The launch of the Canon R5 Mark II had photographers buzzing with excitement. As an upgrade to the four-year-old Canon R5, this mirrorless camera was expected to deliver exceptional features and improved performance. However, a month after its release, feedback from everyday photographers has revealed mixed opinions about its capabilities, particularly its performance in low-light conditions.
Is the Canon R5 Mark II a Step Forward?
The original Canon R5, marketed as the mirrorless counterpart to the EOS 5D series, came with its share of issues. Users frequently encountered overheating during extended video recording, random error codes, and occasional freezing. Naturally, many hoped that the Canon R5 Mark II would resolve these problems while introducing cutting-edge features.
Although the updated model promises improvements such as better thermal management and the ability to shoot 8K RAW video at 60fps, some professionals have expressed disappointment. With a price tag of $4,299 (€4,999), photographers expect reliability and top-notch performance, especially those working in studios or at live events where technical failures can have significant consequences.
Growing Concerns About Low Light Performance
Early reviews praised the Canon R5 Mark II, but real-world tests have highlighted an unexpected issue. The camera’s low-light performance, specifically at higher ISOs, appears to fall short of expectations. Many photographers began noticing a decline in image quality at ISO 1600, with noise becoming more pronounced as the ISO climbed. For some, this raised questions about its suitability for scenarios such as concerts, events, or astrophotography, where clean images in dim lighting are crucial.
In one comparison, nature photographer Fabian Fopp found the Canon R5 Mark II generated significantly more noise at higher ISOs, especially beyond ISO 25,000, compared to its predecessor. Similarly, Ken Rockwell’s tests echoed these findings, showing a clear gap in noise performance at ISO 25,600. Despite Canon’s claims that its stacked sensor, borrowed from the EOS R3, should reduce noise, the results suggest otherwise.
Why Are Users Experiencing Issues?
Canon has promoted its new stacked sensor technology for reducing rolling shutter effects during video capture, a feature that benefits videographers. However, the compromise seems to have come at the expense of still photography performance in low light. This discrepancy is particularly puzzling since both the R5 and R5 Mark II feature 45-megapixel sensors, disproving the myth that higher megapixels inherently harm low-light performance.
Some speculate the Canon R5 Mark II may be optimized more for video users, leaving photographers to wonder if their needs were deprioritized. For hybrid shooters, the Canon R5 C, despite lacking in-body image stabilization, might serve as a better choice.
Is the Canon R5 Mark II the Right Upgrade?
While some photographers report satisfaction with the camera, particularly those shooting portraits in controlled studio environments, others remain hesitant to upgrade. Wedding photographers, wildlife shooters, and event photographers may want to wait for potential firmware updates that could address these low-light issues.
For those seeking alternatives, the Canon R6 Mark II offers excellent value and reliable performance for everyday use, especially at a lower price point. If you don’t require 45-megapixel resolution, this model might be the better investment.
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade should hinge on your specific needs and the type of photography you pursue. Cameras will continue to evolve, but assessing whether the Canon R5 Mark II aligns with your requirements is key.