As a professional photographer who’s spent countless hours shooting with both Canon systems, I can tell you that choosing between the Canon R (mirrorless) and 90D (DSLR) is a common dilemma. Both cameras represent Canon’s commitment to excellence in their respective formats, but they serve different needs and priorities. After testing both extensively in real-world scenarios—from portrait photography to sports events, landscapes to street shooting—I’ve discovered that the choice between these two exceptional cameras isn’t just about mirrorless versus DSLR. It’s about understanding their unique characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses to determine which one will best serve your photography style and needs.
The Canon R, released in 2018, was Canon’s first full-frame mirrorless camera, representing the company’s entry into the mirrorless market. The 90D, released in 2019, is one of Canon’s most advanced APS-C DSLRs, bridging the gap between consumer and professional models. In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these cameras to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current setup or invest in your first serious camera, this guide will give you all the insights you need.
Quick Comparison: Canon R vs 90D at a Glance
Before diving into the details, here’s a quick overview of how these two cameras stack up:
| Feature | Canon R | Canon 90D |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Full-frame CMOS | APS-C CMOS |
| Resolution | 30.3MP | 32.5MP |
| Image Processor | DIGIC 8 | DIGIC 8 |
| Autofocus | 5655 dual pixel AF points | 45 cross-type AF points |
| Burst Shooting | 8 fps (5 fps with AF tracking) | 10 fps (11 fps with live view) |
| Video | 4K/30p, Full HD/60p | 4K/30p, Full HD/120p |
| Viewfinder | 3.69M-dot EVF | 0.59x optical pentaprism |
| LCD Screen | 3.15″ 2.1M dot vari-angle | 3.0″ 1.04M dot vari-angle |
| Battery Life | 370 shots | 1300 shots |
| Weather Sealing | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 660g (with battery) | 701g (with battery) |
| Dimensions | 136 x 97 x 74mm | 141 x 105 x 77mm |
| Release Date | October 2018 | August 2019 |
| Price (approx.) | $1,299 (body only) | $1,199 (body only) |
Canon R: The Full-Frame Mirrorless Pioneer
When Canon introduced the Canon R, it marked a significant shift in the company’s approach to camera design. As Canon’s first full-frame mirrorless camera, it represented a bold step into the future of photography. After shooting with it for countless hours across various genres, I can confidently say it’s a remarkable camera that delivers exceptional image quality in a compact package.
Design and Ergonomics
The first thing you’ll notice about the Canon R is its modern, streamlined design. Without the need for a mirror box, it’s significantly thinner than a traditional DSLR, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods. The build quality is excellent, with magnesium alloy construction and comprehensive weather sealing that has never failed me in challenging conditions.
I’ve shot with this camera in everything from studio environments to dusty outdoor locations, and its weather sealing has never let me down. The dust and moisture resistance give me confidence when shooting in challenging conditions—a must-have for working professionals.
The control layout is well-thought-out, with a customizable touch bar that provides quick access to frequently used functions. While some photographers found the touch bar divisive, I’ve grown to appreciate its versatility once I customized it to my shooting style. The physical controls are well-placed and provide tactile feedback that makes shooting intuitive, even when looking through the viewfinder.
One design aspect I particularly appreciate is the electronic viewfinder (EVF). With 3.69 million dots and 0.76x magnification, it’s bright, clear, and detailed enough to judge focus accurately. The ability to see exposure preview and other information in the viewfinder is a game-changer for my photography workflow.
Sensor and Image Quality
Where the Canon R truly shines is in its full-frame sensor. The 30.3MP CMOS sensor delivers exceptional image quality with impressive dynamic range and low-light performance. During a recent landscape photography trip, I was blown away by the level of detail the camera could capture, especially in shadow and highlight areas.
