EOS R5 vs R6 In The Field - Can The R6 Compete? Bird Photography Review

[@gprice1903]

Hands down the best R5/R6 comparison I've seen, thank you! It helped me confirm my decision.

[@jan_wegener]

Great to hear, thanks :)

[@kennlw5]

What was your decision?

[@xandercloet7467]

I agree. I watched hours worth of r5 reviews and even tho I watched so many videos this one still taught me things I didn’t knew. For example the instant record thing on the r5.

[@jan_wegener]

@@xandercloet7467 That's great to hear. I try to keep it relevant and focus on things that matter in the field

[@Pulsar8205]

Awesome and the explanations are crystal clear. I feel that I am lucky to watch this video before I finalize to buy which camera. I also immediately subscribed your channel. The recurring cost in R5 make me to move out of it and I will plan to take R6. It will be very helpful if you share any macro photography you shot in both the cameras also any low light photography if you. ❤️ Loved your videos...

[@jeremywalker3124]

Thank you so much for this video. It really laid everything out perfectly as I was initially saving for the R5 but after seeing the cropping ability and image quality of the R6 plus the cost savings regarding SD cards, no need to upgrade computer, etc plus the fact that I'm just a hobbyist, the R6 seems to be the better path for me. Thanks again!

[@jan_wegener]

Glad I could help! I think for most people the R6 is more than enough and can actually be more fun to use and handle, especially when it comes to file size

[@dennisfahlstrom2515]

I moved from the 5D Mk 4 to the R6 and have no regrets. I can see where going with the 45 MP R5 can be better when cropping to have a larger sensor starting point. But I think that some foresight with aperture choice and ISO can allow you to capture multiple subjects at different ranges in sharp resolution. For me, the advantage that was more useful with the R5 was the ability to have more control in quickly shifting between photo and video and going to the video mode I want rather than a default one. Hopefully, Canon will rectify this in the near future with a software update or a firmware patch. I also have to admit that as I’m not a pro and can’t write off the difference in cost on my taxes that the R6 fits my budget better in many ways (memory, storage). I’m 77 and have been a passionate amateur since my teens. I started with a used Leica M3 in the early 60’s. The Pentax Spotmatic was my first SLR 5 years later followed by a Nikon F. I shifted to Canon with the 5D Mk3 9 years ago and had no regrets. This R6 is the best camera I’ve ever had the pleasure and satisfaction using. That said, if my budget could tolerate it, I’d have gone for the R5. Thank you for your balanced review.

[@NameNaameNameeNaamee]

27:26 Finally someone tells it like it is. Thanks! Most people talk about MP as if it was only a matter of choice. Sometimes they talk about the additional price for the (typically higher class) camera. Rarely do they talk about the need for adequate storage and horse power in the computer. Almost never they talk about the economical factor, since all this additional cost puts you at a severe economical disadvantage, so you will have to NEED the added features of the R5 to justify that investment. I hear stupid statements (by professional photographers!) like "If you are a full time professional, you should choose the R5!". If you put it this way, that's just BS. If you are a full time professional (especially then!), you'll have to analyze what you will be using the camera for, what the REAL costs are, what your estimated earnings are and if the R5 will give you enough increase in margin that the additional cost over time not only get covered but exceeded to an amount that is economically relevant. I would assume that this will be the case for a LOT less professionals than one would think. And if this is not the case, than the R5 will mainly do one thing: burn your hard earned money. It will literally be a burden for your company. If you are an architectural photographer in a corporate setting, if you are a serious birder, if you make your money cataloging pieces of art - yes. More MP = less aliasing/moire, more ability to crop, more detail, no discussion there. All others - not so much. The vast majority of professional photographers makes their money with portraits, wedding photography, event photography etc., and those will be far better off with the R6. Much quicker turnaround times for the clients, much better handling if you want to drop off a few money shots (or the whole material for review) right at the shooting or need to send a shot via mail (one R5 JPEG will overwhelm some mail clients already), much quicker break even point in terms of investment, slightly better ISO performance for photos (not a lot of difference, but that difference can make it or break it if you got a money shot that is on the verge to being unusable due to low light, plus the out of focus rendering sets the R6 apart [in general, but especially in low light]), massively better low light performance for video (no comparison there), better AF performance (-6.5 EV vs. -6), also more AF points in manual mode (5940/4500 for photo/video on the R5, 6072/4968 on the R6 (american specs seem to leave that bit out on the R5 spec sheet, probably not by accident, german site does list it correctly though). Opposed to what you suggested in the video, the R6 actually is better here). I did the math and it was clearly R6 for me, plus I love how the sensor renders (both in terms of details as well as in terms of colour). It has "that" look for portraits that you simply can't synthesize in post. Some sensors have that, typically the sensors of the 1D series have it (thats why the R6 has it), some Fujis have it, but most cameras do not. They still look good, the R5 takes amazing photos, sony cameras take amazing photos etc.. But the R6' images have a special look to them. Very pleasing, very flattering, true to life yet almost artistic. Bla bla. I simply liked the look of the photos immediately. But more importantly, this camera was the economically sound choice. Thanks for this great video! Also, good find concerning the video custom modes on the R5!

[@jan_wegener]

You make very valid points and I agree that the R6 would be "pro" enough (haha) for most projects. For my real estate work I sometimes do, I would prefer it due to the smaller files. The R6 does really nice video, that's for sure, just a tad annoying to use.

[@gilcarag274]

@@jan_wegener do you know if 1 yr later, the switch from photo to video has been improved on the R6? Really looking at this camera in an hybrid use and it’s a very important factor for me. Thank you.

[@cjoe6908]

This guy is patient in explaining the details. Thanks a lot.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you liked it :)

[@ghlocal1]

I’ve had the R5 for a week now and I must say I’m loving it. The files look amazing and the shooting experience has really renewed my love for wildlife photography. I was hesitant to go mirrorless but I’m a convert now!!

[@jan_wegener]

As Pringles people would say: Once you pop you cannot stop! It's the same with mirrorless. Once you make the jump you wonder how you could even photograph before haha!

[@alivia4907]

I couldn't really afford the r5 but I got the r6! I can confirm, mirrorless is absolutely amazing and I'll probably never go back! I do alot of indoor sports photography btw and the low light on the r6 is amazing. Plus 12 - 20 pictures per sec helps. The auto focus isn't just amazing too. Plus setting up a back focus button. If it broke today, I'd buy it again!

[@romainprovost7164]

No overheating issues ?

[@DirkDien]

Great comparison Jan! Both of you convinced me to go for Canon mirrorless, I just could not wait any longer for Nikon to update their lineup for wildlife photography. Very happy with the R6 so far!

[@jan_wegener]

Hi, Glad we could help your decision making. It feels like innovation will be with Canon & Sony for the foreseeable future. I'm also still very happy with my Canon mirrorless'

[@davidrussell4636]

Regarding the red button, as I understand it, on the R5 it defaults to the C3 setting when the red button is pressed. Not the last setting used as I think you said. Great videos and images BTW.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes it goes to C3, but I can set up C3 that it keeps whichever settings I put in last.

[@stheil777]

Nice comparison, thx for that. The R5 is a rockstar - unfortunately also to expensive atm. The R6 looks like a wise decision.

[@jan_wegener]

Agree on both accounts

[@lisaguy2914]

Absolutely fantastic. I really enjoyed your video. I am about to upgrade my 90D to a canon EOS and this video has helped me make up my mind. I will be going for the R6 and the reason being the very last point about equipment. I don’t want to spend the extra on memory cards and or computers. I have been luckily enough to use the R6 for a weekend thanks to a friend who loaned it to me and was very impressed. I don’t make videos so the points on video is not a problem for me . I was concerned about 20Mp but you have helped a lot with your explanation. Thank you so much

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome!

[@pintolace]

Jan, thanks so much for all the effort in these videos. I’ve started following your channel for these kinds of honest reviews about usage in a demanding professional setting. While watching this, I can downsize to my reality as a passionate hobby photographer and clearly decide what suits my needs. Keep going...

[@jan_wegener]

Hi Luis, I am glad you are enjoying my work and find it useful for your own choices.

[@ronsteficek2886]

I own an R6 and I’m more than happy with it. Having said that if I had the coin I would have an R5. The R6 is an awesome camera.

[@jan_wegener]

It is!

[@Steve56-w9r]

Assign your manual photo settings to the custom function with auto update enabled. Then, on the dial you only have to turn one click to get to video, and one click back to manual mode (under the custom function).

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, that can certainly help to mitigate some of the issue.

[@AYC-yg9on]

Stephen, what do you mean by enabling auto update?

[@Steve56-w9r]

@@AYC-yg9on you can set the camera to save any changes you made while in the custom mode automatically whenever you change to another mode, so that when you go back, it'll be set the same as when you left

[@danielthomas7747]

Hi Thank you for this fantastic review. I had the R6 and I questions myself a lot on the sensor size. This is why i got an opportunity on a R5 that has only 2000 actuation.... I will see the result on my 100-400 Mark ll. I longtemps for a 600mm f4...

[@PabloGEFoto]

Excellent side by side review. Many thanks. I have the R5 and have been using it at the famous Bosque del Apache in New Mexico with Canon 100-400Mark II and the Sigma 150-600 Sport.Great results with both. Like you, I am impressed with the eye tracking capability and increasing my keeper ratio.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing! Great to hear

[@PabloGEFoto]

@@jan_wegener Only Problem with Sigma 150-600 is that it camera becomes unresponsive every few hundred photos. Just have to turn it off and then on again. I also tried with the Canon 1.4XII extender and theSigma lens. Works well but this time when camera locks you have to take the battery out for a few seconds. Check out my KZbin channel "Pablo GE Foto"

[@jan_wegener]

@@PabloGEFoto Sounds strange, but it is possible that third party glass works not as good on the new mirrorless

[@davefellows]

Great review! I recently upgraded my 5D Mk III to an R5 and have been blown away by how amazing this camera is, it's way exceeded my expectations even after I'd read and watched many reviews. I've really enjoyed customising the camera so all the main functions are one button click away. It's an expensive purchase and my wife wasn't too impressed but it's been well worth it!

[@jan_wegener]

Congratulations. It's quite a step up from the 5D series.

[@Manihsi]

My wife already told me if you buy R5 , we will really having serious problem !

[@romainprovost7164]

No overheating issues ?

[@alanwood5590]

Really helpful video Jan. You’ve just outlined all the reasoning that led me to go for the R5 and 100-500 when I got mine last September and it’s comforting to have that reasoning validated. Absolutely loving that combination for everything from insects to birds in flight and pretty much everything in between. One tip that I picked up from Ron at Whistling Wings was to use C-RAW, Canon’s lossless compression file format. It produces substantially smaller file sizes with, as I understand, no apparent loss of image quality. Also, when I want the extra reach and I know that I’m going to crop significantly anyway I’ll sometimes use the R5’s 1.6x crop mode. That again reduces the file size and with the 100-500 gives the equivalent of 800mm of reach but still with 17.25MP of resolution.

[@jan_wegener]

Hey, Glad you liked the video! yes C-RAW is pretty good, but a lossy compression, not lossless. So some small amount of image data is lost. Yes, the 1.6 crop mode can be handy

[@iamjakz]

Thank you so much for your reviews and comparisons! I’ve been considering upgrading to an R6 and after this video and your other review of it, I feel confident it will be the right camera for me.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad I could help!

[@Duade]

Great video mate, a wonderful comparison of the two cameras. Cheers, Duade

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@MyBernis]

Focus point on the R5 is smaller due to the fact that each pixel is smaller as the R5 do have 45 MP and the R6 only 21.

[@jan_wegener]

makes sense! Cheers

[@letsfindout6587]

The R6 has Ant Eye AF

[@robbie154]

This is simply not true. They have the same amount of AF points. They just chose the make the r6 less precise. The same way they crippled the switch to video as mentioned in the video. Canon likes to intentionally cripple their cameras. Hence why you should never support them.

[@NameNaameNameeNaamee]

This is a misconception. The sensor of the R6 actually offers more AF points and they are also more sensitive to light. The R6 actually is superior to the R5 in that regard.

[@robbie154]

@@NameNaameNameeNaamee this is as bogus as the original comment. They have the same AF points

[@kilohotel6750]

I have both and they are both great. I just got back from south Florida and it was the first time I noticed a difference in the EVF's. In that bright Florida sun I could see the difference where I never noticed it in the dark winter days at home. I used them equally and have been very happy with the images from the R6. If the R5 is out of your budget don't hesitate to pick up a R6 it's a very capable body.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing. I totally agree with your last statement!

[@robertmueller6979]

Did you go to Merritt Island or Sanibel Island? The birds are mating and babies everywhere....

[@Scott-yn3qq]

If money wasn’t the issue is there any reason to get the r6 over the r5? I shoot very high iso events with tons of images taken. Would r6 be better for this?

[@kilohotel6750]

@@Scott-yn3qq The smaller files could be a benefit I guess. Memory cards are also cheaper for the R6.

[@romainprovost7164]

No overheating issues ?

[@romainprovost7164]

You don't speak about overheating on the R5 :( I'm concerned about this problem. Superb review by the way

[@jan_wegener]

I never had either of mine overheat

[@mikiecal69]

Brilliant, as usual - thanks for this informative video

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@drbeardo6960]

You’re pushing the boundaries of such comparison videos Too detailed No words for you🙌🏻

[@jan_wegener]

hehe, thank you :)

[@xhani6459]

Awesome video. Loved the practical comparison. Thank you.

[@jan_wegener]

Very welcome!

[@JaredRibic]

Thank you so much for this video! I didn't even realize the *Auto update set* was there, this is something I've been wishing for since the 5D Mk2. I have two EOS R5 bodies and zero regrets!

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome! Yes, it's so good once you realise this option is there!

[@burnie74]

Great video! Your "trick" enabling instant switching between photo and video convinced me to purchase the R5. I've had a Nikon D810 for 7 years and it's a real pain switching to video, and I wanted a camera that would make it easy. Thanks again.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad I could help. Do you have the camera already? How do you like it?

[@burnie74]

@@jan_wegener Supposed to arrive tomorrow. I've been a Nikon user since 1970. Also used Bronica in my studio much of the time. Retired now and just want to have fun.

[@jan_wegener]

@@burnie74 Sounds great!

[@burnie74]

@@jan_wegener Spent the last couple of days learning about the R5 ... much more to learn! After using Nikon for so long, it's learning new nomenclature, etc. But the biggest thing I found was how tiny the R5 feels compared to the Nikon D810 ... in fact Nikon cameras in general. The Nikon body feels more robust so that it feels like a nice, heavy duty piece of professional equipment. The Canon on the other hand feels very small in my hand and has a more consumerist feel. With that said, I'm still learning and having fun.

[@jan_wegener]

@@burnie74 It always feels very strange for a while to pick up a camera from a different brand. Your muscles need to learn the new form factor again and get used to it.

[@sulawesipitta]

Excellent review , thank you.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for watching!

[@Peter_Cetera]

If you need more resolution for the R6 just use the new "Super Resolution" of Adobe Camera Raw 13.2. The AI quadruples the resolution in a fantastic way.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, that can be helpful, but will always compromise quality a little bit. So you wouldn't want to do it all the time but it can be great on occasion.

[@frostybe3r]

I'm probably going to buy the R3 to replace my R5 for Wildlife and use the R5 for portraiture. ^^

[@jan_wegener]

I am not sure yet what I will do, but it looks like a fun camera. I need my 2 R5s for filming, so they will stay

[@frostybe3r]

@@jan_wegener Yeah, as much as I love my R5's 45mp, I don't actually make use of cropping a significant amount and I'd like better low light performance, AF, body and reliability as my R5 randomly shuts off for no reason quite alot, and I've heard others doing the same and losing files.

[@jan_wegener]

@@frostybe3r Interesting, mine have never done that, but I have heard it, too

[@dimevans9543]

Thank you so much for this video! Excellent work from your side. I am a hobbyist photographer. I'm so happy I bought the R6. I also kept my 90d as a complementary camera for the wildlife photography. Please continue to make such informative videos. Subscribed of course.

[@jan_wegener]

Great to hear!

[@ahernandez]

Great video as always. About your remarks on R5's files size: do you use cRaw? Have you found any noticeable differences in image quality between cRaw and Raw? I own the R5 and normally shoot cRaw... Just wondering if I should switch back to Raw. Thanks!

