Canon EOS R7 review: HANDS-ON first-looks

[@cameralabs]

My hands-on first-looks review of the Canon EOS R7 mirrorless camera! Canon EOS R7 at B&H: bhpho.to/3Pxgy0p / WEX UK: tidd.ly/3wFosgB Note the 1080p clip I show of London was actually recorded in 4k. Pre-production bug, sorry! Buy Gordon a coffee: www.paypal.me/cameralabs Gordon's In Camera book: amzn.to/2n61PfI / Amazon uk: amzn.to/2mBqRVZ Cameralabs merchandise: redbubble.com/people/cameralabs/shop Gordon’s retro gear channel: kzbin.info Check MPB to buy and sell used gear: prf.hn/l/Rvlz95l Check eBay to find vintage gear: rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=1&pub=5574908462&toolid=10001&campid=5338329149&customid=&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg Lost photos? I recover mine with: www.dpbolvw.net/click-100568658-13808570?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.stellarinfo.com%2Fphoto-recovery-software.php Equipment used for producing my videos Sony A6400: amzn.to/3hul53c Sony e 24mm f1.8: amzn.to/2TqWNzk Rode NT USB mic: amzn.to/3AdHcUp Rode Wireless Go II mic: amzn.to/3xkCvGo Rode Lavalier Go mic: amzn.to/3ygzzKY Godox UL150 light: amzn.to/2VpVbXE Godox QR-P70 softbox: amzn.to/3yQfGdF MacBook Pro 14in (16GB / 1TB): bhpho.to/3HiafJL 00:00 - Introduction and alternatives 01:34 - The RF-S system explained 04:13 - Canon EOS R7 design and controls 06:01 - Canon EOS R7 screen 06:22 - Canon EOS R7 viewfinder 06:53- Canon EOS R7 ports, battery and card 08:19 - Canon EOS R7 sensor and photo modes 10:54 - Canon EOS R7 movie modes 12:19 - Canon EOS R7 recording time and overheating 14:16- Canon EOS R7 vs 7D Mark II Music: www.davidcuttermusic.com / @dcuttermusic As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

[@valentinmovilaru2690]

Thank you for your work. You are doing a great job!

[@cameralabs]

@@valentinmovilaru2690 cheers!

[@mxilplict]

Glad to hear that Canon listened to your feedback for the on-body AF/MF switch. Would you be so kind to request that they remove the record limits from the R5 and R6? It seems absurd that the limits remain on the cameras that cost much more when the competition largely removed their limits years ago

[@sarahhuggins7217]

I always watch your video first when canon announces a new camera! Solid review as always

[@cameralabs]

@@sarahhuggins7217 thanks!

[@norbertalleaume]

whenever there is a new camera around - i look for Gordon Lain review -always precise,clear and unbiased review .

[@astralshore]

Yeah no doubt. A friend told me about this camera and I just searched for “R7 Laing”. Don’t have time for all the hype from many of the other channels: I need the straight dope Gordon-style :)

[@LuigiVN]

the only one who mentions super relevant stuff like the battery grip, material for construction, how the viewfinder is not a problem even though it’s lower res and compares ir deeply with the 7D Mark II.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@Phantomias7]

This camera is pretty much exactly what i wanted, so i put in a preorder this morning to replace my m50. Sure, it's annoying not being able to take my lenses to the new body, but i agree that it was the right long term decision by canon

[@lurpelis3272]

Same, finally replacing my 70D

[@Schmirchen]

Same, replacing my M50 and preordered the R10 🖖🏼

[@godinesj77]

Is now sold out

[@davebassP5]

I did the same, and will probably do the same with my M50, although not until there is a 32 f/1.4 in RF mount. I absolutely love the EF-M version.

[@johnc3525]

How was it the right decision? One of the main advantages of APS-C is the possibility of making small lenses. Now Canon, like Nikon and Sony, is moving to a large mount for the sake of compatibility with FF lenses. It does not make sense to use FF lenses on an APS-C camera. It's a waste of lens and denies the small-size advantage of the system.

[@thekylehampton]

I'm an amateur 7Dii user and this camera is perfect. The EVF seems a little lackluster, but I'm okay with whatever corners Canon cut to make the 1500 price point work. Depending on how responsive the EVF is, I think I'm gonna be first in line to buy one. Thanks for the (maybe early?) review! Great video!

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome! Let us know what you think when you get it in your hands...

[@suarezci]

looks like the cut was the buffer, anyway it's the 7dii successor.

[@jouc12_75]

$1500 and no GPS? Less than prefect for me.

[@MrShazaamable]

Whats evf

[@thekylehampton]

@@MrShazaamable Electronic View Finder

[@cornishblue58]

There really is only one review you need to watch. Always reliable, thorough and well balanced. 👍

[@cameralabs]

Thankyou!

[@mack_solo]

I'm looking forward to your 7Dii vs 90D vs R7 comparo 😉 I was hoping we would never be in the crop/full frame segmentation again, but since we are, we might just as well geek out about what's what. At least it sounds like the single mount for RF/RF-S is better implemented this time.

[@doghouseriley4732]

I am looking forward to you doing that in a rainstorm. I just want to watch the R7 frazzle ;)

[@definitelyhexed]

Will be selling my 90d to get one. This is the 7dIII Canon should have made years ago, effectively a mirrorless 90d.

[@benjaminmckeowen8389]

How much ?

[@AndreasLudwigPhD]

Thanks for your excellent work over the years!

[@cameralabs]

I meant to thank you in a comment as well! Thanks for your support, and as a teaser, I hope to publish my R7 results video soon.

[@chrisbrown6432]

One of the best reviews so far. Thanks Gordon.

[@davidwebb091370]

if this R7 has a clean HDMI output, then this is the camera for me. Thanks for this review, Gordon!

[@Snappydadshoes]

This is exactly what I've been waiting for. About time, Canon!

[@daznich]

I am an R5 user mainly shooting wildlife but also use an Olympus EM1 mk3 mainly for the pro-capture function which gets me shots I most often miss with the R5. The pre capture mode on the R7 looks to be a hidden gem for me if it works as well as the Oly. I will definitely buy an R7 to try this out. FIngers crossed that a firmware upgrade for the R5 might add this functionality. It is a must have for me now! The combination of the rf100-500 with the cropped sensor looks a potential winner too.

[@chadroberts44]

I'm sure glad you are around to do these reviews. I cannot stand the reviewers who give their opinion without even having one in their hands. There is one in particular that is really becoming annoying but I won't say their name. Thank you good sir! Also I bought the M6 Mark II a couple years ago as I was impatient and wanted the 7D Mark III to come out. The M6 mark II is not bad and I'm not sure the R7 would be enough for me to switch away from it at this point.

[@Localtraveler2376]

You can say their name. No penalty

[@nicovalsa2875]

Are you by any chance talking about Tony and Chelsea?

[@cameralabs]

I've been a tech product journalist for 30 years now, so the idea of talking about anything without actually seeing it is problematic to me, but unfortunately it does gain a LOT of views on YT. I'd find it hard to do it and hate speculation, but if I just commented on rumours days or weeks before launch rather than actually observing NDAs and testing products, I'd actually earn a lot more money. But I'll continue with my approach as I still think it's the most useful.

[@josephjackson7351]

Great informative video, I have been a 7D2 user since 2014, and have been waiting for this camera for a long time I have done a pre order for one, just hope it does birds in flight as good as the 7D2, I look forward to your next episode, Gordon.

[@chingymofo1]

Hey dude check out Jared Polin's preview of the R10 and R7. I'm not into birding but there is a clip of about 4 birds flying and the AF working very nicely, not sure of the comparison with the 7D2 but will be good insight for you!

[@stubones]

It will make your 7Dii af look silly :) I use a 7Dii and 100-400ii for fast paced sports and I'm disappointed with the low hit rate. The af just cant keep up anymore and I delete more than I keep with many oof shots. having to delete great action shots because they're soft or oof is frustrating. Sometimes I just need the camera to lock on as soon as I frame the subject, but half the time, by the time its focused, the moment has passed, or the af has jumped off the subject onto a different player or the background. Don't get me wrong, the 7Dii is a great camera for the job, but I think the R7 would be a game changer and give me more choice of images to select for printing. 15 fps on the mech shutter is more than enough, i'd dial it back to 12 fps tbh. What really counts is the fps and AF, especially as we use jpg for onsite printing.

[@lindastt]

I think you will be amazed with birds in flight. I have the R5 and this R7 has the same AF system. And, this system is amazing. Originally I was a 5d MIV and 7Dii owner. I loved my 7Dii. I sold everything to go mirrorless. I preordered the R7 for a second body and for the APS-C sensor for extra reach with my lenses. It may take some learning for this AF system, it did for me on the R5 But I'm sure there will be a growing number of videos online. I'm a wildlife photographer. With my Animal AF on for the R5 it is point at the bird and it will lock onto the eye. The R7 will do the same. You will love it. Can't wait until mine arrives. It will be a fun camera.

[@Skux720]

I know many people wanted a mirrorless 7D Mark II but I'm pretty happy with this. This is a worthwhile upgrade from my M6 Mark II with animal eye AF and the better ergonomics (though the lack of a third dial feels like an oversight, but I'm sure I'll manage). No 30-minute video limit is a nice bonus for me who occasionally films theatre shows. The only disappointment is the lacklustre EVF but that's a small sacrifice to get it to its price point. Those RF-S lenses look ugly as hell though.

[@TonyGrant.]

I wont be bothering with any RF-S lenses except maybe an RF-S 10mm or wider.

[@mihugong3153]

Hehe, they take the M style i guess

[@mvp_kryptonite]

@@TonyGrant. I pre ordered it just so I can experience the full stabilisation but I’ll mostly be adapting all my previous ef /s glass. New camera day can’t come soon enough!

[@TonyGrant.]

@@mihugong3153 My understanding is that there won't be an M mount adaptor for the R series.

[@mihugong3153]

@@TonyGrant. yes that's almost sure.

[@TexMex421]

Thanks for this review. The list of better features on the 7DII was interesting, but you missed the built-in flash :) . The lack of GPS on ALL the R cameras save the R3 drives me a little nuts because I really liked it on my DSLRs. I am a 7D2 owner but I'm not sure how i feel about this camera. 30fps at 1/4 the price of an R3 is amazing, but... ANOTHER NEW CONTROL LAYOUT???!!!! Why Canon why?

[@jaypainespotter]

I'll agree about the New control layout, but I'll reserve judgement. What's really lacking is a third control wheel. Instead of a d pad on the back or a third wheel where the on/off/video switch is, like the r6,r5 is what's missing for me. Since I preordered this to compliment my R5 and R6 I'll have to get used to the new layout. I would have liked to the layout identical with the r5/r6.

[@stubones]

People can learn new menus and button layouts (people switch brands all the time and have to learn whole new ways of using the camera), I'm more disappointed with Canon's refusal to make a grip for this camera. If they don't make a grip available at some point its just shooting themselves in the foot. Not only do many of us need the added battery life, but I shoot almost exclusively vertically (for sports action prints) and use the grip controls 99% of the time. I'm using a 7Dii purely for the added "reach" so the logical upgrade is R7. Contorting myself for hours on end to shoot vertically and carrying a pocketful of batteries isn't going to happen.

