The Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs. EOS R5 – Which Camera Delivers the Best Bang for Your Buck?

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the vast array of options available. Today, we’ll delve into a head-to-head comparison of two popular setups: the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV paired with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens, and the Canon EOS R5 coupled with the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM lens.
This comparison will help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each setup, enabling you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and photographic style.

The Contenders: A Brief Overview

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM:

• Camera: The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a full-frame DSLR known for its high image quality, reliable performance, and robust build. It features a 30.4MP sensor, 4K video recording, and a 61-point autofocus system.
• Lens: The Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is a classic portrait lens offering a wide aperture for shallow depth of field and excellent sharpness. It’s known for its fast autofocus and compact size.

Canon EOS R5 with Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM:

• Camera: The Canon EOS R5 is a mirrorless full-frame camera boasting impressive features like 45MP resolution, 8K video recording, and a groundbreaking 1053-point autofocus system.
• Lens: The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a high-end portrait lens designed for the RF mount. It offers exceptional sharpness, beautiful bokeh, and fast autofocus, making it a favorite among professional photographers.

Image Quality: Resolution and Detail

The Canon EOS R5, with its 45MP sensor, clearly takes the lead in terms of resolution and detail. The EOS 5D Mark IV, with its 30.4MP sensor, still delivers excellent image quality but falls short in terms of raw detail compared to the R5. This difference becomes apparent when viewing images at large sizes or making substantial crops.
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM, with its advanced optical design, produces exceptionally sharp images with excellent detail retention. The Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, while a capable lens, does show some softness at wide apertures, especially in the corners.

Autofocus Performance: Speed and Accuracy

The Canon EOS R5’s 1053-point autofocus system is incredibly fast and accurate, especially in low light. The EOS 5D Mark IV’s 61-point autofocus system, while reliable, is less advanced and struggles to keep up with fast-moving subjects in challenging lighting conditions.
The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is designed for fast and accurate autofocus, while the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM, while capable, can sometimes struggle with focusing speed, especially in low light.

Video Capabilities: 4K vs 8K

The Canon EOS R5 is a video powerhouse, offering 8K video recording at 30fps and 4K video at up to 120fps. The EOS 5D Mark IV, while capable of 4K video recording, is limited to 30fps and lacks the high frame rates offered by the R5.

Ergonomics and Handling: DSLR vs Mirrorless

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, being a DSLR, has a more traditional feel with its viewfinder and physical dials. The Canon EOS R5, being mirrorless, offers a more compact and lightweight design with a large electronic viewfinder and touchscreen interface. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference and shooting style.

Lens Selection: EF vs RF

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV utilizes the EF lens mount, giving you access to a vast library of Canon lenses. The Canon EOS R5 uses the RF lens mount, which is a newer system with a smaller flange distance, allowing for smaller and lighter lenses.

Price and Value: A Matter of Budget

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is a more affordable option compared to the Canon EOS R5 with the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM. The R5 and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM represent a significant investment, but the advanced features and image quality justify the price tag for professional photographers.

Wrap-Up: Choosing the Right Setup

The choice between the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM and the Canon EOS R5 with the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM is a great choice for:

• Photographers on a budget: It offers excellent image quality and performance at a more affordable price point.
• Those who prefer the traditional DSLR experience: The physical dials and viewfinder provide a familiar and comfortable shooting experience.
• Photographers who need a wide range of lenses: The EF lens mount provides access to a vast library of Canon lenses.

The Canon EOS R5 with the Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is ideal for:

• Professional photographers who demand the highest image quality: The 45MP sensor and RF 85mm f/1.2L USM lens deliver exceptional detail and sharpness.
• Video enthusiasts: The 8K video recording capabilities and advanced autofocus make it a powerful video tool.
• Photographers who prioritize speed and accuracy: The 1053-point autofocus system is incredibly fast and reliable.

Ultimately, the best setup for you will depend on your individual needs and shooting style.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which camera is better for low light photography?
A: The Canon EOS R5 with its superior autofocus system and larger sensor excels in low light conditions.
Q: Which lens is better for portraits?
A: The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM is a dedicated portrait lens known for its beautiful bokeh and sharpness, making it a better choice for portraits.
Q: Which camera is better for action photography?
A: The Canon EOS R5 with its faster autofocus and higher frame rates is better suited for action photography.
Q: Which camera is more compact and portable?
A: The Canon EOS R5, being mirrorless, is more compact and lightweight than the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, with its more traditional DSLR interface, might be easier for beginners to learn. However, the Canon EOS R5 offers a user-friendly touchscreen interface and excellent autofocus capabilities that can make it a good option for beginners as well.