When a company releases an upgrade to a popular camera model, the question isn’t just about the new features—it’s about whether it’s worth upgrading. The Canon EOS R5 was already a standout in the mirrorless camera market, but now the EOS R5 Mark II is here, promising to raise the bar even higher.
Coming to you from Gareth Evans with Park Cameras, this detailed video breaks down the key upgrades in the Canon EOS R5 Mark II and how it compares to the original R5. The new model looks similar to its predecessor at first glance, with only minor physical changes like the repositioned on/off switch and the new photo/video toggle. However, the real differences lie under the hood. The EOS R5 Mark II sports a new sensor, still 45 megapixels like the R5, but coupled with the latest DIGIC X processor and DIGIC X accelerator, which significantly enhances processing power and speed. This combination allows for advanced features like in-camera upscaling to 180 megapixels and improved noise reduction, offering better image quality and flexibility.
One of the most significant improvements in the EOS R5 Mark II is its autofocus system. While the R5 was no slouch with its Dual Pixel CMOS AF, the new model takes it a step further with Dual Pixel Intelligent AF. This system includes advanced tracking capabilities, such as predicting the location of a subject even when it moves behind obstacles. Evans also notes that the R5 Mark II’s autofocus can identify and track a wide range of subjects, from people and animals to vehicles and insects, making it exceptionally versatile for various shooting scenarios. For those who frequently shoot fast-moving subjects, the R5 Mark II’s ability to shoot at 30 frames per second—a 50% increase over the R5’s 20 frames per second—could be a game-changer.
Video capabilities have also seen a significant upgrade. Both the R5 and R5 Mark II can shoot 8K video, but the Mark II can do so at up to 60 frames per second, compared to the R5’s 30 frames per second. The R5 Mark II also introduces Canon Log 2 and 3 with 16+ stops of dynamic range, offering more flexibility in post-production. The addition of a full-sized HDMI port and improved heat management, including an optional fan-equipped grip, makes the R5 Mark II a more robust choice for videographers, especially for extended 8K recording sessions.
For those primarily shooting stills, the R5 remains a highly capable and attractive option, especially considering the price. However, if you’re a hybrid shooter who leans heavily on video, or if you want a camera that’s more future-proof, the R5 Mark II’s upgrades might justify the extra cost. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Evans.
This video is essentially a press release read-through.
If you compare the MSRP of the R5 II VS the discounted prices available for the R5 I and you are primarily a stills shooter, the original is a better choice. Furthermore, recent tests by DpReview, show that the R5 I retains better dynamic range and less noise than the R5 II. It's a compromise between image quality and sensor speed of the new camera. For me, who rarely uses the R5 for video, I won't be upgrading unless Canon comes out with an improved photocentric camera. Otherwise there maybe a Sony in my future as they make high resolution photo specific cameras (like the A7rV) and future versions may even be better.