The dynamic range is impressive, with approximately 13.5 stops of latitude. I’ve been able to recover significant shadow and highlight detail in post-processing that would have been lost with lesser sensors. The color science, which Canon is famous for, is as excellent as ever, with the Picture Style profiles producing beautiful JPEGs straight out of camera.
One area where the full-frame sensor really shines is in low-light situations. I’ve tested it in dimly lit environments where other cameras would struggle, and the Canon R consistently delivers clean files with minimal noise, even at ISO 6400 and above.
Autofocus Performance
The Canon R’s autofocus system is one of its standout features. With 5655 dual pixel AF points covering approximately 88% of the frame horizontally and 100% vertically, it’s one of the most sophisticated AF systems in any camera, regardless of price.
What impressed me most during testing was the eye detection autofocus. During a recent portrait session, I found the camera could reliably detect and track the subject’s eye, even when they were moving or turning away from the camera. This resulted in a higher percentage of sharp images with precise focus on the eyes, which is crucial for portrait photography.
The low-light autofocus performance is also noteworthy. I’ve tested it in near-darkness where other cameras would give up completely, and the Canon R consistently locked onto subjects with minimal hunting. This reliability makes it an excellent choice for event photographers who work in variable lighting conditions.
Video Capabilities
While not its primary strength, the Canon R offers respectable video capabilities. It can record 4K video at up to 30p with minimal crop, with options for Canon Log for increased dynamic range in post-production. The quality is excellent, with good detail retention and excellent color rendition.
However, there are some limitations compared to the 90D. The Canon R has a significant 1.7x crop when shooting 4K video, which can be frustrating for wide-angle shots. Additionally, the recording time limits are more restrictive, which may be a concern for serious videographers.
During my testing, I found the Canon R perfectly capable for casual video work and supplementary footage for photography projects. For photographers who occasionally need video capabilities, it’s more than adequate. However, for those who split their time evenly between stills and video, the 90D might be the better choice.
Battery Life
The Canon R uses the LP-E6N battery, which is the same as many Canon DSLRs. However, mirrorless cameras typically consume more power than DSLRs due to the electronic viewfinder, and the Canon R is no exception. Canon rates it at approximately 370 shots per charge, which I found to be accurate in real-world use.
For extended shooting sessions, the option to use a battery grip (BG-E22) is available, which not only extends battery life but also improves handling for those with larger hands. The grip also provides a vertical shutter release and additional controls for comfortable portrait orientation shooting.
Special Features and Technology
The Canon R incorporates several advanced technologies that enhance its capabilities:
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with 5655 AF points
- Fully articulating touchscreen LCD
- Customizable touch bar for quick access to functions
- Focus bracketing for increased depth of field
- Multiple exposure mode
- Silent shooting mode
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- USB-C charging and power delivery
The focus bracketing feature is particularly noteworthy, allowing the camera to capture a series of images at different focus distances that can be combined in post-processing for increased depth of field. This is especially useful for macro and product photography.
Pros and Cons of the Canon R
Pros:
- Exceptional full-frame image quality
- Advanced autofocus system with eye detection
- Compact and lightweight design
- Electronic viewfinder with exposure preview
- Fully articulating touchscreen
- Excellent low-light performance
- Silent shooting capability
Cons:
- Limited battery life compared to DSLRs
- 1.7x crop when shooting 4K video
- Single card slot
- Touch bar can be divisive among users
- More expensive than the 90D
Canon 90D: The APS-C DSLR Powerhouse
When Canon released the 90D, it represented the pinnacle of their APS-C DSLR lineup. After extensive use across various photography and video projects, I can confirm that it’s a formidable camera that delivers exceptional performance in a traditional DSLR package.
Design and Ergonomics
The Canon 90D features a traditional DSLR design with a substantial grip that provides excellent handling, especially during extended shooting sessions. The build quality is exceptional, with magnesium alloy construction and comprehensive weather sealing that has never failed me in challenging conditions.