[@mikkelstormhansen9733]

CRaw is actually a lossy compression, I recommend using normal raw

[@ahernandez]

@@mikkelstormhansen9733 yeah, I know what it is, but I remember reading reports (even from Canon) that the differences between cRaw and Raw weren't noticeable. I'm sure I can't notice any difference, and having 25MB files vs 50MB is quite an advantage.

[@mikkelstormhansen9733]

@@ahernandez They always say that but you will maybe just have a stop more in dynamic range with normal raw.

[@ahernandez]

@@mikkelstormhansen9733 thanks for your input Mikkel. I wish Jan would make some comparison video some time... It would be very nice :)

[@mikkelstormhansen9733]

@@ahernandez It would be cool, I'm always jealous of Nikon people since they have Steve Perry to help them.

[@Suroky232]

I think canon missed an opportunity when not allowing custom video settings for the R6. Great explanation of both by the way.

[@jan_wegener]

It seems like an oversight, but I agree

[@BIGNatureBoy]

Another good video Jan. I've got the R5 and am loving it. I'm still using an SD card hoping CFexpress B cards drop some but this does not allow me to use the higher end video formats and I have been able to fill the buffer and get stopped from shooting a could of times despite the 250 MB/s. Have you tried the CRAW compared to the RAW? Can't recall if you mentioned it in your R5 vids yet. It does allow for smaller size files with little to no loss in quality. Allows for many more shots before the buffer fills.

[@jan_wegener]

My recommendation would be to get a Cfexpress card, even if it's one of the smaller ones. I have not used cRaw. I have seen some of them and they look very similar to the RAW files, but I prefer to get as much out of my files as possible, so don't want more compressed files.

[@catalyst_6]

Best comparison by far.

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you

[@MrLUDOLILLE]

Great video, thank you! How do you get around the difference in White Balance? I'm considering getting the R6...

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks! I have been using manual White Balance mainly as of late

[@jacquelinej2036]

Great video, R5 is good but the price tag is really high. R6 is more affordable. Can you also perhaps give some comment on R6 vs R/RP especially for bird photography? Thanks!

[@jan_wegener]

I think the R6 is a far superior camera in every regard

[@olafvandeheg9336]

Great review. Which combination would you prefer ? R5 with 150-600 Sigma. Or R6 with the Canon 100-500 ? Just for birds photography.

[@jan_wegener]

KInda tough, but the 100-500 will have the better overall performance

[@olafvandeheg9336]

@@jan_wegener it’s all about budget. So what combination would you choose ?

[@jan_wegener]

@@olafvandeheg9336 R5 & 100-500. But I understand that that isn't always an option. I think the R6 will do an extremely good job for you as well. The third party lenses aren't bad, but a native RF lens will perform much better

[@jayvadgama5663]

I have viewed many R5/R6 comparisons in the last few months. This is the best R5/R6 comparison I have seen. It helped to finally make my mind up! The details you have covered are incredible both in terms of the technology and Photographic capabilities. Thank you ever so much.

[@jan_wegener]

Wow, thanks! :)

[@Darth-TBAG]

Very informative video! I ended up going with the R6 as I think one underrated feature is they practically shoved a 1DX sensor in there, and the high ISO performance / files practically fit right into my present workflow without any major issues. I currently shoot with a 1DX Mark II and used to shoot with the original EOS R, which I have since sold and replaced with the R6.

[@jan_wegener]

yes, that's a good point

[@amazingsabya]

Great comparison Video very helpful

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you think so!

[@zionlinkmedia940]

I love your presentation sir, am Mandela from Kenya and I currently use Canon 5D mark iii and I would like to upgrade to Canon R6 how can you assist me acquire one?

[@irislau6272]

Thanks for your comments. Is it possible to custom slow motion video on R6, and switch back from photo easily?

[@jophoto934]

Answered my question about cropping. Great details! Videos have better information than that FroKnows person.

[@jan_wegener]

Great to hear! :)

[@kenmonahan9924]

I own an R6 and I love it but would prefer to have the cropping option the R5 would give me. I pressed the buy button twice but delay in delivery caused me to cancel because I am still very unhappy about being forced to buy CF card. I’m a stills shooter don’t want one don’t need one and they are too expensive. Will probably get a 2nd hand one or wait for the new stills flagship later this year (fingers crossed) as having fun now with a Hassie XID II medium format and a Leica CL APSC camera and vintage glass for more creative work as bird sanctuaries etc are not accessible enough during lockdown

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, the CFexpress cards are expensive, but quite nice to use and so much faster. I would have preferred to have 2x CFx slots. The SD cards is just too slow for the R5. I regularly hit the buffer with the SD card. The R1 or whatever it will be called will be an intriguing camera. But I would be almost certain that it will have 2x Cfexpress slots. The Hassie sounds nice!

[@kenmonahan9924]

A fair point if you like to fire off lots of frames, I’m still not comfortable with that style of shooting!! I have just seen Wex knocking out a 33% discount on cfexpress cards so if the prices come down which they will I might go for it. Thanks your comments and yes the Hassie is awesome it renders colour tones in the most beautiful way.

[@jan_wegener]

@@kenmonahan9924 I don't do it much, but when it counts I like the peace of mind :D

[@frankdhermain8996]

Hi Jan, What do you think about the Canon Control Ring Mount Adapter EF-EOS R vs. the Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R for a R6 and lenses as 100-400 MkII or 500 f:4 MkI ? Is the control ring really very usefull ? Thanks.

