Canon EOS R vs Canon EOS R5: A Comprehensive Comparison for RF 24-240mm & RF 28-70mm Shooters

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially when considering the impressive offerings from Canon’s EOS R system. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison of two popular setups: the Canon EOS R paired with the versatile RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM lens, against the powerhouse Canon EOS R5 with its professional-grade RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens.
This battle goes beyond mere specifications, delving into real-world performance, image quality, and ultimately, which setup best suits your photographic needs and budget. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer seeking a do-it-all solution or a seasoned professional looking for the ultimate image quality, this comparison has something for everyone.

The Contenders: A Quick Overview

Canon EOS R + RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM:

• Camera: Full-frame mirrorless with 30.3MP sensor, 4K video at 30fps, and excellent autofocus.
• Lens: All-in-one zoom lens offering a wide range of focal lengths from 24mm to 240mm, making it ideal for travel and everyday shooting.
• Key Features: Compact size, image stabilization, and affordability.

Canon EOS R5 + RF 28-70mm f/2L USM:

• Camera: Full-frame mirrorless with 45MP sensor, 8K video at 30fps, advanced autofocus, and impressive low-light performance.
• Lens: Professional-grade zoom lens with a constant f/2 aperture, providing exceptional sharpness and low-light capabilities.
• Key Features: High resolution, fast autofocus, and superior image quality.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Lenses

The RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM, while versatile, is a compromise lens. Its variable aperture and wide zoom range come at the cost of slightly less sharpness and detail compared to the RF 28-70mm f/2L USM. The f/2L lens, with its larger aperture and superior optics, delivers stunning clarity, especially in low-light conditions.
However, the RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM holds its own in well-lit situations. It produces images with good detail and pleasing color rendition. The key takeaway here is that the RF 28-70mm f/2L USM offers a noticeable edge in image quality, especially for demanding photography scenarios like low-light shooting or professional work.

Autofocus: Speed and Accuracy

Both cameras boast impressive autofocus systems. The EOS R5 takes the lead with its advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF, offering incredibly fast and accurate autofocus across the entire sensor. This makes it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects, like wildlife or sports. The EOS R also performs well, with its own Dual Pixel CMOS AF, but the EOS R5’s system is simply more advanced.
The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens complements the EOS R5’s autofocus prowess with its fast and silent autofocus motor. The RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM, while not as fast, still provides reliable autofocus performance.

Video Capabilities: A Clear Winner

The EOS R5 is the undisputed video champion in this matchup. Its ability to shoot 8K video at 30fps is unmatched, offering unparalleled resolution and detail for video professionals and enthusiasts. The EOS R, while capable of 4K video recording, falls short in terms of resolution and advanced features.
The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM, with its constant aperture, is a perfect companion for video recording, providing consistent exposure and shallow depth of field. The RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM, while versatile, may struggle with variable aperture in video recording, leading to inconsistent exposure.

Ergonomics and Design: A Matter of Preference

The EOS R and EOS R5 share a similar design language, with comfortable grips and intuitive controls. The EOS R5 is slightly larger and heavier, reflecting its professional-grade features. The EOS R, on the other hand, is more compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel photography.
The RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is remarkably compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around all day. The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM, while larger and heavier, still feels well-balanced on the EOS R5.

Price and Value: Finding the Right Balance

The Canon EOS R + RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM combo is the more budget-friendly option, making it an attractive choice for beginners or photographers on a tighter budget. The EOS R5 + RF 28-70mm f/2L USM, while significantly more expensive, offers unparalleled performance and image quality, making it a worthy investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your budget and photographic needs. If you prioritize affordability and versatility, the EOS R + RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is a solid choice. If you demand the highest image quality, advanced video capabilities, and professional-grade performance, the EOS R5 + RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is the clear winner.

Beyond the Specs: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

This comparison isn‘t just about numbers and specs; it’s about understanding your photographic needs and finding the right tool for the job.
The EOS R + RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM excels as a versatile, everyday camera. Its compact size, all-in-one zoom lens, and affordability make it perfect for travel, street photography, and casual shooting.
The EOS R5 + RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is a powerhouse for professional and demanding photographers. Its high resolution, advanced autofocus, and superior image quality make it ideal for weddings, portraits, wildlife photography, and professional video production.

Final Thoughts: A Matter of Perspective

The Canon EOS R + RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM and Canon EOS R5 + RF 28-70mm f/2L USM are both excellent camera and lens combinations, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
The EOS R + RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM offers a compelling blend of affordability, versatility, and ease of use. It’s a great choice for photographers seeking a do-it-all solution.
The EOS R5 + RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is a professional-grade setup that delivers exceptional image quality, advanced features, and unmatched performance. It’s the ideal choice for serious photographers and videographers who demand the best.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs, budget, and photographic aspirations.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Is the EOS R5 worth the extra cost over the EOS R?
A: If you prioritize image quality, advanced features, and professional-grade performance, the EOS R5 is definitely worth the extra cost. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and need a versatile camera for everyday use, the EOS R is a great value proposition.
Q: Which lens is better for video recording, the RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM or the RF 28-70mm f/2L USM?
A: The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM is a better choice for video recording due to its constant aperture, which provides consistent exposure and shallow depth of field. The RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM’s variable aperture can lead to inconsistent exposure in video recording.
Q: Is the RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM good enough for professional photography?
A: While the RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is a versatile lens, it may not be ideal for all professional photography scenarios. For demanding work, such as weddings or portraiture, the RF 28-70mm f/2L USM provides superior image quality and performance.
Q: Can I use the RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM on the EOS R5?
A: Yes, the RF 24-240mm f/4-6.3 IS USM is compatible with the EOS R5 and other Canon EOS R-series cameras.