p.1 #1 · R5 II autofocus worse than Sony A1, is R1 any better?
The Sony A1 (with FE 70-200 2.8 GM II) from 2021 keeps eyes in critical focus at 30fps for hurdles and long jump. The R5 II (with RF 70-200 2.8 Z) does not - it seems to not keep up with abrupt sudden reversal, for example as the head slows for the launch and then whips forward for the landing. It's almost like the R5 II seems to focus based on where the eyes were one frame ago.
I already upgraded from EF 70-200 2.8 IS II, figuring that the upgrade from Ring to Nano USM would do the trick, but it most certainly did not. A contributing factor may be that Nano USM uses vibrations to waddle along a rail using friction, while Sony XD floats on a rail with magnets. Another contributing factor is that while Sony works perfectly out of the box, Canon tries to create the illusion of competence with the AF modes menu. I used Auto last time, and I've set it to -2 tracking sensitivity and +2 accel/deccel tracking for next time (if I don't sell it first).
Is the R1 somehow much better than the R5 II in this regard? Does it match the A9 III or surpass the A1? Or is there something foundational with Canon that makes this a case of "that's just the way it is" across the entire lineup?
While the obvious solution may be to switch systems again, Sony bodies are in a weird limbo with the overpriced relabelled A1 II while the A1 has its own dealbreakers like shutter lag/stutter (which I imagine may be fixed already with the A9 III), but none quite as big of a dealbreaker as Canon's out of focus images.
p.1 #2 · R5 II autofocus worse than Sony A1, is R1 any better?
You have probably already considered this, but would it make sense to rent an R1 to see how it handles your specific situation/needs? I don't know where you are based or if it's still track and field season though.
Perhaps others can illuminate their experiences with Sony vs Canon AF for T&F.
p.1 #3 · R5 II autofocus worse than Sony A1, is R1 any better?
If you are using a EF 70-200 2.8 IS II, that lens technology is 15 yrs old. Maybe you should try the R5MKII with an RF70-200 f2.8 or RF70-200Z 2.8 for better results. Having said that, I have an R1 and a R3 and the RF70-200 Z f2.8 and I don't have any issues. I also use a EF 400mm f/2.8 L IS II USM with adaptor and R1 is flawless. I am primarily a Sports Photographer shooting many different sports.
