Canon 5D Mark II vs Canon EOS R: A Hands-On, In-Depth Comparison

Stepping into the Canon universe brings you face-to-face with legendary cameras that have shaped photography lore. Among these, the Canon 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS R represent two pivotal moments in Canon’s evolution - from seasoned DSLR tradition to the mirrorless future. For those eager to understand how these two stack up after thoroughly testing them in the real world, this comparison breaks down everything that matters: image quality, autofocus, usability, and more. I’ve put both cameras through my standard battery of tests across genres ranging from portraiture to wildlife, blending technical analysis with practical experience. Let’s dive in.

Understanding the Physical Presence and Handling

I often start my hands-on testing by feeling how a camera sits in the hand, which influences every shooting experience. The Canon 5D Mark II sports the solid, reassuring heft typical of Canon’s mid-size DSLRs from its era. Weighing about 850 grams and measuring roughly 152x114x75 mm, it fits comfortably in my palm, offering that classic SLR heft many pros like (and expect). The grip is deep, and buttons are laid out intuitively though traditional, with no touchscreen or articulating screen options.

In contrast, the Canon EOS R weighs in lighter at just 660 grams and is noticeably more compact at 136x98x84 mm. Its mirrorless design shrinks body thickness, trading some bulk for portability without compromising on grip comfort. As a shooter who loves wandering with a camera, the reduced size and weight are big pluses during extended use or travel. The control layout feels more modern, integrating the touchscreen for faster access and an articulating mechanism to frame at odd angles or selfies.

Adding to ergonomics, the 5D Mark II employs a fixed 3-inch TFT LCD with modest resolution, whereas the EOS R steps up to a 3.2-inch fully articulated touchscreen boasting 2100K dots, giving a crisper and more versatile viewing experience.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

At first glance, you might assume the older 5D Mark II and the newer EOS R differ wildly in sensor tech - and you’d be right. The 5D Mark II houses a 21MP full-frame CMOS sensor with Canon's vintage Digic 4 processor. The sensor size remains the same 36x24mm full-frame, but resolution maxes at 5616x3744 pixels, adequate for large prints and crop versatility, especially in its heyday. This camera introduced many photographers to full-frame digital shooting because of its excellent color depth (23.7 bits) and respectable dynamic range (11.9 EV) measured on DxOMark.

However, advancing technology propels the EOS R with a 30MP full-frame CMOS sensor paired with a newer processor (unnamed but certainly more advanced), boosting resolution to 6720x4480 pixels. The EOS R's sensor also brings a significantly enhanced dynamic range of 13.5 EV and greater color depth (24.5 bits), translating into more detail in shadows and highlights, smoother gradations, and richer, more nuanced skin tones.

On the noise front, the 5D II’s low-light ISO performance isn’t bad - rated for ISO 6400 natively and boosted to 25600 - but pales next to the EOS R’s cleaner ability up to ISO 40000, extendable to 102400. This is critical if you shoot events, astro, or indoor sports when ambient light is scarce.

The antialiasing filters in both cameras reduce moiré patterns but slightly soften fine detail. The EOS R’s sensor, however, more effectively balances aliasing suppression and micro-contrast fidelity, giving sharper files right out of camera.

Autofocus Systems That Make or Break the Shot

Autofocus technology can define shooting success - especially if you're tracking fast wildlife or capturing fleeting moments in sports or street photography. The 5D Mark II offers a classic 9-point phase-detection AF system with all points selectable and face detection in live view, which was solid for its era. However, the limited AF points and relatively modest tracking performance mean you need to be deliberate when composing or selecting focus points manually.

Fast forward to the EOS R, and you gain access to an extraordinary 5655-point Dual Pixel CMOS AF system covering a vast proportion of the frame with touch-selectable focus, eye detection AF (for humans), and highly responsive continuous tracking. In practice, the EOS R locks focus swiftly and smoothly, even in chaotic subjects and challenging light. Its Touch and Drag AF on the vari-angle screen adds intuitive control I quickly grew fond of outdoors.

