Underwater Heating Test on Canon EOS R5 Camera
The Canon EOS R5, a popular camera known for its high-resolution video capabilities, has been tested for overheating underwater using an Ikelite EOS R5 polycarbonate underwater housing. Here's a summary of the tests conducted so far.
Warm Water Tests
Two warm water overheating tests have been carried out with the EOS R5, both using firmware version 1.1.1. The water temperature during the second test was 88F, and the recording time before overheat shutoff was 20 minutes 42 seconds. The recovery time after overheating was 14 minutes 49 seconds.
Cold Water Tests
A cold water test was conducted with the EOS R5, also using firmware version 1.1.1. The water temperature during this test was 60F. The recording time before overheat shutoff was 25 minutes 48 seconds, demonstrating that colder water can help dissipate heat more effectively, potentially extending recording times before thermal shutdown. The recovery time in the cold water test is not specified.
Firmware Updates
Canon updated their firmware from 1.0.0 to 1.1.0, which increased recording times by about five minutes. However, specific data comparing versions 1.0.0 and 1.1.1 on underwater overheating is not available.
General Use and Overheating
General use of the camera during a dive, such as taking 100 photos, 3-4 minutes of 8K video, and 5-6 minutes of 4K @ 60p, will not cause the EOS R5 to overheat. Overheating is more likely to occur when recording high-resolution video such as 8K or 4K at high framerates.
Condensation and Desiccant Packets
Condensation can occur in the housing when approaching the overheating shutoff, so it is recommended to pack desiccant packets for long video shoots to help prevent condensation.
Recovery Time and Freezer Method
Putting the camera in a freezer topside can help speed up recovery time. However, the exact recovery time in different scenarios is not specified in the provided sources.
Water-Resistant but Not Waterproof
It's important to note that the Canon EOS R5 is water-resistant but not waterproof on its own. Underwater use requires specialized housing to ensure full water protection.
Recording Limits
Canon later issued a statement outlining recording limits for different resolutions and framerates on the EOS R5. At room temperature (23C), the EOS R5 can capture about 20 minutes of 8K video and 15 minutes of 4K video at 120fps with internal RAW recording.
Conclusion
While specific numeric performance data per water temperature and firmware version 1.0.0 vs 1.1.1 is not found in the provided sources, the tests conducted provide valuable insights into the EOS R5's performance underwater. For precise performance, consult specific underwater testing reviews or reports focused on these firmware versions and conditions. Underwater videographers who plan to shoot 8K or 4K at 120p should expect to capture about 20-25 minutes of consecutive or non-consecutive footage in a dive.
- With the Canon EOS R5's polycarbonate underwater housing, a guide for divers might suggest avoiding recording 8K or 4K at high framerates for extended periods to prevent overheating during underwater photography sessions.
- For capturing vibrant underwater colors, a diver might instead opt for 4K @ 60p video, as general use of the EOS R5 during a dive will not cause overheating under these conditions.
- To extend recording times and potentially avoid overheating underwater, a diver might consider using gadgets like desiccant packets to help prevent condensation and preserve the camera's performance.
- To make the most of the EOS R5's technology and improve its performance during underwater photography and videography, an advanced diver might invest in the latest firmware updates, such as the version 1.1.1, which has been shown to increase recording times by about five minutes.
- As the Canon EOS R5 is water-resistant but not waterproof, any diver planning an underwater destination trip should equip themselves with a specialized underwater housing to ensure complete protection against water damage.
