CameraReview

Canon EOS R5 C vs Sony a7S III — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS R5 C
Canon
Canon EOS R5 C
Mirrorless · 45 MP · Full Frame · 8K video
87
SCORE
$2,999
best of 3 retailers
Best Price →
Sony a7S III
Sony
Sony a7S III
Mirrorless · 12.1 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
74
SCORE
$3,399.76
best of 4 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS R5 Ca7S III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20222020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
19/01/202228/07/2020
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 142 x 101 x 111 mm129 x 97 x 81 mm
Camera weight 770 g699 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
45 MP05012.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
8192 x 54644240 x 2832
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 3623.8 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 fps04510 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 XR
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.
100302008030200
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.
100302004030200
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.
10240030032800004096003003280000
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.
105303007590300
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 576000009900000944000009900000
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 fps120 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.
MPEG-4, XF-AVC, MOVXAVC S, XAVC HS
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 TFT 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 (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress BSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type A
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 shots1505000600 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R5 C outperforms the Sony a7S III with a score of 87/100 compared to 74/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share some common specifications. They were announced in 2022 and 2020, with launch prices of $4499 and $3499, respectively.

The Canon EOS R5 C excels with its larger size (142 x 101 x 111mm) and heavier weight (770g / 1.70lbs), which may provide better stability and durability. On the other hand, the Sony a7S III has a smaller size (129 x 97 x 81mm) and lighter weight (699g / 1.54lbs), making it more portable and easier to handle.

Considering the specifications, the Canon EOS R5 C is a better camera with a higher score, while the Sony a7S III offers advantages in portability and a lower launch price. Both cameras cater to different needs and preferences, so choosing the right one depends on the user’s priorities.

Canon EOS R5 C vs Sony a7S III Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS R5 C outperforms the Sony a7S III in optics, scoring 88/100 compared to the Sony’s 69/100. Both cameras share some similarities in their specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras have their respective lens mounts: Canon RF for the EOS R5 C and Sony FE for the a7S III.

The Canon EOS R5 C excels with its 45 megapixels, significantly higher than the Sony a7S III’s 12.1 megapixels. This difference allows the Canon to capture more detail and produce higher resolution images. Moreover, the EOS R5 C has a faster shooting speed of 20 frames per second, doubling the a7S III’s 10 frames per second. This advantage enables the Canon to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. The EOS R5 C also boasts a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, at 97 compared to the Sony’s 86, indicating better overall image quality.

The Sony a7S III, while trailing in overall optics performance, still has its strengths. Its Bionz XR processor is powerful and efficient, although not as advanced as the Canon’s Digic X processor.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R5 C proves to be a superior choice in terms of optics, with a higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and better sensor performance. The Sony a7S III, while not as impressive in this comparison, remains a reliable option for those seeking a full-frame camera with image stabilization and a reputable processor.

Canon EOS R5 C vs Sony a7S III Video Performance

The Canon EOS R5 C outperforms the Sony a7S III in video capabilities, scoring 100/100 compared to the Sony’s 77/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 120fps. However, the Canon EOS R5 C has several advantages over the Sony a7S III that contribute to its higher score.

The most significant advantage of the Canon EOS R5 C is its maximum video resolution of 8K (8192 x 4320), which is four times higher than the Sony a7S III’s 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution. This difference in resolution allows the Canon camera to capture more detailed and sharper footage, making it ideal for professional videographers and filmmakers.

Another notable advantage of the Canon EOS R5 C is its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7S III lacks. This feature enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment, providing more creative possibilities and convenience.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S III does not have any notable advantages over the Canon EOS R5 C in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras offer the same maximum frame rate, but the Canon’s higher resolution and time-lapse functionality give it a clear edge.

Comparing the two cameras, the Canon EOS R5 C stands out as the superior choice for video capabilities due to its 8K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. The Sony a7S III, while still a capable camera, falls short in these areas, making the Canon EOS R5 C a more appealing option for those prioritizing video performance.

Canon EOS R5 C vs Sony a7S III Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R5 C wins the features battle with a score of 87/100, while the Sony a7S III scores 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including touchscreen functionality, flip screens, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. Neither camera has GPS.

The Canon EOS R5 C outperforms the Sony a7S III with its 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 has 1,440,000 dots. The larger screen and higher resolution provide the Canon EOS R5 C with a better viewing experience and more precise image review.

The Sony a7S III has a slightly lower feature score, but it still has its strengths. Both cameras have touchscreens, flip screens, WIFI, and Bluetooth, making them competitive in terms of connectivity and ease of use. However, the Sony a7S III does not surpass the Canon EOS R5 C in any specific feature.

Considering the differences and similarities, the Canon EOS R5 C emerges as the superior camera in terms of features. The larger screen size and higher resolution provide a better user experience. Although the Sony a7S III matches the Canon in several aspects, it does not surpass it in any area. Therefore, the Canon EOS R5 C is the better choice for those prioritizing features in their camera selection.

Canon EOS R5 C vs Sony a7S III Storage and Battery

The Sony a7S III outperforms the Canon EOS R5 C in storage and battery, scoring 76/100 compared to the Canon’s 68/100. Both cameras possess two memory card slots and support USB charging. They also accept SD cards compatible with UHS-II, but the Canon EOS R5 C uses CFexpress B cards while the Sony a7S III uses CFexpress Type A cards.

The Sony a7S III’s advantage lies in its longer battery life, capable of capturing 600 shots with its NP-FZ100 battery, compared to the Canon EOS R5 C’s 320 shots using an LP-E6NH battery. This provides users with extended shooting time without needing frequent battery changes.

The Canon EOS R5 C, however, does not exhibit any significant advantages over the Sony a7S III in terms of storage and battery. Consequently, the Sony a7S III proves to be the better choice in this category, offering superior battery life for increased productivity during photo and video shoots.

Alternatives to the Canon EOS R5 C and Sony a7S III

Canon EOS R5 C vs Sony a7S III 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 C or the Sony a7S III: