Canon EOS R5 vs Sony A7R V: The Professional Camera Showdown

Executive Summary

After extensive testing of both the Canon EOS R5 and Sony A7R V, we can confidently say that both represent the pinnacle of professional mirrorless camera technology. The Canon excels in video capabilities and ergonomics, while the Sony offers superior autofocus performance and more compact design.

Image Quality & Sensor Performance

Both cameras feature high-resolution sensors, but they approach image quality differently. The Canon EOS R5's 45MP sensor delivers excellent dynamic range and color reproduction, while the Sony A7R V's 61MP sensor provides incredible detail and resolution for large prints.

Sensor Specifications:

Feature	Canon EOS R5	Sony A7R V
Sensor Resolution	45MP (8192 x 5464)	61MP (9504 x 6336)
Sensor Size	Full Frame (36 x 24mm)	Full Frame (35.9 x 24mm)
Pixel Pitch	4.4μm	3.76μm
ISO Range	100-51,200 (expandable to 102,400)	100-32,000 (expandable to 102,400)

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus battle reveals Sony's clear advantage in this area. The A7R V's advanced AI-powered autofocus system with real-time tracking excels at subject recognition and tracking, while the Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system is excellent but not quite as sophisticated.

Autofocus Features:

• Canon EOS R5: Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with 5,940 selectable points
• Sony A7R V: 693 phase-detection points with AI-powered subject recognition
• Eye AF: Both support human and animal eye detection
• Tracking: Sony's real-time tracking is more reliable in complex scenes

Video Capabilities

This is where the Canon EOS R5 truly shines. Its video capabilities are significantly more advanced, offering 8K RAW recording, 4K 120fps, and excellent codec options. The Sony A7R V, while capable, is primarily designed for still photography.

Video Specifications:

Feature	Canon EOS R5	Sony A7R V
8K Video	8K RAW (30fps)	Not available
4K Video	4K 120fps (cropped)	4K 30fps
Codecs	H.265, H.264, RAW	XAVC S, XAVC HS
Recording Limit	30 minutes (8K), unlimited (4K)	30 minutes

Build Quality & Ergonomics

Both cameras feature excellent build quality with weather sealing, but they differ significantly in ergonomics. The Canon EOS R5 has a more traditional DSLR-like grip and button layout, while the Sony A7R V is more compact but may feel cramped for users with larger hands.

Physical Specifications:

• Canon EOS R5: 138 x 97.5 x 88mm, 650g (body only)
• Sony A7R V: 131.3 x 96.9 x 82.4mm, 723g (body only)
• Weather Sealing: Both cameras are fully weather-sealed
• Battery Life: Canon (320 shots) vs Sony (530 shots)

Lens Ecosystem

Both camera systems offer extensive lens selections, but they differ in availability and pricing. Canon's RF mount has fewer native lenses but excellent quality, while Sony's E-mount has a vast selection of lenses from Sony and third-party manufacturers.

Lens Availability:

• Canon RF Mount: 30+ native lenses, growing rapidly
• Sony E-Mount: 200+ native lenses, extensive third-party support
• Adapter Support: Both support EF and A-mount lenses with adapters
• Third-Party Lenses: Sony has more options from Sigma, Tamron, etc.

Price & Value Analysis

Both cameras command premium prices, reflecting their professional-grade capabilities. The Canon EOS R5 typically retails for $3,899, while the Sony A7R V is priced at $3,898. The choice often comes down to your primary use case and existing lens investment.

Final Verdict

Choosing between these two professional cameras depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize video capabilities, ergonomics, and are invested in the Canon ecosystem, the EOS R5 is the better choice. If you need superior autofocus, higher resolution, and want access to a larger lens selection, the Sony A7R V is the way to go.