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Leica M11 vs Canon R5
In this review, we’ll be comparing two mirrorless cameras from Leica and Canon, the M11 and R5.
There is a difference of one and a half years between these cameras, so we don’t expect to see a considerable difference in the technology used inside.
However, you might not be shocked to discover that the Leica M11 is somewhat superior to the R5 when it comes to sensor technology.
This will be a close call because the M11 and Canon EOS R5 rank among the best professional mirrorless cameras. We’ll start by looking at the technical specifications of both cameras side-by-side.
Technical Specifications
Leica M11
Image Resolution: 60.3 Megapixels
Burst Shooting: 4.5fps
Connectivity: Built-in Wireless
Display: 3.0″ Fully Articulating Touch Display
Lens Mount: Leica M
Lens Type: Full-Frame BSI-CMOS
Video Resolution: No Video
Viewfinder: Optical
Dimensions: 10 x 15 x 12 inches
Weight: 22.58 Ounces
Canon R5
Image Resolution: 45 Megapixels
Burst Shooting: 12fps
Connectivity: Built-in Wireless
Display: 3.2″ Fully Articulating Touch Display
Lens Mount: Canon RF
Lens Type: Full-Frame CMOS
Video Resolution: 8K (4320p)
Viewfinder: 5760k dot Electronic
Dimensions: 5.43 x 3.84 x 3.44 inches
Weight: 26.03 Ounces
Leica M11 vs Canon R5: Body and Design
The Leica M11 is considerably smaller than the EOS R5. What’s more, the Leica M11 is substantially lighter (13%) than the EOS R5.
It’s also worth noting that both the M11 and R5 have dustproof and splashproof bodies, so you can use them in harsh or severe weather conditions.
Leica M11 vs Canon R5: Connectivity
For some imaging needs, the extent to which a camera can interact with its environment can be a vital aspect when deciding on whether to buy it or not.
That said, studio photographers will love that the R5, unlike the M11, has a PC Sync socket, making it possible for professional strobe lights to be controlled by the camera.
Leica M11 vs Canon R5: IBIS (In-Built Image Stabilization)
Another crucial factor when choosing mirrorless cameras is an IBIS (In-Built Image Stabilization) system.
The EOS R5 emerges as the winner in this category because it has IBIS, meaning that all lenses you attach to its body will be stabilized.
According to CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) standards, the EOS R5’s IBIS system effectively compensates for vibrations up to 8 stops.
The Leica M11, on the other hand, doesn’t have an IBIS system, so you’ll have to get a lens with optical image stabilization.
Unfortunately, no lenses are available as of now for the M11’s Leica M mount that has optical image stabilization.
Leica M11 Vs Canon R5: Lenses
The number of lenses is a key factor when deciding between interchangeable lens mirrorless cameras. When we look at the lenses available for both cameras, it’s evident that the M11 dwarfs the R5 in this category.
There are over sixty lenses available for the M11’s Leica M lens mount compared to just about thirty for the EOS R5’s Canon RF lens mount, making the M11 better in this regard.
Leica M11 vs. Canon R5: Picture and Video Quality
While both cameras have the same sensor size, the M11 has more resolution. The M11’s megapixel advantage offers a 16% gain in linear resolution. The M11’s resolution also implies that it trounces the R5 when it comes to picture quality.
However, the EOS R5 is the clear winner when it comes to video quality because the M11 doesn’t even support video modes in the first place.
Leica M11 Vs Canon R5: Sensor
The Leica M11 has a 60.3MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor and a Maestro III chip. The EOS R5, on the other hand, has a 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor and a Digic X chip.
The M11’s sensor offers 15 megapixels more than the R5’s, which is evident in real life. For instance, you can crop more freely or print your images on larger canvases.
However, keep in mind that the sensor resolution isn’t the sole determining factor of resolving power. Aspects such as low pass filter, optical elements, pixel size, and sensor tech also affect the final resolution of a captured photo.
Leica M11 vs Canon R5: Pricing
There is no denying that the Canon R5 is an expensive camera, thanks to its $3900 price tag.
However, the Leica M11 is about three times more expensive, with a $10395 price tag. Once again, the EOS R5 wins in terms of value.
Final Thought
Based on clear benefits, the Canon EOS R5 trounces the Leica M11.
However, there are some things you’ll find that the M11 does better than the R5, so a conclusive decision on which camera is best for you can only be made by you based on the features above.
See Also
How to Use Canon EOS R5 Eye Tracking
Canon EOS R5 Landscape Settings
Canon R5 Settings for Bird Photography
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