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Unbelievable: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Canon EOS R5 – Which EF Lens Wins?

Drew is a passionate photographer and the founder of the popular camera review blog, "DrewCaptures." With over a decade of experience behind the lens, Drew has developed a deep understanding of the latest camera gear and technologies.

What To Know

  • The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a full-frame DSLR that has been a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts for its exceptional image quality, durability, and user-friendly interface.
  • The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is a versatile zoom lens that offers a wide range of focal lengths, making it suitable for various photographic genres.
  • The R5 and RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens combination comes at a significantly higher price than the 5D Mark IV and EF 50mm f/1.

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially when navigating the world of professional-grade equipment. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV paired with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens and the Canon EOS R5 with the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens are both powerful contenders, each offering unique strengths and catering to different photographic needs. This in-depth comparison will delve into the intricacies of these two systems, helping you make an informed decision for your photographic journey.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM: A Classic Combination

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a full-frame DSLR that has been a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts for its exceptional image quality, durability, and user-friendly interface. It boasts a 30.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor, delivering stunning detail and dynamic range. The camera’s 61-point autofocus system ensures precise focusing, while its 7fps continuous shooting rate allows you to capture fleeting moments.
The Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens is a classic portrait lens known for its exceptional sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and fast aperture. Its wide aperture allows for shallow depth of field, isolating subjects and creating stunning portraits with soft backgrounds. The lens is also incredibly versatile, suitable for various genres, including street photography, landscapes, and even low-light shooting.
Pros of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM combination:

  • Exceptional image quality: The 5D Mark IV’s sensor delivers high-resolution images with remarkable detail and color reproduction.
  • Fast and accurate autofocus: The 61-point autofocus system ensures precise and reliable focus, even in challenging lighting conditions.
  • Durable and reliable: The 5D Mark IV is built to withstand the rigors of professional use, while the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is renowned for its robust construction.
  • Classic lens with exceptional performance: The EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is a legendary lens that delivers stunning sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and excellent low-light performance.

Cons of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM combination:

  • Limited video capabilities: While the 5D Mark IV offers video recording, it’s not as advanced as the EOS R5, lacking features like internal 4K 60p recording.
  • No in-body image stabilization: The 5D Mark IV lacks in-body image stabilization, relying on the lens for stabilization, which can be limiting in certain situations.
  • Fixed focal length lens: The EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is a fixed focal length lens, requiring you to physically move closer or further away to adjust the composition.

The Canon EOS R5 and Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM: A Modern Powerhouse

The Canon EOS R5 is a full-frame mirrorless camera that pushes the boundaries of photography and videography. It features a groundbreaking 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor, capable of capturing incredible detail and dynamic range. The R5 also boasts an impressive 8-stop in-body image stabilization system, offering exceptional stability for handheld shooting. Its 20fps continuous shooting rate with electronic shutter enables capturing fast-moving subjects with ease.
The Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens is a versatile and high-performance zoom lens designed specifically for Canon’s RF mount system. Its constant f/2 aperture provides exceptional low-light performance and shallow depth of field, making it ideal for portraiture, landscapes, and everyday photography. The lens also features advanced optical stabilization, further enhancing image sharpness.
Pros of the Canon EOS R5 and Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM combination:

  • Exceptional image quality: The R5’s 45MP sensor delivers stunning detail and dynamic range, exceeding even the 5D Mark IV.
  • Advanced video capabilities: The R5 offers professional-grade video features, including internal 8K video recording and 4K 120p slow-motion footage.
  • In-body image stabilization: The R5’s 8-stop in-body image stabilization system provides exceptional stability for handheld shooting, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Versatile zoom lens: The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is a versatile zoom lens that offers a wide range of focal lengths, making it suitable for various photographic genres.

Cons of the Canon EOS R5 and Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM combination:

  • Higher price point: The R5 and RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens combination comes at a significantly higher price than the 5D Mark IV and EF 50mm f/1.4 USM.
  • Limited lens selection: The RF mount system is relatively new, and the lens selection is not as extensive as the EF mount system.
  • Overheating issues: The R5 has been known to overheat during prolonged video recording, especially in hot environments.

Choosing the Right Camera and Lens: A Detailed Breakdown

The decision between the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM and the Canon EOS R5 and Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities.
For photographers who prioritize image quality, durability, and ease of use:
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM combination is a reliable and proven choice. The 5D Mark IV’s exceptional image quality, robust build, and user-friendly interface make it a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts. The EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens is a classic that delivers stunning sharpness and beautiful bokeh, making it ideal for portraiture and various other genres.
For photographers who demand advanced video capabilities, versatility, and in-body image stabilization:
The Canon EOS R5 and Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM combination is the clear winner. The R5’s groundbreaking video features, including 8K video recording and 4K 120p slow-motion footage, make it a powerhouse for filmmaking. The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens is a versatile zoom lens that offers a wide range of focal lengths, making it ideal for both stills and video.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Other Considerations

While the camera and lens are the core components of your photographic setup, other factors can influence your decision, including:

  • Budget: The R5 and RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens combination is significantly more expensive than the 5D Mark IV and EF 50mm f/1.4 USM.
  • Lens selection: The EF mount system offers a vast array of lenses, while the RF mount system is still relatively new and has a smaller selection.
  • Shooting style: If you primarily shoot portraits or other subjects that require a fixed focal length, the EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is an excellent choice. However, if you need a versatile zoom lens for various genres, the RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is a better option.

The Final Verdict: A Matter of Preference

The choice between the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM and the Canon EOS R5 and Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is ultimately a matter of personal preference and photographic needs. Both systems offer exceptional image quality, versatility, and performance, but they cater to different shooting styles and priorities.

A New Chapter: Moving Forward

The photographic landscape is constantly evolving, and new technologies are emerging. While the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EOS R5 represent the pinnacle of their respective generations, the future holds exciting possibilities. Canon’s continued innovation in mirrorless technology suggests that the EOS R5’s capabilities will likely be surpassed by future models.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS R5 is the clear winner for video recording, offering 8K video recording, 4K 120p slow-motion footage, and advanced features like in-body image stabilization.
Q: Which system offers a wider lens selection?
A: The Canon EF mount system offers a much wider selection of lenses than the Canon RF mount system. However, the RF mount system is still relatively new, and its lens selection is expanding rapidly.
Q: Which camera is more compact and portable?
A: The Canon EOS R5 is more compact and portable than the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, thanks to its mirrorless design.
Q: Which system is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a more user-friendly camera for beginners, offering a simpler interface and a more intuitive learning curve. The Canon EOS R5 is a more advanced camera that may require a steeper learning curve.
Q: Which camera is best for low-light shooting?
A: Both cameras offer excellent low-light performance, but the Canon EOS R5 has the edge thanks to its 8-stop in-body image stabilization system.

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Drew D.

Drew is a passionate photographer and the founder of the popular camera review blog, "DrewCaptures." With over a decade of experience behind the lens, Drew has developed a deep understanding of the latest camera gear and technologies.
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