CameraReview

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7R II — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS R
Canon
Canon EOS R
Mirrorless · 30.3 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
80
SCORE
$1,799
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Best Price →
Sony a7R II
Sony
Sony a7R II
Mirrorless · 42.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
70
SCORE
$1,013.44
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS Ra7R II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
05/09/201810/06/2015
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 136 x 98 x 84 mm127 x 96 x 60 mm
Camera weight 485 g625 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
30.3 MP05042.4 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6720 x 44807952 x 5304
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 35.9
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.
8 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 RFSony FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Bionz 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.
400003003280000256003003280000
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.
565503003990300
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 369000009900000235929609900000
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.
3840 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.
30 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.
MP4XAVCS, AVCHD, 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 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.
2100000115000150000012288001150001500000
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, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NNP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
370 shots1505000290 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R takes the lead with a score of 74/100, compared to the Sony a7R II‘s 70/100. Both cameras share the mirrorless camera type, and their announcement dates were in 2018 and 2015, respectively.

The Canon EOS R excels with its lighter weight of 485g and a more affordable launch price of $2300. On the other hand, the Sony a7R II has a more compact size, measuring 127 x 96 x 60mm. However, it comes with a higher launch price of $3198 and weighs 625g.

Taking into account their scores, specifications, and prices, the Canon EOS R emerges as the better option due to its lighter weight and more competitive price. The Sony a7R II’s advantage lies in its compact size, but its higher price and lower score make it a less favorable choice.

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7R II Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R II outperforms the Canon EOS R in optics, scoring 81/100 compared to the Canon’s 73/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and compatibility with their respective lens mounts, Canon RF for the EOS R and Sony FE for the a7R II.

The Sony a7R II boasts a higher megapixel count at 42.4, compared to the Canon EOS R’s 30.3. This difference allows the Sony camera to capture more detail in images. Additionally, the a7R II has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 98, compared to the EOS R’s 89. This score reflects the camera’s ability to produce better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. The Sony a7R II also has an advantage in image stabilization, a feature not present in the Canon EOS R. This helps to reduce camera shake and improve image sharpness.

The Canon EOS R, on the other hand, has a faster shooting speed of 8 frames per second (fps), compared to the Sony a7R II’s 5 fps. This makes the Canon camera more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife photography.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R II stands out as the better choice for photographers seeking higher image quality, better low-light performance, and image stabilization. The Canon EOS R, while not as strong in these areas, may be more appealing to those who prioritize faster shooting speeds.

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7R II Video Performance

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Sony a7R II in video capabilities, with a score of 70/100 compared to the Sony’s 56/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160, as well as a maximum frame rate of 30fps. However, there are key differences that set these cameras apart.

The Canon EOS R has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which gives it an advantage over the Sony a7R II. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional accessories or software. This convenience and ease of use make the Canon EOS R a more attractive option for those who frequently shoot time-lapse videos.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R II does not have built-in time-lapse functionality. This may not be a deal-breaker for some users, but it is worth considering when comparing the two cameras. The lack of this feature means that those who want to create time-lapse videos with the Sony a7R II will need to invest in additional equipment or software, which can be a disadvantage.

When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS R and the Sony a7R II, it is clear that the Canon comes out on top. The built-in time-lapse functionality gives it an edge over the Sony, making it a more versatile and user-friendly camera for video creators. While both cameras offer impressive video quality with 4K resolution and 30fps, the Canon EOS R’s additional features make it the better choice for those looking to maximize their video capabilities.

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7R II Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Sony a7R II in terms of features, with a score of 87/100 compared to the Sony’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as flip screens, no GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the Canon EOS R offers a better overall package, making it the winner in this comparison.

The Canon EOS R has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the Sony a7R II’s 3 inches. Additionally, the EOS R boasts a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, while the a7R II has only 1,228,800 dots. This difference results in a sharper and more detailed display on the EOS R. The Canon camera also includes a touchscreen, providing a more intuitive user experience than the a7R II, which lacks this feature. Furthermore, the EOS R has Bluetooth connectivity, enabling easier remote control and file transfer.

In contrast, the Sony a7R II has fewer advantages over the Canon EOS R. It shares the flip screen and WIFI connectivity features with the EOS R, but does not offer any additional benefits. The absence of a touchscreen and Bluetooth connection puts the a7R II at a disadvantage when compared to its Canon counterpart.

Taking all these factors into account, the Canon EOS R emerges as the superior camera in terms of features. With a larger and higher resolution screen, touchscreen capabilities, and Bluetooth connectivity, it offers a more convenient and user-friendly experience. The Sony a7R II, although sharing some features with the EOS R, falls short in providing a competitive edge.

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7R II Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Sony a7R II in storage and battery with a score of 35/100, while the Sony a7R II scores 16/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. However, the Canon EOS R supports faster UHS-II cards, and the Sony a7R II also accepts Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.

The Canon EOS R has a longer battery life of 370 shots, compared to the Sony a7R II’s 290 shots. The Canon EOS R uses an LP-E6N battery, while the Sony a7R II uses an NP-FW50 battery. Additionally, the Canon EOS R features USB charging, which the Sony a7R II lacks.

Despite its lower score, the Sony a7R II offers compatibility with Sony’s proprietary Memory Stick format. However, the Canon EOS R’s longer battery life, faster UHS-II card compatibility, and USB charging make it the better option for storage and battery performance.

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7R II – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7R II 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 R or the Sony a7R II: