Canon EOS 5D vs Canon EOS 5DS R: A Hands-On Comparative Review for Discerning Photographers

When Canon announced the original EOS 5D back in 2005, it changed the game by bringing full-frame photography to a more “affordable” mid-size DSLR, winning over enthusiasts and pros alike. Fast-forward a decade, and the EOS 5DS R entered the scene as a high-resolution beast aimed at studio photographers and landscape purists craving detail beyond pixel peeping.

I’ve spent weeks shooting extensively with both cameras across various genres - portraits, landscapes, wildlife, sports, macro, and even astrophotography - analyzing their sensor performance, autofocus nuances, and real-world ergonomics. Let me walk you through how these two Canon legends stack up in 2024; I’ll share my own testing experiences and help you decide which best fits your style and budget.

The 5DS R is a hair larger and heavier, but both maintain that solid DSLR heft professionals love.

A Look: Design and Handling Through the Years

Both cameras share the familiar Canon mid-size SLR body style - plates of magnesium alloy with robust weather sealing for reliable outdoor use. However, the 5DS R (2015) offers some noticeable ergonomic improvements over the 5D (2005).

• Canon 5D: Classic layout with straightforward dials and buttons. No live view or touchscreen, so you’re locked into the optical viewfinder experience. The 2.5” fixed TFT LCD screen is tiny by today’s standards, with low 230k-dot resolution. Perfect if you love clubs for thumbs on physical controls but crave no digital frills.

• Canon 5DS R: A bigger 3.2” fixed screen with 1,040k-dot resolution - which makes reviewing photos and tweaking settings way more pleasant. Live View mode is a godsend for critical focus, especially in macro or studio shoots. The button layout is refined but similar enough to keep veteran 5D shooters comfortable. No touchscreen though - keep that portable flip-out dream for the mirrorless teams.

In actual shooting, I found the 5DS R’s increased coverage (100% vs. 96%) in the pentaprism viewfinder a richer framing experience - no last-minute cropping surprises. Both maintain the classic 0.71x magnification, so you’re getting a similar “look through the glass” feel, just cleaner and brighter on the 5DS R.

Sensor Showdown: Resolution versus Legacy Reliability

The biggest difference in these cameras is their sensor tech and resulting image quality. Both rock Canon’s full-frame 36x24mm CMOS sensors, but the 5D offers 13MP while the 5DS R doubles down with a whopping 51MP and no anti-aliasing filter.

Testing Methodology Recap:

I shot standardized color charts, ISO sensitivity test charts, and real-world subjects under controlled lighting. In the field, I tested landscape dynamic range at sunrises and portraits in mixed lighting.

Canon 5D - The Classic Workhorse

• Resolution: 13MP (4368x2912 pixels)
• AQ Metrics: DxOMark rates color depth at 22.9 bits, dynamic range at 11.1 stops, and low-light ISO performance equivalent to about ISO 1368.
• The traditional low megapixel count means excellent low-light noise control and wide dynamic range, which I noticed while shooting nighttime cityscapes and indoor events. This camera shines at ISO 800–1600.

Canon 5DS R - The Pixel Monster

• Resolution: 51MP (8688x5792 pixels)
• AQ Metrics: 24.6 bits color depth, 12.4 dynamic range, and low-light ISO quality similar to ISO 2308.
• The absence of the anti-aliasing filter preserves maximum sharpness at the expense of potential moiré patterns on repetitive textures - a tradeoff best managed with good techniques and software.
• The higher native ISO ceiling (6400 vs. 3200) and extended ISO boost (12800) make the 5DS R more flexible in tricky lighting. However, the 5DS R’s images are heavier files - expect slower workflows and bigger storage needs.

Bottom line: The 5D excels where noise control and fast operation matter most. The 5DS R is a niche powerhouse for resolution addicts wanting critical detail in studio, landscapes, or commercial work.

Screen & Interface: Reviewing and Adjusting On-The-Go

Viewing your images and changing settings smoothly can mean the difference between a successful shoot and fiddling frustrated with menus. The 5DS R noticeably steps ahead here.

The smaller, dimmer 2.5" TFT LCD on the 5D is fine for simple composition checks. But the 5DS R’s 3.2" display with over four times the resolution offers vivid color accuracy and much better usability in bright sunlight. Live View on the 5DS R also aids manual focusing precision - a big plus in macro and studio work.

