CameraReview

Canon EOS R5 vs Leica SL2-S — 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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Leica SL2-S
Leica
Leica SL2-S
Mirrorless · 24.6 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
81
SCORE
$3,491.63
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonLeica
Model EOS R5SL2-S
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
30/07/202010/12/2020
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 138 x 98 x 88 mm146 x 107 x 83 mm
Camera weight 680 g931 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
45 MP05024.6 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 35.924 x 36
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 fps04520 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 RFLeica L
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic XMaestro III
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.
100302005030200
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.
5120030032800001000003003280000
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.
10240030032800001000003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440806044080
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.
8000800320001600080032000
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.
105303002250300
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 576000009900000576000009900000
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 43204096 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 fps60 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.
MP4MPEG-4
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"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2100000115000150000021000001150001500000
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
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NHBP-SCL4
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
320 shots1505000510 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R5 takes the lead with a score of 86/100, while the Leica SL2-S trails behind with 81/100. Both mirrorless cameras were released in 2020 and share some common specifications. However, the EOS R5 stands out as the better camera for its lighter weight of 680g, compared to the SL2-S’s 931g, and its lower launch price of $4499 versus $4895.

The Canon EOS R5’s compact size (138 x 98 x 88mm) also gives it an advantage over the larger Leica SL2-S (146 x 107 x 83mm). The Leica SL2-S doesn’t have any superior specifications compared to the EOS R5. Therefore, the Canon EOS R5 is the clear winner in terms of general specifications, offering a better value and more compact design.

Canon EOS R5 vs Leica SL2-S Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS R5 takes the lead in our optics comparison with a score of 88/100, while the Leica SL2-S follows closely with a score of 85/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a 20fps shooting speed, a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and in-camera image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras have a DXOMARK score of 95 for their sensors, showcasing their impressive performance.

The Canon EOS R5 outshines the Leica SL2-S with its higher megapixel count of 45, compared to the Leica’s 24.6 megapixels. This difference allows the EOS R5 to capture more detail and produce higher-resolution images. Additionally, the Canon EOS R5 features a more advanced processor, the Digic X, which contributes to faster processing speeds and improved image quality.

On the other hand, the Leica SL2-S has a unique advantage in its lens mount. The Leica L mount provides users with access to Leica’s exceptional range of lenses, known for their superior optical quality and craftsmanship. While the Canon RF mount offers a growing selection of lenses, the Leica L mount offers a more established and prestigious lineup.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R5 offers better overall optics performance, mainly due to its higher megapixel count and advanced processor. However, the Leica SL2-S presents an attractive option for those who prioritize access to Leica’s renowned lenses. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences in terms of image quality and lens selection.

Canon EOS R5 vs Leica SL2-S Video Performance

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Leica SL2-S in video capabilities with a video score of 100/100, while the Leica SL2-S scores 83/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as time-lapse functionality built-in, which is useful for capturing stunning sequences of events unfolding over time.

The Canon EOS R5 excels in video quality, offering a maximum video resolution of 8K and dimensions of 8192 x 4320. This high resolution enables the capture of incredibly detailed and sharp footage, suitable for professional videography. Additionally, the R5 supports a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, allowing for smooth slow-motion playback and greater creative flexibility in post-production.

On the other hand, the Leica SL2-S has a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 4096 x 2160, which is still considered high quality, but falls short in comparison to the R5. The SL2-S also has a lower maximum video frame rate of 60fps, limiting slow-motion capabilities in comparison to the R5.

Despite the lower score, the Leica SL2-S is still a competent camera for video capture, with its 4K resolution and 60fps frame rate catering to most videography needs. However, for those seeking the highest quality footage and greater slow-motion capabilities, the Canon EOS R5 is the clear winner.

In conclusion, the Canon EOS R5 stands out as a superior camera for video capture due to its higher resolution, dimensions, and frame rate. The Leica SL2-S is a viable option for less demanding videography projects but falls short of the R5’s capabilities, making the Canon EOS R5 the better choice for professional and advanced video work.

Canon EOS R5 vs Leica SL2-S Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Leica SL2-S with a feature score of 87/100, compared to the latter’s 74/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3.2-inch screen size, 2,100,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen capability, absence of GPS, and the presence of WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Canon EOS R5 excels in its additional flip screen feature, which allows for more versatile shooting angles and improved usability in various situations. This proves to be a significant advantage over the Leica SL2-S, which lacks this feature. The higher feature score of the EOS R5 reflects its overall superiority in terms of camera capabilities and user experience.

On the other hand, the Leica SL2-S still performs well in its own right, despite its lower feature score. While it may not have a flip screen, the SL2-S matches the EOS R5 in other aspects such as screen size, resolution, touchscreen, and connectivity options. This indicates that the Leica SL2-S remains a solid choice for photographers who prioritize these specific features.

To conclude, the Canon EOS R5 emerges as the superior camera due to its additional flip screen feature, which enhances its usability and versatility in various shooting scenarios. Meanwhile, the Leica SL2-S still holds its ground as a reliable option for photographers who value the shared specifications between the two cameras. Ultimately, the choice between the Canon EOS R5 and the Leica SL2-S depends on the individual preferences and priorities of the photographer.

Canon EOS R5 vs Leica SL2-S Storage and Battery

The Leica SL2-S wins in the storage and battery category, scoring 73 out of 100, while the Canon EOS R5 scores 68. Both cameras possess two memory card slots and support USB charging. They accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, although the Canon EOS R5 is also compatible with UHS-II and CFexpress cards, providing faster data transfer and larger storage capacity.

The Leica SL2-S outperforms the Canon EOS R5 in battery life, offering 510 shots per charge, compared to the R5’s 320 shots. This longer battery life makes the SL2-S more suitable for extended shooting sessions without the need for constant battery replacement or charging.

However, the Canon EOS R5’s compatibility with UHS-II and CFexpress cards gives it an advantage in terms of storage versatility and speed. This can be beneficial for photographers and videographers who require faster data transfer and larger storage capacities.

Both cameras have their strengths in the storage and battery category. The Leica SL2-S offers better battery life, while the Canon EOS R5 provides more storage options and faster data transfer capabilities.

Canon EOS R5 vs Leica SL2-S – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R5 vs Leica SL2-S 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 R5 or the Leica SL2-S: