Canon has always been known for its cutting-edge technology and innovation, and the EOS R5C and EOS C70 are no exception. But which camera reigns supreme for best cinema camera? Is it the EOS R5C, with its formidable full-frame sensor and dual photography and videography capabilities? Or is it the EOS C70, with its superior and powerful video performance?

The short answer is – “The Canon EOS R5C is suitable for hybrid shooters, while the Canon EOS C70 is ideal for dedicated video shooters seeking cinema-grade features and performance.”

Canon EOS R5C vs Canon EOS C70

In this article, we’ll delve into the core of each camera’s features and capabilities to help you make the right choice between Canon EOS R5C and C70. Stay till the end to find out which one comes at the top!

Design

The Canon EOS R5C has the body of R5, which has the same shape but is thicker and bulkier due to an additional fan at the back for better cooling. However, the difference in weight is not as significant as one may expect. The R5C features buttons with two sets of labels, one for photo functions and the other for video functions. It also has a dedicated timecode in/out terminal and allows unrestricted LCD movement even when connected to the HDMI port via cable.

Now, having a well-built physique can make your photography sessions more effortless and seamless. The Canon EOS C70 resembles both a DSLR and a mirrorless camera in its design. It’s the first camera to incorporate the RF mount, which is commonly used in Canon’s high-end EOS R mirrorless camera series. This enables independent filmmakers to use top-of-the-line Canon lenses. The camera body weighs approximately 2.4 lbs. and its compact size makes it convenient to use with a handheld gimbal, simplifying filming in remote locations.

Performance

The EOS R5C has the capability to record in 8K/60fps and allows slow motion recording in 8K, which is even available in Canon’s 12-bit Cinema Raw-Light format. You can choose between MP4, available in 8-bit H.264, or 10-bit HEVC up to 4:2:2, from the recording format menu. Moreover, the R5C oversamples all 4K up to 60p, providing exceptional video quality. However, it is worth noting that the R5C does not have IBIS, which has been removed to prevent sensor heat buildup. Instead, there is a digital stabilization option that crops to 1.1x and stabilizes the image with IS lenses.

In contrast, Canon EOS C70 has a powerful Super 35 Dual Gain Output (DGO) sensor that allows for shooting at an impressive 120 frames per second in 4K. The footage produced is of high quality with XF-AVC 4:2:2 10bit in 4K. The camera’s slow-motion capability is particularly strong, allowing for recording at 180fps while cropping to 16mm. The DGO feature enables users to capture stunning footage in low-light conditions even at higher ISO settings. Although the camera cannot shoot in RAW, it can shoot in DCI 4K at 60fps and high-speed UHD 4K at 120fps without any noticeable lag.

Feature

Aside from 12-bit Raw HDR, Canon EOS R5C’s new video format permits shooting in various configurations, including Raw HQ, Raw ST, Raw LT, HDMI Raw, and XF-AVC YCC 4:2:2 10-bit. The Canon EOS R5C is a true professional-grade Cinema EOS device that can also capture 45-megapixel still images when necessary.  And the latest firmware version 1.0.3.1 improves the general image quality and camera functionality for creators and filmmakers who uses the EOS R5C. The Canon EOS R5C can be considered a hybrid or a dual camera due to its split personality but in a positive way. This is because the camera’s menu changes depending on which side the on/off switch is moved to. It shares many cine features with the Canon C70, such as false color, LUTs, waveform monitor, and more, making it perfect for cinematography.

But Canon’s cinema series has always been known for its superior color science, and the C70 is no exception. It offers various color profiles such as Canon log2, log3, and HLG, which produce vivid and cinematic colors in your footage. The built-in mechanical ND filter can also provide up to 10 stops of neutral density, further enhancing the video quality. The C70 is also well-suited for multi-camera environments, as it includes a BNC connector for time code and two XLR inputs for professional audio recording options. However, the C70’s dual SD card slots that support LUT/Long GOP may feel a bit slower due to the older technology. At its release, the Canon C70 stood out from the competition due to its dual-pixel autofocus for cinema cameras. The enhanced 5-axis image stabilization with coordinated control also makes it ideal for smooth handheld shots.

Wrapping Up

Canon EOS R5C is the camera that bridges the gap between Canon’s mirrorless system cameras and the cinematic line. Although it doesn’t have built-in image stabilization, it’s still a powerful full-frame camera with a high-resolution sensor. Its video mode interface may be unfamiliar to Canon camera users, but its dual roles allow users to maximize their potential in both photography and videography. And the Canon EOS C70 is an excellent choice for those who focus only on video shooting and desire to capture higher-quality footage. Because of more cinema-centric features, C70 justifies the overall price and is worth considering. Both these cameras are Netflix-approved too, so quality-wise they don’t compromise either. So, what do you think about the Canon EOS R5C and EOS C70?