CameraReview

Canon EOS R5 vs Canon EOS R8 — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS R5
Canon
Canon EOS R5
Mirrorless · 45 MP · Full Frame · 8K video
94
SCORE
$2,599
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Canon EOS R8
Canon
Canon EOS R8
Mirrorless · 24 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
76
SCORE
$1,399
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS R5EOS R8
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202023
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
30/07/202008/02/2023
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 138 x 98 x 88 mm133 x 86 x 70 mm
Camera weight 680 g461 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
45 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
8192 x 54646000 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.
23.9 x 35.936 x 24
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.
20 fps04540 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 RFCanon RF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic XDigic 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.
5120030032800001024003003280000
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.
100302005030200
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.
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.
1053030010530300
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 576000009900000236000009900000
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.
8K4K
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.
8192 x 43203840 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 fps180 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.
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 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.
2100000115000150000016200001150001500000
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), CFexpressSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I and II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NHLP-E17
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
320 shots1505000370 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Canon EOS R8 with a score of 86/100 compared to 76/100. Both cameras share some similarities, being mirrorless and released within a few years of each other. However, the EOS R5, released in 2020, boasts a higher launch price of $4499, while the EOS R8, released in 2023, is more affordable at $1499.

The EOS R5’s higher score reflects its superior performance. It has a larger size, measuring 138 x 98 x 88mm, and a heavier weight of 680g (1.50lbs). This suggests a more robust build and potentially better features.

On the other hand, the EOS R8’s smaller size (133 x 86 x 70mm) and lighter weight (461g / 1.02lbs) make it more portable and convenient for on-the-go photography. Its lower price also makes it more accessible to a wider range of users.

Taking all these factors into account, the Canon EOS R5 is the better camera in terms of performance, while the EOS R8 offers a more budget-friendly and portable option.

Canon EOS R5 vs EOS R8 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Canon EOS R8 in optics with a score of 88/100, an 11-point difference from the R8’s 77/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, a Digic X processor, a full-frame sensor size, and a Canon RF lens mount. Despite these similarities, the R5 takes the lead in certain aspects, while the R8 excels in others.

The R5 boasts a higher megapixel count of 45 compared to the R8’s 24, allowing for more detailed and sharper images. Furthermore, the R5’s DXOMARK score for the sensor is 95, slightly higher than the R8’s 94, indicating better overall image quality. A significant advantage the R5 has over the R8 is its built-in image stabilization, which helps in reducing camera shake and capturing sharper images in low light conditions or with slower shutter speeds.

On the other hand, the R8 surpasses the R5 in shooting speed, offering a remarkable 40 frames per second compared to the R5’s 20. This makes the R8 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography. However, the R8 lacks image stabilization, which may limit its performance in certain situations.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R5 emerges as the winner in optics, providing better image quality, higher resolution, and image stabilization. The Canon EOS R8, while offering an impressive shooting speed, falls short in other aspects, making it a less versatile choice for photographers seeking exceptional optics performance.

Canon EOS R5 vs EOS R8 Video Performance

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Canon EOS R8 in video capabilities with a score of 100/100, compared to the R8’s score of 91/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as built-in time-lapse functionality, which is useful for creating stunning time-lapse videos.

The EOS R5 is superior in video quality, offering a maximum video resolution of 8K (8192 x 4320), while the EOS R8’s maximum resolution is 4K (3840 x 2160). This higher resolution allows for more detailed and sharp footage, making the R5 a better choice for professional videographers and filmmakers.

In addition to its higher resolution, the R5 also has a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and creating smooth slow-motion footage. However, the R8 has a faster maximum frame rate of 180fps, which can be advantageous for specific slow-motion applications or capturing extremely fast action.

Despite the R8’s higher frame rate, the R5’s superior video resolution and overall score make it the better choice for most videography needs. The R5 delivers higher quality footage, which can be essential for professional projects and high-resolution displays.

On the other hand, the R8 may be more suitable for those who prioritize a higher frame rate for specific applications, such as extreme sports or wildlife videography. Both cameras are capable of producing high-quality videos, but the R5’s 8K resolution and top score make it the preferred choice for videographers seeking exceptional video quality.

Canon EOS R5 vs EOS R8 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R5 wins the features comparison with a score of 87/100, while the Canon EOS R8 scores 85/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras have WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities.

The R5 outperforms the R8 in terms of screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen and a resolution of 2,100,000 dots, the R5 provides users with a larger and sharper display. This advantage allows for better image preview and easier menu navigation. The R8, on the other hand, has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 1,620,000 dots. Although smaller and less sharp, it still offers a decent display for users.

In comparison, the R8 has no notable advantages over the R5 in terms of features, as both cameras have almost identical specifications. The slight difference in their scores suggests that the R5 has a slight edge in overall performance and user experience.

Considering the features, the Canon EOS R5 is the superior camera, offering a larger and higher-resolution screen. While the R8 still provides a good user experience, it falls short in comparison to the R5. For those seeking a camera with better features, the Canon EOS R5 is the recommended choice.

Canon EOS R5 vs EOS R8 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS R5 comes out on top in the storage and battery comparison with a score of 68/100, while the Canon EOS R8 trails behind at 35/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as USB charging capabilities and compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.

The EOS R5 outshines the R8 with its dual memory card slots, accepting both UHS-II compatible SD cards and CFexpress cards. This feature provides users with more versatile storage options and backup possibilities. Additionally, the R5 utilizes the LP-E6NH battery, offering a decent battery life of 320 shots.

On the other hand, the EOS R8 has a longer battery life of 370 shots, thanks to its LP-E17 battery. However, it falls short with only one memory card slot, accepting UHS-I and II compatible SD cards. This limitation restricts storage flexibility and backup options for users.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R5 proves to be the superior choice in terms of storage and battery performance, despite having slightly lower battery life. The EOS R8’s advantage in battery life is not enough to compensate for its limitations in storage capabilities.

Canon EOS R5 vs EOS R8 Alternatives

Canon R8 vs R5 Specs comparison image

Are you considering buying or upgrading from a Canon R8 or Canon R5? Our camera comparison tool can help you weigh up its price and performance against the competition.

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