Originally published as "Canon EOS R6 vs R5 — What Is The Difference?" (November 2022). Fully updated May 2026 to reflect the current Canon EOS R lineup.
Canon's full-frame mirrorless lineup has never been stronger — but with the EOS R5 Mark II, R6 Mark II, and R6 Mark III all available, choosing between them can be genuinely tricky. Each camera has a distinct character and a different ideal user. Here's our breakdown of the key differences to help you make the right call.
In this guide:
Quick Overview
| Feature | R5 Mark II | R6 Mark II | R6 Mark III |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 45MP | 24.2MP | 24.2MP |
| Max video | 8K RAW | 4K60p | 6K RAW |
| Burst rate | 30fps (electronic) | 40fps (electronic) | 40fps (electronic) |
| Sensor type | Stacked CMOS | BSI CMOS | Stacked CMOS |
| IBIS | 8 stops | 8 stops | 8 stops |
| Weather sealing | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Resolution & Image Quality
The most obvious difference between these three cameras is resolution. The Canon EOS R5 Mark II houses a 45MP stacked full-frame CMOS sensor — the highest resolution of the three and ideal for photographers who need maximum detail for large prints, heavy cropping, or commercial work.
The R6 Mark II and R6 Mark III both use a 24.2MP sensor — more than sufficient for the vast majority of uses, including large prints, social media, and professional portrait or event work. The lower resolution also means smaller file sizes, faster buffer clearing, and better low-light performance per pixel.
The R6 Mark III's stacked CMOS sensor (shared with the R5 II architecture) gives it a significant advantage over the R6 Mark II's BSI CMOS sensor in terms of readout speed — reducing rolling shutter in video and enabling faster burst rates with less distortion.
Winner for resolution: R5 Mark II. Winner for low light: R6 Mark II and R6 Mark III.
Video Capabilities
Video is where these three cameras diverge most dramatically.
The R5 Mark II is Canon's most capable hybrid camera to date. It shoots internal 8K RAW video, 4K120p, and includes Canon Log 2 for maximum dynamic range in post. It's a genuine cinema-grade tool in a relatively compact body — and a serious option for professional videographers and filmmakers.
The R6 Mark III is a significant step up from the R6 Mark II in video terms, offering 6K RAW internal recording, 4K120p, and the same Canon Log 2 support as the R5 II. Its stacked sensor dramatically reduces rolling shutter — a common complaint with the R6 Mark II for fast-paced video work.
The R6 Mark II tops out at 4K60p, which is still excellent for most video applications — weddings, events, content creation, and documentary work. It lacks RAW video output and 4K120p, but for photographers who shoot occasional video, it remains a very capable tool.
Winner for video: R5 Mark II (professional), R6 Mark III (enthusiast/hybrid).
Autofocus & Speed
All three cameras use Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system with deep learning-based subject detection — covering people, animals, vehicles, and aircraft. In practice, all three are exceptional autofocus performers and among the best in the industry.
Where they differ is in burst speed. The R6 Mark II and R6 Mark III both achieve 40fps electronic burst shooting, compared to 30fps on the R5 Mark II. The R5 II's lower burst rate is a trade-off for its higher resolution — moving 45MP files at 40fps would be impractical for most workflows.
The R6 Mark III's stacked sensor also gives it a faster sensor readout than the R6 Mark II, which means less rolling shutter distortion when panning or shooting fast-moving subjects — a meaningful advantage for sports and wildlife photographers.
Winner for burst speed: R6 Mark II and R6 Mark III (40fps). Winner for readout speed: R5 Mark II and R6 Mark III (stacked sensors).
Design & Handling
All three cameras share Canon's familiar EOS R ergonomics — a deep, comfortable grip, intuitive control layout, and the same RF lens mount. All three are weather-sealed and feature a fully articulating touchscreen LCD alongside a high-resolution EVF.
The R5 Mark II is marginally larger and heavier than the R6 models, reflecting its more advanced internals and dual card slots (CFexpress Type B + SD). The R6 Mark II and R6 Mark III are slightly more compact and use dual SD card slots — a more affordable and widely available card format.
All three include 8-stop in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and USB-C charging.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Canon EOS R5 Mark II if:
- You need maximum resolution for large prints, commercial, or studio work
- You shoot professional video and need 8K RAW or 4K120p
- You want the most capable all-round hybrid camera Canon makes
- Budget is less of a concern
Choose the Canon EOS R6 Mark II if:
- You're a photographer who shoots occasional video and doesn't need RAW output
- You want excellent low-light performance at a more accessible price
- You shoot weddings, events, portraits, or travel
- You want a proven, mature platform with a strong secondhand market
Choose the Canon EOS R6 Mark III if:
- You want the R6's compact form factor with significantly upgraded video (6K RAW, 4K120p)
- You shoot fast-moving subjects and need the reduced rolling shutter of a stacked sensor
- You want the best of both worlds — a fast, versatile hybrid at a mid-range price
- You're upgrading from an R6 Mark II and want a meaningful step up
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Canon EOS R5 Mark II worth the extra cost over the R6 Mark III?
If resolution and 8K video are important to you, yes — the R5 Mark II is a significant step up. But for most photographers and hybrid shooters, the R6 Mark III offers 90% of the R5 II's capabilities at a lower price point. The R5 II is best justified for commercial, studio, or professional video work.
What is the difference between the R6 Mark II and R6 Mark III?
The R6 Mark III adds a stacked CMOS sensor (vs BSI CMOS in the Mark II), which enables 6K RAW internal video, 4K120p, significantly reduced rolling shutter, and faster sensor readout. The resolution (24.2MP) and overall form factor remain the same. For photographers, the differences are less dramatic — but for video shooters, the Mark III is a substantial upgrade.
Which Canon R-series camera is best for wildlife photography?
All three are excellent for wildlife, but the R6 Mark III and R5 Mark II have the edge thanks to their stacked sensors and faster readout. The R5 Mark II's 45MP resolution also gives you more cropping flexibility when shooting distant subjects. Pair any of these with a Canon RF telephoto lens for best results.
Do all three cameras use the same lenses?
Yes — all three use Canon's RF mount, so they're fully compatible with the entire Canon RF lens lineup. Existing EF lenses can also be used with the Canon EF-EOS R mount adapter. Browse our full range of Canon RF lenses.
Can I try these cameras in store?
Absolutely — visit your nearest Ted's Cameras store to handle all three cameras and get personalised advice from our team.
Shop Canon EOS R Series at Ted's
For more buying advice, see our Digital Camera Buying Guide 2026, Best Digital Cameras for Photography in 2026, and Photography Glossary for Beginners.