Battle of the Lenses: Canon EOS R5 vs. Canon EOS R7 – Which One Reigns Supreme for the RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM and EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III?

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. This is particularly true for Canon users, who have access to a wide range of cameras and lenses catering to different needs and budgets. In this blog post, we will delve into a head-to-head comparison of two popular setups: the Canon EOS R5 paired with the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens versus the Canon EOS R7 paired with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens.

The Canon EOS R5 and RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM: A Powerhouse for Professionals and Enthusiasts

The Canon EOS R5 is a full-frame mirrorless camera renowned for its exceptional image quality, high-speed performance, and versatility. Its 45MP sensor captures stunning detail and vibrant colors, while its 8K video recording capabilities cater to filmmakers and content creators.
The RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is a professional-grade wide-angle zoom that offers exceptional sharpness, fast aperture, and image stabilization. Its wide focal range makes it ideal for landscapes, architecture, and real estate photography.
Here’s a breakdown of their key features:
Canon EOS R5:

• Sensor: Full-frame CMOS, 45MP
• Autofocus: 1053 autofocus points, Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Continuous Shooting: Up to 20 fps with mechanical shutter, up to 12 fps with electronic shutter
• Video: 8K 30p, 4K 120p
• Image Stabilization: 5-axis in-body image stabilization

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM:

• Focal Length: 15-35mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
• Image Stabilization: 5-stop
• Autofocus: Nano USM motor
• Construction: 16 elements in 11 groups, with 3 aspherical elements and 1 UD element

The Canon EOS R7 and EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III: A Versatile Combination for Wildlife and Sports Photography

The Canon EOS R7 is a crop-sensor mirrorless camera that delivers impressive performance in a compact and lightweight body. Its 32.5MP sensor captures high-resolution images, while its 15 fps continuous shooting rate and advanced autofocus system make it a great choice for action photography.
The EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens is a popular telephoto zoom that offers a good balance of reach, affordability, and image quality. Its versatile focal length makes it suitable for wildlife, sports, and portrait photography.
Here’s a breakdown of their key features:
Canon EOS R7:

• Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 32.5MP
• Autofocus: 651 autofocus points, Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Continuous Shooting: Up to 15 fps with mechanical shutter, up to 30 fps with electronic shutter
• Video: 4K 60p, 1080p 120p
• Image Stabilization: 5-axis in-body image stabilization

Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III:

• Focal Length: 75-300mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/4-5.6
• Image Stabilization: Not available
• Autofocus: Micro-motor
• Construction: 14 elements in 10 groups, with 1 UD element

Comparing Performance: Image Quality, Autofocus, and Video Capabilities

Image Quality: The Canon EOS R5 with its full-frame sensor delivers superior image quality compared to the Canon EOS R7. It offers higher dynamic range, better low-light performance, and more detail in the shadows and highlights. However, the Canon EOS R7’s 32.5MP sensor still produces impressive images, especially for everyday photography.
Autofocus: Both cameras feature advanced autofocus systems with Dual Pixel CMOS AF. The Canon EOS R5 boasts a wider coverage area with 1053 autofocus points, making it more effective for tracking fast-moving subjects. The Canon EOS R7’s autofocus system is also highly capable, with 651 autofocus points that provide excellent subject tracking.
Video Capabilities: The Canon EOS R5 is the clear winner in video recording capabilities. Its 8K 30p video recording is unmatched in the APS-C category, while its 4K 120p option allows for slow-motion footage. The Canon EOS R7 can record 4K 60p video, which is still impressive, but it lacks the high-resolution and high-frame-rate capabilities of the EOS R5.

Lens Performance: Reach vs. Versatility

Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM: This lens offers a wide focal range, making it ideal for capturing expansive landscapes, architectural details, and interiors. Its fast aperture is perfect for low-light photography and achieving shallow depth of field for creative effects. The lens also features image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake for sharper images.
Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III: This lens provides a significant reach, making it perfect for capturing distant subjects like wildlife, sports events, and portraits. However, its slower aperture limits its low-light performance and depth of field control. It also lacks image stabilization, which can be a drawback in low-light conditions.

Choosing the Right Combination for Your Needs

The best camera and lens combination for you will depend on your specific photography needs and budget.
Canon EOS R5 and RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM: This setup is ideal for photographers who prioritize image quality, versatility, and video capabilities. It’s a great choice for professional photographers, landscape photographers, and those who want to capture stunning detail and vibrant colors.
Canon EOS R7 and EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III: This setup is a good option for photographers who need a combination of reach and affordability. It’s a great choice for wildlife photographers, sports photographers, and those who want to capture distant subjects.

Beyond the Basics: Considering Other Factors

When making your decision, it’s important to consider other factors beyond the camera and lens specifications. These include:

• Ergonomics and Handling: The Canon EOS R5 is a larger and heavier camera, while the Canon EOS R7 is more compact and lightweight. Consider which size and weight is most comfortable for you.
• Battery Life: The Canon EOS R5 has a slightly longer battery life than the Canon EOS R7. If you plan to shoot for extended periods, this could be a factor to consider.
• Connectivity: Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for transferring images and remote control.
• Price: The Canon EOS R5 and RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM combination is significantly more expensive than the Canon EOS R7 and EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III setup.

The Verdict: The Best Choice for You

Ultimately, the best camera and lens combination for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, versatility, and video capabilities, the Canon EOS R5 with the RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is the clear winner. However, if you need a balance of reach and affordability, the Canon EOS R7 with the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens is a solid option.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon EOS R5 and Canon EOS R7 are excellent cameras, there are other options available that may be a better fit for your specific needs.
For example, the Canon EOS R6 offers similar image quality to the EOS R5 but at a more affordable price. It also features 20fps continuous shooting and 4K 60p video recording.
If you’re looking for a more compact and lightweight camera, the Canon EOS R10 is a great option. It features a 24.2MP sensor, 15fps continuous shooting, and 4K 30p video recording.
When it comes to lenses, there are countless options available for both full-frame and crop-sensor cameras. Consider your specific needs and budget when choosing a lens.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Is the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens compatible with the Canon EOS R7?
A: No, the Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8L IS USM lens is designed for Canon EOS R-series full-frame mirrorless cameras. It is not compatible with the Canon EOS R7, which is a crop-sensor camera.
Q: What is the difference between the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III and the Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens?
A: The Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens is a more advanced lens with better image quality, faster autofocus, and image stabilization. It also features a wider maximum aperture of f/4 at the wide end. However, it is also significantly more expensive than the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens.
Q: Can I use a Canon EF lens on a Canon EOS R5 or EOS R7?
A: Yes, you can use Canon EF lenses on Canon EOS R-series cameras with the use of a Canon EF-EOS R adapter. This adapter allows you to mount EF lenses onto the RF mount of the camera.
Q: What is the best lens for wildlife photography with the Canon EOS R7?
A: The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens is a popular choice for wildlife photography with the Canon EOS R7. It offers excellent reach, image quality, and image stabilization. However, other lenses like the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM lens or the Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens can also be good options depending on your budget and needs.