[@BabyBackManiac]

Looking forward to a IBIS wobble test with a wider lens in you full review, but appreciate the work you’ve put in so far. Thank you, Gordon.

[@Photoracer1]

Thanks for the solid review, Gordon. One area that potentially concerns me is the amount of continuous RAW shooting that can be done before the buffer is met, and how long it takes to clear. I'm thinking of high speed auto and wildlife photography since this R7 has the 1.6x crop sensor. I hope this is something you might address on your next evaluation, as I've put in a request to be notified when one becomes available. I'm still on the fence on this one. Currently using an older 1Dx and the R5.

[@connormccaskill]

Ordered one! Such a wonderful value for a camera like this!

[@cameralabs]

Looking forward to hearing what you think, and thanks for checking out my video too!

[@juanrmartinez6598]

Great 👍 intro to this new camera, looking forward to production model full review with iso performance. Will be looking for it!!

[@mb-watches]

Thanks for this first review Gordon!!

[@cameralabs]

Thankyou! Much appreciated!

[@NoHope_]

Looking at getting my first real camera for photography, the r7 seems like the best choice for the price atm.

[@johnwilson4120]

This is the camera I wanted from Canon 7 years ago when after 27yrs I dumped Canon for Fuji. Now I'm so deep in the Fuji ecology it would be hideously expensive to replace it all with Canon. I love my Fuji gear but I'm still a Canon guy at heart. SIGH!!!!😢😎

[@Hodenkat]

Another review shows the R7 autofocus is every bit as good as the R5 and possibly as good as the R3. Paired with a fast lens it sounds like a winner to me. The 7D iii is still a great camera, but all manufacturers are making great advances in autofocus. The R7 is showing this to be true.

[@1EagleDave]

💯💯

[@jonnyfarmer]

This could very well make me go back to Canon. Similar specs to the Fujifilm XT 4 with the benefits of having Canon glass quality combined with dual pixel AF (Fujifilm AF sucks)

[@Princeton_James]

Yup. I was gonna get an XH2 but I'm done with them. Never really loved Fuji and I have so much glass.

[@travis45671]

Same thinking here. I love Fuji but this maybe another option for me especially considering I own several ef lenses for my full frame canon.

[@ItalianVoid]

Tough choice on choosing between the R7 or the R6 as an upgrade from the 80D. R6 is almost two year old tech and more expensive.. but is full frame.. Excited to see what you come up with for the lowlight performance of the R7! Thanks for the great reviews

[@mcatech05]

the 80d is underated imo its a superb camera

[@eikonstuffs]

I am very interested in the low light review. Coming from a 80D. I held off the 90D cause of minimal differences in digital noise in high ISO. Being looking at switching to Fuji cause of the small body size, great Low light performance, Price and Colour science. I can wait a few more to make up my mind

[@ItalianVoid]

@Benjamin Mesa yeah we can hope that IBIS makes up for the crop sensor. If the R7 turns out to be good at low light it will be an easy choice to buy.

[@frankanderson5012]

@ItaliaVoid I wouldn’t exactly call what’s in the R6 ‘old tech’ as it hasn’t been surpassed yet. However, I went from the 80D to the R6 and it’s been a great camera replacement. You may though want to get the R7 as it’s a more natural replacement.

[@markshirley01]

I bet canon copy the recently released 11mm F1.8 fro Sony, when they do I'd go for the R7 over the R6 - if you shoot fast hybrid the R6 is clumsy and the IBIS wobble at wide angles is a pain

[@adamzhang3028]

Having owned the RP for about a year, I must say the R7 now looks like an amazing bargain, with a myriad of useful features. I'm going to trade in my RP for it. Thank you as always, Gordon.

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome, nice upgrade!

[@jimscarff4634]

Excellent review, as always! I do a lot of wildlife photography as a hobby. I had been shooting with Canon 7D and then. the 7D mk II cameras since they first were released. I jumped to the Canon R5 when that was released and think it is a brilliant camera, which a minor design quirk of the focal length limitation using a teleconverter. But I need (or at least badly want) a backup camera to bring along on long trips. Much as I lover the R5 I don't want to spend $4,000 for a backup camera. The R7 price is great in comparison, and the APS-C format will give me extra reach if I need it for my RF 100-500 or EF 500mmm f/4. The smaller size and weight are a benefit and I think with the RF-S 18-150mm they should make an excellent smaller system when I don't need so much telephoto length. i realize that I am approaching this camera (which I pre-ordered on release) from a different position than others, but I think that a lot of people may like this as a second and/or backup camera. I think that a lot of folks who own EF lenses such as the EF 100-400 mk II may find this an excellent way to take their wildlife photography mirrorless. Again. great review.

[@ThreeCeeProductions]

I’m with you 100%. I always used premium EF glass with my 7DII and got great results for Birds. I sold it when I shot with the R5. The R7 might be better for longer range shooting like waterfowl.

[@thomasl4533]

Nice review, nice job, thanks ! The R7 looks very interesting. I am still affraid with overheating issues in the highest quality. I would love to see a dedicated test on it. A comparaison with the R5 in image quality and dynamic range would be apreciated too 😁 I am still searching for a b cam wich could record long takes. I was looking for the Sony A7IV but i own Canon glass... Maybe the R7 will be my final choice.

[@mxilplict]

Gordon's footage just past the 12 minute mark on the accumulated heat looks promising;. I am in the same market for a camera that can record long takes without overheating for multi-angle livestreaming, which is currently met for me by my R3. This seems like overkill, so I welcome a set of R7s to assume that role.

