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Canon EOS R vs Sony a7S II Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS R

Canon EOS ARE Camera image
Winner!
74%

Sony a7S II

Sony A7S II mirrorless camera image
60%
Canon EOS R
vs
Sony a7S II
Price
Brand
Canon
Sony
Model
EOS R
a7S II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2018
2015
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
September 05, 2018
September 11, 2015
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Sony a7S II with a score of 74/100 compared to 60/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2018 and 2015, respectively. They share similarities in size, with the Canon EOS R measuring 136 x 98 x 84mm and the Sony a7S II at 127 x 96 x 60mm.

The Canon EOS R excels with a lower launch price of $2300 and a lighter weight of 485g (1.07lbs). On the other hand, the Sony a7S II is more compact in depth and has a higher launch price of $3000, weighing 627g (1.38lbs).

Taking these specifications into account, the Canon EOS R offers better value and portability, while the Sony a7S II provides a more compact design at a higher cost.

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7S II Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Sony a7S II in optics with a score of 73/100 compared to Sony’s 66/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a full-frame CMOS sensor, which contributes to their overall image quality. They also both have their respective lens mounts: the Canon RF for the EOS R and the Sony FE for the a7S II.

The Canon EOS R surpasses the Sony a7S II in several aspects. With 30.3 megapixels, it offers a higher resolution than the Sony’s 12.2 megapixels, enabling the capture of more detailed images. The EOS R also boasts a faster shooting speed of 8 frames per second, compared to the a7S II’s 5 frames per second, which allows for better action photography. Additionally, the EOS R has a superior processor, the Digic 8, and a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 89, which contribute to better overall image quality.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S II has one advantage over the Canon EOS R: built-in image stabilization. This feature can help reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in low-light conditions or when using longer lenses.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R stands out as the better option in terms of optics due to its higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and superior sensor performance. However, the Sony a7S II’s built-in image stabilization may be an important consideration for some photographers. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and shooting requirements, with the Canon EOS R offering superior image quality and the Sony a7S II providing added stability in challenging conditions.

Optics
Optics
73%
66%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
30.3 MP
12.2 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6720 x 4480 px
4240 x 2832 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
CMOS
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 36 mm
23.8 x 35.8 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
8 fps
5 fps
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 RF
Sony FE
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8
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.
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
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.
40,000
102,400
Minimum 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.
50
50
Maximum 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.
102400
409600
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30 s
30 s
Maximum 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.
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
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.
5,655
169
In-body Stabilization
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.
Electronic
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
3,690,000 dots
2,359,296 dots

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7S II Video Performance

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Sony a7S II in video capabilities with a score of 70/100, compared to the Sony’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution, 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions, and a max video frame rate of 30fps. Despite these similarities, the Canon EOS R has some advantages that make it a better choice for video recording.

One significant advantage of the Canon EOS R is its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7S II lacks. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional software or equipment, making the Canon EOS R more versatile and convenient for video creators.

While the Sony a7S II may not offer any significant advantages over the Canon EOS R in terms of video specifications, it still provides decent video performance with its 4K resolution and 30fps frame rate. However, its lower overall score and lack of time-lapse functionality make it a less appealing choice for videographers compared to the Canon EOS R.

Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, the Canon EOS R emerges as the superior option due to its higher score and built-in time-lapse feature. The Sony a7S II, although not as versatile, remains a viable choice for those who prioritize other features and can overlook the absence of time-lapse functionality. Ultimately, the Canon EOS R provides a more comprehensive video experience, making it the better choice for videographers.

Video
Video
70%
56%
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.
4K
4K
Max Video Dimensions
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 2160 px
3840 x 2160 px
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 p
30 p
Time-Lapse 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.
MP4
MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7S II Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Sony a7S II in features, scoring 87/100 compared to the Sony’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a flip screen, no GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the Canon EOS R has additional advantages that contribute to its higher score.

The Canon EOS R boasts a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the Sony’s 3 inches. Additionally, the Canon’s screen resolution is significantly higher at 2,100,000 dots, while the Sony a7S II has a resolution of 1,228,800 dots. This difference results in a clearer and more detailed image display on the Canon EOS R. The Canon also has a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and allowing for easier navigation through settings and options. In terms of connectivity, the Canon EOS R includes Bluetooth, which the Sony a7S II lacks.

The Sony a7S II, despite its lower feature score, has its strengths. Its flip screen is a shared advantage with the Canon EOS R, allowing for versatile shooting angles and easier self-portraits or vlogging. Both cameras also lack GPS, which may not be a significant drawback for some users. The WIFI connectivity present in both models enables easy sharing and transferring of images.

When comparing the features of these two cameras, the Canon EOS R clearly outshines the Sony a7S II with its larger, higher-resolution touchscreen and additional Bluetooth connectivity. While the Sony a7S II shares some of the Canon’s positive aspects, it falls short in offering the same level of convenience and functionality. Therefore, the Canon EOS R is the superior choice when considering features.

Features
Features
87%
57%
Built-in 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
LCD
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"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2,100,000 dots
1,228,800 dots
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
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7S II Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS R triumphs over the Sony a7S II in the storage and battery category with a score of 35/100 compared to the Sony’s 21/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and support SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. They also share the same battery life of 370 shots.

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Sony a7S II by offering compatibility with faster UHS-II memory cards and the convenience of USB charging. Its battery, the LP-E6N, is a reliable and widely-used option among photographers.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S II accepts Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards, providing additional memory card options. However, it lacks USB charging, and its NP-FW50 battery is less popular among photographers.

In the end, the Canon EOS R proves to be a better choice for storage and battery performance due to its faster memory card compatibility and USB charging capabilities, while the Sony a7S II offers more memory card options but falls short in other aspects.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
35%
21%
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-E6N
NP-FW50
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
370 shots
370 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
89%
85%
Portrait (Color Depth)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.'
24.5 bits
23.6 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.'
13.5 EVs
13.3 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better'
2742
2993
Scores
Main Features
80%
N/A
Extra Features
80%
N/A
Construction and Durability
87%
N/A
Handling and Ergonomics
73%
N/A
Value for Money
80%
N/A
Total Score
80%
N/A

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7S II – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R vs Sony a7S II Comparison image.

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