EOS R5 Mark II vs EOS R5: Top 12 upgrades

In anticipation of a barrage of questions, we have pulled together a summary of how the new Mark II compares to its popular established version. The original EOS R5 was a groundbreaking camera and still remains hugely popular almost 4 years after it’s launch. But with a backdrop of technological innovation, we have been able to add even more advanced features and upgrades to the Mark II.

Whether it be stills or videos, the EOS R5 Mark II is the camera that helps you master the moment.

See the full specs comparison table

1. Faster readout speeds with a new 45MP Back-illuminated stacked CMOS sensor

Whilst the EOS R5 Mark II maintains the same 45MP resolution as the original EOS R5, the sensor features a new back-illuminated stacked design which delivers 2 key benefits:

• Stacked design offers faster readout speeds. This reduces rolling shutter distortion in the EOS R5 Mark II down to a level about 40% compared to that of the original EOS R5.

• Back illuminated sensors are able to gather more light which helps to reduce noise.

2. Increase frame speeds and processing time with the accelerated capture system

The new EOS R5 Mark II features a DIGIC X processor combined with a new DIGIC Accelerator processor. These dual processors work together to capture and analyse huge volumes of data at lightening speeds, powering new shooting modes and autofocus capabilities. Continuous shooting speeds are now increased to 30 frames per second in electronic shutter mode.

3. Next generation autofocus tracking for greater precision

Track moving subjects with precision and ease like never before. EOS R5 Mark II can distinguish between human heads and obstacles that have come in front of them (avoiding obstacles by estimating head area), and a new algorithm keeps focus on a person’s head even when obstacles block their face.

4. Focus on a specific person with Register People Priority mode

Register People Priority mode allows you to register and prioritise specific people to ensure your primary subject is the focus of attention. Perfect for shooting specific players on sporting teams or when shooting a wedding, you can ensure that the camera keeps focus on the bride and groom.

5. Maintain a sharp focus with Action Priority mode

This innovative new autofocus mode identifies actions unique to specific sports events, with support for Soccer, Basketball and Volleyball. Deep learning algorithms enable high-speed detection and identification of multiple people, status of joints, and ball positions, then move the AF point to the correct subject at the critical time to capture decisive moments.

6. Experience rapid and precise focus with Eye Control AF – which follows the photographer’s eye

Sensors in the electronic viewfinder track the movement of the photographers’ eye which enables the user to quickly change tracking to another subject. Upgrades from the Eye Control AF system in the EOS R5 include 2x faster detection rate and increased detection range which will benefit users who wear glasses whilst shooting.

7. Increase the resolution with In-camera image upscaling

New to the EOS R5 Mark II, in-camera image upscaling allows you to select an image on your memory card which has been shot by the EOS R5 Mark II and upscale the resolution by 4x to approx 179MP. This can be combined with in-camera cropping to isolate subjects offering more resolution on hand when you need it.

8. Pre-shooting in stills and movie modes

Go back in time to capture what might have been missed with 0.5 second pre-continuous stills shooting. This helps you capture the decisive moment in sharp focus even before you've pressed the button. Switch to movie mode and you can capture scenes from 3 or 5 seconds before recording was started.

9. Advanced Cinema EOS compatibility

Shoot at up to 8K 60p RAW Light video with a wide range of Cinema EOS level options such as Custom Picture, Look-up tables (LUT’s), Canon Log 2, Canon Log 3 and proxy recording. Cooling fan CF-R20EP (sold separately) can be attached to the EOS R5 Mark II to enable longer shooting times when filming in high quality 8K and 4K movie modes.

10. Larger, brighter viewfinder

The 5.76 million dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) is the same resolution as the original EOS R5, but it is now approximately 2x brighter. The viewfinder eyepiece is also larger and combined with extra brightness, this makes the viewfinder more comfortable and easy to use.

11. Greater power with the new LP-E6P Battery

This new high-powered battery extends shooting times and powers many new features which have high processing power requirements. Battery size and shape are maintained, so LP-E6NH battery can also be used in EOS R5 Mark II however some advanced features require LP-E6P to function.

12. 21-pin multifunction shoe and HDMI Type A

Canon’s new digital multifunction shoe provides data communication and power for a range of accessories including flashes, microphones and transmitters. Multi-Function Shoe adapter AD-E1 (sold separately) also enables use of older accessories. A full-size HDMI port offers greater compatibility and cable stability.

Who is the EOS R5 Mark II best suited for?

Taking the groundbreaking original EOS R5 as its inspiration, the new EOS R5 Mark II offers a huge range of new innovations to bring the EOS 5-series into the next generation. The EOS R5 Mark II is the ultimate all-round hybrid camera which is equally at home in the hands of professionals and enthusiasts, whether they are shooting stills or video, at weddings and events, travel and landscapes and now even sports and action.

What’s more, the EOS R5 Mark II pairs perfectly with Canon’s revolutionary range of RF lenses which offers you the flexibility to swap lenses to get the best of every situation.

Learn more about the EOS R5 Mark II here.