Canon has today launched two new cameras for the EOS R system – the EOS R1, a new flagship model to take over from the EOS-1D X Mark III, and the EOS R5 Mark II, the next iteration of the ever-popular 5-series.
The two camera share much more than just a launch date. They herald the arrival of the next generation of Canon's sensor-based focusing system – Dual Pixel Intelligent AF – as well as offering a raft of improvements over previous R-series cameras. The new features and the improvements alike are powered by a duo of DIGIC processors, one DIGIC X and one DIGIC Accelerator – and by Deep Learning, with the introduction of Action Priority AF for team-based sports.
Both cameras sport brand new, purpose-made back illuminated stacked (BSI) sensors; the EOS R1 offers 24.2MP and the EOS R5 Mark II offers 45MP. Rolling shutter effect is reduced, significantly so on the EOS R1. In-camera there's also an up-scaling feature, giving users of both cameras the opportunity to increase resolution four-fold. This can be done on original files as well as cropped versions, giving scope to edit and send on-the-go.
The Deep Learning features extend beyond the Subject detection, subject tracking and up-scaling features, adding an AI-based noise reduction processing feature during playback, with a 2-stop benefit.
After a successful reintroduction of Eye Control in the EOS R3, both the R1 and R5 Mark II now offer an improved version of this feature, enabling instinctive subject selection via eye movement. The cameras' viewfinders are also blackout-free and offer improved visibility: the R5 Mark II is twice as bright as that in the R5, and the R1's electronic viewfinder offers 9.44M dots.
Pre-shooting is available for the R1 and R5 Mark II, with 20 and 15 frames captured respectively prior to the shutter being released. In terms of frame rates with the electronic shutter, the R1 achieves up to 40fps, whilst the R5 Mark II can shoot at up to 30fps. Both frame rates can be customised, giving maximum flexibility. With the mechanical shutter, 15fps is possible with the R1, and the R5 Mark II offers 12fps.
For video capture, both cameras can shoot in 12-bit RAW files. The R5 Mark II offers 8K 60p, whilst the R1 offers 6K 60p. Heat dissipation is improved, and for the EOS R5 Mark II there's an optional Cooling Grip available to further mitigate the heat during extended recording times.
Video and stills can be captured simultaneously on both cameras, either in-camera or via the HDMI-A port to an external device.
Whilst most of the features align on the two cameras, the EOS R1 is the only one to offer new Cross-type autofocus, allowing increased autofocus tracking sensitivity on the vertical axis as well as the horizontal axis. Given that the R1 is aimed at professional sports photographers, there's also thought into prolonged use, with an anti-fog viewfinder design and two-stage AF-ON button customisation, so that photographers don't have to lift the camera away from their eye to change a key setting as the action changes.
The EOS R1 will be available from November 2024 for £6,999.99 / €7,999.99 (RSP). The EOS R5 Mark II will be available from August 2024 for £4,499.99 / €4,999.99 (RSP).
For more information on the two cameras, including full specifications and press release, visit the EOS magazine system:
