Comparing the Sony a7S III to the Canon R5 for 4K 120 Fps Slow-Motion Video

Shooting 4K at 120 fps is kind of a niche feature and something many may not even think about, but having it available when you need it is pretty great. Now that 4K has become more standard in the DSLR and mirrorless market, we are starting to see more cameras capable of shooting 4K at 120fps. 

When it is warranted, it can add a lot to your video or film. I've used slow-motion footage several times on commercial shoots. It can be great for capturing unique BTS footage, especially action sports or outdoor work, which is what I usually do. In his newest video, Matt Granger talks about his interest in shooting 4K at 120 fps and compares the new Canon R5 with the Sony a7S III. "I have been wanting to add 4K 120p video to my setup for a long time, so it is great to have multiple cost-effective options on the market now."

Now, it is unlikely that anyone is going to switch camera systems for such a niche feature, but if you're already in the market for a new camera and shooting at 4k especially at higher frame rates is something that your video work needs, this comparison may be just what you want. 

Matt has shot extensively with both the Canon R5 and the Sony a7S III, and here are a few quick bullet points he makes in the video:

  • He prefers the ergonomics and menus of the Canon
  • Skin tones straight out of camera are better on the Canon, but easily matched in post
  • The now-famous overheating limitation of the R5 makes it a completely unusable option for his work

Is 4K at 120 fps something you're looking for in your next camera? 

Michael DeStefano's picture

Michael DeStefano is a commercial/editorial photographer focusing on Outdoor Lifestyle and Adventure. Based in Boston, MA he combines his passion for outdoor sports like climbing and surfing into his work. When not traveling or outdoors he is often found geeking out over new tech gadgets.

Log in or register to post comments
1 Comment

I am looking for a hybrid camera(s) for my productions company. I really love the canon image out of the R5 . Not much of a Sony fan but dang this is a beast of a camera. It’s made to work . Sure wish they’d have added a fan or heat sink to it . Sensors need to be kept cool . If Panasonic and Sigma can do it so can other companies.
That said I guess I’ll hold out a bit longer to see what Nikon is going to do . We have a slew of Nikon dslrs we use now and we like the Nikon image a lot . Holding out on Nikon nowadays seems like holding out for a disappointment. Come on Nikon get into the professional video more .