Canon EOS R5 vs Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II: A Pro Mirrorless Showdown from My Lens

Having spent over 15 years rigorously evaluating mirrorless cameras across genres, I find there’s rarely a one-size-fits-all champion. The Canon EOS R5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II are both celebrated pro mirrorless cameras, yet they cater to markedly different photographers and needs despite serving overlapping communities. I took these two through their paces in my studio, on my travels, and in challenging shooting scenarios to distill how their real-world strengths shape up against each other - beyond just spec sheets.

Let’s dive into a detailed side-by-side comparison based on firsthand experience, with practical advice for enthusiasts and pros contemplating their next body.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

Right out of the gate, the Canon EOS R5 feels like a substantial powerhouse, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is delightfully compact and featherweight.

The R5’s SLR-style heft and grip provide reassurance - especially when wielding big RF glass - and the button layout facilitates quick operation under pressure. In contrast, the E-M1 Mark II’s smaller footprint makes it far more discreet and portable, a boon when hiking mountain trails or weaving through street crowds.

Though both cameras sport fully articulated screens - a feature I swear by for varied angles - Canon’s 3.2-inch display impresses with its resolution and touch responsiveness compared to Olympus’s 3.0-inch panel. That said, Olympus’s smaller size makes it easier to operate one-handed or stow away.

The top-view comparison highlights the Canon’s dedicated exposure compensation dial and a top LCD, features missing on the Olympus but highly welcomed for quick settings checks at a glance.

Ergonomically, my workflow felt faster on the R5, thanks to customizable buttons and a more comprehensive grip. However, for travel or street shooters prioritizing discretion and lightweight gear, the E-M1 Mark II’s design shines.

Sensor and Image Quality: Full Frame vs Four Thirds Sensor Technologies

This lens will likely be the most critical aspect driving purchase decisions, as sensor size drastically impacts image aesthetics and performance in different shooting conditions.

The R5 sports a full-frame 45MP CMOS sensor measuring 36x24mm, delivering an enormous sensor area of 864mm². This translates into superior resolution, better dynamic range, and cleaner high ISO performance. The Olympus E-M1 II houses a Four Thirds sensor at 17.4x13mm with a 20MP resolution, occupying just 226mm². Its sensor lacks the same pixel count and size advantages.

Canon’s Digic X processor synergizes with the sensor to produce images rich in tonal gradations, subtle details, and excellent color fidelity. The 45MP files offer abundant cropping latitude - precious for wildlife or landscape photographers pursuing megapixel-packed prints.

Olympus compensates for the smaller sensor with an effective in-body 5-axis stabilization system, boosting handheld sharpness; its TruePic VIII processor provides fast autofocus responsiveness. While it delivers stunning Micro Four Thirds resolution and color, the difference in noise at ISO 3200+ and dynamic range is palpable when tested side by side.

A practical tip I share: If your workflow involves significant cropping or large-format printing, Canon’s R5 sensor brings a clear advantage. Olympus’s four-thirds sensor, however, pairs exceptionally well with its extensive lens ecosystem, enabling reach and versatility without lugging heavy super-telephotos.

Autofocus Performance: Precision, Speed, and Tracking

Both cameras feature hybrid autofocus systems combining phase and contrast detection, yet their implementation and effectiveness vary with use.

The R5 boasts an astounding 1053 AF points covering nearly the entire frame and uses Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II technology. Its reliable face and eye detection (human and animal) work impressively in daylight and challenging light, locking quickly and tracking accurately during rapid movement. This made portrait sessions and wildlife shoots a breeze, especially with RF lenses optimized for autofocus speed.

The Olympus, with 121 AF points, performs admirably but with some limitations. Its contrast detection component is more pronounced, sometimes causing slight hunting in low contrast or dim light, though it excels with fast lock-on in daylight. Animal eye detection is missing, which can be a detriment when photographing pets or wildlife.

Notably for sports and fast action shooters, the E-M1 II’s continuous burst speed is remarkable - up to 60 fps in silent electronic shutter mode, though with some buffer limitations - while the R5 manages a strong 12 fps mechanical shutter burst. This means Olympus can capture a wash of frames in a flash but with some image quality trade-offs and potential rolling shutter artifacts.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Both cameras target professionals and enthusiasts who demand ruggedness.

The R5 features a robust magnesium alloy body with comprehensive weather sealing against dust and moisture, tested extensively in field and studio. I felt confident using it during light rain and dusty conditions, though I’d caution against immersion or extreme shocks.

The Olympus also sports a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body tailored for adventure photographers. Its sealing levels are similarly stout, with extra durability for freezeproof usage down to -10°C. The sturdy construction and slightly smaller size create an enviable combo for fieldwork and travel.

Display and Viewfinder Experience

Shooting comfort hinges significantly on the live view and electronic viewfinder (EVF) quality.

Canon’s 5.76-million-dot OLED EVF offers a crisp, bright window with nearly 100% coverage and 0.76x magnification. Coupled with the touchscreen’s 2100k-dot resolution, the R5 provides detailed previews and quick touch-based control. This clarity especially aids in manual focusing and detailed composition.

Olympus employs a 2.36-million-dot EVF with 0.74x magnification - lower in resolution but still detailed enough for most shooting. The touchscreen refresh rate and interface responsiveness lag slightly behind Canon but remain functional for quick framing and setting adjustments.

In real-world use, Canon’s EVF edges ahead for precision work like macro or landscapes needing minute composition retouching, while Olympus’s display maintains solid utility across casual and semi-pro shooting.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

While bodies matter, lenses are equally critical, often defining what genres a camera can excel in.

Canon’s RF mount is newer but quickly growing, with 17 prime and zoom lenses available to date, covering wide angle to telephoto. RF lenses frequently integrate cutting-edge optical designs, enhancing resolution and autofocus speed well-matched to the R5’s sensor.

Olympus relies on the mature Micro Four Thirds mount with an extensive arsenal of 107 lenses from multiple brands. This versatility benefits wildlife, macro, and street photographers, particularly due to the effective 2.1x crop factor - meaning a 300mm MFT lens behaves like a 630mm on full frame roughly, providing reach in a compact package.

I’ve appreciated Olympus’s lighter lenses when backpacking or doing macro work where weight is critical, despite the higher noise sensitivity from the smaller sensor.

Battery Life and Storage Options

When deep into shoots or travel, power longevity can make or break a session.

The Canon R5 employs the LP-E6NH battery with approximately 320 shots per charge, which I found on par for high-megapixel full-frame bodies but necessitates carrying spares on long days, especially if using power-intensive features like IBIS and 8K video.

Olympus’s E-M1 II uses the BLH-1 battery offering around 350 shots per charge, surprisingly stout for a camera with a smaller sensor. Efficient power management further enhances day-long handheld shooting.

Both cameras feature dual memory card slots but differ in formats - Canon pairs one CFexpress and one UHS-II SD, facilitating speedy write speeds for high-res stills and video, while Olympus uses dual SD UHS-II cards, providing redundancy and versatility.

Video Features: Resolution, Stabilization, and Audio

For videographers, the Canon EOS R5 feels like a flagship hybrid tool.

It supports cutting-edge video resolutions including 8K up to 30fps, 4K at up to 120fps, and 1080p Full HD. The implementation uses advanced codecs (H.264 and H.265) with options for HDR PQ recording. Its in-body image stabilization combined with electronic stabilization is excellent, providing smooth footage handheld. Separate microphone and headphone jacks offer strong audio control.

Olympus lags in video specs, delivering 4K UHD at 24 or 30fps max with H.264 codec. Although fine for casual use, the lack of 60fps or higher frame rate options limits slow-motion capabilities. Olympus also provides 5-axis IBIS, aiding handheld shoots, and has the mic/headphone ports for field recording. For video-first enthusiasts, however, the R5 is the clear better pick.

Specialized Photography Uses: How Each Camera Excels

Portrait Photography

Canon’s superior resolution, full-frame sensor, and eye/animal detection make it my go-to for portraits. Skin tone rendering is natural and flattering, and the RF lenses create creamy bokeh that isolates subjects beautifully.

Olympus can produce compelling portraits, but the crop sensor makes achieving shallow depth of field more challenging. Its face detection is effective, though eye AF isn’t as advanced.

Landscape Photography

The R5’s 45MP sensor delivers detailed files with excellent dynamic range - critical for capturing subtle shadows and highlights in landscapes. Weather sealing and a solid tripod-ready body strengthen appeal for landscape photographers.

Olympus appeals with portability and stabilized sensor, enabling sharp handheld shots in dim conditions. Its slightly lower resolution may restrict large print sizes but remains solid for web and print.

Wildlife and Sports

Olympus’s high burst rate (60fps) and effective telephoto lens options (due to crop factor and lightweight glass) offer distinct advantages for fast-moving wildlife and sports subjects. However, the R5’s eye/animal detection autofocus and high ISO handling give sharper, cleaner results at night or in dense foliage.

For prolonged event shooting, Olympus’s lighter weight reduces arm fatigue; Canon’s buffer and autofocus consistency excel for key decisive moments.

Street Photography

Portability is king here - Olympus’s small size and low profile simplify shooting on the go, blending into environments better than Canon’s larger rig. Its 5-axis IBIS also helps deliver handheld sharpness in low light.

Still, the R5’s silent shutter and excellent high ISO deliver superior image quality when discretion meets necessity.

Macro Photography

Optically, Olympus’s extensive macro lens options and sensor-shift stabilization make it a nimble microscope. The body’s high precision focusing and focus bracketing push its capabilities further.

While Canon’s resolution and lens quality shine for macros, heavier lenses and body size can be fatiguing for extended close-up work.

Night and Astro Photography

Here, Canon’s full-frame advantage at high ISOs lets it capture clean starscapes and faint nebula detail. Its long exposure capabilities (max 30 seconds shutter speed) paired with low noise and IBIS create stunning astrophotography results.

Olympus’s sensor is more limited in noise performance, though its electronic shutter can eliminate sensor vibrations during exposures - a minor perk for astro enthusiasts.

Connectivity, User Interface, and Workflow Integration

Canon integrates built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for image transfer and remote control, seamlessly syncing with Canon’s ecosystem apps. Its USB-C port facilitates tethered shooting and fast data transfers in professional studios.

Olympus offers built-in Wi-Fi but lacks Bluetooth, which can hamper swift device pairing. Its USB 3.0 connection is speedy but less versatile than Canon’s evolving ecosystem support.

Menus and interface on Canon’s R5 feel more modern and customizable, aided by touchscreen responsiveness. Olympus provides logical organization but is less polished in multi-function customizability.

Price-to-Performance: What You Get for Your Investment

The Canon EOS R5 carries a premium price around $3900 (body only) reflecting its flagship positioning, sensor size, high-megapixel engine, advanced AF, and 8K video capabilities.

The Olympus E-M1 II is priced at approximately $1700, making it significantly more accessible for enthusiasts who prioritize portability, rapid burst rates, and a broad lens selection at an affordable price.

It’s a contrast worth considering carefully - opt for Canon if uncompromising image quality and versatility matter most; choose Olympus if mobility, speed, and budget-friendly adaptability win.

Performance Across Photography Genres: A Visual Summary

To visualize the nuances across disciplines, here is a genre-specific score chart illustrating relative strengths and practical suitability of both cameras:

Seeing Is Believing: Sample Images From Both Cameras

Nothing beats seeing real-world outputs side by side, so take a look at these representative shots: portraits capturing skin texture and bokeh, landscapes displaying dynamic range, and action frames illustrating autofocus speed.

Canon R5 front Canon R5 screen back Olympus E M1 II front Olympus E M1 II screen back

The R5 images showcase unrivaled detail and pleasant tonal transitions, while the Olympus images excel at reach and crispness within their resolution limits, often impressively steady thanks to IBIS.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Which Camera?

From personal experience testing thousands of models, here’s my distilled advice:

• Choose the Canon EOS R5 if:
  You demand top-tier resolution for large prints, intricate landscape details, or portrait clarity. If modern video features and hybrid shooter flexibility are high on your list, it’s a superior investment. Its autofocus accuracy and eye detection are unmatched for people and wildlife photography. Pro studios and serious enthusiasts who rely on extensive post-processing and seamless tethering will value the R5’s file quality and ecosystem.

• Choose the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II if:
  Portability and speed are paramount. Wildlife, sports, and street photographers who want rapid burst rates with manageable gear size will appreciate the Olympus. Its excellent stabilization compensates for sensor size limitations, and the Micro Four Thirds lens selection ensures versatility on a budget. Casual videographers content with 4K 30p and photographers seeking extended weather resistance in a compact body will find strong value here.

I hope this comprehensive side-by-side assessment helps clarify which camera aligns better with your shooting style and aspirations. Both the Canon EOS R5 and Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II are formidable tools deserving serious consideration. Your choice ultimately comes down to what you prioritize most: full-frame imaging excellence or compact, speedy versatility.

Please feel free to reach out with questions or for insights on particular shooting scenarios - I’m always eager to share real-world perspectives from behind the viewfinder.

Happy shooting!