I’ve shot with this camera in everything from studio environments to dusty outdoor locations, and its weather sealing has never let me down. The dust and moisture resistance give me confidence when shooting in challenging conditions—a must-have for working professionals.
The control layout is traditional and intuitive, with dedicated buttons and dials for frequently used functions. The physical controls are well-placed and provide tactile feedback that makes shooting intuitive, even when looking through the viewfinder. The inclusion of a joystick for AF point selection is a welcome addition that makes quick adjustments easy.
One design aspect I particularly appreciate is the optical viewfinder. With 0.59x magnification and 100% coverage, it’s bright and clear, providing a real-time view of the scene without any lag or electronic artifacts. For photographers who prefer the immediacy of an optical viewfinder, the 90D delivers an excellent experience.
Sensor and Image Quality
While the 90D uses an APS-C sensor rather than the full-frame sensor in the Canon R, it still delivers exceptional image quality. The 32.5MP CMOS sensor is one of the highest resolution APS-C sensors on the market, delivering files with impressive detail and dynamic range.
During my testing, I found the 32.5MP resolution to be more than sufficient for most applications, including large prints up to 20×30 inches. The files are more manageable in terms of storage and processing requirements than those from higher-resolution full-frame cameras, which can be a significant advantage for photographers who shoot high volumes of images.
The low-light performance is impressive for an APS-C camera, with clean files at ISO values up to 3200, and usable results even at higher settings. The color science is as excellent as ever, with Picture Style profiles that produce beautiful JPEGs straight out of camera, reducing the need for extensive post-processing.
Also Read: Canon 1DX Mark II vs 5D Mark IV
Autofocus Performance
The Canon 90D’s autofocus system is highly capable, with 45 cross-type AF points, all of which are cross-type for maximum accuracy. While not as sophisticated as the Canon R’s dual pixel system, it’s still highly effective in most situations.
During portrait sessions, I found the autofocus to be reliable and accurate, even in challenging lighting conditions. The tracking performance is good for moderately moving subjects, though it may struggle with very fast action compared to more advanced systems.
One area where the 90D’s autofocus truly shines is in live view mode. In live view, the camera utilizes dual pixel autofocus technology, similar to the Canon R, providing fast and accurate autofocus across a wide area of the frame. This makes it particularly effective for video work and for still photography when using the LCD screen.
Video Capabilities
This is where the Canon 90D truly separates itself from the Canon R. It’s a hybrid powerhouse with professional-level video capabilities that make it a viable option for serious videographers and content creators.
The 90D can record 4K video at up to 30p with no crop, with options for Canon Log for increased dynamic range in post-production. The quality is outstanding, with good detail retention, excellent color science, and minimal rolling shutter.
One of the standout video features of the 90D is its ability to record Full HD video at up to 120fps, enabling smooth slow-motion footage. The dual pixel autofocus in live view provides smooth and accurate focus transitions, making it ideal for run-and-gun video work.
The 90D also offers a range of video-focused features, including:
- Headphone and microphone jacks
- HDMI output for external recording
- Timecode support
- Zebra patterns for exposure control
- Focus peaking for precise manual focus
For photographers who split their time between stills and video, the 90D’s video capabilities make it the more versatile choice.
Battery Life
The Canon 90D uses the LP-E6N battery, the same as the Canon R. However, as a DSLR, it’s much more power-efficient, primarily because it doesn’t need to power an electronic viewfinder continuously. Canon rates it at approximately 1300 shots per charge, which I found to be accurate in real-world use.
During a full day of event photography, I typically get through a full day of shooting with a single battery, with plenty of capacity to spare. For extended shooting sessions, the option to use a battery grip (BG-E14) is available, which not only extends battery life but also improves handling for those with larger hands.
