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Is the Canon EOS RP Still Worth Buying

Is the Canon EOS RP Still Worth Buying in 2025? That’s the question we’re hoping to answer for you in this Canon RP review, which is based on hands-on use of Canon’s first entry-level full-frame mirrorless EOS R camera.

Originally launched in March 2019, the EOS RP offered a compact body with a full-frame sensor at a more accessible price point than the EOS R, opening the RF mount up to a much wider range of users.

Coming back to 2025, and although it is still available new, it’s the used Canon RP that has captured our interest, which is mainly due to its incredibly attractive price in the second-hand market.

So if you’re wondering whether it still holds up for photography, especially for landscapes or travel, this hands-on buying guide will help you decide. We’ve taken it out with a used Canon RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens to see how they perform for real-world shooting.

We also cover typical prices, image quality, handling and who it’s best suited to, whether you’re upgrading from another camera to full-frame, a smartphone, or want a second body as a backup. If you’re looking at used Canon gear under £1,000, the RP could be a surprisingly capable option. So let’s take a look at the release price, used value and why it might be one of the best budget full-frame cameras in 2025.

Sample image @ 15mm. Camera settings: 1/40 sec. f/9. ISO 100 (right click to enlarge)

Price and Availability in 2025

The Canon EOS RP costs £1,049.00 new, or second-hand from around £559.00, which is one of the most affordable ways to enter Canon’s full-frame mirrorless ecosystem. You’ll typically find used body-only models for around £559 to £600 depending on condition, which puts the RP firmly in the territory of the best camera under £1000, when adding a cost-effective used Canon lens.

At this price it’s significantly more accessible than newer models like the Canon EOS R8 (£1,629.00) or the R6 Mark II (£2,199.00), yet it still shares key benefits like a full-frame sensor and RF lens compatibility. That combination and its low cost continues to make it popular among beginners, users moving from a DSLR, and even as a second camera for travel or as a backup.

Buying used from a specialist like Park Cameras means that you benefit from condition grading, pre-sale checks, and most importantly a warranty. Read our post on Should You Buy Used Camera Equipment for tips on what to look out for when considering second-hand gear.

Back to this review, and we paired the RP camera with a used Canon RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens, which is a lightweight, budget-friendly zoom that brings the total price to around £1,000. We talk more about this versatile lens later in the post.

Sample image @ 15mm. Camera settings: 1/50 sec. f/9. ISO 100 (right click to enlarge)

Canon EOS RP Sample Images

To help answer whether the Canon EOS RP still worth buying in 2025, we took it out for a real-world test with the RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens. All of these sample images were captured by Nick Dautlich, shot in JPEG format straight out of camera with no post-processing or adjustments (except horizon levelling where necessary).

Most, if not all of the images are shot in Manual mode, at the base ISO 100 and often from a tripod due to the longer exposure times.

This was done in order to give you an accurate representation of what you can expect from the EOS RP image quality, colours, and exposure balance, especially when paired with a budget-friendly RF lens like the 15-30mm.

Next let’s take a look at the key specs and what this compact RF mount camera can do for your photography.

Sample image @ 18mm. Camera settings: 1/125 sec. f/8. ISO 125 (right click to enlarge)

Canon EOS RP Specs Overview

The Canon EOS RP features a 26.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor powered by a DIGIC 8 processor, which captures detailed stills and offers great performance at the aforementioned base ISO of 100, through to ISO 40,000. It also features Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which provides fast and accurate autofocus across much of the frame, even when shooting wide open or in low light conditions.

The body is still one of the smallest and lightest full-frame mirrorless cameras from Canon, weighing just 485g including the battery and an SD memory card. A fully vari-angle 3.0” touchscreen LCD makes the RP comfortable to shoot from any angle, and is particularly useful for those who shoot from the hip.

Touch controls via the LCD are responsive and intuitive, with fingertip controls and menu navigation, which is something many new users find easier than button-based systems, having lots in common with smartphone operation.

Despite launching in 2019, several features still stand out in 2025. These include access to Canon’s growing range of RF lenses, compatibility with EF and EF-S lenses via an adapter like the Urth Electronic Lens Mount Adapter EOS-EOS R, and a familiar layout for existing Canon users moving from DSLR.

The camera also supports convenient USB charging, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and silent shooting in single shot mode, adding to its versatility for everyday photography, travel, and more. For a camera costing under £600, the EOS RP provides a strong set of features, especially for first-time full-frame creators, but how does it perform in the field?

How the EOS RP Performs in 2025

Five years after its launch, the Canon EOS RP still holds up surprisingly well out in the field. One of the most noticeable things straight away is how compact and lightweight the camera feels, at just 440g without a lens. Despite the smaller body, the grip is really comfortable, and just deep enough to offer good handling, even with my large hands. The control layout also feels very natural, especially for anyone familiar with Canon DSLRs or mirrorless models.

Handling is intuitive, with a fully articulating flip-out screen that remains one of its best features, especially for low-angle shooting or capturing shots from a tripod. The 3.0-inch vari-angle LCD is responsive to touch and works well for touch focusing, menu access and playback, even though the resolution (1.04 million dots) now feels a little behind newer screens. The EVF is sharp and clear even by  ’s standards, with a fast refresh rate that’s perfectly usable for fast-moving requirements.

Menus are familiar Canon territory, and are logical, customisable, and responsive, with touch control that feels familiar like a smartphone rather a traditional camera menu. Autofocus performance in decent light was quick and reliable thanks to Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, though low-light AF is rated down to -5 EV with an f/1.2 lens. You may notice a small delay in darker conditions with a slower lens, but it still performs well for the price.

A bonus at this price point is USB-C charging, which allows for convenient power top-ups. However, battery life is modest due to being rated at around 250 shots per charge, so packing an extra Canon LP-E17 battery to two is strongly advised. But how about image quality with this lens?

Sample image @ 15mm. Camera settings: 1/4 sec. f/8. ISO 100 (right click to enlarge)

Image Quality and Lens

For this hands-on Canon RP review, I paired the camera with the RF 15-30mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, which is a budget-friendly ultra-wide zoom that’s lightweight, compact, and was surprisingly capable. Every image in this review was shot in JPEG and left unedited to give a realistic sense of what to expect straight out of the camera.

I was pleasantly surprised to see how the image quality holds up well, particularly considering its sub £600 price. This is way cheaper than most smartphones, and results are significantly better than any phone shots I’ve ever captured. For starters you can play with optical zoom and physical aperture controls, enabling for more refined control over the final result.

The 26.2MP full-frame sensor does deliver plenty of detail with pleasing tonal transitions and Canon’s signature colour rendering that is true-to-life. Reds in particular stand out with that classic Canon warmth, so they are great for landscapes if you shoot in golden hour. It’s also worth noting that 26 megapixels from a full-frame camera is very impressive for this price bracket, with higher resolution cameras typically costing significantly more.

Dynamic range is measured at around 11.9 EV at base ISO, which isn’t class-leading by today’s standards but still very respectable. In real-world use, there’s enough latitude to recover shadows and highlights in moderately contrasty scenes, although as said these JPEGs are all unedited.

Sample image sunstar test @ 20mm. Camera settings: 1/4 sec. f/14. ISO 100 (right click to enlarge)

The RF 15-30mm lens complements the camera well for capturing landscapes, interiors, and architectural shots. Sharpness is consistent through most of the frame, especially when stopped down a little, and the lens handles flare fairly well although you can see some ghosting here and there.

For landscape photography, this pair is especially appealing. You get lightweight kit that you can carry to any location easily, with intuitive controls and a great sensor, which is capable of capturing lovely photos. The fully articulating vari-angle LCD makes composing shots from low or awkward angles easier, and combined with the wide focal range of the lens, it’s a versatile and easy setup to use.

It’s worth noting that the camera does not have in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), so when shooting at longer focal lengths, you’ll need to consider techniques such as using a lens with optical stabilisation, selecting faster shutter speeds, or increasing ISO to help maintain sharp results.

In short, while newer models are ahead in certain areas such as resolution, focusing and dynamic range, the EOS RP and RF 15-30mm lens are a very capable combination for stills photographers who want great value kit with intuitive ergonomics.

Sample image @ 30mm. Camera settings: 1/250 sec. f/6.3. ISO 100 (right click to enlarge)

Video Capabilities

Although no video was recorded for this Canon EOS RP review as the focus was purely on stills and landscapes, it’s worth touching on what the camera offers for video creators in 2025.

The RP includes a microphone input and headphone jack, which is beneficial for a camera at this price and age, and useful if you want to monitor audio quality while recording. You get 4K video at 25fps, but it does come with a 1.6x crop, and rolling shutter may be noticeable when panning.