[@ED-on8to]

What do you think about the Canon 1DX Mark II until switching to R5, R3 or R1? (Coming from a Canon EOS R. At the moment all lenses are EF.) Is the mirorrless advantage oven with the R that big, that you will not get happy with a DSLR?

[@rooflessdriver68]

Another great video Jan. Thanks. I chose an R6 for my wildlife photography for several reasons you mention. Better ISO, cheaper memory cards, and PC Storage. My 1DX mk2 was 20mp and never had an issue with image sizes from that, so felt the R6 would be fine.

[@jgates]

I was holding out for the R5 but after seeing this video, I think I'm going to get the R6 now, since it is available, and the R5 later, since it seems to be back ordered most of the time. Great comparison!

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks James. Glad I could help you shine some light on both cameras. It's really video and 45 mpix that makes the big difference

[@michaeljames7931]

Excellent video. 👍 The Canon EOS R6 is nearly half the price of the R5 in the UK. So i couldn't justify to myself the price of the R5, so I own the R6, which I'm more than happy with. I get why the R5 costs more, but it doesn't seem twice as good as the R6, which the price is trying to suggest.

[@jan_wegener]

Good choice!

[@peterb.7437]

Great review comparison Jan. On my R6, I believe I don’t need to turn the dial to video mode to start taking a video. I was in a shooting mode and when I pressed the red recording button it started taking video without turning the dial to video mode.

[@frankanderson5012]

I was going to mention the same. It was a little missleading. I think he was refering to video as in a preset manual mode. Pressing the record button goes only into auto mode with the R6, which so far has been good enough for my needs.

[@jan_wegener]

Frank is correct. I meant that you cannot go into any Custom video mode or manual video. It only goes to a pre-set almost full auto video mode, which is useless for my needs.

[@jan_wegener]

Hi Frank yes! I meant to say that the record button on the R6 only records a kinda auto video. Doesn't let me set any settings or modes etc, which i need for my video needs.

[@bornufree]

@@jan_wegener Thanks for terrific video. I had my heart set on the R6 until I learnt about the lack of customisation! Double ouch! Even my Canon 80D can do that! Perhaps a firmware update?

[@jan_wegener]

@@bornufree Yes, it's a bit strange. Maybe Canon will update it. Fingers crossed

[@paulwallace4332]

After viewing so many rapid-fire American comparisons of various cameras I was beginning to lose hope of any decent tutorials until I hit your site. Speaking slowly and methodically, as you do, I've learned that education should not be rushed with loud fanfares and mind blowing statistics by rapid speaking Americans. Being chilled and knowledgeable comes across much easier. I got myself an EOS R6 just yesterday and now I'm looking forwards to putting your tips to use. Thanks!

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you :) Enjoy your camera!

[@Stalled-wm3qd]

Can you program video settings to the custom buttons of the R7? And have you done a video comparing the three cameras? R5, R6 and R7?

[@WeeBurnip-lz3fr]

Yes, storage can be a problem. I had to be pretty ruthless with the amount of raw files i saved from my 5Ds.

[@Julianna_and_the_bear]

Thanks.

[@jan_wegener]

You're welcome

[@africanhistory]

U must be kidding so if you have C1 for video with log, c2 for 4k and c3 for 60 frames 1080 you cannot do that anymore? Terrible. skip the R6

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, no video custom functions on the R6 - huge miss IMO

[@MrDarrenp40]

A great, pragmatic encapsulation of the differences between the two cameras shooting long. It's clear that the R6 requires greater planning and composition agility. It's otherwise important to remember that most users will otherwise shoot 'wider' subjects too and this is where the greater versatility of the R5 on composition will more clearly show its value. Anyone contemplating an R6 will need to be more strongly focused on 'I can do this' and by this account, yes, it can be done.

[@jan_wegener]

I agree with that! It can be done, but needs some more thinking at times.

[@tarjei99]

A really useful review. It is surprising that Canon would bungle the video on the R6. I get the impression that there is two teams involved and they haven't talked much to each other. I can't explain the lack of a mode dial and the usability issues in any other way. The LCD screen creates a dissonance between the look of the camera and the price. A rectangular LCD screams "cheap" rather loud. As I understand video is becoming more and more important for the professionals. For smaller birds, the slomo is vital, so 4K @ 60 FPS is on the low side. 120 is mainstream and 180 is the best. I can see that the video can be a deal breaker on the R6 for a professional photographer.

[@jan_wegener]

Once you get to the actual video it's pretty nice. It can do 120fps but only in HD. To me the R6 are more like two cameras in one body, that don't talk to each other. And the R5 is one beast that can do both.

[@NigelAquascaping]

Hey man about the R6. How noticeable is the difference between a clip in 4k HQ in FF mode and the slightly upscaled 4k in APS-C mode (if you want more reach out of your lens)? In 24 and 60 fps. Is the difference noticeable? Distracting when clips follow each other up in a sequence? The R5 is amazing and also oversampled in the crop mode but it's a lot more $$$. Great video BTW!

[@jan_wegener]

I didn't see huge differences in the video, but the HQ mode on the R5 and the R6 definitely have the nicest video quality. Unless you're filming the exact same thing, you would probably not notice a massive difference. I must say I have been filming almost exclusively in the 4k HQ, so take it with a grain of salt what I said, since I have only filmed a few clips with the other modes.

