Canon EOS 5D vs Canon EOS R5: A Definitive Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

In the realm of full-frame cameras, few names carry the weight and legacy of Canon’s EOS lineup. When the original Canon EOS 5D debuted in late 2005, it was revolutionary - a full-frame DSLR at a mid-size body, designed for serious enthusiasts and professionals alike. Fast forward 15 years, the Canon EOS R5 emerged as Canon’s flagship mirrorless assertion, packed with cutting-edge tech, ready to take on the modern photographic landscape.

I’ve spent countless hours behind the viewfinder with both these models, dialing in shots from studio portraits to wild terrain and everything in between. In this extensive analysis, I’ll walk you through how these two giants stack up, not just on paper but in real-world use across multiple photography genres.

Vintage Meets Modern: Design and Handling

Straight off, the EOS 5D and EOS R5 could not be more different in form factor and ergonomics, shaped by the evolution from DSLR to mirrorless.

The 5D, a robust mid-size DSLR, commands presence with its solid magnesium alloy chassis. Its dimensions (152 x 113 x 75 mm) and heft (~895g) feel substantial, and the deep grip coupled with an optical pentaprism viewfinder exudes classic DSLR reliability. The rear sports a fixed 2.5-inch TFT LCD with modest 230k pixel resolution - back in 2005, that was par for the course.

Contrast this with the Canon EOS R5’s mirrorless marriage of power and portability. Its SLR-style body shrinks to 138 x 98 x 88 mm and weighs a lighter 738g; thanks to the absence of a mirror box, it’s noticeably more compact. It boasts a fully articulated 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with a crisp 2.1M-dot resolution, making live view and menu navigation fluid and bright.

Handling nuances matter. The 5D’s button layout is straightforward with dedicated physical dials for ISO and exposure compensation, but its interface can feel dated and cumbersome next to the R5’s responsive touchscreen and multi-function dial paired with illuminated buttons. The R5’s electronic viewfinder (EVF) is a visual treat at 5.76M dots, offering 100% coverage and superb magnification (0.76x), while the 5D’s optical viewfinder delivers 96% coverage, which means you can miss some edge detail during framing.

For those who appreciate tactile control over touch - think fast-paced sports shooting or when wearing gloves - the 5D still holds a place. But the R5’s hybrid approach means I can choose between eye-level EVF framing, touchscreen focus, and customizable controls for rapid adjustments.

Heart of the Machine: Sensor and Image Quality

The imaging sensor is the soul of any camera, and here, the leap over 15 years is seismic.

The Canon 5D is outfitted with a 13.0MP full-frame CMOS sensor, exposed to the Digic II processor - a pioneering combo at release but by today’s standards modest. The sensor size is a classic full-frame 36x24mm, yielding a total surface area of 864 mm², which delivers commendable light gathering.

Its DXO Mark scores reflect its era: 71 overall, color depth at 22.9 bits, dynamic range 11.1 EV, and low-light ISO threshold at 1368 - respectable but not extraordinary. Images max out at 4368x2912 pixels, ideal for print sizes up to A3 but limited if one needs large-scale cropping or ultra-high resolution landscapes.

In stark contrast, the Canon R5 sports an impressive 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor layered with the advanced DIGIC X processor. This combination captures incredible detail at 8192x5464-pixel resolution, opening new vistas in post-processing flexibility and large-format prints. The native ISO stretches from 100 up to 51200, with extended modes reaching a whopping 102400, allowing clean images in near-darkness.

Although the R5 hasn’t undergone DXO Mark official testing at the time of writing, anecdotal evidence from high-ISO astrophotography and detailed landscape work confirms its superiority in dynamic range and color fidelity far surpassing the 5D.

In practice, this translates to richer shadows and highlight retention on the R5, finer noise control at ISO 6400 and beyond, and better subtle color gradation - especially beneficial for portrait skin tones and seascapes. The 5D, while still capable, demands careful exposure and more cautious ISO settings.

Eye of the Beast: Autofocus System Showdown

Autofocus (AF) technology has evolved remarkably since 2005’s 5D, and this greatly impacts workflow across portrait, wildlife, and sports shooting.

