Canon might be late coming to the mirrorless camera party, but they’re making up for lost time quickly. Two new full-frame camera bodies are slated to arrive in 2020, marking Canon’s second-generation models for the mirrorless market. We’ve compiled the specs and features that have leaked so far on the Canon EOS R5 and R6 so you can get a quick preview of these upcoming cameras.
Canon EOS R5 vs R6 Mirrorless Camera Comparison Chart
| Model | Canon EOS R5 | Canon EOS R6 |
 |  | |
| Price | Coming Soon | Coming Soon |
| CMOS Sensor | 45MP Full-frame | 20MP Full-frame |
| IBIS | Yes | Yes |
| Mechanical Shutter | 12 fps | 12 fps |
| Electronic Shutter | 20 fps | 20 fps |
| Scroll Wheel | Yes | n/a |
| Liveview/Movie Toggle | Yes | n/a |
| 8K Video | Yes, at 30 fps | None |
| 4K Video | Up to 120 fps | Up to 60 fps |
| Wi-Fi | Built-in 5GHz | None |
| Dual Card Slots | Yes | n/a |
| Battery | New | New |
Design
Both Canon EOS R5 and R6 will inherit the design of the Canon EOS R.
Most of the information being leaked about Canon’s new mirrorless cameras involve its specs and features. It’s expected that the designs of the Canon EOS R5 and R6 will largely follow after the Canon EOS R, which sports a magnesium alloy body with a matte finish. Unlike cameras from competitors, Canon’s mirrorless camera has much the same heft and bulk as its DSLR models. Fans will find the handgrip familiar, providing a steady handle no matter how you turn it about.
User interface and button layout will also likely be similar to Canon DSLRs, as the brand keeps it consistent throughout its products. Those looking to expand their EOS kits will no doubt welcome the new EOS R5 and R6 without difficulties. Of course, there are a few new controls introduced in the EOS R line such as the Touch Bar.
One change that might make current owners of the Canon EOS R scratch their heads or nod approvingly is that the Touch Bar will likely not return on these new models. The controversial feature may have proven to be too finicky for the majority and Canon is listening to feedback. Most cite that it was too sensitive and that it’s easy to muck up your settings by accident. A scroll wheel similar to the Canon EOS 70D’s Quick Control Dial might be taking its place.
Features
The Canon EOS R5 has a higher megapixel count than the EOS R6.
Canon is aiming its two new mirrorless cameras at different audiences and price points. The more powerful Canon EOS R5, which will have a 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor, is poised to be an upgrade over the current Canon EOS R, which was introduced with an effective 30.3MP sensor. Meanwhile, the Canon EOS R6 is likely to be the most affordable of the Canon’s mirrorless line, as it will only offer a 20MP CMOS sensor.
What might throw off the pricing for the Canon EOS R6 though is that both new cameras will finally feature in-body image stabilization or IBIS. It was sadly missing in the Canon EOS R but the Japanese manufacturer seems to have realized their mistake. With IBIS, users can take snapshots much more confidently as it will cut down shakiness without relying on lenses that have OIS.
Other features that are rumored to be included in the Canon EOS R5 is a Liveview/Movie toggle that works just like in current EOS digital SLR cameras, as well as a built-in 5GHz Wi-Fi connectivity. Moreover, it will have dual card slots to provide more storage options. So far, it’s unconfirmed whether the EOS R6 will have these features as well.
Performance
The Canon EOS R5 can record higher quality videos than the EOS R6.
One of the most exciting rumors being talked about on Canon’s new mirrorless models is 8K video recording capabilities. The Canon EOS R5 is expected to be able to record 8K video at 30 frames per second and 4K video at 120 fps. If true, this will truly make it stand out in the mirrorless camera market. In comparison, the Canon EOS R6 will only be capable of 4K quality at 60 fps.
Canon’s initial mirrorless camera effort compared unfavorably against current favorites in terms of burst shooting speed. The Canon EOS R can capture images at 8 fps, which was just a tad slower than the 10 fps of the Sony Alpha A7 III and the 11 fps of the Nikon Z6. Now with the upcoming EOS R5 and R6, Canon aims to lunge ahead with its 12 fps mechanical and 20 fps electronic shutters.
A new battery with a larger capacity is also expected to power these new cameras, though it will have the same overall shape as the one on the EOS 5D Mark IV.
Verdict
The Canon EOS R5 is definitely more powerful than the EOS R6.
Canon EOS R5
Canon EOS R6
There’s a lot more unknowns for these two upcoming cameras from Canon but it’s pretty clear that the EOS R5 is intended to be the higher tier model. It offers a greater megapixel count as well as higher quality videos, and we expect that there are more exclusive features only available to it. In contrast, the EOS R6 looks poised to be the budget-friendly option for mirrorless camera fans.
Canon is expected to reveal more information on the Canon EOS R5 and R6 during the second week of February, so stay tuned for updates.