While neither camera supports animal eye AF (Canon introduced that somewhat later), the EOS R’s tracking capabilities are significantly superior for moving subjects, especially in sports and wildlife contexts.

Handling Different Photography Genres

Let’s look at how these cameras perform across popular photography disciplines, based on extensive field use.

Portrait Photography

For portraiture, where skin tone accuracy and the quality of bokeh matter most, both cameras serve well but in distinct ways. The 5D Mark II produces warm, natural skin tones thanks to its tried-and-true sensor profile, with pleasing, smooth bokeh from classic Canon EF lenses. Its 9-point AF is sufficient for controlled studio setups but less optimal in dynamic scenarios.

The EOS R, partnering with RF lenses optimized for mirrorless performance, reveals more detail due to higher resolution and dynamic range, while eye detection autofocus ensures razor-sharp focus on eyes, a vital factor in professional portraiture. The enhanced screen makes reviewing portraits easier on the fly.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters crave resolution, wide dynamic range, and ruggedness. On all these, the EOS R holds distinct advantages, capturing more nuanced detail in shadowed foliage and bright skies, thanks to its 13.5 EV dynamic range. It documents landscapes at higher resolution (30MP vs 21MP), which is a boon if you crop or print large. Its weather sealing and compactness make it a reliable travel companion.

The 5D Mark II’s lower megapixel count and dynamic range slightly limit cropping flexibility, but its robust build quality still stands up well in adverse weather.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Here, speed and AF precision are critical. The 5D Mark II’s 4 fps burst rate and 9 AF points feel slow and restrictive when capturing fast, erratic subjects. In contrast, the EOS R doubles burst speed to 8 fps and offers hundreds of focus points spanning nearly the entire frame, augmenting your chances of perfect focus in action shots.

Moreover, the EOS R’s better high-ISO performance and AF tracking handle low-light environments - like dusk or dense forests - more effectively.

Street Photography

Street photographers prize portability and discretion. The bulky 5D Mark II is less ideal for blending in, whereas the more compact EOS R with silent electronic shutter options (albeit limited here) and smaller lens packages excels. Its touchscreen and articulating display assist shooting from unconventional angles discreetly.

Macro Photography

Neither camera specializes in macro, but with appropriate lenses, both perform well. The EOS R’s improved live view autofocus accuracy and magnified focus assist aid critical sharpness at close distances more than the older 5D Mark II allows.

Night and Astro Photography

Noise control and dynamic range are key. The EOS R takes a clear lead, enabling higher ISO settings usable for star fields without unacceptable noise. Both have bulb modes, but the EOS R’s extended ISO range and live histogram make night shooting more accessible.

Video Capabilities

Perhaps the most striking gap: the 5D Mark II was a pioneer for full HD video but capped at 1080p/30fps with limited codecs (H.264). No 4K, no headphone jack, and no in-body stabilization make it outdated for video professionals.

The EOS R supports 4K UHD at 30 fps and includes headphone and microphone ports, wireless controls, and 10-bit output options with newer firmware. While lacking IBIS, it compensates well with lens stabilization and electronic stabilization modes.

Travel Photography

Weight, versatility, and battery life define a travel camera’s usefulness. The EOS R’s smaller size and advanced feature set appeal more to modern travelers. However, the 5D Mark II’s battery life of roughly 850 shots per charge beats the EOS R’s 370-shot rating significantly - a useful factor on extended trips without charging options.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Both cameras feature environmental sealing suitable for professional fieldwork but fall short of full waterproofing, shockproofing, or freezeproofing - the type of ruggedness expected in the most extreme outdoor conditions.

The 5D Mark II enjoys a magnesium alloy chassis that feels practically invincible; the EOS R uses similarly robust materials but in a lighter package. I found both handle rough outdoor use admirably well but recommend care with mirrorless electronics in adverse weather.

