What To Know
- When it comes to Canon, the EOS 5D Mark IV paired with the EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens and the EOS R5 with the RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens are two popular choices that cater to different shooting styles and needs.
- While the 5D Mark IV delivers excellent image quality, the EOS R5’s higher resolution and advanced sensor technology give it the edge in terms of detail and overall sharpness.
- The EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens is a reliable and well-built lens with a smooth zoom ring and a comfortable grip.
Choosing the right camera and lens combination is a crucial decision for any photographer. When it comes to Canon, the EOS 5D Mark IV paired with the EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens and the EOS R5 with the RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens are two popular choices that cater to different shooting styles and needs.
In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each system, exploring their image quality, autofocus performance, features, and overall suitability for various photography genres. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which camera and lens combo aligns best with your photographic aspirations.
The Contenders: A Detailed Look
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a full-frame DSLR known for its exceptional image quality and rugged build. Its 30.4MP sensor delivers stunning detail and low-light performance. The EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens is a versatile workhorse, offering a wide zoom range from wide-angle to portrait focal lengths.
Canon EOS R5 with RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM
The Canon EOS R5 is a mirrorless powerhouse, boasting 45MP resolution, 8K video recording capabilities, and impressive autofocus performance. The RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens is a prime lens renowned for its sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and macro capabilities.
Image Quality: A Battle of Megapixels
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: The 5D Mark IV’s 30.4MP sensor produces high-resolution images with excellent detail and dynamic range. It excels in capturing landscapes, portraits, and even wildlife photography. The EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens complements the sensor’s capabilities, delivering sharp images with good color rendition.
Canon EOS R5: The EOS R5 takes image quality to a new level with its 45MP sensor. It captures breathtaking detail, especially in fine textures and intricate patterns. The RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens further enhances the sharpness and clarity, making it ideal for portraiture, macro photography, and product shots.
Verdict: While the 5D Mark IV delivers excellent image quality, the EOS R5’s higher resolution and advanced sensor technology give it the edge in terms of detail and overall sharpness.
Autofocus: Speed and Precision
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: The 5D Mark IV features a 61-point autofocus system with 45 cross-type points, providing reliable and fast focusing. The EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens incorporates a ring-type USM motor for quick and silent autofocus, making it suitable for both stills and video.
Canon EOS R5: The EOS R5 boasts a revolutionary autofocus system with 1053 autofocus points that cover nearly the entire sensor area. It utilizes Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology for incredibly fast and accurate focusing, even in low light. The RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens complements the system, ensuring pinpoint accuracy and smooth tracking.
Verdict: The EOS R5’s advanced autofocus system, with its extensive coverage and Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, outperforms the 5D Mark IV‘s system in terms of speed, accuracy, and subject tracking.
Features and Ergonomics: A Comparison of Design
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: The 5D Mark IV offers a familiar DSLR design with a robust magnesium alloy body and weather sealing. It features a 3.2-inch LCD screen, a built-in GPS receiver, and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder. The EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens is a reliable and well-built lens with a smooth zoom ring and a comfortable grip.
Canon EOS R5: The EOS R5 embraces a sleek and modern mirrorless design with a lightweight body and weather sealing. It features a 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, and a built-in 5-axis image stabilization system. The RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens is compact and lightweight, offering excellent image quality and a smooth focusing ring.
Verdict: The EOS R5’s mirrorless design offers advantages in terms of size, weight, and advanced features like in-body image stabilization. However, the 5D Mark IV‘s DSLR design might appeal to those who prefer a more traditional feel and a larger grip.
Versatility: Exploring Different Photography Genres
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM: The 5D Mark IV and the EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens combination is a versatile choice for a wide range of photography genres. The lens’s zoom range makes it suitable for landscapes, architecture, events, and even portraits. The camera’s robust build and weather sealing make it suitable for outdoor and travel photography.
Canon EOS R5 with RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM: The EOS R5 and the RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens combination excels in portraiture, macro photography, and product shots. The lens’s fast aperture creates beautiful bokeh, while its macro capabilities allow for stunning close-up detail. The camera’s 8K video recording capabilities also make it ideal for filmmaking and video production.
Verdict: The choice between the two systems depends on your primary photographic interests. The 5D Mark IV with the EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens is a versatile option for a wide range of genres, while the EOS R5 with the RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens excels in portraiture, macro, and video.
Price and Value: A Comparative Analysis
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM: The 5D Mark IV body typically costs around $2,500, while the EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens costs around $1,000. This combination offers a good balance of price and performance.
Canon EOS R5 with RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM: The EOS R5 body typically costs around $3,900, while the RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens costs around $1,400. This system is more expensive than the 5D Mark IV and EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM combination, but it offers cutting-edge features and exceptional image quality.
Verdict: The 5D Mark IV with the EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM lens offers a more affordable option, while the EOS R5 with the RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM lens represents a premium investment that delivers exceptional performance and advanced capabilities.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right System for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM and the Canon EOS R5 Canon RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM comes down to your specific needs and preferences.
Choose the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM if:
- You are looking for a robust, reliable DSLR with excellent image quality and a versatile zoom lens.
- You prioritize affordability and value for money.
- You prefer a traditional DSLR design and a larger grip.
Choose the Canon EOS R5 with RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM if:
- You need cutting-edge image quality with high resolution and advanced sensor technology.
- You prioritize autofocus speed, accuracy, and subject tracking.
- You are interested in portraiture, macro photography, and video production.
- You appreciate a sleek and modern mirrorless design with advanced features.
The Future is Now: Embracing Innovation
The Canon EOS R5 represents a significant leap forward in mirrorless technology, offering unparalleled image quality, advanced autofocus, and versatile video capabilities. While the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV remains a capable DSLR, the EOS R5 embodies the future of photography, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
What You Need to Know
Q: Is the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV still a good choice in 2023?
A: The 5D Mark IV is still a great choice for photographers who prioritize affordability and a familiar DSLR design. Its image quality and autofocus performance remain excellent, and it offers a good value for money. However, the EOS R5 offers significant advancements in resolution, autofocus, and video capabilities.
Q: What are the main differences between the EF and RF lens mounts?
A: The EF mount is Canon’s traditional DSLR mount, while the RF mount is designed specifically for Canon’s mirrorless cameras. RF lenses offer better communication with the camera body, enabling features like in-body image stabilization and faster autofocus.
Q: Which lens is better, the EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM or the RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM?
A: The EF 24-105mm f/4L II USM is a versatile zoom lens, while the RF 85mm f/2 MACRO IS STM is a specialized prime lens. The best choice depends on your shooting needs. If you need a wide range of focal lengths, the EF 24-105mm is a good option. If you prioritize sharpness, bokeh, and macro capabilities, the RF 85mm is the better choice.
Q: Can I use EF lenses on the Canon EOS R5?
A: Yes, you can use EF lenses on the EOS R5 with the optional Canon EF-EOS R Mount Adapter. However, you will lose some of the advantages of the RF mount, such as in-body image stabilization and faster autofocus.
