The Canon 5DSR and 5D Mark IV are two powerful full-frame DSLR cameras aimed at advanced amateur and professional photographers.
Both cameras boast impressive specs and performance, but they also have some key differences that are important to consider when deciding which model is right for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specs | Canon 5DSR | Canon 5D Mark IV |
| Sensor Resolution | 50.6MP | 30.4MP |
| Sensor Size | Full Frame CMOS | Full Frame CMOS |
| Image Processor | Dual DIGIC 6 | DIGIC 6+ |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 (exp. 50-12800) | 100-32000 (exp. 50-102400) |
| Continuous Shooting | 5fps | 7fps |
| AF System | 61-point (41 cross-type) | 61-point (41 cross-type) |
| Video Resolution | 1080p | 4K |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| Rear LCD | 3.2″ 1.04M dots | 3.2″ 1.62M dots |
| Flash Sync Speed | 1/200 sec | 1/160 sec |
| Battery Life | 700 shots | 900 shots |
| Dimensions | 152 x 116 x 76mm | 151 x 116 x 76mm |
| Weight | 930g | 890g |
Overview and Shared Features
The Canon 5DSR, released in 2015, was designed with maximum resolution in mind. It features a 50.6MP sensor capable of insane amounts of detail and sharpness. The 5D Mark IV followed in 2016 with a modest resolution boost to 30.4MP but also brought improvements like 4K video, Dual Pixel AF in live view, and faster continuous shooting.
Both cameras share a similar durable, weather-sealed body and are compatible with Canon’s extensive EF lens mount system. They have large optical viewfinders, rear LCD screens, dual memory card slots, and external microphone and headphone jacks for video recording. Built-in WiFi/NFC allows wireless image transfer and remote camera control from smart devices.
Also Read: Choose Between Canon EOS M50 And EOS M200.
Image Quality
The 5DSR’s 50MP sensor leaves no doubt about its intentions – this camera is all about resolution and maximizing detail. The amount of resolution on tap is staggering, enabling huge 300dpi fine art prints well over 3 feet wide. The level of textures, patterns, and fine details this camera can resolve is simply incredible.
By comparison, the 30MP 5D Mark IV sensor has smaller photosites and pixels packed more densely. While resolution is very good, it does not match the sheer resolving power of the 5DSR. Where the 5D IV improves is with a newer sensor design that includes an optical low-pass filter (OLPF) cancellation effect to deliver better sharpness and detail than past Canon sensors. Overall image quality is fantastic with excellent dynamic range and high ISO performance.
For most users, the 5D IV hits a sweet spot of balancing resolution and performance. But for applications like landscape, architecture, product, or studio photography where maximum detail is paramount, the 5DSR is hard to beat.
Performance
The 5D Mark IV shows its strengths with faster, more advanced performance across the board compared to the older 5DSR. Continuous shooting is boosted to 7 fps Vs. 5 fps on the 5DSR.
The autofocus system gains Canon’s advanced 61-point system with 41 cross-type points and improved sensitivity. Dual Pixel AF brings smooth, accurate autofocus for live view stills and video.
Thanks to Canon’s speedy DIGIC 6+ processor, the 5D Mark IV shows noticeably better handling during burst shooting, video recording, and even menu navigation and image playback. While the 5DSR is no slouch, the Mark IV has a speed advantage that benefits action and video shooters.
Features
A major distinguishing feature between these two cameras is video capabilities. The 5D Mark IV added professional-level 4K video up to 30fps with excellent quality and full sensor readout. The older 5DSR is limited to 1080p video that is somewhat soft and suffers from distracting moire effects. For any serious video work, the 5D IV is vastly superior.
The 5D IV brings other new features like built-in GPS for automatic geotagging, an intervalometer for time-lapse shooting, flicker reduction, and HDR shooting modes. It also has slightly better battery life at 900 shots per charge versus 700 shots on the 5DSR.
While the 5DSR lacks video chops and some newer features, it still has a lot going for it including a true PC sync socket for studio flash work, higher flash sync speed (1/200s Vs. 1/160s), and USB 3.0 for faster tethering.
Also Read: Choose Between Sony A1 And A7 IV.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For maximum resolution, the 5DSR is the clear choice. Landscape, architecture, product, and studio photographers who need huge 50MP files will benefit most from the 5DSR. For better all-around performance and especially for video, the 5D Mark IV is the better option.
The Canon EOS R5 mirrorless camera surpasses the 5D Mark IV with higher resolution (45MP), faster shooting (20fps), 8K video, and in-body image stabilization (IBIS). However, the R5 costs significantly more. Other alternatives like the Nikon D850 or Sony A7R IV also beat the 5D IV in some areas but lag in others.
In 2023, the 5D Mark IV remains a highly capable camera though it is aging. Image quality still holds up well and performance is solid despite newer mirrorless options. For many photographers, the 5D IV hits a sweet spot in resolution, features, and value. It’s a good choice if you don’t need the latest tech.
The closest mirrorless equivalent is the Canon EOS R6. It matches the 5D IV with 20MP resolution, 12fps shooting, and Dual Pixel AF but adds 5-axis IBIS and faster burst shooting. Video is improved with 4K 60p and 10-bit internal recording. The R6 gives a similar experience in a smaller mirrorless body.
Also Read: Is Canon EOS R8 Better Than EOS R10?
Conclusion
While the 5D Mark IV brings important updates, the 5DSR remains compelling for photographers who need massive 50MP resolution files. Landscape and studio photographers in particular will appreciate the incredible detail and print sizes the 5DSR makes possible.
For those who need a great all-around performer with speed, autofocus, dynamic range and professional 4K video, the 5D Mark IV is the better choice. Either of these impressive cameras can meet the needs of advanced amateur and professional photographers.