[@alanm.4298]

Another reviewer used R7 continuously in 90 degree (F) Florida for a couple hours with no overheating issues.

[@cameralabs]

I recorded two hours and 21 minutes of 4k Fine on one battery with no overheating, which is the most demanding mode. Today I managed even longer in 1080 25p with a full battery allowing me to record three hours and 57 minutes on a single clip.

[@thomasl4533]

@@cameralabs Wow ! The dream come true 😁 Is the full hd as good as the 4k fine mode or is it like the 4k normal mode ? Do you think it as the same dynamic range than the R6 or R5 ? Do you have real time editing whith this codec ? Sorry for all the questions but i feel like Canon as finaly listened our needs. There was always something frustrating or limiting and the cost was too expensive. It could be the time for me to change my mind about Canon. Thanks again Gordon.

[@cameralabs]

@@thomasl4533 Note the 1080p clip I show of London was actually recorded in 4k. Pre-production bug, sorry!

[@gerraldgoselink]

Great review Gordon, you're one of the first! I have a 7DII and have been waiting for the autofocus tracking system that is already in the R3 and R5 to move into this price range. In combination with the frame rate: now is the time to go mirrorless. Just pre-ordered!

[@philfyphil]

Thanks Gordon, really look forward to part 2 review, yours are reviews people can really trust.

[@HappyGrl41]

Great review. When I first heard of the R7, I was hoping it was the long-awaited successor to the 7DMii, and to a certain extent, I guess it is. It's definitely piqued my interest. I look forward to your review of a production model. Thanks.

[@mostlymessingabout]

Crossing that 30 minute "barrier" was magical 😊

[@DerPhiL]

For me...as a R6 owner and before 6-7 years old 7D owner. I was wishing for a highend APS-C... with the ergonomics and EVF of the R6! Now we have a slow read out sensor, less MP at the EVF...and a lower end button setting. I would also pay 100-200€ more if all of my wishes would be into it... I want more MP and crop for wildlife. 20 of my R6 is to less for BIF etc.

[@dexter.azarcon]

What? There's no top screen? They should've ditched the 4 way controller and just put the multicontroller in there. If they've done that, top screen could have its space on top.

[@mashkg]

Oh nooooo

[@BruderTux]

You don’t need a top screen on a camera with EVF. All the info is there without having to take the camera down.

[@dexter.azarcon]

@@BruderTux I usually adjust my camera before putting it up. Especially in situations where I need to go back and forth different lighting setups or conditions. That's when the top screen is useful to me.

[@mashkg]

@@BruderTux thank you for that clarification. Makes me happy 😊

[@kenjiyamamoto423]

@@dexter.azarcon Only dinosaur 🦖 will recognized that top screen,.

[@tysonator5433]

I purchased the 7D at launch and was waiting for the 7Diii and when that was cancelled and my patience running on Canon for an upgrade. I purchased a used 7Dii and recently a Sony A6600 for the eye detection. For all the features the 7Dii has over the R7 the one that beats all of them on the R7,......eye and object detection is tge killer feature ! That is my No 1 reason for the R7 purchase.

[@AboutFocusTV]

Thank you Gordon, great initial review. Currently have an EOS M6 (Mk1) and have been looking for an upgrade, the R7 could be the one as it’s within my budget. Intended use would again be both stills and video. Love the form factor of the M6 but miss the built in viewfinder, hopefully the R7 will be a similar size, will look forward to seeing it in the flesh. Thanks again.

[@mcmoose64]

This is more of a mirrorless 90D than a 7Dmkii for the new decade . A very good camera for sure , but I can't help feeling a little disappointed . I was hoping for something along the lines of an aps-c R5.

[@tedvitale8978]

So I just picked up an R7 for work. Mostly Architecture photography, but also some family photos and kids' sporting events. That said I was really bummed to find out that the R7 does not yet have a battery grip. It's very obviously set up for one (detachable door on the current version I have). I really hope Canon gets one to market because I have large hands and not having that battery grip really is a struggle for comfort for me, especially shooting portraits.

[@simonmaduxx6777]

What a fantastic reviewer. It's appreciable and amazing how different some of the top reviewers are in their style. Each of them offer details at the other simply doesn't. A small but super important thing for me to see in this video was the 50 mm attached to the body. Holy hell that was small. I have a much better sense of the size of this camera now. I'm coming from a M series and was not interested in a larger crop. But since the m62 has been a utter disappointment so far, I'm forced to look at this or another manufacturer. I did not get the same view from two other videos and that's why I watch them all.

[@robertmoranelli]

I really wish they had included the top screen as the R5 has. The 7DII was a professional level body that included all the same professional level features as the 5D series including the top screen. The lack of screen on the R7 seems to be a statement by Canon that this is a lesser camera than the R5 to me. It's a super useful feature and it's really lame they left it off. I would otherwise be looking at purchasing this camera. ... Ok so they seem to have dropped the idea that this is a professional crop sensor body considering the screen resolutions, etc. Just a higher end consumer body over the R10. Too bad. Hope they release a pro crop sensor body someday. ... No built in GPS?? Are they serious?

[@RobertWhetton]

A year too late, and not sure about the ergonomics.. I switched to the Fujifilm X-T4 because of the supidly high shutter count on my 7D2 (tried the 90D and hated it). The Fringer EF-FX Pro II on the Fuji means I can use all my Canon EF/EFS lenses without a hitch!

[@mikegewalt4122]

I remember back in 2010 when Canon launched the 50D and the 7D cameras and it kinda feels like that now. 2 really good choices for the weekend warrior along with access to the great glass. Great video as always G.