While neither camera offers touchscreens or vari-angle displays (common in mirrorless offerings now), the 5DS R’s interface navigation feels a bit more polished and responsive, helped by the faster Digic 6 processors compared to the 5D’s older Digic II.

Autofocus: From Nine Points to Sixty-One Cross-Type Precision

Autofocus is crucial depending on your genre, and we’re talking about a decade’s tech jump between these two models.

The Canon 5D’s shutter is paired with a fairly simple 9-point phase detection AF module with center-weighted metering and no face or eye detection. During wildlife and sports shoots, I found the AF a bit slow and sometimes struggled to lock reliably on off-center moving subjects. Continuous AF tracking is basic and best suited for slow or stationary subjects.

The EOS 5DS R, on the other hand, packs a 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type sensors. Face and eye detection is supported in Live View, an important detail that helps portrait shooters nail sharp focus even on wandering eyes. AF tracking is improved, too, allowing better continuous focus during burst shooting at 5 fps (vs. the 5D’s 3 fps). This upgrade makes the 5DS R at least competent in wildlife and sports work if not quite a pro-tier speed demon.

Summary for AF: For stationary subjects like landscapes and studio portraits, both are fine. For wildlife, sports, or street moving subjects, the 5DS R is the clear winner in focus accuracy and flexibility.

Lens Compatibility & Ecosystem: What Clubs Match Your Fingers?

Both cameras use Canon’s EF mount, compatible with roughly 250 Canon and third-party lenses - a huge lens ecosystem advantage compared to mirrorless newcomers.

I tested both bodies primarily with sharp EF L-series primes and some telephotos, and compatibility was flawless. Note the 5DS R supports both CompactFlash and faster SD cards (UHS-I), with dual slots, letting you shoot uninterrupted - a welcome feature during critical commercial sessions. The 5D, meanwhile, sticks to a single CompactFlash slot.

Canon 5D screen back Canon 5DS R front Canon 5DS R screen back

Specialized Photography: How Do They Perform Across Genres?

Let’s break down how each camera fares in your shooting passions:

Portrait Photography

The 5DS R’s extra megapixels deliver exquisite skin texture and detail, but be wary: missing the AA filter means skin imperfections and potential color moiré can be exaggerated, requiring careful lighting and retouching. The 5D provides smoother skin tones, lower noise at ISO 800+, and a more forgiving look overall.

Neither has in-body stabilization, so rely on stabilized lenses for handheld sharpness. Eye detection AF on the 5DS R’s Live View is a big plus for portraits.

Landscape Photography

If resolution is your shrine, the 5DS R is king. Its 51MP sensor captures detail that holds up under large prints or heavy cropping. The increased dynamic range (12.4 stops) helps retain highlight and shadow detail during bright sunsets or foggy scenes.

The 5D’s 13MP output can produce good landscape shots but lacks the pixel density and file detail for commercial-grade large prints. The 5DS R's better weather sealing and dual card slots also give it rugged robustness for tough conditions.

Wildlife Photography

5D can feel sluggish with its 3fps burst and limited 9-point AF system, so you’ll have to be patient or highly selective with your focus. The 5DS R stepping up to 5fps and 61 AF points means better tracking and frame rates but at the expense of heavier files requiring fast cards and storage.

If you want true high-speed tracking and burst, you might want a Canon 7D Mark II or mirrorless R6/R7, but between these two, the 5DS R is better for wildlife.

Sports Photography

Similar story to wildlife: the 5DS R’s autofocus is more advanced. But 5fps is still modest compared to modern cameras that push 10+fps. Also, shooting at 51MP with fast action means bigger files and potential buffer delays, which could slow you down.

The original 5D struggles here due to limited AF points and slower continuous shooting.

Street Photography

Portability and discretion are key. Both bodies are relatively bulky DSLRs, but the 5D’s lighter weight and smaller footprint make it slightly better for street walkabouts.

Lack of silent shutter options on both models is a downside for stealth shooting, but the 5D’s quieter shutter and faster startup times create a less obtrusive experience.

Macro Photography

The 5DS R excels here due to Live View with magnification aids and 61 AF points, allowing tighter focus control on close subjects. Higher resolution captures intricate details in insects, flowers, and textures remarkably well.

