Autofocus speed is one of the most crucial factors in photography. Whether you’re capturing action shots, everyday moments, or dynamic lighting conditions, only a camera with a top-tier autofocus system can deliver a smooth, efficient creative experience. In 2025, the camera market saw the debut of several new models and upgraded versions, with significant breakthroughs in focus engines, AI recognition, and focus point coverage.
For this real-world comparison, we tested four of the most representative fast-focus cameras of 2025:
• Canon EOS R5 Mark II
• Nikon Z6 III
• Sony A7 IV (Enhanced by the latest firmware with AI hybrid autofocus)
• DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro (Technically an action camera, but with ultra-fast focus)
This review evaluates autofocus speed, accuracy, tracking, low-light performance, eye recognition, and more—along with test images and user impressions—to help determine which one is truly the King of Focus.
1. Camera Overview & Core Autofocus Systems
Canon EOS R5 Mark II
Launched at the end of 2024, this is the successor to the original EOS R5. It features a new 45MP stacked CMOS sensor, 1,054 focus points, and 30fps burst shooting. Particularly effective in bird and sports photography, it is powered by a DIGIC X + Accelerator dual processor system. Canon claims its autofocus can exceed human recognition speed.
Nikon Z6 III
Released mid-2024, it uses a partially stacked sensor and the EXPEED 7 image processor. It supports advanced 3D tracking, as well as face and animal eye detection. In testing, it achieved up to 60fps burst shooting with significantly improved autofocus speed.
Sony A7 IV
Although originally launched in 2021, this model received a significant 2025 firmware update, adding AI-powered real-time recognition and hybrid autofocus. Its updated system is close to that of newer models like the A7V and is widely considered the most cost-effective high-performance choice.
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
Primarily an action camera, it combines a 40MP sensor with a lightning-fast focus algorithm. Despite its compact design, the focus experience is exceptionally fast, making it a compelling option for dynamic shooting scenarios.
2. Autofocus Speed & Burst Performance
Focus Initiation Test
We tested focus speed by targeting a still object a few seconds after startup:
• EOS R5 Mark II: Near-instant lock, approx. 0.10s
• Nikon Z6 III: Around 0.12s, equally responsive
• Sony A7 IV: Approx. 0.15s—noticeably improved post-firmware
• Osmo Action 5 Pro: Lock-on within 0.08s in well-lit settings
Any delay under 0.2s meets real-world needs—each of these performed consistently.
Continuous Autofocus Burst Test
Tracking pedestrians, pets, and sports movement, we assessed burst shooting performance with AF tracking:
| Model | Burst Rate | Tracking Accuracy (Face/Eye) |
| EOS R5 II | 30fps | ≈ 92% (with eye detection) |
| Z6 III | 60fps (electronic) | ≈ 88% |
| A7 IV | 10fps | ≈ 85% (strong human eye AF) |
| Action 5 Pro | 5fps | ≈ 81% (excellent for motion scenes) |
The EOS R5 II excels at wildlife and sports action. The Z6 III has the speed advantage but lags slightly in ultra-fast tracking. The A7 IV maintains stability in low-light and crowded scenes. Osmo’s action cam lags behind in speed but excels at dynamic subjects.
3. Eye and Animal Recognition
Canon EOS R5 Mark II
Uses 193-point eye/animal detection, capable of auto-locking on faces or animal eyes in busy backgrounds. Even at 50 meters, bird eye focus remains sharp.
Nikon Z6 III
Supports face, eye, and animal detection. Though stable indoors and outdoors, it sometimes misidentifies distant subjects.
Sony A7 IV
The AI-enhanced Eye AF excels at tracking in crowds and rapidly shifting facial positions. Focus is faster and more accurate post-update.
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
While not offering full eye-detection capabilities, its image tracking system is highly responsive, ideal for close-range or fast movement subjects.
4. Low-Light Autofocus Performance
Tested in nighttime and dim indoor conditions:
• EOS R5 II: Functions reliably at -7 EV, AI eye tracking still active
• Z6 III: Grabs eye focus at -6 EV, though edges may occasionally blur
• A7 IV: Operates effectively at around -5 EV, with reduced speed and accuracy
• Action 5 Pro: Tracks movement well but static object focus weakens in low light
Conclusion: The R5 II and Z6 III both deliver excellent low-light AF accuracy.
5. Sample Photos & Real-World Use
Wildlife (Pigeons, Squirrels)
EOS R5 II locks focus quickly and tracks eyes during burst shooting with nearly zero misses. Z6 III lags slightly but maintains image clarity. A7 IV is slower but offers refined image quality. Osmo is effective for quick scenes, though image depth is limited.
Action Scenes (Sports, Kids)
A running dog is sharply captured by EOS R5 II with its 30fps burst and eye AF. Z6 III capitalizes on its 60fps rate for fluid sequences. A7 IV is consistent for everyday motion. Osmo Action 5 Pro stands out for fast-action moments, albeit with less post-shot flexibility.
Portrait Photography
Both EOS R5 II and Sony A7 IV offer stunning results with accurate skin tones and beautiful background blur. Z6 III handles focus reliably with realistic color output. Osmo Action 5 Pro is not recommended for high-end portraiture.
6. Purchase Options & Price Guide
All four models are available on major platforms:
• Canon EOS R5 Mark II: Available globally on Amazon, priced around $4,500–$5,000
• Nikon Z6 III: Sold on Amazon, Nikon’s official site, and licensed dealers
• Sony A7 IV: Widely available via Amazon and Chinese e-commerce sites
• DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: Sold through DJI official stores and Amazon, ideal for action and travel
Buying Tip: Use platforms like Amazon to ensure warranty coverage by choosing official or authorized sellers.
7. Final Recommendations
Autofocus Speed & Accuracy Ranking:
EOS R5 II ≈ Z6 III > A7 IV > Osmo Action 5 Pro
Burst Shooting & Tracking:
Z6 III takes the lead in speed, while R5 II remains best for stable tracking
Eye Recognition & Low-Light Performance:
EOS R5 II tops the list, closely followed by Z6 III
Overall Shooting Experience:
• EOS R5 II: Best for wildlife and professional portraits
• Z6 III: Ideal for high-speed action and sports
• Sony A7 IV: Balanced and refined—great all-rounder
• Osmo Action 5 Pro: Great for fast-paced, on-the-go documentation
Buying Suggestions:
• If you need “fast, stable, high-end” autofocus—go for the Canon EOS R5 Mark II
• For “ultra-fast bursts + action tracking”—pick the Nikon Z6 III
• For a “budget-friendly AI focus powerhouse”—the Sony A7 IV is a smart pick
• If you want to record action and adventures—choose the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro
Pro Tip: Don’t Judge a Camera by Megapixels Alone
Autofocus performance determines how well you can seize fleeting moments and maintain creative efficiency. Even high-resolution cameras can fail to deliver if they struggle with focus. That’s why, in 2025, fast and smart focusing is the ultimate measure of a strong camera.