[@nickclaytonphotography]

Excellent first impression review Gordon, I’m an 80D user & still on the fence regarding switching to mirrorless. This does look a very equal replacement to my 80D, with faster shooting capabilities & 8mp more in the sensor. I shall wait for the UK release & see what the reviews are saying then. Great vlog, thank you 🙏

[@steveparent8788]

Great review as always. I really like your work !

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@keith2599]

Great review Gordon, A bonus with the C log, Nice camera and price...

[@trevor9934]

As always a really well-presented first look: thank you! I have both the 7D and 7DII and, as a wildlife photographer, I have been looking forward to a MILC version of those cameras. At first touch, it looks very promising, and am quite happy with the 32.5MP sensor size, although I am a bit disappointed not so see any sign of a back-lit and/or stacked configuration in this. - is Canon using up its old sensors, or doing its historical tepid testing of the waters to see how popular the format will be? I am hopeful that Canon will bring out a battery grip, not only for the extended battery capacity, but to balance this lighter body with some of the heavier EF glass of my long telephotos, such as the Sigma 60-600, which should go a treat on this body.

[@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife]

Looking at the comments, it staggers me how many of you guys have held off on the new R5/6 bodies until the APS was released. Not a knock against anyone, just find it interesting. Full frame is great for wildlife just the same. Perhaps it was an easier transition for me, since I moved to the full frame cameras prior to the mirrorless cameras. It doesn’t bother me at all and didn’t feel like I was “losing” anything at all since in reality, you really arent. It’s just the same when you crop, though it does make you feel like you are losing focal length at first for sure. But I truly encourage you if you like landscapes and portraits in the least, to look towards an R6 instead, as it’s an amazing all around camera for just about everything. But an R7 is pretty exciting if birds and wildlife are the primary use. The eye detection is amazing to behold and there truly is no going back. Especially for birds. Good luck to you!

[@ItalianVoid]

@@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife interesting input, Ill be upgrading from an 80D. Was about to pull the trigger on a R6, but this R7 is making me second guess on that. I really want to see the R7 lowlight performance. I plan to use my camera upgrade for moving to Tokyo for portraits and street photography. Saving $1000 bucks and having all the newest tech in the R7 is pretty appealing compared to getting the R6 which is two years old at this point and half way to its replacement most likely already by a MII version. Leaning towards the R7 body to become my main APS-C/First Mirrorless and wait for the R6 MII to finally make the push into full frame.

[@trevor9934]

@@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife Actually, I began shooting wildlife as a pro about 40 years ago, and I have the R5 and R6. Both great cameras for their purpose. But the R7 gives that extra cropping and pixel density boost at the long end. After delving more into the camera, my enthusiasm has somewhat tempered... The lack of BSI and stacking on the sensor is a lost opportunity for a camera in a market where, at the high end, more cameras (esp Sony, a big rival) are bringing those in. My Sony Rx-10MkIV, vintage 2017 has a stacked sensor already! Also, according to Pangolin Wildlife's review, Canon said that the R7 has less weather sealing than the R5 and R6, which seems counter-intuitive, considering it is likely to be subjected to the element by pro users.

[@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife]

@@ItalianVoid definitely it depends on what you shoot mostly. I don’t think you can go wrong with either. Do you know if the viewfinder (your own eye) detection is in the R7? I know the R3 was the only camera that had it so far. That would be a good reason to upgrade for sure. I was told that for astro, low light I think you are better off with an R6 but I agree that the R7 is a more updated camera. The cameras are so good these days it’s unbelievable. The animal eye detection is only rough when there are sticks and crap near the bird. And if that’s the case in my opinion you should find a better subject and cleaner background anyway. Good luck with your choice!

[@vinvanid]

@@gary_michael_flanagan_wildlife The crop resolution of R5 just 17MP, while this R7 is 32MP.. that's so much.. and wildlife photographer will be more happy with R7

[@mb-watches]

Thanks for the great Review Gordon. I thought I am set for a long time with the 90D for my small channel. Well, I am hooked. Going to pre-order the R7. For my channel, which includes macro and close up product shots its perfect. Hoping a lot for more or less affordable 10-18 if 11-22 RFS lenses and other stuff. The 35mm RF should be also intersting for fotos portraits and other vids and pictures. Everytime enjoy these reviews, have a great rest of the week, cheers from Germany.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@steveducell2158]

What would really spark my interest is a speed booster to go with my collection of EF Lenses. You inserted a tease that one might be on the way. Hopefully, Canon will act on this right away.

[@cameralabs]

Well they already have one, so finger's crossed they'll make it work on the R7 and R10.

[@anantdabholkar685]

For one thing, as a serious amateur, Canon put the body in the right price range for me. I’ll be looking forward to the detailed review and comparison to the 90D and 7DMk2.

[@cropperson5583]

Great Video as always. Best R7 review so far. As I am upgrading from a 650D, the R7 looks pretty awesome. Lots of great features at a reasonable price!

[@gemini-mg6sc]

Looks more of a replacement of the 90D than the 7D mk II to be honest. 30fps but no CF Express is a big mistake.

[@neo8thgen]

Because it doesn't need a CF Express card.

[@ayfj4572]

Fantastic as usual Gordon.

[@iBair]

This is literally me! 😱 I'm selling my 7Dii to buy this bad boy. Incredible upgrade to a great camera

[@maxvain]

I would have bought into Canon if the original EOS R had these ergonomics and AF capabilities at 30mp. This R7 and the Original EOS R would have been a great pairing. Instead I am going from my 60D and 6D to Sony A6600 and A7IV.

[@presise1620]

i went from an 80D and 5D3 to a Sony A6400 and A73. But now im back to canon with and R nd R5.

[@chrisipad4425]

Thanks Gordon for the great video of the R7!

[@ME2K23]

🤤Hein!? Was that a Coleco game console!? (12:25) 😀 Wow! I had tons of fun with that console! Burger Time was one of my favorites... And many more I did own 😏 Sadly, I sold it and all of my games long ago, in order to get the Super Nintendo, which was great but now I wish I didn't sell that older console! 😣 ... Anyways... looks like the R7 will be a good remedy.... for these wildlife (wildwives? 😉) and sport photos... And as always, 👍🏻☺👍🏻Great video Gordon! 📸

[@cameralabs]

Yep, my old Colecovision in mostly working order! Check my Dino Bytes channel for my Retro vintage stuff!

[@ME2K23]

@@cameralabs🙆‍♂️ Great! I just subscribed!🕹 Another really interesting channel! Thanks Gordon! 👍🏻☺👍🏻

[@nickr9501]

Hi Gordon. Very nice comprehensive initial review. I really like this body and its feature set. I just hope Canon will add more hi-end lens support in the near future for the smaller sensor.

[@btecww]

With the disappearance of camera stores and electronics retailer your review are essential. Your thorough review led me to purchase an R6 and several rf L lens. I am a semi professional in the Canon eco system. Your reviews incorporate real world use which is ultra helpful. I look forward to your in depth review as I am looking a the R7 as a backup vs another R6. Thanks much btw I purchased your book it is a studio coffee table favorite 👍🏼

[@cameralabs]

Glad you like my reviews, and hope you're enjoying the book!

[@JaredHoyman]

pre ordered mine to go along with my R6.

[@2020davidg]

Looks pretty good to me with one exception. I just wish they had put an exposure compensation dial where the power switch is (which could be moved elsewhere). Still a contender though!

[@alansach8437]

Yeah, Canon always wants to reinvent the wheel!! But other than that, this looks to be a great backup to my R6, and goto when I go hiking or need extra reach. Really looking forward to getting my hands on one....whenever that will be. My local dealer seems to think late 2022 or early 2023. Disappointing.

[@RealTechnoPanda]

11:39 "4K Fine" video quality looks really good!

[@cameralabs]

And it didn't overheat

[@MarkBennettCameraCrisis]

Does the R7 have minimum shutter in auto iso or zebras?

[@Airwolf2030]

I’m kinda disappointed the R7 doesn’t have a built in flash but I hope the sensor can pick up low level light to make up for that, also I rarely use the flash but overall the camera looks so good

[@maxsr3236]

I used to own a 7DII and this seems like a worthy successor, but it comes a couple of years too late for me, as the unreliable autofocus of the 7DII and Canon's lackluster mirrorless strategy at that time drove me away. And even with this camera finally announced, there are no lenses that would lure me back to Canon at the moment.

[@alanm.4298]

I don't know what you were doing with your 7D Mark II, but I've shot tens of thousands of sports images with a pair of them and very rarely miss focus... And even when I do, I know it's usually my fault. Not the camera's. Still, the R7's AF looks even more capable.

[@maxsr3236]

@@alanm.4298 it wasn't the action shots, I would have counted that as user error or maybe motion blur, but simple non moving animals. There were too many occasions when instead of focusing on the subject right in the middle under the double cross-type focus point, it preferred to focus on a random blade of grass somewhere halfway towards the edge of the frame or some other thing that only the camera could see. And it wasn't a consistent front or back focus either. After countless hours of useless adjustments of all kinds of AF settings and sending it in for service I just gave up. Never had those problems with any of the rebels or the 80D that I owned before. And that was with the 100-400L IS II. I just couldn't trust it anymore and since there was no 7DIII in sight and I needed better video as well, I had to leave Canon behind.

[@07wrxtr1]

@@alanm.4298 Same - I have owned a 70d 80d 90d... Guess what! My keeper rate is JUST as good on my 90d as my R5. In fact, I actually like my 90d better in a lot of ways, so call me crazy, but I am probably going to go back to a cheaper setup. I think the big miss is that $900-$1900 90/r7 + basic lens vs $5000 R5 + 24-105. Are the results 2x as good? I don't think so. After owning the R5 for a year, doing both landscapes and wildlife, I'm kind of like: I wish the R7 was out a year ago, I would have more money in my pocket, and with the exception of some low light astro work, I don't see where the R5 is SOOOOOO much better than a crop sensor in the right hands. I had ZERO issues shooting center point only on the crop bodies, and nailing focus just fine, yes, even for birds flying TOWARDS the camera = no issues. These people that continually complain about focus issues simply need more time in the field practicing, and they need to take the training wheels off and ditch the multi point bs. I think the R7 IS THE Canon camera to own unless you're pulling in money for your work (Like, you ACTUALLY SHOW INCOME ON YOUR TAX RETURNS!!!!). Otherwise, it's like these guys with the Corvette in the right lane going 5-10mph under... why?! I really wish we simply had a best camera setup for $2000 or less type of comparison.

[@Jimmyageek]

Is there 4K Apeature Mode for Video?

[@CliftonCinematics]

Finally Canon's APS-C has a decent 4K video

[@enigmacode_1]

Subscribed! On my bucket list (1st Mirrorless), gotta wait for your full (Rap7or) report esp with the RF 70-200mm f/4.

[@mikegarcia8079]

Gordon, Can not wait until you review the RF-S 18-150. Your reviews are immensely helpful and much appreciated . Mike

[@cameralabs]

Thanks! I've already make a quick preview video

[@michajastrzebski4383]

long time 7D2 user here. R7 is going to be my next camera, albeit with EF lenses for now due to cost.

