Canon is advancing in the realm of mirrorless cameras with its new EOS R5 II, priced at $4,300 and equipped with a 45-megapixel sensor. This model is setting itself apart from recent Sony models by offering features like eye-tracking autofocus (AF), and it competes with Sony’s A1 in terms of speed, video, and autofocus capabilities. In addition, it provides nearly twice the resolution of Canon’s upcoming flagship R1.
The reviewer, who has tested the R5 II over several weeks, evaluates its practicality, speed, and competitiveness against Sony’s A1, renowned for its high resolution. The evaluation highlights the improvements in key areas such as autofocus and video, marking the EOS R5 II as one of Canon’s standout cameras in recent years.
Design-wise, the EOS R5 II retains a similar body and control layout to its predecessor, the R5, with some modifications. These changes include a relocated power switch for easier access, a dedicated photo/video switch, separate settings for photo and video modes, and a new olive green menu tab for customization, particularly for the eye control AF tracking. The camera’s display setup remains unchanged, maintaining the same rear touch screen and electronic viewfinder, albeit with improved brightness and optical design to support the new autofocus feature.
The performance of the EOS R5 II is noteworthy with its new stacked 45-megapixel sensor and updated Digic X processor, providing speed and resolution comparable to Nikon’s Z8 and Sony’s A1. With the ability to shoot up to 30 frames per second (fps) in electronic shutter mode without a blackout view, it supports up to 100 RAW frames before the buffer fills. Canon’s Dual Pixel autofocus technology has reached new heights with this model, enhancing burst shooting outcomes significantly. New features include a pre-capture mode for photojournalists and wildlife photographers and innovations in autofocus settings, like action priority and pre-registered person priority AF.
The R5 II carries forward the renowned image quality of its predecessor, excelling especially in dynamic range at lower ISO settings and demonstrating superior image stabilization capabilities. When it comes to video, this camera mitigates the overheating issues seen in the original R5 through new passive cooling designs and additional battery grips with cooling fans. The R5 II records video in up to 8K 60p and 4K 120p, maintaining Canon’s high standards for color science and dynamic range.
Overall, the Canon EOS R5 II is considered one of Canon’s best cameras in recent years due to significant improvements in autofocus, video capabilities, and user ergonomics, despite challenges like overheating and some autofocus quirks. It offers a valuable alternative in the high-resolution mirrorless camera market, holding its ground against strong competitors like Sony’s A1 and Nikon’s Z8.