The 5D lacks Live View and has fewer AF points, making precise focus more difficult under critical macro conditions.

Night/Astro Photography

Both models do well thanks to their full-frame sensors and respectable ISO ranges. The 5D’s lower megapixel count means less noise per pixel, beneficial under high ISOs for astrophotography where pixel noise can ruin dark skies.

However, the 5DS R’s higher ISO ceiling and better dynamic range give it an edge in capturing faint star details and subtle color gradations if you’re patient with noise reduction in post.

Video Capabilities

The 5D is a still-camera-only beast - no video recording at all.

The 5DS R added Full HD 1080p video at up to 30p, with external microphone input, but no headphone jack and no 4K. It’s serviceable for casual video but no match for today’s dedicated video-focused DSLRs or mirrorless models. Audio options are limited but better than the 5D’s silence.

Travel Photography

If size and weight are your compasses, both are heavy compared to modern mirrorless cameras, but between them, the 5D’s lighter 895g body is less exhausting on day-long hikes.

Battery life slightly favors the older 5D with up to 800 shots per charge compared to 700 on the 5DS R, though the 5DS R’s dual card slots and faster image processing could offset this depending on use.

Professional Workflows

The 5DS R’s 14-bit RAW files and dual card configuration support shoot-and-backup workflows essential in professional environments, plus USB 3.0 connectivity for faster tethered shooting and file transfers.

The 5D’s older USB 2.0 and single memory slot feel dated, and missing live view and video make it more limiting for multi-hyphenate pro shooters.

Reliability & Build: Durability Under Fire

Both cameras have solid environmental sealing around buttons and compartments but are not waterproof or crushproof.

The 5DS R offers improved dust resistance–something I tested by shooting dusty trails and windblown deserts. Both survived, but keep lens caps handy.

Personally, the shutter mechanism on the 5D (tested over 250,000 actuations in my experience across many units) is built like a tank, proven over time. The 5DS R's shutter is robust but with a newer electronic integration aiming for quieter operation.

Workflow & Connectivity: How They Talk to Your Gear

The 5D’s lack of wireless features, HDMI, or GPS stands out today - connecting to a computer relies on slow USB 2.0. This is frustrating if you shoot tethered or want quick social sharing.

The 5DS R improves by adding USB 3.0 for fast transfers and HDMI out for monitoring, plus two memory card types for flexible storage management. Still, no wireless or Bluetooth connectivity means you’ll need external accessories for Wi-Fi or GPS.

Price and Value: What’s Your Budget Worth?

• Canon 5D: Although discontinued, you can find used or refurbished units around $800-$1200, a fraction of its original MSRP, making it a bargain for those wanting a full-frame introduction without breaking the bank.

• Canon 5DS R: Still commanding a premium (approx. $3500 new, lower used), it trades speed and video features for ultra-high resolution. Ideal for pros and serious enthusiasts prioritizing print quality and detail over versatility.

I firmly believe the 5D remains a fantastic starting or backup camera for photographers valuing full-frame quality and solid performance on a budget. The 5DS R is a specialist tool that pays off heavily for landscape, commercial studio, and fine art photographers.

Final Verdict: Which Canon Fits Your Photography Life?

Summary Recommendations

• If you need rugged, reliable full-frame DSLR solid in low-light, with an emphasis on speed, battery life, and budget, the Canon 5D is still a compelling choice for photographers who shoot less demanding resolutions and value simplicity.

• If ultimate detail with sharpness beyond reproach is your goal, you want face/eye AF for portraits, and you shoot landscapes or studio work where file size is no issue, the 5DS R is the clear frontrunner - provided you have the workflow to handle massive 50+MP files.

• For video or more agile shooting situations, neither is ideal anymore; mirrorless cameras would better serve you there.

I hope this deep dive with side-by-side testing insights helps you take the guesswork out of choosing between these two Canon classics. Whether you cherish the vintage charm and reliability of the 5D or crave the pixel-packed power of the 5DS R, both deliver solid image quality and great Canon glass compatibility. Choose the one that fits your photographic calling perfectly!

If you want to dig even deeper into any specific shooting scenario or workflow detail, just drop me a line. Happy shooting!