[@rileyce6072]

I’ve been waiting sooo long as I want to keep using my sigma 18-35 f1.8 so I’m definitely getting this. The switch from my 800d will be a well deserved upgrade

[@guyphoto9437]

This is an extremely advanced camera with Canon color. I'm not a sports or bird shooter but I'll probably get one because I have the 7D MK II and use it for some of my model and graduating senior work. My only regret is that Canon isn't going to offer a battery pack with it. I like having the extra weight and extra battery capacity. This kinda leaves Nikon and Sony in the background.

[@pgulysse1]

Thanks. Did you try the new Wheel & Joystick combo with a winter gloves?

[@icantfly1001]

Super presentation as always - thank you. The short burst time, shutter clatter and the possible difficulty of access to the spinny wheel/joystick combo with gloves on concern me.

[@patrickr.etienne5994]

Thank you Great review. I will be ordering my R7 as soon as they become available.

[@j.kimmer1509]

I am so glad i didn't sell off all my EF-s sigma, tokina, tamron and Canon lenses. I am so excited to use the Rf-EF vND adapter ... WOW i am going to have fun with this!!!!!! R7 for me.

[@Aturixios]

Cross-compatibility was something EF/EF-S couldn't offer either, this is a great step towards a unified lens mounting system like the other big brands have.

[@HawkyLee]

I started as a hardcore hobbyist and thanks to my passion, photography is my 2nd support income. Now currently rocking the M6 mark ii... coming from 70D and previously 1000D i know that the upgrade to R7 is not a "substantial" upgrade. Might upgrade to the next successor of the R7 (2025-26 maybe?) to fully appreciate the technological advancement. But nevertheless, its frustrating as a eos-M user and hugely super jealous of the EVF and the awesome focusing the CMOS ii sensor + digic X can provide 🥲

[@mohamedwalele5235]

Great review, Gordon! Will you be doing a full in depth review by any chance?

[@cameralabs]

Thanks and yes I will, but it's been delayed, so I won't be able to do it until end of October timeframe.

[@truthseeker6804]

canon is back in the game! wow im blown away. 4k 60 uncropped with log. this is gonna sell.

[@truthseeker6804]

with 10bit. wow

[@Chris-ey7zy]

I’m thinking of buying and I own Sony. I have 24-70 2.8 with adapter but sometimes the shutter sticks and a Canon 70-200 2.8 and various other Canon lenses. I’ve been waiting for a Canon that I can put these ef lenses on and with 4k 60 crop, it is basically a Sony 7iv but 1k cheaper. And since I already have a Sony A7C. I already have a full frame photo camera. And I also have that Sigma 18-35 mm 1.8. So I can see that being amazing on this camera as well

[@dimitristsagdis7340]

At 10:12: Surprised to see the 1/2 second pre-buffer? I don't seem to have this also available on the R5? I appreciate on the R5 it would be most likely on tab 5 (rather than 6) but I don't see any such option on the R5 on any tab. Any advice welcome.

[@cameralabs]

No, it's new for Canon

[@dimitristsagdis7340]

@@cameralabs tnx, lets hope the do introduce it with some firmware update

[@PaulBawby]

Thank you for this very fine first look. Looking forward to seeing your detailed review 😀

[@andyandy2731]

Gordon - what do you think about the R7 for casual film-making (provided there will be 22mm 2.0 RF-S lens)? On paper seems to be ok, with downsampled 4k video in 24/25/30, log3, IBIS, good AF, good colors. Do you think Canon will launch 22mm 2.0?

[@cameralabs]

Who knows about future lenses, but yes, the video capabilities look good

[@RA35GT]

Much awesome! Looking forward to the in depth review.

[@jonrolfson1686]

Canon USA still shows as available their APSC trinity of EF-S lenses with Image Stabilization (IS): EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM, EF-S 55-250 f/4-5.6 IS STM and EF-S 10-18 f/4-5.6 IS STM. Best hurry though, discontinuation of these good to very good EF-S lenses has been announced. Expect these three lenses will be replicated with the built-in flange-extension adapters as fat-bottomed RF-S lenses , though that seems not to have been rumored or announced as of this date.

[@boy7000]

This review is great im going from a t5i to the r7 and excited but knowing that the leap is big but will have fun and going to be a great upgrade

[@presise1620]

I ran to Gordon's Review before anyone else!!

[@tekguyphoto]

Im sure others asks but please check if video settings can be saved under the custom dial. C1 C2 C3.

[@edwardtsui4115]

I am using a 7D and have been waiting for the 7D Mark III for years. Canon has switched to mirrorless in recent years. I have to include the price of converter for using my EF and EFS lens in R system.

[@ChowDownDetroit]

I feel like the on and off button could be a dial for something else. You only need a small button to turn the camera on

[@francinerowiemarcelo1128]

saw the trailer and this thing uses perfect golden rectangle to scope birds holy sheets

[@stubones]

Anyone complaining about this camera isn't a real photographer, just a tech geek. As a working photographer who shoots a outdoors daylight sports primarily, using a 7Dii and a 100-400ii, this camera would be the perfect upgrade. I don't care about the lack of top screen and the flip out screen. As a photographer actually getting paid to work, I care care about the af and fps primarily. 15 fps is more than enough and I'd dial it back to 12fps tbh, the 30fps elec shutter is a gimmick. The rolling shutter effect on fast moving round objects such as footballs renders it unusable. A vertical grip with two batteries takes care of the dual controls required and battery life. I'd better getting saving :) **edit***Canon have confirmed they have no plans to make a grip for this camera... either a 3rd party grip is the solution or canon really don't want serious shooters using the camera. Crazy.