Special Features and Technology
The Canon 90D incorporates several advanced technologies that enhance its capabilities:
- 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- 45 cross-type AF points (all cross-type)
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF in live view
- Fully articulating touchscreen LCD
- 4K video with no crop
- Full HD video at up to 120fps
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Intervalometer for time-lapse photography
- Multiple exposure mode
The intervalometer feature is particularly noteworthy, allowing the camera to capture time-lapse sequences without the need for additional accessories. This is especially useful for landscape and architectural photographers.
Pros and Cons of the Canon 90D
Pros:
- Excellent battery life (1300 shots per charge)
- 4K video with no crop
- High-resolution 32.5MP sensor
- Dual Pixel AF in live view
- Fully articulating touchscreen
- Optical viewfinder with no lag
- More affordable than the Canon R
Cons:
- APS-C sensor not as capable in low light as full-frame
- Fewer AF points than the Canon R
- No eye detection autofocus
- Larger and heavier than the Canon R
- More traditional design may not appeal to all users
Head-to-Head Comparison: Real-World Performance
Numbers and specifications only tell part of the story. To truly understand the differences between these two exceptional cameras, I put them through their paces in real-world shooting scenarios. Here’s what I discovered:
Portrait Photography
For portrait photography, both cameras excel, but with different strengths. The Canon R’s full-frame sensor and eye detection autofocus give it a clear advantage for capturing sharp portraits with beautiful background separation.
During a recent portrait session, I found the Canon R’s eye detection autofocus remarkably effective, maintaining focus on the subject’s eye even when they were moving or turning away from the camera. The full-frame sensor also provided more natural-looking background separation at the same aperture and distance, creating that three-dimensional quality that makes portraits truly pop.
The Canon 90D, while not matching the Canon R’s eye detection or background separation, still produced beautiful portraits with excellent detail and color rendition. The higher resolution sensor (32.5MP vs 30.3MP) provided slightly more detail, which can be advantageous for large prints or significant cropping.
For portrait photographers who prioritize autofocus accuracy and background separation, the Canon R is the better choice. For those who value resolution and battery life, the Canon 90D remains an excellent option.
Landscape Photography
For landscape photography, both cameras perform well, but with different strengths. The Canon R’s full-frame sensor provides slightly better dynamic range and low-light performance, which can be valuable for landscape photographers who shoot in challenging lighting conditions.
During a recent landscape photography trip, I found the Canon R’s dynamic range particularly useful for scenes with high contrast between bright skies and dark foregrounds. The ability to recover shadow and highlight detail in post-processing gave me more flexibility when processing these challenging scenes.
However, the Canon 90D’s higher resolution sensor (32.5MP vs 30.3MP) can capture slightly more detail, which can be advantageous for landscape photographers who print large or crop their images significantly. The longer battery life is also valuable for landscape photographers who spend extended periods in the field.
If landscape photography is your primary focus and you value maximum dynamic range and low-light performance, the Canon R has the edge. If you prioritize resolution and battery life for extended shooting sessions, the Canon 90D might be the better choice.
Wildlife and Sports Photography
For wildlife and sports photography, both cameras have their strengths, but with different considerations. The Canon R’s advanced autofocus system with eye detection gives it an advantage for tracking moving subjects, especially when shooting in live view.
During a recent wildlife photography session, I found the Canon R’s autofocus system remarkably effective at tracking birds in flight, even against complex backgrounds. The electronic viewfinder also provided a real-time preview of exposure, which was helpful when lighting conditions were changing rapidly.
However, the Canon 90D’s optical viewfinder provides a more immediate view of fast-moving action, with no lag or electronic artifacts. The longer battery life is also valuable for wildlife and sports photographers who spend extended periods shooting continuously.
For wildlife and sports photographers who prioritize autofocus tracking and exposure preview, the Canon R is the better choice. For those who value the immediacy of an optical viewfinder and extended battery life, the Canon 90D remains an excellent option.
Video Production
For video production, the Canon 90D is the clear winner. Its 4K video with no crop, higher frame rate options (120fps in Full HD), and better heat management make it a much more capable tool for serious video work.
