Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7R III Comparison
Canon EOS R5
Sony a7R III
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS R5 | a7R III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2017 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 30, 2020 | October 25, 2017 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS R5 takes the lead with a score of 86/100, while the Sony a7R III follows closely with a score of 83/100. Both are mirrorless cameras with similar sizes and weights, with the Canon EOS R5 measuring 138 x 98 x 88mm and weighing 680g, and the Sony a7R III measuring 127 x 96 x 74mm and weighing 657g.
The Canon EOS R5, released in 2020, has the advantage of being a more recent model, offering a higher launch price of $4499 compared to the Sony a7R III’s $3200, which was released in 2017. This price difference reflects the improved technology and features found in the Canon EOS R5.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R III is slightly smaller and lighter, making it more convenient for photographers who prioritize portability. However, the Canon EOS R5’s higher score means it offers better overall performance and features, making it the superior choice for those willing to invest in a more advanced camera.
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7R III Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7R III in optics, scoring 88/100 compared to Sony’s 84/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. They also have similar megapixel counts, with the Canon EOS R5 having 45 megapixels and the Sony a7R III having 42.4 megapixels.
The Canon EOS R5’s higher score is due to its faster shooting speed and advanced processor. It has a shooting speed of 20, which is double that of the Sony a7R III’s 10. This means the Canon EOS R5 can capture images more quickly, allowing for better action shots and faster response times. The EOS R5 also has a more advanced DIGIC X processor, which contributes to improved image quality, faster processing, and better performance.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R III has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, scoring 100 compared to the Canon EOS R5’s 95. This means the Sony a7R III’s sensor is capable of capturing higher quality images in terms of dynamic range, color depth, and low-light performance. Additionally, both cameras have different lens mounts, with the Canon EOS R5 using the Canon RF mount and the Sony a7R III using the Sony FE mount. This difference may be a deciding factor for those who already own lenses compatible with one of the mounts.
Considering the Canon EOS R5’s faster shooting speed and advanced processor, it is the superior camera in terms of optics. However, the Sony a7R III’s higher DXOMARK score and different lens mount might make it a more suitable choice for some photographers, depending on their needs and existing equipment.
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Optics
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Sony a7R III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45 MP | 42.4 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 | 7952 x 5304 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 | 24 x 35.9 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 | 32,000 | |
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 | 102400 | |
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 | 425 | |
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 a7R III Video Performance
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7R III in video capabilities, with a score of 100/100 compared to the Sony a7R III’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having 4K video resolution, but the Canon EOS R5 takes the lead with its higher maximum video resolution of 8K, larger video dimensions of 8192 x 4320, and a faster maximum video frame rate of 120fps.
The Canon EOS R5’s 8K video resolution offers four times the detail of the Sony a7R III’s 4K resolution, resulting in significantly sharper and more detailed footage. Its maximum video frame rate of 120fps allows for smoother slow-motion footage, giving filmmakers more creative options. Additionally, the Canon EOS R5 features built-in time-lapse functionality, making it more versatile for capturing time-lapse videos without needing additional equipment.
The Sony a7R III, while falling short in comparison to the Canon EOS R5, still offers a respectable 4K video resolution and a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. Although it lacks built-in time-lapse functionality, it can still capture time-lapse videos with external equipment. Despite its lower score, the Sony a7R III remains a solid option for those who do not require the advanced video features of the Canon EOS R5.
Given the significant difference in video capabilities, the Canon EOS R5 emerges as the clear winner in this comparison. Its superior video resolution, frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality make it an ideal choice for filmmakers and content creators seeking top-of-the-line video performance. The Sony a7R III, while not as impressive in this aspect, remains a viable option for those with less demanding video requirements.
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Video
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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 Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a7R III Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS R5 comes out on top with a feature score of 87/100, while the Sony a7R III trails slightly behind with a score of 83/100. Both cameras share several key features, such as touchscreen capability, flip screens, and a lack of built-in GPS. Additionally, both cameras come equipped with WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Sony a7R III in terms of screen size and resolution. The R5 has a larger screen at 3.2 inches compared to the a7R III’s 3-inch screen. Furthermore, the R5 boasts a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, while the a7R III has a resolution of 1,440,000 dots. These differences contribute to the R5’s superior display and overall user experience.
Though the Sony a7R III does not surpass the Canon EOS R5 in any particular feature, it is important to note that it is still a high-quality camera. With a feature score of 83/100, the a7R III showcases a competitive and comparable set of features to the R5, making it a viable option for photographers who may prefer the Sony brand or have existing Sony equipment.
Considering the differences between the Canon EOS R5 and the Sony a7R III, the R5 takes the lead due to its larger screen size and higher resolution. However, the Sony a7R III remains a strong contender in the market, offering a solid set of features that closely rival those of the R5. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on personal preferences and brand loyalty.
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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 | 1,440,000 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 a7R III Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS R5 wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 68/100, while the Sony a7R III scores 65/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) cards. The EOS R5, however, also accepts CFexpress cards, providing faster transfer speeds and larger storage capacities.
The Sony a7R III has the advantage in battery life, offering 650 shots per charge, compared to the EOS R5’s 320 shots. However, the Canon EOS R5 uses the LP-E6NH battery type and offers USB charging, which the a7R III lacks with its NP-FZ100 battery.
Considering these factors, the Canon EOS R5 has superior storage capabilities due to its CFexpress compatibility, but the Sony a7R III has a longer battery life. USB charging in the EOS R5 provides added convenience for users. Despite the slight scoring difference, both cameras offer reliable storage and battery performance suitable for various photography needs.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress | SD / SDHC / SDXC (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 | 650 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS R5
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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 | 26 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 | 3523 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS R5
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Sony a7R III
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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 a7R III Alternatives
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