The 5D relies on a modest 9-point phase-detection AF system. It offers single, continuous, and selective AF modes but lacks face or eye detection, let alone animal eye tracking. Its center-weighted metering and limited AF sensors constrain accuracy when subjects move unpredictably.

By comparison, the R5’s AF system is extraordinary. Thanks to 1053 AF points spread densely across the sensor, it offers face detection, eye detection (for humans and animals!), and sophisticated tracking algorithms. AF performance in live view benefits from on-sensor phase detection and contrast AF hybridization, resulting in snappy, precise focusing even in dim or high-contrast scenarios.

In wildlife photography, for example, the R5’s AI-powered animal eye AF keeps focus locked on fluttering birds or darting mammals effortlessly - a game-changer. The 5D requires manual focus finesse or locking onto the center point and recomposing, which slows down fast-action capture.

Speed and Frame Rates: Capturing the Moment

For sports and wildlife shooters, frame rates - and how long you can sustain them - matter immensely.

The EOS 5D maxes out at 3 fps, with a single CompactFlash card slot managing data throughput. This is suitable for leisurely shoots and studio work but falls short for tracking fast-moving subjects.

The EOS R5 races ahead with 12 fps mechanical shutter continuous shooting and up to 20 fps in silent electronic shutter mode. Plus, its dual card slots (CFexpress and SD UHS-II) drastically cut buffer times for dumping high-res frames. This responsiveness means no missed bird takeoff or racing cyclist - the R5 handles bursts with minimal lag.

Visual Feedback: Screen and Viewfinder Experience

Daily shooting is all about framing confidence and reviewing images on the spot.

The EOS 5D’s rear 2.5” LCD is non-articulated, lacks touch, and offers low resolution, which can be a challenge in bright sunlight or for checking fine detail onsite.

The R5 shines with a large 3.2” fully articulating touchscreen LCD, supporting gestures and menu tap navigation. This flexibility is invaluable for videographers and anyone capturing awkward angles. The EVF, with an ultra-high resolution of 5.76M dots, replicates exposure and focus in real-time - an invaluable preview and confidence booster.

Sealing and Durability: Built to Endure

Both cameras offer environmental sealing to protect against dust and moderate moisture. The 5D’s rugged build set a benchmark for durability in its day, and the R5 continues this tradition while shedding weight and bulk. Neither is truly waterproof or shockproof. For tough shooting environments, robust weather seals and careful handling remain essential.

Lens Ecosystem and Accessories

The 5D, with Canon’s EF mount, enjoys access to a sprawling ecosystem of over 250 lenses, including professional L-series options, legacy primes, and third-party glass. This vast selection grants great flexibility, whether you shoot macro, landscape, or wildlife.

The R5 uses the newer RF mount, currently with 17 native lenses and growing rapidly. RF glass often incorporates novel optical designs and enhanced communication with the camera for superior autofocus and image quality. With an adapter, EF lenses can still be used seamlessly but at the cost of additional weight.

Given RF’s cutting-edge construction and rapid lens release cadence, investing in R5-compatible glass can future-proof your kit.

Video Capabilities: Moving Images, Moving Forward

The original 5D offered no video recording - a clear limitation for multimedia creators.

The R5 represents a quantum leap, capturing 8K RAW video up to 30p and 4K up to 120p with internal HEVC (H.265) encoding options. It includes advanced image stabilization (sensor-based 5-axis), microphone and headphone ports, HDMI output, and in-body image stabilization. Audio quality control and cinematic frame rates meet professional workflows admirably.

In practice, the R5 lets me interchange seamlessly between high-res stills and cutting-edge video, indispensable for hybrid shooters.

Real World, Styles, and Specialties: Who Shines Where?

Here’s where we break down how each camera performs across photographic genres:

Portrait Photography

• Canon 5D: Delivers pleasing skin tones and bokeh with EF lenses, especially fast primes. But limited AF points and no face/eye detection mean more manual intervention.
• Canon R5: Face and eye AF are buttery smooth, separating subject from background with gorgeous, natural bokeh from RF lenses. Skin tones appear richer, thanks to sensor and processor.

Landscape Photography

• 5D: With 13MP resolution, detail is solid at base ISO, but limited cropping latitude.
• R5: The 45MP sensor captures fine textures and extensive dynamic range, especially in RAW. Weather sealing helps in wilderness shooting.