[@WernerBirdNature]

Hi Jan, If you would recall my comment on your most recent video, you know why watching this video might be dangerous for for my bank account. On the other hand, it's funny watching videos from you and Duade again about 1.5 years after they were posted. Seems like you both have evolved and also changed your view on (some aspects) the same gear a bit. It just shows that even at a high level you can still learn and improve ;-)

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, it's evolving non stop :)

[@randfee]

I really should be going for the R6 but that higher resolution + downsample or crop, also for 8k Video (being able to crop/pan + RAW) is something I know I would do since it's a hobby. I often am confused that such features are marketed mostly to pros as the pros want to optimise output over time/spend, whereas us hobbyists can spend hours on a single image despite zero money made by it. Also that quick-video 'functionality'... I mean there is no reason the R6 can't have that other than canon crippling it. There's also no reason to have stopped offering m-RAW and s-RAW which I used a lot with earlier cameras and why no RAW video for the R6. The 1000€ in extra cost + at least one CFexpress is really something to consider tough, especially because future lenses are apparently gonna cost even more. Got a bunch of EF glass but anything RF is super pricey still :-/ Still not sure. My original plan was to wait and then rent both locally for a weekend... still no way for me to get my hands on them as rentals. Spring is coming and I want that super nice auto-focus... argh.

[@jan_wegener]

Canon in Australia has an amazing Experience Store in Melbourne. Where you can just walk in and play with all the latest gear. Maybe they have an offering like that in your country? Yes, RF lenses will likely be dearer going forward, but thus far their performance has been exceptional.

[@josephryan5448]

Absolutely great video man! I really want to get a R5 because of the higher megapixel count but the costs, outside of the body, are going to be too high for me. Thank you for informing us of that. Take care.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad I could help you make an informed decision

[@naordaniel]

Great review!

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you think so!

[@brucegraner5901]

Great presentation and comparison of the two cameras. I can't say it's made my decision between the two cameras easier but it has made it much better informed. I'm subscribing. 👍👍

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome, thank you. I guess you can't really go wrong with either in the end. R5 is the best overall, but R6 has a bunch of advantages including price

[@unknownKnownunknowns]

To answer your question, am I considering purchasing one of these? Yes. Why? I own the R7 but would like an R5 instead as a single camera to shoot everything imaginable , both stills and 120p video, and to be able to crop. I have Sony for landscapes, R7 for Sports but could simplify to one system and body w an R5. But the price….

[@micahbowen184]

Just get extra batteries, and no need for cfexpress cards.. A $30 SD card does fine, unless shooting bif.. less than $100 extra total..

[@jan_wegener]

I would not want to use an R5 without CFexpress unless you do CRAW only

[@harishmenon4680]

This has been a wonderful video and definitely will help one to decide on one of these cameras. I truly like your comment on how its not only about buying R5 but additional costs involved, which is very important to consider. Thank you Jan

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome, thank you!

[@gustavofregoni]

Hey Jan, great video. Do you know if there’s already an update or solution for the video switch with the R6? Or a workaround? Cheers

[@jan_wegener]

No and likely won't be

[@SimonMee]

Great explanation. Thanks

[@jan_wegener]

You're welcome

[@nuclearsnuh]

Thanks Jan! This was incredibly helpful! I just started getting into bird photography back in January, when a snowy owl came to my hometown. I've been using a Canon 6D Mk I because that's all I had. Now I'm saving up for the R6 and I cannot wait!

[@jan_wegener]

Glad it was helpful!

[@vp1132]

This is detailed and clear comparison. Thank you Jan for giving me clarity. :) Fantastic Review as always :) I guess I will go with the R6 for now.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Tappas100]

I have been on the fence between these two cameras for over a year. This video has made the decision for me, the R5 is being delivered on Tuesday. Two reasons that helped make the decision were, my 1DX bit the dust and no parts are available, and I bought a new MacBook Pro with M1 processor a few months ago. I did order the optional vertical grip and battery as well as the EF-EOS adapter, card reader and 2 CF express cards. I couldn't afford to purchase any new lenses for now so I'm planning to use what I have. Thank you for making such detailed and easy to understand videos like this one.

[@zih5903]

Hi Jan. I purchased an R5 a few months back and totally love the camera. My main reason was for the higher megapixel count because as you said, this acts as a built in teleconverter (cropping). Since watching your channel my knowledge of how to better handle and use this camera has dramatically increased. Unfortunately the quality of my bird photos is still questionable😀 I Really enjoy viewing your work. Thank you so much for all your info. I keep looking forward to your videos. Cheers Zsolt - PS: have you ever done a comparison between the Canon 500mmf4 Version 1 vs Version 2? I'm seriously thinking of getting one second hand. Given the price diff between the two which would be the better option?

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for the kind words. It's great to hear I have been able to help you learn :) With Canon's v1 primes one has to realise that there is no support or parts anymore. So if something breaks you will likely have to bin the whole lens. vII of the 500 is an amazing lens and I would definitely prefer it to version 1. If you're not in a rush, you could wait for the RF primes to come out. That will wash a whole load of EF primes onto the market.

[@zih5903]

@@jan_wegener Thanks Jan. Much appreciated. Z

[@glennsmith2985]

I've been using the R5 now since August last year with the 800mmF11. The eye detect is something else and the ability to crop and keep all the details is amazing, took me about two weeks to get all the settings working on the Autofocus but once done (Following your setup video) I've been one happy camper ever since. Occasionally a little slow to pick up lighter birds in flight on lighter skys but under expose for a second it picks it up then readjust the exposure and all good, that third Adjustment wheel certainly comes in handy, Ergonomics wise I would have liked the main wheel on the back a fraction higher, but everyones hands are different so no complaint. Really loving the results, coming for the 7dmkII and Sigma 150-600 Sports.