Battery Life and Storage

The 5D Mark II’s LP-E6 battery delivers on longevity, with a reported 850 shots per charge, ideal for long shoots without frequent charging. In comparison, the EOS R, despite its technological edge, lasts around 370 shots, a factor that often necessitates carrying extra batteries. The 5D Mark II records to Compact Flash cards, while the EOS R switches to SD cards with UHS-II support - faster, more widely available, but potentially less durable in harsh conditions.

Connectivity and Wireless Capabilities

This is one area where the cameras differ dramatically. The 5D Mark II offers no built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, relying on physical USB 2.0 connectivity for tethering or file transfer. On the other hand, the EOS R boasts built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for seamless wireless transfers, remote shooting via smartphone, and integration into modern workflows.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

One must consider lens availability and compatibility, especially if you already own glass.

The 5D Mark II accepts Canon EF lenses - an extensive ecosystem with over 250 lenses, many available at affordable prices on the used market. While bulky, these lenses are proven workhorses for professionals and hobbyists alike.

The EOS R uses the newer Canon RF mount that currently offers fewer native lenses (around 17), but these lenses are optically advanced, compact, and designed specifically for mirrorless performance. Furthermore, the EOS R can adapt EF lenses via an adapter without performance loss, allowing users gradual migration.

Real-World Image Quality and Sample Photos

Below is a gallery comparing actual photos taken with both cameras under controlled conditions and varied situations: portraits, landscapes, wildlife, low-light concert shots, and street scenes.

Canon 5D MII screen back Canon R front Canon R screen back

You’ll notice the EOS R’s files generally exhibit more detail and cleaner color transitions, especially in shadows and highlights, but the 5D Mark II’s images maintain a classic, film-like warmth.

Performance Ratings and Genre-Specific Scores

Here’s a snapshot of overall and discipline-specific performance scores, based on DxOMark data, supplemented with my field observations. The rating combines sensor performance, autofocus, speed, and ergonomics.

Scores clearly favor the EOS R in most categories except battery life and availability of lensed options.

Which Camera Should You Choose?

For Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts and Canon Legacy Users:
If you already own Canon EF lenses or want a workhorse DSLR with tried-and-tested durability and battery life, the 5D Mark II remains a very capable option - even a decade on, it can deliver excellent image quality for portraits, landscapes, and studio work. It’s best if you shoot in controlled or well-lit conditions and don’t require the latest autofocus wizardry or 4K video.

For Professionals and Tech-Savvy Enthusiasts Seeking Image Quality and Speed:
The EOS R leaps ahead with higher resolution, superior autofocus, modern connectivity, and 4K video. It’s well suited for portraits, wildlife, sports, street, and video work where speed and responsiveness matter. The lighter weight and articulating screen also make it a better travel companion. Expect to invest in RF lenses eventually but enjoy the flexibility of EF lens use today.

For Video and Hybrid Shooters:
The EOS R offers a modern video feature set that leaves the 5D Mark II in the dust. If video is a priority, the mirrorless option is clearly the way to go.

For Landscape and Astro Photographers:
The expanded dynamic range and higher ISO capability of the EOS R will extract more detail in difficult light environments. However, with solid lenses and technique, the 5D Mark II still can produce impressive results.

Street and Macro Photography Users:
I prefer the lightweight EOS R, given its discreet profile, touchscreen focus controls, and improved live view autofocus capabilities.

In Closing: The Evolution in Your Hands

Both the Canon 5D Mark II and the EOS R tell a compelling story, illustrating how far technology has advanced while honoring Canon’s photographic heritage. The 5D Mark II remains a reliable, capable DSLR that helped define modern full-frame shooting, while the EOS R embraces innovation with a mirrorless design and cutting-edge features.

Whichever you choose, you benefit from Canon’s commitment to quality imaging. My advice? Align your purchase with your shooting style, lens investments, and need for future-proofing. It’s worth handling both in person to truly feel their differences.

Dear Canon, please keep innovating while preserving the tactile joy of photography we all cherish.

Thanks for reading my detailed hands-on review. Any questions or want me to test something specific next? Drop a comment below - I love nerding out about cameras with you!