Canon R5 vs Canon R5 Mark II: Which One Should You Buy in 2025?
- Jcrews
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 7
Are you trying to decide between the Canon EOS R5 and the brand-new Canon EOS R5 Mark II? Both cameras are powerhouse options for photographers and videographers, but which one is right for you?
In this detailed side-by-side comparison, I’ll break down the key features, specs, and differences — plus who should buy each model. At the end, you’ll find links to the latest prices and deals on Amazon.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Canon R5 vs Canon R5 Mark II
Feature | Canon EOS R5 | Canon EOS R5 Mark II |
Release Date | July 2020 | July 2025 |
Sensor | 45MP Full-Frame CMOS | 45MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS |
Image Processor | DIGIC X | Dual DIGIC X (updated) |
ISO Range | 100–51,200 (expandable to 102,400) | 100–102,400 (expandable to 204,800) |
Autofocus System | Dual Pixel CMOS AF II, Eye/Animal Detection | Advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with AI Detection |
Continuous Shooting | 20fps (electronic), 12fps (mechanical) | 30fps (electronic), 12fps (mechanical) |
IBIS (Stabilisation) | Up to 8 stops | Up to 8 stops (refined performance) |
Video Recording | 8K 30p, 4K 120p | 8K 60p RAW, 4K 120p (10-bit internal) |
Overheating | Known thermal limits on extended 8K/4K | Improved thermal management (active cooling) |
EVF | 5.76M-dot OLED | 9.44M-dot OLED (higher resolution) |
LCD Screen | 3.2” 2.1M-dot vari-angle touchscreen | 3.2” 4.2M-dot vari-angle touchscreen |
Storage | 1x CFexpress Type B, 1x SD UHS-II | 2x CFexpress Type B |
Battery | LP-E6NH | LP-E6NH (improved efficiency) |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth, FTP | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, FTP, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 |
Body & Build | Magnesium alloy, weather-sealed | Magnesium alloy, enhanced sealing |
AI Features | Basic subject tracking | AI-trained subject recognition (people, animals, vehicles) |
Price at Launch | ~$3,899 / £4,199 (body only) | ~$4,299 / £4,499 (body only) |
Check out on Amazon |
Canon EOS R5 vs. R5 Mark II – Is It Worth the Upgrade?
When comparing the Canon EOS R5 with the newer R5 Mark II, the decision to upgrade isn’t just about specs—it’s about what actually changes in real-world use. Here’s how they really stack up.
Where the R5 Still Holds Up
The original Canon EOS R5 remains an excellent camera for still photography. Its 45MP sensor delivers outstanding image quality, and Canon’s color science continues to impress. The build quality, battery life, and autofocus performance are all solid—more than enough for most photographers, especially those focused on stills.
If your work doesn’t demand the absolute latest features, the R5 is still a smart, cost-effective choice.
What the R5 Mark II Brings to the Table
The Mark II doesn’t reinvent the wheel—but it refines nearly everything. The video capabilities are where the changes become most noticeable: 8K at 60p in RAW, 4K at 120p 10-bit, and internal recording improvements make it a serious hybrid tool.
For stills, the jump to 30fps burst shooting (electronic shutter) gives action, sports, and wildlife shooters a real edge. The AI-enhanced autofocus now recognizes a wider range of subjects—including vehicles—with improved precision.
Thermal management has also been upgraded, making long video or high-speed burst sessions more practical without overheating interruptions.
So… Is the Upgrade Worth It?
If you’re already shooting with the EOS R5, the question is less about image quality (which is already excellent) and more about speed, tracking intelligence, and video headroom.
For hybrid shooters or professionals who push their gear, the R5 Mark II offers real-world improvements that justify the upgrade.
But for dedicated stills shooters who don’t need faster bursts or advanced video specs, the original R5 still delivers and might be the better value.
Check Pricing
Disclaimer
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the blog!
Final Thoughts
Both the Canon R5 and R5 Mark II are fantastic cameras, but they serve slightly different needs:
The Canon EOS R5 still holds its ground as a strong choice for photographers focused primarily on stills. It offers excellent image quality, reliable autofocus, and a more approachable price point—especially if you don’t need the very latest in speed or video features.
In contrast, the R5 Mark II pushes deeper into professional territory. With improvements in burst speed, subject tracking, and high-end video capabilities, it’s clearly built for hybrid shooters, content creators, and working professionals who demand top-tier performance across both photo and video.
If budget allows and you want future-proof features, the R5 Mark II is the upgrade to consider. But for many, the original R5 remains a powerhouse camera.
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