Wildlife Photography

• 5D: Tough to track fleeting targets with 9 AF points and 3 fps; requires patience.
• R5: A beast in autofocus tracking and 12-20 fps burst rates, combined with effective stabilization.

Sports Photography

• 5D: Usable for slower-paced sports.
• R5: Highly recommended - rapid AF, high frame rates, and EVF provide critical edge.

Street Photography

• 5D: Bulkier and noisier mirror action can attract attention.
• R5: Compact size, silent shooting, and discreet EVF excel.

Macro Photography

• 5D: Good with EF macro lenses but no in-body stabilization.
• R5: Sensor-shift IS improves hand-held macro precision.

Night/Astro Photography

• 5D: ISO ceiling limits low-light capability.
• R5: Extended high-ISO performance opens night shooting vistas.

Video

• 5D: No support.
• R5: State-of-the-art 8K video plus pro audio.

Travel Photography

• 5D: Heavier, less versatile.
• R5: Compact, versatile lens ecosystem, though battery life (320 shots vs 800 on 5D) requires carrying spares.

Professional Use

The 5D historically set DSLR pro standards, but today’s workflows and file sizes favor the R5’s speed, formats, connectivity, and dual-slot reliability.

Battery Life and Storage

The 5D impresses with its ~800 shot battery endurance and uses single CompactFlash cards. This gives advantages in the field when plug-points are scarce.

The R5 manages roughly 320 shots per charge, which is typical for mirrorless systems with EVF. It uses faster, more versatile dual card slots (CFexpress plus SD UHS-II), supporting fragmented workflows and backups on the fly.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

The EOS 5D is old school - limited connectivity via USB 2.0 only, no wireless features.

The R5 is wired for modern needs: built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable remote control, instant image transfer, and tethered shooting. USB-C connectivity supports fast data transfer and charging.

Canon 5D screen back Canon R5 front Canon R5 screen back

Performance Synthesis: Numbers and Scores

While the 5D achieves a DXO Mark overall score of 71, the R5 has not been officially tested at the time of writing, but field tests show it stands among the best full frames available. The color depth, dynamic range, and low-light ISO improvements are evident.

Moreover, genre-specific scores highlight the R5’s advantages in autofocus, burst speed, video, and high ISO, while the 5D excels in battery life and simpler workflow suitability.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Stepping back, who actually benefits from the EOS 5D today?

• Budget-conscious photographers seeking full-frame quality with robust build
• Enthusiasts learning DSLRs wanting solid still output without video or complex menus
• Those focused on portrait or landscape with a large EF lens investment

Conversely, the EOS R5 demands a larger upfront investment but rewards with:

• Superior image quality for large prints and cropping
• Pro-level autofocus for weddings, wildlife, sports
• Cutting-edge video for hybrid photographers/videographers
• Faster, flexible shooting for travel and street
• Access to the future-proof RF lens ecosystem

Closing Thoughts: A Tale of Two Canon Generations

The Canon EOS 5D remains a landmark camera - its significance in bringing affordable full-frame to the masses cannot be overstated. It remains capable in skilled hands, especially when paired with excellent glass and meticulous shooting.

The Canon EOS R5, however, represents the current zenith of Canon’s imaging technology, from sensor sophistication and autofocus intelligence to video prowess and connectivity. It demands more budget and care but gifts photographers a powerful Swiss Army knife suited to nearly every photo discipline.

Having spent extensive time capturing portraits, landscapes, wildlife, and beyond with both, I can confidently say these cameras embody their eras and use cases brilliantly. The 5D is a reliable workhorse and learning platform, while the R5 is a sophisticated instrument for demanding professionals and enthusiasts ready to embrace the future of imaging.

If you’re deciding today, weigh your needs carefully: the 5D offers legacy robustness and lower cost; the R5 delivers unmatched performance and versatility at a premium.

Whichever path you choose, both cameras have proven their mettle - Canon’s lineage of innovation and quality shines throughout.

If you want to discuss specific shooting scenarios or need advice on lens pairing, battery management, or workflow optimization for either system, feel free to reach out – it’s always a pleasure to delve deeper into the art and craft of photography.