Hi everyone! I just finally bit the bullet and picked up a Canon EOS R5, and man, am I excited to start shooting with it. I’m making the jump from a 5D Mark IV, so while I’m familiar with the Canon ecosystem, I’m realizing that this mirrorless beast has some very specific needs compared to my old DSLR.
I’ve already noticed that the data requirements for 8K video and those high-res bursts are insane. I know I need to invest in a CFexpress Type B card, but with prices all over the place, are there specific brands you’ve found to be the most reliable for the price? Also, I’m a bit concerned about battery life. My old LP-E6 batteries work, but I know I need the newer LP-E6NH versions to get the full high-speed drive features. Are there any third-party options that actually hold up, or is it strictly OEM for this body?
I’m also debating between a standard EF-to-RF adapter or the one with the control ring—does that extra dial really change the workflow that much in practice? I want to make sure I’m set up for success right out of the box without overspending on fluff. What are the absolute 'day one' must-have accessories you’d recommend to a new R5 owner to get the most out of this camera?
So, coming back to this... honestly, the R5 is a beast and kinda picky! - **Cards**: Try the Delkin Devices 150GB BLACK CFexpress Type B Memory Card. It's super rugged and reliable for 8K video.
- **Battery**: I'm cautious, so stick with the Canon LP-E6NH Lithium-Ion Battery. Third-party like SmallRig LP-E6NH USB-C Rechargeable Camera Battery 2400mAh are okay, but often won't support full 12fps bursts.
- **Adapter**: The basic Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R is solid if you wanna save cash.
> I’ve already noticed that the data requirements for 8K video and those high-res bursts are insane. Yo, I totally feel u on that transition. Moving from a 5D IV to the R5 is a massive leap! Basically, mirrorless bodies are power-hungry computers with sensors. To get that full 12fps mechanical shutter speed, you really gotta have the right hardware or the camera just wont perform to its full potential. For cards, I've been super satisfied with the ProGrade Digital 512GB CFexpress Type B Gold. Its way cheaper than some others and honestly hasn't failed me once during long bursts. Battery-wise, I'd say stick to the OEM Canon LP-E6NH Lithium-Ion Battery. I tried some third-party ones, but they dont always trigger the high-speed mode, which is super annoying. And definitely go for the Canon Control Ring Mount Adapter EF-EOS R! Being able to map ISO to that extra ring on ur EF glass makes the workflow so much faster. Its a "day one" must-have for sure. gl!!
^ This. Also, I've been extremely satisfied with how the cage improves the grip for long days. I've been shooting with the R5 for a couple years now and it's been a very reliable workhorse. One thing I'd suggest that hasn't come up is looking at your offloading speed. Those 8K files are massive, so I'm very happy with the ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B and SDXC UHS-II Dual-Slot Card Reader. It doesn't overheat and uses the full speed of the cards. Regarding the storage, the Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress B SE 512GB is a fantastic alternative to the more expensive brands. I've had no complaints with it for high-res bursts or video. If you're coming from the 5D IV, the battery drain is real. I eventually grabbed the Canon BG-R10 Battery Grip and haven't looked back. It balances the heavier RF lenses perfectly and gives you that vertical shutter button. For power on the go, the Anker 737 Power Bank PowerCore 24K works well for charging the camera in your bag between locations. It definitely keeps things running smoothly without needing a dozen spare batteries.
^ This. Also, the sensor cleaning tip is spot on... it's really not as scary as it looks and saves a ton of downtime. I'm also really satisfied with going the DIY route for some of the rigging. Honestly, just get any of the cages from SmallRig Camera Cage if you want to protect the body. It makes the ergonomics way better for bigger hands too. For the secondary slot, dont stress too much. Just get any high-speed SD card from Lexar SDXC Cards and you'll be fine for backup or overflow. I've had zero complaints using them alongside the faster cards. Same goes for the strap—the one Canon gives you is kinda trash. Just grab anything from Peak Design Camera Strap and your neck will thank you later. It’s all about making the thing comfortable to use daily without spending a fortune on the official Canon-branded extras.
Yeah, totally agree with the points about the power needs. Coming from a 5D IV, the biggest shock for me wasn't just the battery, it was how much more DIY maintenance you have to do to keep it running smooth without spending a fortune at a pro service center. • **DIY Sensor Cleaning**: Since there's no mirror, the sensor is basically a dust magnet every time you swap glass. Honestly, you should learn to wet-swab it yourself, but just a warning—be super gentle because of the IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization). If you push too hard, you could potentially mess up the alignment of the stabilization unit, which is a nightmare to fix.
• **Screen Protection**: Get a decent tempered glass protector. But like, avoid the really thick ones. I've seen them cause issues where the tilt-out screen won't actually click shut properly or it messes with the touch sensitivity.
• **External Power**: If you're doing long video or timelapses, look into a high-wattage USB-C power bank. It’s way cheaper than buying 5 extra batteries, but make sure it’s PD (Power Delivery) compatible or the R5 won't even recognize it. Tbh it’s a bit of a learning curve but you’ll get the hang of it.
Sooo I went through this last year. Moving from my old DSLR to the R5 felt like switching from a reliable sedan to a literal rocket ship, but one that's WAY more expensive to fuel, right? Basically, these mirrorless sensors need massive power and speed to actually do what they're advertised to do, which is why your old gear might struggle. 1. I was super cautious about the cards cuz I've heard horror stories. I tried to save money with a mid-range brand like ProGrade, and while it works, I noticed it gets REALLY hot during long bursts. Safety first, I guess! 2. With the adapter, I actually skipped the version with the dial at first. I thought it was fluff, but after trying one, I realized how much it helps with ISO when you're shooting fast. It basically changes how you hold the camera. 3. I also tried some cheap batteries from Amazon, and ngl, the camera actually throttled my frame rate. It was so frustrating! Just to help me think this through, I have two questions:
- Are you mostly shooting high-speed action or is it more like landscape stuff?
- How much are you actually LOOKING to spend on the extras right now? Peace!
bump