During a recent documentary project, I relied heavily on the Canon 90D’s video capabilities. The lack of crop when shooting 4K allowed me to use wider lenses without losing the wide-angle perspective, while the dual pixel autofocus in live view provided smooth and accurate focus transitions.
The Canon R, while capable of good quality video, has a significant 1.7x crop when shooting 4K, which can be frustrating for wide-angle shots. The recording time limits are also more restrictive, which may be a concern for serious videographers.
For photographers who split their time between stills and video, the Canon 90D’s video capabilities make it the more versatile choice. For those who occasionally need video capabilities, the Canon R is sufficient but not ideal.
Travel Photography
For travel photography, both cameras have their strengths, but with different considerations. The Canon R’s more compact size and lighter weight make it less conspicuous and more comfortable to carry for long periods.
During a recent trip to Europe, I appreciated the Canon R’s smaller size, which made it easier to carry all day without fatigue. The electronic viewfinder also provided a real-time preview of exposure, which was helpful when shooting in changing lighting conditions.
However, the Canon 90D’s longer battery life is a significant advantage for travel photographers who may not have easy access to charging facilities. The optical viewfinder also doesn’t drain the battery, allowing for extended shooting sessions without worrying about power.
For travel photographers who value portability and exposure preview, the Canon R is the better choice. For those who prioritize battery life and the immediacy of an optical viewfinder, the Canon 90D might be the better option.
Image Quality Deep Dive
Let’s take a closer look at the specific image quality characteristics that set these cameras apart.
Resolution and Detail
While both cameras have similar resolution (30.3MP for the Canon R vs 32.5MP for the Canon 90D), there are differences in how they capture detail:
- The Canon 90D’s higher pixel count can capture slightly more detail, especially when viewed at 100%.
- The Canon R’s full-frame sensor has larger pixels, which can result in better per-pixel sharpness and cleaner images at high ISO settings.
- The Canon R’s full-frame sensor provides better color depth and dynamic range, especially in shadow areas.
- The Canon 90D’s APS-C sensor provides more reach when using the same lenses, which can be advantageous for wildlife and sports photography.
In practical terms, both cameras produce excellent image quality suitable for professional work, with the differences being most noticeable in large prints or when viewing files at 100%.
Dynamic Range
Both cameras offer excellent dynamic range, but with some differences:
- The Canon R’s full-frame sensor provides slightly better dynamic range, especially in shadow recovery.
- The Canon 90D still offers impressive dynamic range for an APS-C camera, with approximately 13 stops of latitude.
- Both cameras handle highlight recovery well, with the Canon R having a slight edge.
- The Canon R’s newer processor provides better noise reduction in recovered shadows.
In real-world shooting, both cameras perform exceptionally well in challenging lighting conditions. During a recent sunset shoot, I was able to recover significant shadow detail in both cameras’ files, with the Canon R showing a slight advantage in the deepest shadows.
Low-Light Performance
Low-light performance is a crucial consideration for many photographers, and both cameras excel in this area, but with different strengths:
- The Canon R’s full-frame sensor provides better high-ISO performance, with cleaner files at ISO 6400 and above.
- The Canon 90D’s APS-C sensor shows more noise at higher ISO settings, but still performs well up to ISO 3200.
- The Canon R’s larger pixels gather more light, resulting in better signal-to-noise ratio.
- The Canon 90D’s higher resolution can reveal more noise at the pixel level, but this is less apparent at normal viewing sizes.
During my testing in low-light conditions, I found the Canon R produced cleaner files at ISO 3200 and above, while both cameras performed similarly at lower ISO settings.
Color Science
Both cameras benefit from Canon’s renowned color science, but with some subtle differences:
- The Canon R’s full-frame sensor provides slightly better color depth and accuracy.
- The Canon 90D’s color science is still excellent, with the same Picture Style profiles that have made Canon famous.
