CameraReview

Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a9 II — 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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Sony a9 II
Sony
Sony a9 II
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
82
SCORE
$3,429.40
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS R5a9 II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202019
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
30/07/202003/10/2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 138 x 98 x 88 mm129 x 96 x 76 mm
Camera weight 680 g678 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
45 MP05024.2 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 35.923.8 x 35.6
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 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 XBionz 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.
512003003280000512003003280000
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.
10240030032800002048003003280000
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.
8000800320003200080032000
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.
105303006930300
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 576000009900000368640009900000
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 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.
MP4XAVC S, AVCHD
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.
2100000115000150000014400001150001500000
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-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NHNP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
320 shots1505000690 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R5 takes the lead with a score of 86/100, while the Sony a9 II follows closely with 82/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were launched at a similar price point, with the R5 at $4499 and the a9 II at $4500. They also have comparable sizes and weights, with the R5 measuring 138 x 98 x 88mm and weighing 680g, and the a9 II measuring 129 x 96 x 76mm and weighing 678g.

The Canon EOS R5 has the edge over the Sony a9 II, scoring higher due to its superior performance and features. On the other hand, the Sony a9 II still offers excellent capabilities, making it a strong contender in the market.

When deciding between these two cameras, consider their unique strengths and how they align with your specific photography needs. Both are high-quality options, but the Canon EOS R5 ultimately comes out on top.

Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a9 II Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a9 II in optics, scoring 88/100 compared to Sony’s 82/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full frame sensor size, 20 fps shooting speed, and image stabilization. They also have similar lens mounts, with the Canon using an RF mount and the Sony using an FE mount.

The Canon EOS R5 has a clear advantage in megapixels, boasting 45 compared to Sony’s 24.2. This difference allows the Canon to capture more detail and higher resolution images. Additionally, the Canon’s Digic X processor outshines the Sony’s Bionz X processor, contributing to its better performance in optics. The DXOMARK score for the Canon’s sensor is also higher at 95, compared to the Sony’s 93, further highlighting the superiority of the Canon EOS R5 in terms of image quality.

Despite the lower score, the Sony a9 II still has some advantages. Its optics score is still respectable, and it matches the Canon’s shooting speed at 20 fps. The Sony FE lens mount also offers an extensive range of high-quality lenses, ensuring that photographers can find the perfect lens for their needs.

Taking these points into consideration, the Canon EOS R5 stands out as the better camera in terms of optics. Its higher megapixel count, superior processor, and better sensor performance provide higher quality images. However, the Sony a9 II remains a strong contender with its respectable optics score and matching shooting speed. Ultimately, photographers should weigh the importance of these factors in relation to their specific needs when choosing between these two cameras.

Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a9 II Video Performance

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a9 II in video capabilities, scoring 100/100 compared to the Sony’s 70/100. Both cameras share the time-lapse functionality feature, which is an essential tool for videographers creating dynamic and visually engaging content.

The Canon EOS R5 excels in video quality with its maximum video resolution of 8K, offering dimensions of 8192 x 4320. This high-resolution capability allows for greater detail and more flexibility in post-production editing. Moreover, the R5 boasts a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is ideal for capturing smooth slow-motion footage. These specifications give the Canon R5 a clear advantage over the Sony a9 II in terms of video performance.

On the other hand, the Sony a9 II offers a maximum video resolution of 4K with dimensions of 3840 x 2160, which is still a popular and widely-used format for professional video productions. However, its maximum video frame rate is limited to 30fps, which restricts the ability to capture fast action or slow-motion footage compared to the Canon R5.

While the Sony a9 II’s 4K resolution and 30fps frame rate are adequate for most videography applications, the Canon EOS R5’s 8K resolution and 120fps frame rate provide superior video quality and creative versatility. Therefore, the Canon EOS R5 is the better choice for videographers seeking top-notch performance and advanced video capabilities.

Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a9 II Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a9 II in features, scoring 87/100 compared to the Sony a9 II’s 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including touchscreen capability, flip screens, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both models come equipped with WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Canon EOS R5 surpasses the Sony a9 II in screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen and a resolution of 2,100,000 dots, the EOS R5 provides a larger and more detailed display for users. In comparison, the Sony a9 II has a slightly smaller 3-inch screen with a lower resolution of 1,440,000 dots, which may impact the user experience.

While the Sony a9 II falls short in screen size and resolution, it still offers valuable features that make it a strong contender in the market. The touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity are all essential aspects that contribute to its overall performance. However, since the Canon EOS R5 offers superior screen specifications, it stands out as the better camera in terms of features.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R5 demonstrates its superiority over the Sony a9 II regarding features. The larger screen size and higher resolution contribute significantly to the user experience, making the EOS R5 the preferred option for photographers seeking a camera with excellent features. Although the Sony a9 II has commendable features, it cannot surpass the EOS R5’s performance in this aspect.

Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a9 II Storage and Battery

The Sony a9 II outperforms the Canon EOS R5 in storage and battery with a score of 79/100, compared to the R5’s 68/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) cards. They also support USB charging.

The a9 II’s advantage lies in its longer battery life, offering 690 shots per charge, while the R5 only provides 320 shots. The Sony a9 II uses the NP-FZ100 battery type, whereas the Canon EOS R5 uses the LP-E6NH battery type.

However, the Canon EOS R5 has an edge in accepting CFexpress cards, which allows for faster data transfer and larger storage capacity. This feature is not present in the Sony a9 II.

Considering these factors, the Sony a9 II is better in terms of battery life, while the Canon EOS R5 offers more versatile storage options.

Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a9 II – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a9 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 R5 or the Sony a9 II: