Canon R3 vs R5
- Canon R3 vs R5: Overview
- Canon R3 vs R5: Imaging Performance
- Canon R3 vs R5: Video Performance
- Recommended Canon Lenses
- Final Thoughts on the Canon R3 vs R5
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The Canon EOS R3 and Canon EOS R5 are the company's two highest-end mirrorless cameras. Because of that, many photographers struggle to decide between the two. If you are one of those people, this article is for you!
In this Canon R3 vs R5 comparison guide, we’ll begin by sharing basic overviews of the cameras. Then, we’ll examine their powerful photo and video capabilities and recommend our favorite compatible Canon RF lenses. Additionally, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier.
Who is MPB? It is a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at unbeatable prices. Better yet, every one of its cameras and lenses is hand-inspected by knowledgeable product specialists with years of experience and backed by a six-month warranty, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.
We strongly encourage you to check out MPB because of its one-of-a-kind online marketplace. It’s an amazing tool that has helped us save thousands of dollars buying, selling, and trading in high-quality photography equipment over the years, and it can help you do the same. That said, continue reading to discover whether the Canon R3 or R5 is better for you and your needs!
Check out the video above by Jan Wegener to learn more about the similarities and differences between the Canon R3 and R5.
Table of Contents
Canon R3 vs R5: Overview
Canon EOS R3
The Canon EOS R3 was released in 2021, one year after the Canon EOS R5. Both of them are pro-level cameras aimed at professional photographers and videographers. However, thanks to their plethora of easy-to-use features and excellent autofocus, they are also great options for intermediate and entry-level content creators with a more substantial budget.
When looking at the cameras side-by-side, the first major difference you will notice is the size. The R3 is markedly bigger (and heavier) than the R5. While its bulky size may turn off some people, there are good reasons behind its design. For example, it holds a larger battery (760 vs 320 shots), has a sturdier grip, and boasts extra control dials/buttons.
Canon EOS R5
Other significant differences are their max photo/video resolution and price. On the flip side, things they have in common include their Dual Pixel AF II systems, high-resolution 5.76M-dot electronic viewfinders (EVF), intuitive menu systems, and gorgeous out-of-the-camera colors.
Now, here’s a head-to-head comparison of the Canon EOS R3 vs Canon EOS R5 specs and key features to see how they stack up.
Canon R3 vs R5: Imaging Performance
Canon EOS R3
The core imaging component of any camera is its sensor, and the Canon EOS R3 and Canon EOS R5 have drastically different ones. The R3 has a brand-new 24-megapixel stacked CMOS sensor, while the R5 has a 45-megapixel CMOS sensor.
Both sensors feature a low-pass filter, but the R5’s notably higher resolution makes it a better choice for enlarging images for printing. Alternatively, the R3’s stacked sensor technology and larger individual pixel size make it the better camera when shooting in low-light conditions (sunrises/sunsets, nighttime, dimly lit studios, etc.).
Canon EOS R5
The R3 also has a slight advantage in burst shooting speed. It can take photos continuously at up to 30 frames per second (fps), whereas the R5 tops out at 20 fps. This makes the R3 a fantastic choice for sports, wildlife, and documentary photography.
Another feature we must mention is the R5’s unique High-Resolution mode. It creates stunning 400MP photos directly in the camera, so you don’t have to waste time stitching together multiple files in post-production. The High-Res mode is ideal for shooting static subjects such as landscapes and buildings.
Which is the best camera for photos? The Canon EOS R5
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Canon R3 vs R5: Video Performance
Canon EOS R3
Since both the Canon EOS R3 and Canon EOS R5 are hybrid cameras, they also have video capabilities. And compared to most mirrorless cameras, boy, oh boy, their video specs and features are impressive!
For starters, the R3 has 6K video capabilities, and the R5 has 8K video capabilities. Reading that, you might immediately jump to the conclusion that the R5 is the better video camera, but not so fast because video resolution isn’t everything. For example, the R3 has more professional video codecs, a longer recording time limit, and a multi-function shoe.
Canon EOS R5
Shared video features found on both cameras include 12-bit RAW video, fully articulating rear displays, 4K/120p slow-motion video, and built-in image stabilization technology.
Which is the best camera for video? The Canon EOS R3
Recommended Canon Lenses
Canon EOS R3
Here are some of the best Canon RF lenses for photo and video to pair with the Canon EOS R3 or Canon EOS R5:
Final Thoughts on the Canon R3 vs R5
Canon EOS R5
Wow! There’s so much to love about the Canon R3 vs Canon R5. And while either will undoubtedly help you take your photography or videography career to the next level, here are our final words of wisdom.
Go for the R5 if you are an all-around photographer who shoots many different photography genres. However, if you specialize in sports or wildlife photography, opt for the R3 instead. The R3 is also the superior camera for professional video content creators.
Do you know you want a Canon EOS R mirrorless camera but aren’t 100% sold on the R3 or R5? If that’s the case, compare them with the cameras below. It’s a list of every Canon R camera released to date, all of which are on sale now at MPB.
At the same time, Canon EOS M mirrorless cameras are wonderful options for those new to photography or on a tighter budget.
Disclaimer: A quick heads-up: If you snag something through our affiliate links or check out our sponsored content, we might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. But fear not, we're all about recommending stuff we're truly stoked about!
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