- Both cameras offer excellent skin tone reproduction, with the Canon R showing slightly more accurate rendering in challenging lighting.
- The Canon R’s newer processor provides better color differentiation in subtle tones.
In real-world shooting, both cameras produce beautiful colors straight out of camera, with the Canon R showing a slight advantage in color accuracy and the ability to retain more color information at higher ISO settings.
Price and Value Analysis
The price difference between these two cameras is relatively small, with the Canon R retailing for approximately $1,299 and the Canon 90D at around $1,199. That’s a difference of only $100, which is relatively minor in the context of high-end cameras.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
When considering the value proposition, it’s important to think about your specific needs:
- If you prioritize full-frame image quality and advanced autofocus, the Canon R is worth the additional investment.
- If you value battery life and 4K video without crop, the Canon 90D offers better value.
- For portrait and landscape photographers, the Canon R’s full-frame sensor and eye detection autofocus justify its higher price.
- For video enthusiasts and sports photographers, the Canon 90D’s uncropped 4K video and longer battery life make it the better value.
Resale Value Considerations
Both cameras hold their value reasonably well, but the Canon R, being a full-frame mirrorless camera, will likely maintain a higher percentage of its original value for longer. However, the Canon 90D’s position as one of the most advanced APS-C DSLRs also supports good resale value.
If you’re the type of photographer who upgrades gear frequently, this resale value could help offset some of the initial price difference over time.
Long-Term Investment
When viewed as a long-term investment, both cameras are solid choices. The Canon R’s mirrorless design suggests it may have a longer useful life, as the industry continues to shift toward mirrorless systems. The Canon 90D, while using the more traditional DSLR design, is built to the same high standards and should provide years of reliable service.
Who Should Choose the Canon R?
Based on my extensive testing and real-world use, the Canon R is the ideal choice for:
Portrait and Wedding Photographers
If portrait or wedding photography is your focus, the Canon R’s full-frame sensor and eye detection autofocus make it the better choice. The ability to accurately focus on the subject’s eye, combined with the natural-looking background separation of a full-frame sensor, results in stunning portraits that clients love.
During a recent wedding photography assignment, I relied on the Canon R’s eye detection autofocus to capture critical moments, and it never missed a beat. The full-frame sensor also provided beautiful background separation that made my subjects stand out from their surroundings.
Landscape Photographers
If landscape photography is your passion, the Canon R’s full-frame sensor provides better dynamic range and low-light performance, which can be crucial for capturing stunning landscape images in challenging lighting conditions.
I discovered during a recent landscape photography workshop that the Canon R’s dynamic range was particularly valuable for scenes with high contrast between bright skies and dark foregrounds. The ability to recover shadow and highlight detail in post-processing gave me more flexibility when processing these challenging scenes.
Enthusiasts Who Want Full-Frame Quality
If you’re an enthusiast photographer who wants the image quality benefits of a full-frame sensor without the bulk of a traditional DSLR, the Canon R is the perfect choice. Its compact size and lightweight design make it more portable than a full-frame DSLR, while still delivering exceptional image quality.
Photographers Who Value Advanced Autofocus
If you prioritize autofocus performance, especially for moving subjects, the Canon R’s advanced dual pixel autofocus system with eye detection makes it the better choice. The ability to accurately track and focus on moving subjects can make the difference between getting the shot or missing it.
Who Should Choose the Canon 90D?
The Canon 90D is the ideal choice for:
Wildlife and Sports Photographers
If wildlife or sports photography is your focus, the Canon 90D’s optical viewfinder and longer battery life make it the better choice. The immediacy of an optical viewfinder with no lag is crucial for tracking fast-moving action, while the extended battery life ensures you won’t miss shots due to a dead battery.
During a recent wildlife photography trip, I appreciated the Canon 90D’s optical viewfinder, which allowed me to track fast-moving birds without any lag or electronic artifacts. The longer battery life also gave me confidence that I could shoot all day without worrying about power.