[@jan_wegener]

Sounds great! I am currently testing the 800 & 600 F11. Will share my thoughts soon. Pretty impressive lenses

[@romainprovost7164]

No overheating issues ?

[@steveparent8788]

2 great cameras but my love goes for the R5.

[@FQ8]

Great information as always! I got the R6/800 F11 over the holidays and very happy with it.

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome! I have just been taking the 800 to the field to make some videos with it

[@FQ8]

@@jan_wegener oh can't wait. With the R6 cropping not needed LOL

[@moneyblackblood]

I'd bet the spot autofocus field is the same pixel size on both cameras if its the same system, it's just that on the R5 it's a smaller portion of the total frame. I have got to get one of these cameras soon they look great, thanks for the review.

[@andywe7524]

Thanks for the Review Jan. Upgrading from a 6D I obtained a R6 some time ago and am pretty happy with it. It is very fast and the AF is amazingly accurate. I made the same experience as other reviewers (Kathlyn James) and find out, that my lenses (1.4/35L II or 1.4/85L IS for instance) were "sharper" simply because the AF was much better. So i would say, that the R6 is a good choice, if you do not need a very high resolution camera.

[@jan_wegener]

Great to hear! Sounds like you found your match

[@claudiab9943]

Hi I also have a 6D too just wondering if you find the R6 quality good enough if you crop & better than the 6D since they're both 20mp. Trying to decide which one to go with as I do crop alot.

[@yannisvaroufakis9395]

Great review! I just ordered the R6 and look forward to using it for everything: people, wildlife, street/architecture/landscape/travel. But my priority is to have images printed to display on my walls. And I will not be using the camera for video at all. I don't know what size an actual high quality gallery print would have to be to match what I see looking at RAW files on a screen at 100%. Will I look at a 20X30 inch print from my R6 and wonder whether I should have emptied my piggybank and splurged for the R5 instead?

[@jimkok1957]

How about the R7 vs R6 (crop vs FF)

[@rentoulzz]

Thanks for the excellent video. I thought long and hard when I bought my camera and decided on the R5 and haven't regretted even though it broke the bank together with the 100-500. The ability to change quickly from video to stills is great so I am happy with the choice. I moved from a 7D MK2 which was 20 megapixels and the ability to crop more is noticeable. Really appreciate your videos.

[@jan_wegener]

Good choice! I have that combo as well now and it performs really well.

[@paulinefollett3099]

Such a fantastic and easy to understand explanation. Thanks Jan.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ED-on8to]

Thank you for this comparison! I was interested in the Canon R6, but the limited video capability it is basically out... As a hybrid-shooter I need it to be fast. Canon has made the R6 worse then it could be!

[@TheThomas2411]

Best camera ? No for bird r3 is the best . ^^ . Could you compare r5 andr3 ?

[@jan_wegener]

I will

[@claritovirata3504]

Can I charge the battery while shooting using a battery bank? Thanks

[@jan_wegener]

I am not sure to be honest. Probably can, but might want to double check

[@sedevacante966]

the recessed hairline reveals that big brain

[@karamaticedm3693]

Wow loved the video. Does the R5 stack images in the camera like the Olympus mark 2? Also would it still do that if I used a mirrored lens with an adapter of the same brand... if that makes sense? Thank you.

[@jan_wegener]

You can record the images and stack them in DPP easily afterwards. Not sure what lens you exactly mean, but all EF lenses pretty much work exactly like RF lenses

[@Sanddesert]

I do not see the benefit of more mp's if those mp's don't deliver more detail. In that way, i found this a strange comparison, cause never both birds are shown blown up to the same screen filling size side by side, and i was surprised to see at 19:10 actually more detail at the R6 picture on my 4k screen!! In all te other comparisons it was hard to see if the r5 actually delivered more detail, cause you just showed that it filled more the frame with more mp's which is completely logical with so much more mp's, that i do not even see the point proving that with this video. And if the r5 doesn't deliver more detail, the slightly lower noise of the r6 is beneficial visually, and the smaller file size and lower cost practically. Also, what hasn't been said, only a few lenses deliver more than 20mp's of max solvable detail. An ef 100-400 L 4-5.6 IS mark II that a lot of photographers use, does only solve 18 megapixels on a 5DmarkIV (see DxOMark / lenses). Putting that on a 45 mp R5 doesn't give any detail benefit compared to 20mp r6. Duade Paton does show both birds blown up to the same size and when using topaz upscaling, the r6 actually sometimes showed more detail than the r5. Sometimes the r5 has the edge of advantage.

[@jan_wegener]

When you consider how long it takes to upscale a single image with Gigapixel AI, I personally don't find it a practical comparison, because you will never do that to all your images. So the 45 mpix give me a real workflow/cropping advantage. The results will also look a bit different if you start cropping an R6 file and then upscale it again. One could also downscale the R5 files and will end up with less noise and more detail. Detail is such a difficult thing to judge unless you're shooting ina studio, because with birds and lower shutter speeds, there's usually a bit of movement as well that affect IQ and with the higher mpix you will definitely need more shutter speed to get sharp photos. It's great that the R6 is such a good camera and more than enough for most people. At that price point and with those features it's really good.

[@Sanddesert]

@@jan_wegenerthanks for your reply. yes true, detail is actually only in a studio under controlled conditions properly comparible. considering the workflow, i understand what you mean, but in real life most of us will make a lot of pics but use only very few (only the best) for sharing, printing, selling or reviewing later, since our time is so much limited anyway. for those i do not find it a problem to upscale, but true it is an extra step to take. Still if one takes in consideration the other benefits of the r6, i would say there is no clear winner and both are great cameras to go with even considering sufficient detail.

