CameraReview

Canon EOS R vs Nikon Z5 — Which Is Better?

Canon EOS R versus Nikon Z5
Side by side47 specifications
Canon · Mirrorless · 30.3 MP · Full Frame · 4K video Canon EOS R
80
WINNER
Nikon · Mirrorless · 24 MP · Full Frame · 4K video Nikon Z5
78
SCORE
Canon EOS R
Nikon Z5
General
Released
ⓘ
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182020
Announcement date
ⓘ
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
September 5, 2018July 21, 2020
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 136 x 98 x 84 mm134 x 100.5 x 69.5 mm
Camera weight 485 g675 g
Optics73/10081/100
Read the Optics Comparison

Canon EOS R vs Nikon Z5 Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z5 emerges as the winner in our optics comparison, with a score of 81/100, while the Canon EOS R trails behind with a score of 73/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as full-frame CMOS sensors and compatibility with their respective lens mounts – Canon RF for the EOS R and Nikon Z for the Z5.

The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS R in several aspects. The Z5’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 97, compared to the EOS R’s 89. This higher score means the Z5 offers better image quality and low-light performance. Additionally, the Nikon Z5 features in-body image stabilization, which the EOS R lacks. This stabilization enables sharper images and smoother video footage, especially when shooting handheld.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R has some advantages over the Nikon Z5. The EOS R boasts 30.3 megapixels, providing higher resolution images than the Z5’s 24 megapixels. This difference allows for more detailed photos and greater flexibility in cropping and post-processing. Furthermore, the EOS R has a faster shooting speed of 8 frames per second, compared to the Z5’s 4.5 frames per second. This higher speed enables the EOS R to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively.

To sum up, the Nikon Z5’s superior sensor performance and image stabilization make it a better choice for those prioritizing image quality and low-light capabilities. However, the Canon EOS R’s higher megapixel count and faster shooting speed may appeal to those who need more detail and speed in their photography.

Megapixels
ⓘ
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
30.3 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
ⓘ
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6720 x 44806016 x 4016
Sensor type
ⓘ
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
ⓘ
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
24 x 3623.9 x 35.9
Sensor format
ⓘ
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull Frame
Continuous shooting
ⓘ
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
8 fps0454.5 fps045
Lens mount
ⓘ
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon RFNikon Z
Image processor
ⓘ
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Expeed 6
Aspect ratio
ⓘ
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
ⓘ
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
400003003280000512003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
503020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
ⓘ
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
10240030032800001024003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
ⓘ
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
ⓘ
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000800080032000
Autofocus points
ⓘ
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
565503002730300
In-body stabilisation
ⓘ
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
NoYes
Viewfinder type
ⓘ
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 369000009900000368640009900000
Video70/10083/100
Read the Video Comparison

Canon EOS R vs Nikon Z5 Video Performance

The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS R in terms of video capabilities, scoring 83/100 compared to the EOS R’s score of 70/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as 4K max video resolution, 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions, and built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Nikon Z5 has a higher max video frame rate at 60fps, while the Canon EOS R is limited to 30fps. This difference allows the Z5 to capture smoother, more detailed footage, particularly in fast-paced or action-packed scenes. The higher frame rate also provides greater flexibility in post-production, such as creating slow-motion effects.

The Canon EOS R, despite its lower score, still offers quality video recording capabilities. Its 4K resolution, 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions, and built-in time-lapse functionality are on par with the Nikon Z5. However, the lower frame rate of 30fps may limit its versatility in certain shooting scenarios.

In comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS R and Nikon Z5, the Z5 emerges as the superior option due to its higher max video frame rate of 60fps. This advantage allows for smoother, more detailed footage and greater post-production flexibility. While the Canon EOS R has strong video recording features, its lower frame rate makes it less versatile than the Nikon Z5.

Video
ⓘ
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
YesYes
Max video resolution
ⓘ
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K4K
Max video format
ⓘ
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
3840 x 21603840 x 2160
Max video frame rate
ⓘ
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
30 fps60 fps
Timelapse built in
ⓘ
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
YesYes
Video file format
ⓘ
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MP4MPEG-4, MOV
Features87/10072/100
Read the Features Comparison

Canon EOS R vs Nikon Z5 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R emerges as the winner in the features comparison with a score of 87/100, while the Nikon Z5 trails behind with a score of 72/100. Both cameras have several features in common, including a 3.2-inch touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth capabilities.

The Canon EOS R outperforms the Nikon Z5 primarily in screen resolution, boasting a resolution of 2,100,000 dots compared to the Z5’s 1,040,000 dots. This higher resolution results in a crisper and clearer display, allowing users to better review their images and navigate menus.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z5 does not possess any specific features that make it superior to the Canon EOS R. Both cameras share the same screen size, GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth capabilities, making them quite similar in terms of functionality. However, the Canon EOS R’s higher screen resolution sets it apart and contributes to its higher score.

In the end, the Canon EOS R clearly excels in the features department, offering a superior screen resolution that enhances the user experience. The Nikon Z5, while not lacking in essential features, does not provide any additional benefits in comparison to its competitor. Therefore, the Canon EOS R is the better camera in terms of features, as reflected by its higher score.

Builtin flash
ⓘ
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
✗✗
External flash
ⓘ
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
YesYes
GPS
ⓘ
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
✗✗
Weather sealing
ⓘ
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
YesNo
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
ⓘ
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
YesYes
Screen size 3.2"3.2"
Screen dots
ⓘ
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2100000115000150000010400001150001500000
Flip screen
ⓘ
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
YesYes
Live view
ⓘ
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
YesYes
Wi-Fi
ⓘ
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
YesYes
Bluetooth
ⓘ
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
YesYes
Storage & battery35/10073/100
Read the Storage & battery Comparison

Canon EOS R vs Nikon Z5 Storage and Battery

The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS R in storage and battery, scoring 73/100 compared to the Canon EOS R’s 35/100. Both cameras have SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-II compatible) memory card compatibility and offer USB charging.

The Nikon Z5 surpasses the Canon EOS R with its two memory card slots, providing more storage options and backup capabilities. Additionally, the Nikon Z5’s battery life lasts for 470 shots, 100 shots more than the Canon EOS R’s 370 shots, making it more suitable for extended shooting sessions. The Nikon Z5 uses the EN-EL15c battery type, which contributes to its longer battery life.

The Canon EOS R, however, does not have any notable advantages in storage and battery over the Nikon Z5. Both cameras share similar features, but the Nikon Z5’s longer battery life and dual memory card slots make it the better choice in this category. Therefore, for photographers prioritizing storage and battery capabilities, the Nikon Z5 is the recommended option.

Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots NoYes
Battery type LP-E6NEN-EL15c
Battery life
ⓘ
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
370 shots1505000470 shots1505000
USB charging YesNo

Your comparison

Choose two to four cameras.