of the Sony a7R IV’s additional features.

Based on this comparison, the Sony a7R IV emerges as the better camera due to its higher feature score and additional features like the flip screen and Bluetooth connectivity. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV does offer GPS functionality, but it falls short in other areas, making the Sony a7R IV the more appealing option for photographers seeking a versatile and feature-rich camera.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R IV Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R IV takes the lead with a storage and battery score of 79/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV trails behind with a score of 71/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots; however, the Sony a7R IV accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with UHS-II compatibility, while the Canon 5D Mark IV accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with UHS-I compatibility and Compact Flash cards.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a longer battery life of 900 shots compared to the Sony a7R IV’s 670 shots. Despite this advantage, the Sony a7R IV offers USB charging, which the Canon 5D Mark IV lacks. This feature allows for more convenient charging options for the Sony a7R IV.

In terms of storage and battery, the Sony a7R IV emerges as the superior camera due to its UHS-II compatibility and USB charging feature. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a slightly better battery life, but its lack of USB charging makes it less versatile in comparison.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R IV – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R IV 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 Sony a7R IV: