This week, we have the Canon R5C, an R5 with unlimited video recording, as well as an F2.8 super telephoto prime lens from Nikon.
Canon EOS R5C
Think about the Canon R5 but with more advanced video capabilities, a built-in cooling fan on the back to dissipate heat and unlimited recording (something its sibling is certainly not famous for). As a result, the camera is also larger especially when it comes to the depth in order to accommodate the fan. Surprisingly, the weight is not that different (770g vs 738g for the regular R5).
The second important difference on the R5C is the lack of in-body image stabilisation. You can still use electronic stabilisation combined with OS lenses, but that’s it. Although this decision might be surprising for some, it actually makes sense in the professional video world where companies prefer to use external stabiliser devices, avoiding the small artefacts that can occur with IBIS.
The R5 offers 8K video up to 30p in 12-bit RAW. The R5C goes up to 60p in 12-bit Cinema RAW Light and, more importantly, can record for an unlimited time. Keep in mind though that 8K/60p will require external power if you want autofocus and stabilisation (the internal battery can’t deliver enough power for everything).
The design and ergonomics are the same and so is the button layout, except for a few changes in the markings, and the red shutter/video recording button. The other difference is the on/off switch of the R5 replaced by a Photo / Off / Video switch. Canon has also included two menu systems: one for photo that is identical to that of other Eos still cameras, and one for video that is completely different and inherited from the EOS Cinema cameras.
As for everything else, both cameras are very similar including the 45MP full frame sensor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF II, 5.76M dots viewfinder, multi-angle LCD screen, battery and dual card slots (CFexpress Type A and SD UHS-II).
Finally, the R5C costs $4500, which is $600 more expensive than the regular R5.
Nikkor Z 400mm F2.8 TC VR S
Already teased at the end of last year, the new 400mm F2.8 is the first fast-aperture long telephoto lens for Nikon’s full frame mirrorless system. Unlike the F-mount version, the new lens includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter which increases the focal length to 560mm and reduces the largest aperture by one stop (f/4). The lens is also compatible with the optional Z TC 1.4x and 2.0x which means you can have a total reach of 1120mm when using the 2.0x teleconverter.
The lens uses a ‘voice coil’ AF motor where autofocus is driven by a magnetic field, and Nikon says the one inside the 400mm is so powerful that it shouldn’t be used by anyone with a pacemaker. If you don’t have one, then the lens can be yours for $14,000!
Main characteristics of the Nikon Z 400mm F2.8:
- 25 elements in 19 groups
- 2 ED glass, 1 Super ED, 2 Fluorite and 1 SR (Short Wavelength refractive) elements
- Meso Amorphous Coat
- 9 rounded diaphragm blades
- 5.5 stops rated optical stabilisation (6 stops when used with the Z9)
- Min. focus: 2.5m
- customizable function buttons and ring
- magnesium alloy body and weather sealing
- 2950g
