The Ultimate Lens Showdown: Canon EOS R5 vs RP with RF 28-70mm F2L USM vs EF 24-105mm F3.5-5.6 IS STM

Choosing the perfect camera and lens combo can be a daunting task, especially when faced with the wide array of options available. Today, we’re comparing two popular Canon kits: the Canon EOS R5 with the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM and the **Canon EOS RP with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM**. Both kits cater to different needs and budgets, offering a compelling blend of performance and versatility.
This comprehensive comparison will dissect the strengths and weaknesses of each kit, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific photography goals and requirements.

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

The Canon EOS R5 is a full-frame mirrorless powerhouse, renowned for its exceptional image quality and advanced features. Paired with the professional-grade Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens, this kit delivers a stunning combination of performance and versatility.
Strengths:

• Unmatched Image Quality: The R5 boasts a 45MP full-frame sensor, capturing incredibly detailed images with exceptional dynamic range and low-light performance.
• 8K Video Recording: The R5 is a video powerhouse, capable of capturing stunning 8K footage at 30fps, along with 4K video at 120fps for slow-motion effects.
• Fast and Accurate Autofocus: With its advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, the R5 provides lightning-fast and precise autofocus, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
• Superb Lens Performance: The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens is a true workhorse, offering excellent sharpness, vibrant colors, and a fast f/2 aperture for shallow depth of field effects.
• Advanced Features: The R5 is packed with features, including in-body image stabilization, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, and a touch-sensitive LCD screen.

Weaknesses:

• High Price: The R5 and RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens combination comes at a premium price, making it a significant investment.
• Overheating Issues: The R5 is known to overheat during extended video recording, especially in 8K mode.
• Limited Battery Life: The R5’s battery life is relatively short, requiring frequent charging or carrying spare batteries.

The Budget-Friendly Option: Canon EOS RP with Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM

The Canon EOS RP is a more affordable full-frame mirrorless camera, designed for photographers and videographers looking for a balance of performance and value. The EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a versatile standard zoom lens, offering a wide range of focal lengths for everyday photography.
Strengths:

• Affordable Price: The RP and EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens combo is significantly more affordable than the R5 kit, making it a great entry point into the full-frame world.
• Lightweight and Compact: Both the RP and the EF 24-105mm lens are relatively lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and use for extended periods.
• Good Image Quality: The RP delivers excellent image quality, especially in good lighting conditions.
• Decent Autofocus Performance: The RP’s autofocus system is reliable and fast enough for most everyday shooting scenarios.
• Built-in Image Stabilization: The EF 24-105mm lens features optical image stabilization, helping to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images.

Weaknesses:

• Lower Resolution: The RP features a 26.2MP sensor, which is lower than the R5’s 45MP sensor. This means you’ll have a slightly lower resolution and less detail in your images.
• Slower Continuous Shooting: The RP’s continuous shooting speed is limited compared to the R5.
• Limited Video Features: The RP offers 4K video recording at 25/30fps, but lacks the advanced video features found in the R5.

Choosing the Right Kit: A Detailed Comparison

To make the right choice, consider the following factors:
Image Quality and Resolution: If you prioritize high-resolution images with exceptional detail, the R5 with its 45MP sensor is the clear winner. However, the RP’s 26.2MP sensor still delivers excellent image quality for most everyday photography.
Video Capabilities: If you’re a serious videographer, the R5’s 8K video recording and advanced video features are unbeatable. The RP offers 4K video recording, but its capabilities are limited compared to the R5.
Autofocus Performance: Both cameras offer fast and reliable autofocus, but the R5’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system is generally faster and more accurate, especially when tracking moving subjects.
Lens Choice: The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens is a professional-grade lens with exceptional sharpness, fast aperture, and excellent image quality. The EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a versatile standard zoom lens that offers great value for money.
Budget: The R5 kit is significantly more expensive than the RP kit. If budget is a major concern, the RP offers a more affordable entry into full-frame photography.
Portability: Both kits are relatively compact and lightweight, but the RP and EF 24-105mm lens combination is slightly smaller and lighter, making it more portable for everyday use.

Beyond the Specs: Considerations for Your Photography Style

Beyond the technical specifications, your photography style and needs play a crucial role in deciding which kit is right for you.
Landscape Photography: Both kits are suitable for landscape photography. The wider focal length of the EF 24-105mm lens might be slightly more advantageous for capturing expansive landscapes.
Portrait Photography: Both kits are capable of producing stunning portraits. The RF 28-70mm f/2L USM lens‘s fast aperture allows for shallow depth of field effects, isolating your subject and creating a more artistic look.
Wildlife Photography: The R5’s fast autofocus and advanced features make it a better choice for wildlife photography, especially when capturing fast-moving subjects.
Wedding Photography: The R5’s high-resolution sensor and advanced features are ideal for capturing high-quality images at weddings. However, the RP’s portability and affordability make it a viable option for budget-conscious wedding photographers.
Travel Photography: Both kits are suitable for travel photography. The RP’s compactness and affordability make it a more convenient choice for carrying around on a trip.

The Verdict: Which Kit Should You Choose?

Canon EOS R5 with Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM: This kit is the ultimate choice for professional photographers and videographers who demand the highest image quality, advanced features, and exceptional performance. It’s also ideal for those who prioritize video recording, particularly in 8K resolution.
Canon EOS RP with Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: This kit is a fantastic option for budget-conscious photographers and videographers who are new to full-frame photography or those looking for a versatile and portable setup for everyday shooting.
Ultimately, the best kit for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and photography style. Carefully consider your priorities and make an informed decision based on the factors we’ve discussed.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon EOS R5 and EOS RP kits are excellent choices, it’s worth exploring other options that might better suit your specific needs.

• Canon EOS R6: The Canon EOS R6 offers a balance between the performance of the R5 and the affordability of the RP. It features a 20MP full-frame sensor, 4K video recording at 60fps, and excellent autofocus performance.
• Canon EOS R: The Canon EOS R is a more affordable full-frame mirrorless camera that offers a great entry point into the EOS R system. It features a 30.3MP full-frame sensor, 4K video recording at 30fps, and a compact design.
• Canon EOS 6D Mark II: For those who prefer a DSLR, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a fantastic full-frame option. It offers a 26.2MP sensor, 4K video recording at 30fps, and a powerful autofocus system.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Fit

Choosing the right camera and lens combination is a personal decision that requires careful consideration of your needs and preferences. By comparing the Canon EOS R5 Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM and Canon EOS RP Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM kits, and exploring other options, you can find the perfect setup to unleash your photographic potential and capture stunning images and videos.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which kit is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS RP with Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is a more beginner-friendly option due to its affordability and user-friendly interface.
Q: Can I use EF lenses on the Canon EOS R5 and EOS RP?
A: Yes, both cameras can use EF lenses with the optional Canon EF-EOS R adapter.
Q: What are the main differences between the Canon EOS R5 and EOS RP?
A: The Canon EOS R5 offers higher resolution, advanced video features, faster autofocus, and a more robust build than the EOS RP. However, the EOS RP is significantly more affordable.
Q: Which kit is best for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS R5 with its larger sensor and higher ISO capabilities is better suited for low-light photography.