Canon R5 II - Worse image quality and missing features?

Summary

In this detailed review of the Canon EOS R5 Mark I, the user shares insights gained from extensive use in various locations, comparing it with the original R5. While praising the new camera for its performance and features, the reviewer highlights concerns over high ISO noise and dynamic range, noting the original R5's superiority in these areas. They discuss the advantages of the stacked sensor for wildlife photography and the impact of removed features, such as high-resolution IBIS shots and dual pixel RAW support. Ultimately, the reviewer remains enthusiastic about the R5 Mark I, emphasizing its suitability for fast-paced shooting.

Takeaways

• 📸 The Canon EOS R5 Mark I has been actively used for wildlife photography in Germany, Italy, and Switzerland.
• 🔍 Image quality concerns have been raised regarding the R5 Mark I, particularly in high ISO performance compared to its predecessor, the R5.
• 🌌 The R5 shows better noise performance at high ISO settings, especially in darker areas of images.
• 🎛️ Both cameras perform comparably well at lower ISO settings, with the R5 Mark I showing advantages in electronic shutter mode at low ISO.
• 🔄 The original R5 is noted for better dynamic range performance when using the mechanical shutter, particularly in landscape photography.
• ⚡ The R5 Mark I benefits from a stacked sensor, which improves performance in fast-action photography by minimizing rolling shutter effects.
• 🚫 Certain features have been removed in the R5 Mark I, including high-resolution image stabilization shots and Dual Pixel RAW support.
• 📂 Videos and still images are saved in different folders in the R5 Mark I, which may affect workflow for some users.
• 🔋 The R5 Mark I requires the new battery for certain video features, limiting compatibility with older batteries.
• 🔔 Overall satisfaction with the R5 Mark I is expressed, alongside an openness to feedback and future content updates.

Q & A

What experiences did the speaker have while using the Canon EOS R5 Mark I?

The speaker has extensively used the Canon EOS R5 Mark I over the past month for photography in various locations, including Germany, Italy, and Switzerland, capturing images of wildlife.

What concerns were raised about the image quality of the R5 Mark I compared to its predecessor?

There were discussions online regarding the R5 Mark I's image quality, particularly its higher ISO performance and dynamic range, which some users felt was worse than the original R5.

How did the speaker conduct tests to compare the image quality of the two cameras?

The speaker set up controlled conditions at home using artificial light and closed blinds, testing both cameras at various ISO levels and shutter modes.

At what ISO levels did the original R5 show better noise performance than the R5 Mark I?

The original R5 showed a clearer advantage in noise performance, especially at higher ISO levels, such as 6,400 and 25,600 ISO.

What advantage does the R5 Mark I have when using the electronic shutter?

The R5 Mark I can record 14-bit files with the electronic shutter, whereas the original R5 is limited to 12-bit files.

In what scenarios does the speaker recommend using the mechanical shutter of the original R5?

The speaker recommends using the mechanical shutter for landscape photography and situations requiring a higher dynamic range, despite its downsides like noise and slower frame rates.

What features were removed in the R5 Mark I that the speaker found significant?

Key features removed include the high-resolution in-body image stabilization (IBIS) shot, Dual Pixel Raw, and the ability to create RAW multiple exposure images.

How does the speaker feel about the new battery requirements for certain video features?

The speaker finds it slightly annoying that new video features, such as 4K 120 and 4K 30 modes, only work with the new battery, as they preferred to use their older batteries.

What is the speaker's overall impression of the Canon EOS R5 Mark I?

Overall, the speaker is very happy with the R5 Mark I, despite some concerns about image quality and missing features, and they are still testing its capabilities.

What does the speaker plan to do in the future regarding reviews of Canon cameras?

The speaker intends to continue testing the R5 Mark I and plans to create a full review later, as well as provide insights on the Canon e R1.