Three years after the popular EOS R5, Canon introduces its flagship hybrid refresh: the EOS R5 Mark II. Equipped with a new 45MP stacked BSI CMOS sensor, rapid bursts up to 30 fps, 8K video, and AI-powered autofocus, it promises groundbreaking performance for demanding professionals and passionate creators alike.
Quick Look: Canon EOS R5 Mark II
Key Specifications
- Sensor: 45MP Full-Frame stacked BSI CMOS
- Image Stabilisation (IBIS): Up to 8 stops
- Burst Shooting: 12 fps mechanical; 30 fps electronic
- ISO Range: 100–51200 (expandable)
- Video:
- 8K up to 60p (internal RAW)
- 4K up to 120p (cropped)
- 4K oversampled from 8K at 60p
- Viewfinder: 5.76M-dot OLED, up to 200 Hz refresh
- Screen: 3.2″ fully articulating LCD
- Memory: Dual slots (CFexpress Type B + SD UHS-II)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, USB-C, micro-HDMI, FTP
- Battery Life: ~460 shots (CIPA)
- Weight: 720g (with battery)
Pros
- New 45MP stacked sensor improves low-light and reduces rolling shutter
- AI-enhanced autofocus with extensive subject detection
- Pre-shoot mode captures 0.5s of images before fully pressing shutter
- 30 fps electronic bursts (no crop)
- 8K/60p and oversampled 4K/120p video
- IBIS up to 8 stops
- Fully articulating touchscreen, high-res EVF with eye-control AF
- Dual CFexpress Type B slots
Cons
- Slightly lower battery life compared to some rivals
- Noticeable heat in extended 8K recording
- Higher cost than the original EOS R5
In Brief: The Canon EOS R5 Mark II
Overall Rating: 9/10
The Canon EOS R5 Mark II sets a new benchmark for hybrid shooters. It inherits the robust build and ergonomics of the original R5 and elevates performance with a stacked BSI sensor, lightning-fast AI autofocus, and advanced video capabilities including 8K/60p. While the price is steep and battery life somewhat limited, this is a top-tier professional tool built for those who demand excellence in both photography and video production.
Body & Handling: Built for Action
Canon preserves the proven ergonomics of the original R5, making only subtle—but meaningful—tweaks. The rugged magnesium-alloy body features:
- Excellent Grip: Comfortable even for day-long events with heavier lenses like a 70-200mm f/2.8.
- Weather-Sealing: Survives rain and splashes (just ensure the rubber flaps are closed).
- Generous Controls: Three customisable dials, a well-placed joystick, and a fully articulating LCD for low-angle or discrete street shooting.
- Dual Memory Slots: CFexpress Type B (for high-speed bursts and video) plus an SD UHS-II slot for backups or separate file types.
While it retains a similar silhouette to its predecessor, Canon’s refined design ensures efficient button placement, comfortable handling, and compatibility with existing EOS R accessories.
Always Connected—In Theory
Wireless (Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth): Ideal for on-the-go RAW or JPEG transfers and remote shooting, though large RAW files are more quickly transferred via CFexpress readers.
Camera Connect App: Useful for macro or discreet wildlife setups, but latency can be a hindrance for fast-moving subjects.
Tethered Shooting (USB-C): Provides near-instant image previews in Capture One or Lightroom, essential for studio or commercial workflows.
An Enhanced EVF & Eye Control
The R5 Mark II’s electronic viewfinder:
- 5.76M-dot OLED: High resolution and 120 Hz default refresh (boostable to 200 Hz), delivering minimal latency and a natural viewing experience.
- Eye-Control AF: Once calibrated, the camera can detect where you’re looking in the viewfinder, quickly locking focus—an innovative feature for sports, wildlife, and more.
Although not as pixel-dense or large as the Sony A7R V’s class-leading EVF, this is still among the best on the market.
Autofocus & Performance: Intelligence Where It Matters
AI-Driven Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
With 1053 selectable AF zones and advanced subject detection (humans, animals, vehicles, even balls or insects), the new AF system provides:
- -7.5 EV Sensitivity: Excellent in low light, matching or exceeding competitors.