Video Enthusiasts
If video is an important part of your photography, the Canon 90D is the clear winner. Its 4K video with no crop, higher frame rate options (120fps in Full HD), and better heat management make it a much more capable tool for serious video work.
I found the Canon 90D’s video capabilities particularly valuable during a recent documentary project. The lack of crop when shooting 4K allowed me to use wider lenses without losing the wide-angle perspective, while the dual pixel autofocus in live view provided smooth and accurate focus transitions.
Travel Photographers
If you’re a travel photographer who may not have easy access to charging facilities, the Canon 90D’s longer battery life is a significant advantage. The ability to shoot up to 1300 shots on a single charge means you can explore remote locations without worrying about running out of power.
During a recent trip to remote areas, I appreciated the Canon 90D’s battery life, which allowed me to shoot all day without needing to recharge. The optical viewfinder also helped conserve battery life, as it doesn’t require power like an electronic viewfinder.
Budget-Conscious Photographers
If you’re working with a limited budget but still want a high-performance camera, the Canon 90D offers exceptional value. It delivers most of the performance of the Canon R at a slightly lower price point, with the added benefits of longer battery life and uncropped 4K video.
User Experiences and Case Studies
To provide a well-rounded perspective, I reached out to several photographers who have extensive experience with both cameras. Here’s what they shared:
Case Study: Alex Morgan, Portrait Photographer
Alex specializes in portrait photography and chose the Canon R after careful consideration. “As a portrait photographer, the Canon R’s eye detection autofocus is a game-changer. I can confidently shoot wide open at f/1.2, knowing that the camera will nail focus on the subject’s eye every time. The full-frame sensor also provides beautiful background separation that my clients love. While the battery life isn’t as good as a DSLR, I carry a spare battery and have never run into issues during a normal shoot.”
Case Study: Sarah Chen, Wildlife Photographer
Sarah specializes in wildlife photography and uses the Canon 90D. “As a wildlife photographer, the Canon 90D’s optical viewfinder and longer battery life are essential. I can track fast-moving birds without any lag, and I can shoot all day without worrying about battery life. The APS-C sensor also gives me more reach with my telephoto lenses, which is crucial for wildlife photography. While I sometimes miss the advanced autofocus of mirrorless cameras, the 90D’s performance is more than adequate for my needs.”
Case Study: Michael Torres, Hybrid Photographer
Michael runs a successful photography business that includes both stills and video work, and he uses both cameras. “I use the Canon R for portrait and landscape work where I need the best possible image quality and autofocus performance. For video work and situations where I need extended battery life, I reach for the Canon 90D. Having both cameras gives me the best of both worlds—full-frame quality when I need it, and DSLR practicality when that’s more important.”
Also Read: Nikon D850 vs Canon 5D Mark IV
Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Camera
Whether you choose the Canon R or the Canon 90D, these tips will help you get the most out of your investment:
Autofocus Techniques
Both cameras benefit from proper autofocus setup:
- For the Canon R, customize the autofocus settings to take advantage of the eye detection feature.
- For the Canon 90D, use the optical viewfinder for fast action and live view for stationary subjects.
- Take advantage of the customizable buttons to quickly access autofocus settings.
- For both cameras, use back-button focus for more control over autofocus activation.
Battery Life Optimization
For the Canon R, battery life is a common concern:
- Carry at least one spare battery for extended shooting sessions.
- Use the electronic viewfinder sparingly when battery life is a concern.
- Turn off image stabilization when using a tripod to conserve power.
- Use airplane mode when you don’t need connectivity features.
For the Canon 90D, battery life is less of a concern, but these tips can help extend it further:
- Use the optical viewfinder instead of live view when possible.
- Turn off image stabilization when using a tripod.
- Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not needed.
- Keep the camera at moderate temperatures, as extreme cold can reduce battery life.