[@tilakch]

Hello Gordon, When can we expect a full review on the R7. Im particularly interested in its low light performance. Many thanks for your work. Cheers !

[@PyroNikPyro]

Pls compare the final production model vs the 90D. Would be pretty interesting in my opinion :)

[@dlugsch]

Considering getting this to pair with the older Sigma 18-35mm and 50-100mm f1.8 lenses

[@willherondale6367]

Those lenses had massive autofocus issues on DSLRs, but work great adapted into mirrorless cameras. Add in the R7's IBIS to compensate for the sigmas' lack of OIS, and I think we're going to see those lenses shooting up in price on the used market 😀

[@dlugsch]

@@willherondale6367 Exactly my thinking! I shoot cars for my job, and need about 160mm of reach for rolling shots which the 50-100 would give me. Also need about 24mm at the wide end for customer shots at stops. Currently have the RP / RF 24-105 f4L and it doesn't give me enough reach and unfortunately just doesn't look as good as the Sony a6500 / 18-105mm GM setup I have at work. I'm a canon guy so was kind of tough to switch and do want to switch back eventually. Ultimate setup would be the R6 with the RF 24-70 and 70-200, but that's quite a bit more expensive than the R7 setup.

[@rickyjohnson1034]

Hi Gordon Alot of 7D Fans would pay more for a R7 in a R5 type Body. Better EVF-CF express . For birding. the autofocus looks amazing. The R7 seems to surpass the 90D not the 7D. Also I am thrilled that Canon is using one unified AF system across all there camera body's. Another quip, Quit messing with button layout Canon. I can seamlessly switch from 5DIV to 7DII both have very close button lay out. I have tried a R5 and its also very good..

[@singlereed]

Ordered one. Price a pleasant surprise, its few weaknesses would have pushed it up to R6 price if fixed. Main thing for me is AF, sensor and crop factor that will give me the sort of long range capability I need. I have the RF800mm, the 1.4 Extender and I calculate that at nearly 1800mm equivalent. I might be tempted by the 100-500 which would be the killer birding option on this camera. Didn’t order either kit zoom as wide end needs to be 24mm equivalent imho. I’ll use my 16mm and 24-105 for general use but I ordered it mainly for birding. Thanks for the review.

[@singlereed]

Gordon, is this for real or has someone been trying to hack you?

[@RogerZoul]

While this is not the follow on to the 7DM2 that many of us were hoping for, at the $1500 price point, and with the confirmed feature set, this seems like a killer body. I have been saying I would not get this (I have two R5s), but that is getting harder and harder to hold to. If I did get this, I'd sell off my 90D and 5DSr and end my relationship with DLSRs for good.

[@peterhayward1848]

Two R5s. Why would you want one of these?

[@RogerZoul]

@@peterhayward1848 1.6x crop, means more reach on sunny days, which we have plenty of. It's the same reason one would want a 7DM3.

[@kevindiaz3459]

Got a good look at that battery door, and it looks as though the rumors could end up being true. There likely will be no battery grip, which will be the thing that gets people all riled up as they tend to do whenever Canon pointlessly cripples something. This is pre-production though, and it is not yet confirmed, but that door was definitely not made with the intention of taking it off. My own disappointment has been two things. The first, the body itself falls well short of the 7D, which at this price point I guess isn't as big as deal but I was still hoping/expecting a stronger build. The second is the control layout is kind of absurd. They omitted the third wheel, and moved the second wheel to a place where it is much more likely to get bumped in regular use (which happens when you were demonstrating it), and there appears to be no way to lock it to prevent this. The placement of the controls is so different from current RF cameras too, so muscle memory ergonomics will lead to stumbling with them if using this as a second camera to an R5 or R6 (which is going to be a common thing). These are disappointing to me because they are choices Canon made, not things that are just the result of limits that are impossible or at least difficult to overcome. My disappointment overall though is a bit waned at this point, since I respect the price point they were going with so the body was a sacrifice, but that control layout is still on the bubble. Might be fine, but likely just an annoyance to those of us that prefer a familiar layout. Otherwise, the video features might be the most exciting thing about this camera. This likely is a real punch in the nuts to Panasonic, coming in at 1500 and having so many video modes as well as no record limit, and we all know that AF is going to be there where it isn't on Pana. The 15fps seems nice in theory, so long as the buffer can hold out well enough (the numbers you are quoting are higher than others I have heard, not sure of the merits of it all, need more production models to get tested to find the true performance). The buffer was another thing that was disappointing to me, but still looks to be better than pretty well any DSLR anyone would be using at this point, so at least its a net gain in regards to that. Could it have been better with a CFX card? Of course. Would that make it a much more expensive camera? Also of course, by hundreds of dollars at least. So, while initially I was kind of pissed off about how far it fell short of what I was looking for it to be, it still feels like a very solid choice of camera for wildlife enthusiast and definitely for video shooters. I'm probably not getting one right off, but maybe in a year or so I might feel like its the way to go. For now, I just am not using my crop body often enough to really justify it, a 90D, but to be fair that is because my R5 and R6 kind of took over my bag. The AF alone on those cameras were half the reason I wanted them. So, pending real world testing of production units by trusted, non-sponsored content, I could see myself with one, maybe.

[@cameralabs]

I don't believe there'll be a battery grip

[@kevindiaz3459]

@@cameralabs what a stupid thing to leave out. Even the 90D, which is the line this appears to be replacing, can take a grip. Just Canon being Canon.

[@cameralabs]

@@kevindiaz3459 it is annoying if there's no way to do it.

[@anthonycator]

Would be nice to see the temperature indicator and recording time limit removal pushed to the R5 and R6

[@cameralabs]

I agree and I'll ask them