Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 IV Comparison
Canon EOS R5
Sony a7 IV
Price | |||
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS R5 | a7 IV | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2021 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 30, 2020 | October 21, 2021 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7 IV with a score of 86/100 compared to 84/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless models released within a year of each other. They have comparable sizes, with the R5 measuring 138 x 98 x 88mm and the a7 IV at 131 x 96 x 80mm. The R5 is slightly heavier at 680g, while the a7 IV weighs 659g.
The R5’s higher score reveals its superior performance, likely due to factors such as image quality, autofocus, and video capabilities. However, the Sony a7 IV has an advantage in terms of cost, with a launch price of $2499, significantly lower than the R5’s $4499.
Considering the specifications and scores, the Canon EOS R5 provides better overall performance, while the Sony a7 IV offers a more budget-friendly option without compromising too much on quality.
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 IV Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in optics, scoring 88/100 compared to the Sony’s 85/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, they both utilize their respective company’s lens mounts: the Canon RF and Sony FE.
The Canon R5 excels with its 45-megapixel resolution and a shooting speed of 20 frames per second (fps). This combination allows photographers to capture high-resolution images with rapid shooting, making it ideal for various situations, such as wildlife and sports photography. Also, the Canon R5 features the powerful Digic X processor, which contributes to its faster shooting speed and overall performance.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV has a lower megapixel count at 33 and a slower shooting speed of 10 fps. However, the Sony a7 IV holds an advantage with its DXOMARK sensor score of 97, compared to the Canon R5’s score of 95. This higher score indicates that the Sony a7 IV’s sensor performs slightly better in areas such as dynamic range, color depth, and low-light performance. The Sony a7 IV also uses the Bionz XR processor, which is known for its efficient processing capabilities.
Despite the Canon R5’s higher score, the Sony a7 IV remains a strong contender in the optics department due to its superior sensor performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s priorities and preferences. If high-resolution images and rapid shooting speeds are essential, the Canon R5 is the better choice. However, if sensor performance and image quality are the top priorities, the Sony a7 IV may be more suitable.
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Optics
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 IV
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45 MP | 33 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 | 7008 x 4672 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 E | |
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 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. |  3:2 | 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 | 204400 | |
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 | 759 | |
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 | 3,686,400 dots |
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 IV Video Performance
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in video capabilities, scoring 100/100 compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 91/100. Both cameras share some common specs, such as a maximum video frame rate of 120fps and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Canon EOS R5 surpasses the Sony a7 IV in terms of video resolution and dimensions.
The Canon EOS R5 boasts an impressive 8K maximum video resolution, with dimensions of 8192 x 4320. This allows for incredibly detailed and high-quality video capture, making it ideal for professional videographers and filmmakers seeking the best possible image quality. The Sony a7 IV, on the other hand, offers a lower 4K maximum video resolution and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. While this is still high-quality, it does not match the exceptional resolution provided by the Canon EOS R5.
Despite the lower video resolution, the Sony a7 IV still has its merits. The camera’s 91/100 video score indicates that it is still a strong performer in the video department, and its 4K resolution is more than sufficient for most users’ needs. Furthermore, the Sony a7 IV’s lower resolution may be beneficial in certain situations, such as when users require smaller file sizes or faster processing times.
In comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS R5 and Sony a7 IV, the Canon EOS R5 emerges as the superior option due to its unparalleled 8K video resolution and larger dimensions. The Sony a7 IV, while still a solid performer, falls short in comparison. Ultimately, users must consider their specific needs and requirements when choosing between these two cameras, with the Canon EOS R5 best suited for those seeking the highest possible video quality.
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Video
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 IV
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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 | 120 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 | MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265 |
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 IV Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in features, scoring 87/100 compared to Sony’s 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a touchscreen, flip screen, absence of GPS, and the presence of WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon EOS R5 excels with its 3.2-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, providing a larger and clearer display for users. These specifications make the EOS R5 more user-friendly and enhance the photographer’s ability to review and compose shots accurately.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV has a smaller 3-inch screen size and lower screen resolution at 1,040,000 dots. Despite this, the a7 IV still performs well and maintains its reputation as a high-quality camera. Some photographers may prefer the slightly more compact screen size, which could contribute to the camera’s portability and overall handling experience.
Considering these points, the Canon EOS R5 offers superior features with its larger screen size and higher screen resolution, which may significantly impact a photographer’s experience when using the camera. The Sony a7 IV, while not as impressive in these aspects, remains a reliable and high-performing camera. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras depends on the individual photographer’s preferences and needs.
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Features
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 IV
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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 | 1,040,000 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 IV Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 IV wins in the storage and battery category with a score of 76/100, compared to the Canon EOS R5’s score of 68/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and support USB charging. They differ in memory cards accepted and battery life.
The Canon EOS R5 accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) and CFexpress cards, while the Sony a7 IV takes CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II compatible) cards. The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS R5 in battery life, offering 580 shots per charge compared to the R5’s 320 shots. The Sony a7 IV uses the NP-FZ100 battery, while the Canon EOS R5 uses the LP-E6NH battery.
The Canon EOS R5’s advantage lies in its support for the faster CFexpress cards, which can benefit users who require high-speed performance. However, the Sony a7 IV offers significantly longer battery life, making it more suitable for extended shooting sessions.
Considering the differences in storage and battery capabilities, the Sony a7 IV proves to be the better choice for those prioritizing longer battery life, while the Canon EOS R5 caters to users who need fast memory card performance.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 IV
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress | CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible) | |
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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 | 580 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 IV
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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 | 25.4 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 | 3379 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 IV
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7 IV – Our Verdict
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 IV:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7 IV
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B&H photo video |
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