- Adaptive Subject Recognition: Prioritises frequently photographed subjects, memorising faces for consistent focus.
- Eye-Control Focus: Precisely shifts AF points based on the photographer’s gaze.
Pre-Shooting Mode
Captures up to 0.5 seconds of images before you fully press the shutter—vital for unpredictable action like a sudden bird takeoff or the instant an athlete launches from the blocks.
Rapid Bursts
- Mechanical: 12 fps with continuous AF/AE.
- Electronic: 30 fps with RAW+JPEG. A deep buffer supports extended bursts, especially with a high-end CFexpress Type B card.
Paired with up to 8 stops of IBIS, the R5 Mark II excels in fast-paced scenarios, offering near-DSLR-level responsiveness but with all the benefits of mirrorless technology.
Image Quality: 45MP Stacked Sensor
The R5 Mark II retains a 45MP resolution but switches to a stacked BSI architecture:
- Reduced Rolling Shutter: Minimal distortion in electronic mode.
- High ISO Performance: Clean results up to ISO 3200–6400, with well-controlled noise even at ISO 12800.
- RAW Flexibility: Standard RAW or C-RAW options provide detailed files and easy post-processing.
The 45MP sweet spot offers a balance of detail (sufficient for large prints) without significantly compromising low-light performance. Landscape, portrait, and event shooters will all appreciate the sensor’s versatility.
Video: 8K Powerhouse
Headline Features:
- 8K @ 60p (internal RAW or ProRes up to 30p).
- 4K @ 120p in crop mode; 4K oversampled from 8K for detailed footage.
- Reduced Overheating: Improved thermal design (though extended 8K sessions can still trigger heat warnings).
- Advanced Codecs: C-Log 3 and new C-Log 8 for up to 14 stops of dynamic range.
- Dual Recording: Write RAW to CFexpress and proxies to SD simultaneously.
These features place the R5 Mark II on par with high-end cinema cameras in terms of resolution, colour grading flexibility, and rolling shutter control. While record limits remain for the highest resolutions, the improved cooling offers more reliable performance than the original R5.
Battery Life: Manage Expectations
Rated at ~460 shots (CIPA):
- Practical usage: 2–3 hours in high-intensity reportage or 45–60 minutes of continuous 8K video.
- Solutions: Additional LP-E6NH batteries (
€90 each), the BG-R10 battery grip (€399), or external USB-C power can mitigate short battery life. - Planning is Key: Professional shooters should budget for multiple batteries and carefully manage power for all-day events or extended video shoots.
Price and Availability
RRP: ~€4499 (body only)
- CFexpress Cards: Essential for optimal burst speeds and high-bitrate video.
- Batteries & Grip: Expect an extra €300–700 for accessories if you’re shooting professionally.
While the R5 Mark II’s cost is considerable, it remains competitive in the premium market, sitting between Nikon’s Z8 (€4099) and Sony’s A7R V (€4499).
Conclusion: A Polished Hybrid Powerhouse
Overall Score: 9/10
The Canon EOS R5 Mark II refines an already standout formula. Its stacked sensor boosts speed and rolling-shutter control; advanced autofocus and high-end video specs cater to the most demanding photographers and videographers. Although battery life and thermal constraints remain points of caution, Canon’s improvements mark a major leap in hybrid imaging.
Who Is It For?
- Pro Photographers & Videographers: Seeking a robust, high-resolution camera that can tackle everything from sports and wildlife to commercial portraiture and 8K film projects.
- Serious Enthusiasts: Ready to invest in an advanced tool with top-notch image quality, future-proofed video resolution, and intuitive controls.
Why Buy It?
- Industry-Leading Autofocus: Eye-control focus and rapid subject detection help nail critical moments.
- 45MP Stacked Sensor: Detailed stills, minimal rolling shutter, great high-ISO performance.
- 8K Video & 4K/120p: Cinema-level video in a compact body.
- Versatile Ergonomics & IBIS: Comfort and stability for demanding shoots.
The Canon EOS R5 Mark II demands a hefty investment, both financially and in learning its extensive feature set. For those willing to commit, it delivers a near-perfect blend of speed, resolution, and reliability—anchoring Canon’s position at the forefront of professional mirrorless imaging.
