Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 III
Comparison
Canon EOS R5
Sony a7 III
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS R5 | a7 III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 30, 2020 | February 27, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS R5 triumphs over the Sony a7 III, scoring 86/100 compared to Sony’s 80/100. Both mirrorless cameras share similarities, such as their compact sizes and lightweight builds. The Canon EOS R5 measures 138 x 98 x 88mm and weighs 680g, while the Sony a7 III is slightly smaller and lighter at 127 x 96 x 74mm and 650g.
The Canon EOS R5 outshines the Sony a7 III with its more recent release in 2020 and advanced features, justifying its higher launch price of $4499. On the other hand, the Sony a7 III, released in 2018, offers a more budget-friendly option at $2000 without compromising too much on quality.
Considering these factors, the Canon EOS R5 is the superior choice for those seeking cutting-edge technology and top-notch performance, while the Sony a7 III remains a reliable and affordable alternative for budget-conscious photographers.
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7 III in optics with a score of 88/100 compared to Sony’s 81/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, a full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras use their respective proprietary lens mounts: Canon RF for the EOS R5 and Sony FE for the a7 III.
The Canon EOS R5 surpasses the Sony a7 III in several aspects. With 45 megapixels, the EOS R5 has almost twice the resolution of the a7 III, which has 24.2 megapixels. This higher resolution allows for greater detail and larger prints. The EOS R5 also boasts a shooting speed of 20 frames per second, doubling the a7 III’s 10 frames per second. This faster shooting speed is advantageous for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography. Moreover, the EOS R5 has a superior processor, the Digic X, which contributes to faster processing and better overall performance.
Despite the lower score, the Sony a7 III still has some advantages. Its DXOMARK sensor score of 96 slightly edges out the EOS R5’s score of 95. This indicates that the a7 III’s sensor performs marginally better in terms of color depth, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R5 is the clear winner in terms of optics, with its higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and better processor. However, the Sony a7 III remains a competitive option, especially for those prioritizing sensor performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
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Optics
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45 MP | 24.2 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 8192 x 5464 px | 6000 x 4000 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. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm | 23.8 x 35.6 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. | 20 fps | 10 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 X | 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. | 51,200 | 51,200 | |
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. | 100 | 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 | 204800 | |
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. | 1,053 | 693 | |
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 | 5,760,000 dots | 2,359,296 dots |
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 III Video Performance
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities with a significant difference in scores – the R5 scores 100/100, while the a7 III scores 56/100. Both cameras share some common video features, but the R5 excels in many aspects, making it the superior choice for video.
Both the Canon EOS R5 and Sony a7 III offer 4K video recording. However, the R5 surpasses the a7 III with its impressive 8K video resolution, allowing for much higher quality footage. The R5 also boasts a higher maximum video dimension of 8192 x 4320, compared to the a7 III’s 3840 x 2160. This difference in resolution and dimensions provides the R5 with a clear advantage in capturing detailed and sharp video content.
Another area where the Canon EOS R5 excels is its maximum video frame rate. The R5 can record up to 120fps, while the Sony a7 III is limited to 30fps. This higher frame rate allows the R5 to capture smooth slow-motion footage, providing more creative options for videographers.
The Canon EOS R5 also has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7 III lacks. This feature enables the R5 to create stunning time-lapse sequences without the need for additional accessories or software.
Despite its lower score, the Sony a7 III is still a capable camera for video recording, particularly for those who do not require the advanced features of the R5. However, the Canon EOS R5’s superior video capabilities make it the clear winner in this comparison. With its higher resolution, video dimensions, frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality, the R5 is the optimal choice for videographers seeking the best performance and quality.
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Video
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Sony a7 III
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  8K |  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. | 8192 x 4320 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. | 120 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 | XAVC S, AVCHD |
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7 III with a feature score of 87 out of 100, compared to Sony’s 81. Both cameras share several specifications, including touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both offer WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon EOS R5 surpasses the Sony a7 III in terms of screen size and resolution. The R5 has a 3.2-inch screen, while the a7 III has a 3-inch screen. Moreover, the R5’s screen resolution is significantly higher at 2,100,000 dots compared to the a7 III’s 921,600 dots. These differences contribute to the R5’s superior feature score.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 III still excels in some aspects, despite its lower feature score. The a7 III provides a reliable performance and delivers high-quality images and videos. It remains a strong contender in the market and is an excellent option for photographers who prioritize other aspects, such as price or lens availability.
In comparing the Canon EOS R5 and Sony a7 III, the R5 takes the lead with its larger screen and higher resolution. This camera is ideal for users who value a more advanced display for composing and reviewing images. The Sony a7 III, while slightly inferior in terms of features, remains a viable option for those who prefer other factors over display quality. Both cameras have their strengths and cater to different preferences, ensuring that photographers can find a suitable camera to meet their unique needs.
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Features
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | 921,600 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 R5 vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS R5 and Sony a7 III tie in storage and battery with a score of 68/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. The R5 accepts CFexpress cards and UHS-II compatible cards, while the a7 III is compatible with Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.
The R5’s battery life is 320 shots, using an LP-E6NH battery, and has USB charging. The a7 III’s battery life is significantly longer at 750 shots, utilizing an NP-FZ100 battery, but lacks USB charging.
The R5 offers more versatile memory card options and convenient USB charging, making it ideal for users who require flexibility and on-the-go charging. The a7 III, however, provides a superior battery life, suitable for those who prioritize extended shooting sessions without the need for frequent battery changes.
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Storage and Battery
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Sony a7 III
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6NH | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 320 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 III
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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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.' | 25.3 bits | 25.1 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.' | 14.6 EVs | 14.7 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' | 3042 | 3722 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 III
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Handling and Ergonomics | |||
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Alternatives to the Canon EOS R5 and Sony a7 III
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 a7 III:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 III
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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