Video Best Practices
For videographers using these cameras:
- For the Canon 90D, take advantage of the 4K video with no crop and 120fps slow-motion in Full HD.
- For the Canon R, be mindful of the 1.7x crop when shooting 4K video.
- Use an external microphone for better audio quality, especially when recording dialogue.
- Use manual focus for critical video work, as autofocus can be distracting in footage.
Maximizing Image Quality
Both cameras can produce exceptional images with proper technique:
- Shoot in RAW format for maximum flexibility in post-processing.
- Use the Picture Style settings creatively, and don’t be afraid to customize them to your taste.
- For the Canon R, take advantage of the focus bracketing feature for increased depth of field.
- For the Canon 90D, use the intervalometer for time-lapse photography without additional accessories.
FAQ: Canon R vs 90D
Is the Canon R worth the extra money over the 90D?
It depends on your needs. If you prioritize full-frame image quality and advanced autofocus, the Canon R is worth the additional investment. For video enthusiasts and those who value battery life, the 90D offers better value despite being slightly less expensive.
Which camera has better autofocus?
The Canon R has a more advanced autofocus system with 5655 dual pixel AF points and eye detection, making it better for portrait and action photography. The Canon 90D has a capable 45-point AF system that performs well in most situations, but lacks the advanced features of the Canon R.
Does the Canon R’s full-frame sensor make a significant difference?
Yes, the Canon R’s full-frame sensor provides better dynamic range, low-light performance, and more natural-looking background separation compared to the 90D’s APS-C sensor. These differences are most noticeable in challenging lighting conditions and when shooting portraits with shallow depth of field.
Which camera is better for video?
The Canon 90D is significantly better for video work, with 4K video that has no crop (compared to the Canon R’s 1.7x crop), higher frame rate options (120fps in Full HD), and better heat management for extended recording.
How significant is the difference in battery life?
The difference is substantial. The Canon 90D is rated for approximately 1300 shots per charge, while the Canon R is rated for only 370 shots per charge. This makes the 90D much better suited for extended shooting sessions or travel where charging facilities may be limited.
Can I use my existing EF lenses with both cameras?
Yes, both cameras are compatible with Canon’s extensive range of EF lenses using the appropriate adapter. The Canon R requires the EF-EOS R adapter, while the Canon 90D can use EF lenses directly without an adapter.
Which camera is better for beginners?
The Canon 90D is generally better for beginners due to its more traditional DSLR design, longer battery life, and more affordable price point. The optical viewfinder also provides a more immediate view of the scene, which can be easier for beginners to understand.
How do the viewfinders compare?
The Canon R has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 3.69 million dots and exposure preview, while the Canon 90D has an optical viewfinder (OVF) with 0.59x magnification and no lag. The choice between EVF and OVF is largely personal preference, with EVFs providing more information and OVF providing a more immediate view of the scene.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
After extensively testing both the Canon R and Canon 90D in a variety of real-world scenarios, I can confidently say that both are exceptional cameras that will serve photographers well. The right choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, shooting style, and budget.
The Canon R is the ideal choice for photographers who prioritize full-frame image quality, advanced autofocus, and a more compact design. It’s particularly well-suited for portrait, landscape, and wedding photographers who need the best possible image quality and autofocus performance. While it comes with some limitations in battery life and video capabilities, its optical performance is outstanding.
The Canon 90D remains an excellent choice for photographers who value battery life, 4K video without crop, and the immediacy of an optical viewfinder. It’s particularly well-suited for wildlife, sports, and video enthusiasts who need a versatile camera that can handle both stills and video with ease.
Whichever you choose, you’re getting a high-quality camera that will elevate your photography and serve you well for years to come. Both cameras represent Canon’s commitment to excellence and are worthy investments for serious photographers.
If you found this comparison helpful, be sure to bookmark this page for future reference as I’ll be updating it regularly with new information and insights. For more in-depth reviews of photography equipment and techniques, check out my other articles on camera selection and creative photography.