For those after the best 4K camera under £1000, the EOS RP is one of the more affordable options with a full-frame sensor, though it’s not ideal for hybrid content creators or vloggers looking for the latest tools for vlogging and video creation. Compared to newer Canon models, it lacks features like 10-bit output, high frame rate recording, or subject-tracking AF in 4K.

That said, it still works well, even as a second video body, especially for interviews,B-roll or stationary shots, or for casual use where the latest features aren’t necessary.

Sample image @ 21mm. Camera settings: 1/2 sec. f/8. ISO 100 (right click to enlarge)

Canon RF Lens Compatibility

The Canon 15-30mm RF lens used during this review turned out to be a great match for the EOS RP. Even with a variable f/4.5-6.3 aperture, it performed well for landscape scenes, particularly when mounted on a tripod where you’re more likely to stop down anyway. Autofocus was accurate, the focus ring is smooth, and overall handling feels fine, especially for a compact ultra wide zoom lens at this price point.

What’s more, the EOS RP supports Canon’s full range of native RF lenses, as well as EF and EF-S lenses via an adapter, which makes it incredibly versatile for anyone building a kit from Canon DSLR equipment.

There are plenty of excellent RF mount options available too. For example, a used Canon RF 16mm F/2.8 STM is one of the best ultra-wide primes you can get for around £250. It’s small, lightweight, and perfect for vlogging, interiors, landscapes or astro. Another option to consider is a used Canon RF 24-105mm F/4-7.1 IS STM, which covers a broad zoom range and can be found for under £300, which is perfect as all-in-one zoom for everyday use.

Used Market Value in 2025

As of 2025, the Canon EOS RP is one of the most affordable second-hand full-frame Canon mirrorless cameras on the market. Prices start at around £550 for the body, staying comfortably under the £1,000 mark, even with a lens.

What helps the RP stand out is the combination of full-frame sensor, intuitive usability, and RF mount lens compatibility, all packed into a super compact body that holds its own today. For photographers upgrading from a smartphone or DSLR, it offers an easy step into mirrorless systems, without costing the earth.

At Park Cameras, our used Canon cameras are graded and backed by a six-month warranty, so you can shop with complete confidence. Cameras are tested, cleaned when required, and labelled by condition, supporting shoppers after a bargain, or gear which is in mint condition.

If you’re trading in an older model, you can also get a fast quote and learn how to get the best camera trade-in price using our expert buying team.

Sample image @ 18mm. Camera settings: 1/60 sec. f/8. ISO 100 (right click to enlarge)

Who Should Buy the EOS RP?

The Canon EOS RP is a great option for a wide range of users, especially anyone looking at full-frame photography without a high price tag. If you’re a beginner, a travel photographer, or someone upgrading from a phone or DSLR, the RP offers an affordable and capable route into Canon’s mirrorless system.

Its compact size, intuitive menu layout, and touchscreen controls feel familiar and easy to learn, and certainly less intimidating than some newer cameras. You also benefit from the wider field of view that full-frame sensors provide, which is ideal for landscapes, interiors, and environmental portraits.

A ‘cinematic look’ is easier to achieve from a full frame sensor, especially when combined with Canon’s natural colour rendering and good-quality RF lenses.

While battery life is a limitation, carrying a spare LP-E17 solves that issue. In all other respects, the RP still holds its own, with clean, high-resolution results, decent low-light performance, and reliable autofocus for stills.

However, if your photography leans towards wildlife, sports, or action where reach and burst rates matter, a used Canon EOS R7 may be a better fit, albeit at twice the price. But for full-frame depth of field, portability, and great image quality for under £1,000, the RP is a camera that still delivers.

If you’re looking for a gateway into Canon’s full-frame RF mount system browse for a used Canon EOS RP camera, compare it to other used Canon cameras, and shop for used Canon lenses to complete your perfect full-frame kit today.

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By Nick Dautlich on 08/04/2025

Nick Dautlich

Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer

Nick Dautlich is the Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer at Park Cameras, with over 15 years of photography experience. A Sony Imaging Professional and expert reviewer, Nick has worked with major brands such as Canon, Sony and Nikon. His work is also featured on Vanguard World UK’s website, Capture Landscapes, and Shutter Evolve. Nick’s photography includes National Trust projects and magazine covers and he is passionate about landscapes and storytelling. Nick also enjoys hiking and teaching his children about nature. Learn more on his profile page.