The arrival of a new full-frame Canon EOS R model is always met with tremendous fanfare. The announcement of two in one day is cause for celebration. Let's get to the bottom of these two new releases from Canon — the EOS R1 and the EOS R5 II — and find out which one should be on your watchlist.
Canon EOS R1: The New Flagship
Are you looking for a professional mirrorless camera to capture fast-paced sports photography, candid documentary work, or high-end videography? You'll struggle to find a mirrorless camera that does a better job than the Canon EOS R1.
The EOS R1 features a brand new 24MP full-frame image sensor paired with a DIGIC processor with accelerator, delivering brilliant image quality in all scenarios — even in extremely dim lighting. If you're new to full-frame cameras and want to understand what makes the format special, our complete guide to full-frame cameras covers all the key advantages. With lightning-fast readout speeds and reduced rolling shutter, its performance is on par with the top-tier Canon EOS 1DX Mark III DSLR.
The EOS R1 sets a new benchmark for autofocus performance. It can track moving subjects at their maximum speed with precision and ease. In a first for an EOS R camera, the R1 includes cross-type AF — making it more effective on tricky subjects such as low-contrast scenes or those with strong horizontal lines.
For sports photographers, the EOS R1 is in a class of its own: up to 40fps continuous RAW shooting with AF/AE tracking, a maximum electronic shutter speed of 1/64,000s, and pre-shooting capability. For more on getting the most from a camera like this in the field, check out our professional sports photography tips. An excellent in-body stabilisation system provides up to 8.5 stops of shake correction when used with compatible stabilised lenses.
As you'd expect from a flagship body, the EOS R1 is built tough with professional-grade weather sealing, dual CFexpress card slots for managing large workloads, and compatibility with the high-capacity LP-E19 battery — good for approximately 1,300 shots via the LCD screen.
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Canon EOS R5 II: A Highly Anticipated Update
Like the EOS R1, the Canon EOS R5 II arrives with an updated image sensor — this time a super high-resolution 45MP back-illuminated variant, delivering stunning image quality with incredible detail and low noise performance.
Another sports-capable body, the EOS R5 II offers up to 30fps continuous shooting, plus pre-continuous shooting that can capture crucial moments before you've even pressed the shutter — a function that also works during video recording.
Video is an area where the EOS R5 II truly excels — offering up to 8K60p RAW Light video, along with cinema-grade options including Canon Log 2 and Log 3, and proxy recording. For slow-motion work, 4K120p and Full HD 240p modes are available.
The EOS R5 II shares several key features with the R1, including advanced subject tracking with deep learning, up to 8.5 stops of coordinated Image Stabilisation, and improved Eye AF — which adjusts the focal point based on where you're looking in the EVF using specialised sensors.
Despite its already impressive resolution, the EOS R5 II can go further with in-camera image upscaling, generating up to 179MP images in post — a powerful option for isolating and cropping subjects without sacrificing detail.
The EOS R5 II is compatible with the new high-capacity Canon LP-E6P lithium battery, providing up to 630 shots via the LCD screen. The BG-R20 battery grip is also available for extended shooting sessions, and a separately available cooling fan supports lengthy video recordings.
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Canon EOS R5 Mark II Review: Our Verdict
After hands-on time with the EOS R5 Mark II, it earns a strong recommendation for photographers and videographers who need a single body capable of doing almost everything. The 45MP sensor delivers exceptional resolution and low-light performance, while the 30fps continuous shooting and pre-capture function make it a genuine sports contender — not just a studio workhorse. The 8K60p RAW video capability is a standout for hybrid shooters. If there is a weakness, it is battery life relative to the R1, with approximately 630 shots per charge. Overall, the EOS R5 Mark II is one of the most versatile professional mirrorless cameras Canon has ever produced, and arguably the best value in their current full-frame lineup. If you're pairing the R5 Mark II with a lens for high-end shoots, our guide to the best Canon RF lenses for wedding photography and videography is a great place to start.
Canon EOS R1 vs R5 Mark II: Which Is the Best Professional Canon Camera for You?
Choosing between the Canon EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II comes down to your primary use case. If you shoot fast-action sports professionally — think Olympics, AFL, or motorsport — the R1's 40fps RAW burst, cross-type AF, dual CFexpress slots, and rugged flagship build make it the clear choice. If motorsport is your passion, our car racing photography tips will help you make the most of the R1's speed and tracking capabilities at the track. It is built to perform under the most demanding conditions without compromise. If you need a high-resolution, all-round professional body that excels at both stills and video, the EOS R5 Mark II delivers extraordinary versatility at a more accessible price point. For most professional and advanced amateur photographers, the R5 Mark II will be the smarter investment. The R1 is for specialists who need the absolute best in speed and reliability.