[@jan_wegener]

@@Sanddesert I totally agree with your conclusion. There's not clear winner and it depends on the circumstances. For me personally the R5 has other advantages beyond the mpix that I value, like the better ergonomics for video, video custom functions etc. For many others that might not matter at all

[@bogdantoma2315]

Good, great video and comparison. I find your reasoning and points always spot on, learned a lot from you, and played a big role in switching from 1dx to r5. Cheers, hope your channel will continue to grow and be here for many years to come.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad it was helpful! How are you liking it thus far? I hope so, too! Thank you

[@bogdantoma2315]

@@jan_wegener It was the right decision, that's for sure. The autofocus system on the 1dx mkII seems antiquated when compared to the R5. My only concern is that I haven't used the camera enough yet.

[@jan_wegener]

@@bogdantoma2315 Yes, everyone I have talked to who was skeptical about R5 loves it now,e specially the AF

[@katiegibb3783]

Outstanding. I learned a great deal

[@miklosmarkus2311]

Are these cameras specialized to bird/wildlife photography or are they capable for other purposes also?

[@jan_wegener]

They photograph anything you point them onto

[@miklosmarkus2311]

@@jan_wegener Thank you! I found other wildlife related review on these bodies but then I suppose they can also be good choices for portrait, interior, landscape, closeups, etc.

[@adrianlansangan7216]

the best review between r5 vs r6. helps a lot. thanks

[@jan_wegener]

Glad to hear it! Thank you

[@youknowwho9247]

Why not use C3 for photos on the R6? That would make the distance on the wheel to change between photo and video just one click.

[@jan_wegener]

yes, that's the best work around

[@youknowwho9247]

@@jan_wegener Do photo settings carry over to video though? If I've got the update settings thing for C3 switched on it should basically do the same as regular manual mode, right? So what happens when I set my settings while in C3 and switch to video? Do I keep my current settings (from C3) or does it go back to the last video settings I used? Also, what happens if I use C3 as an aperture priority mode with auto ISO and then switch to video? From what I've heard the R6 can only do full manual or full auto for video.

[@jan_wegener]

@@youknowwho9247 You can have either. There's a setting that you can turn on that makes the custom functions remember the last setting used, or you can leave the default that always reverts back to the same settings you selected when you programmed C3 I believe when you switch over to video you will have to change your settings on the R6 since it doesn't have video custom functions. I don't have one at hand right now and don't fully remember, it could also be that the R6 remembers the last video settings used in video mode, but I don't actually think that's the case. That's where the R5 is miles better if you have to switch between the two a lot.

[@youknowwho9247]

@@jan_wegener I guess everything depends on the user. I plan to do hybrid wedding coverage and would actually prefer if photo settings carried over to video. When I'm taking photos of a short moment and want to get video coverage as well I don't have time to fuss with dialing in separate settings for video every time I switch modes. Since I shoot 60p and export at 30 for slowmo I couldn't care less about shutter angle either.

[@jan_wegener]

@@youknowwho9247 that's what most cameras do. On the R5 you can have both, so you don't have to change anything and have the best settings for both. Pretty sure the R6 does what you want

[@snipolar]

Great review, got the R6 in house now due to ur comments. On the subject of stills/video why not just use C3 with preferred settings and then switch fast to video when needed/wanted? Yours Stein, 69N, Tromsø, Norway (far beyond Arctic circle :) )

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, that's one workaround! Hope you are enjoying the camera! I have been to Tromsø & Lofoten a few times, such a lovely area!

[@abdullm4538]

Excellent review, I made my decision now to buy R5, based on your cumbersome, so please I need your help which lens do you think I should take? , is it 24-70, Or you have better recommendation ?

[@jan_wegener]

depends what you want to do

[@Fifthimagez]

Amazing video vary helpful.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you think so!

[@adamsliwa1000]

Thanks for that video. I'm just looking forward to change my camera. My favourite type of photography is bird and wildlife. I couldn't find any valuable video comparing those cameras in my type of photography. Great job 👍 it was really helpful 🙂

[@jan_wegener]

Happy to help :)

[@robertberg3944]

My R5 seems to have more noise than yours. At iso 1600, 1/1600 sec., f5.6 I got noticeable noise. Does shutter speed affect noise levels? Also, I had Long exp. noise reduction - off, High ISO speed NR at standard. And I was shooting with mechanical shutter. Please advise. Thank you.

[@jan_wegener]

When you look at my images, I always try to position myself to have light background. Why? Light backgrounds show significantly less noise than darker backgrounds. Secondly the software you're using plays a big role, too. LR/ACR will show more noise than DPP for instance. So there can be differences there.

[@HiFlyer371]

Great video and you helped me decide which one I'm buying. I currently have a 6D Mark II (26 MP) and an R (30MP). I mostly do travel and landscape photography (stills) and very little video. The R5's larger image size would be a real asset in landscape photography. The R6 would be great as a general purpose and travel camera and a cost effective replacement for my 6Dm2. So I'll replace the 6Dm2 with the R6 and keep my eye out for a R5 bargain. btw, I got the R for $1,200 thanks to Canon's 2019 Christmas Sale. Hope they have a future deal for the R5, $3,000 sounds good!

[@jan_wegener]

Glad I could help! I'd love a R5 for that price :D

[@shathaal-monthri5586]

Hi love the video. I have EOS 90D, with Sigma 150-600 so would the R6 be a good upgrade for good bird photos? Or just go for the R5? Thanks a million

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you! It depends what your budget is and what you want to achieve. For most the R6 is more than enough.