Canon 5d Mark Iv vs 6d Mark Ii: Which Camera Reigns?
Choosing the right camera can feel like navigating a minefield, especially when you’re looking at powerhouses like the Canon 5D Mark IV and the 6D Mark II. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one truly shines? This comparison will help you decipher the key differences and determine which camera best suits your photographic needs.
The Canon 5D Mark IV, a full-frame DSLR, has long been a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts. It’s known for its robust build, exceptional image quality, and advanced features. On the other hand, the Canon 6D Mark II, while also a full-frame DSLR, offers a more compact and accessible entry point into the world of full-frame photography.
We’ll delve into the specifics, comparing their image sensors, autofocus systems, video capabilities, and overall performance. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a passionate hobbyist, understanding these nuances is crucial for making an informed decision. Get ready to discover which camera will elevate your photography to the next level!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 5D Mark IV | 6D Mark II |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Resolution | 30.4MP | 26.2MP |
| Autofocus Points | 61 | 45 |
| ISO Range | 100-32000 (Expandable to 50-102400) | 100-40000 (Expandable to 50-102400) |
| Continuous Shooting | 7 fps | 6.5 fps |
| Video Resolution | 4K at 30fps | 1080p at 60fps |
| Video Recording Time Limit | 29 minutes, 59 seconds | 29 minutes, 59 seconds |
| Body Construction | Magnesium Alloy | Polycarbonate |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100% | 98% |
| LCD Screen | Touchscreen, Fixed | Touchscreen, Vari-angle |
| Built-in GPS | Yes | No |
| Dual Pixel CMOS AF | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (Body Only) | 800g | 685g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor Resolution
- Canon 5d Mark Iv: Boasts a 30.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor, providing exceptional detail and dynamic range. It excels in low-light performance and offers ample resolution for cropping. Its higher resolution leads to larger file sizes.
- 6d Mark Ii: Features a 26.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor, offering a good balance between resolution and low-light performance. It provides excellent image quality, though with slightly less detail compared to the 5D Mark IV. File sizes are smaller.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Autofocus System
- Canon 5d Mark Iv: Equipped with a sophisticated 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type points, delivering fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging conditions. Its AF system is highly reliable for tracking moving subjects.
- 6d Mark Ii: Features a 45-point all cross-type AF system, offering improved focusing speed and accuracy compared to its predecessor. While capable, it’s not as advanced as the 5D Mark IV’s system.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Video Recording Capabilities
- Canon 5d Mark Iv: Shoots 4K video at 30fps with a significant crop, providing high-quality footage but limiting wide-angle options. Offers advanced features like Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth focusing during video recording.
- 6d Mark Ii: Records Full HD video at 60fps, lacking 4K capabilities. While it features Dual Pixel CMOS AF, its video features are less comprehensive than the 5D Mark IV.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
ISO Performance
- Canon 5d Mark Iv: Offers an impressive native ISO range of 100-32000, expandable to 50-102400. It performs exceptionally well in low light, producing clean images with minimal noise.
- 6d Mark Ii: Has a native ISO range of 100-40000, expandable to 50-102400, offering good low-light performance. It generally handles noise well, but may not match the 5D Mark IV in extreme conditions.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Canon 5d Mark Iv: Captures images at up to 7 frames per second (fps), allowing for effective tracking of fast-moving subjects. This speed is suitable for many action and sports photography scenarios.
- 6d Mark Ii: Shoots at up to 6.5 fps, which is still a respectable speed for capturing action. It’s slightly slower than the 5D Mark IV, but still adequate for many uses.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Build Quality & Durability
- Canon 5d Mark Iv: Features a robust, weather-sealed body, built to withstand harsh environments. Its construction is superior, offering greater protection against dust and moisture.
- 6d Mark Ii: Has a weather-sealed body, but it is less robust than the 5D Mark IV. It’s still durable but may not be as resilient in extreme conditions.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
Viewfinder Coverage
- Canon 5d Mark Iv: Offers approximately 100% viewfinder coverage, allowing photographers to see the entire frame before taking a shot.
- 6d Mark Ii: Provides approximately 98% viewfinder coverage, which is still very good, but you may miss a small portion of the scene.
- Winner: 5D Mark IV
LCD Screen Features
- Canon 5d Mark Iv: Has a 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with a high resolution.
- 6d Mark Ii: Has a 3.0-inch fully articulating touchscreen LCD, offering greater flexibility.
- Winner: 6d Mark II
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Image Quality (Stills) | 5D Mark IV (Slight Edge) |
| Video Quality | 5D Mark IV |
| Autofocus | 5D Mark IV |
| Build Quality | 5D Mark IV |
| Features | 5D Mark IV |
| Portability | 6D Mark II |
| Value | 6D Mark II |
What They Have in Common
- Full-Frame Sensor: Both cameras utilize a full-frame sensor, providing excellent image quality and low-light performance. This results in shallower depth of field and wider dynamic range.
- Dual Pixel Cmos Af: Both cameras feature Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, enabling smooth and accurate autofocus in live view and video modes. This significantly improves focusing capabilities.
- Wi-Fi and Nfc Connectivity: Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing for easy image transfer and remote control via a smartphone or tablet. This enhances sharing and workflow flexibility.
- Weather Sealing: Both cameras offer some degree of weather sealing, protecting them from dust and moisture to a certain extent. This allows for shooting in less-than-ideal conditions.
- Canon Ef Lens Compatibility: Both cameras are compatible with the extensive Canon EF lens lineup, providing a vast range of options for various shooting scenarios. This ensures versatility for photographers.
Canon 5D Mark IV vs 6D Mark II Buying Guide
Image Quality and Sensor Performance
The Canon 5D Mark IV boasts a superior image quality due to its higher resolution 30.4MP full-frame sensor compared to the 6D Mark II’s 26.2MP sensor. This translates to more detailed images and greater flexibility when cropping. The 5D Mark IV also offers a wider dynamic range, allowing for better highlight and shadow recovery in challenging lighting conditions. Both cameras perform well in low light, but the 5D Mark IV’s slightly better noise performance gives it an edge for demanding situations. Its sensor provides richer colors and more detail.
Autofocus System Capabilities
The 5D Mark IV features a significantly more advanced autofocus (AF) system with 61 AF points, 41 of which are cross-type, and a wider coverage area. This allows for faster, more accurate, and more reliable focusing, especially when tracking moving subjects. The 6D Mark II, while improved over its predecessor, has a 45-point all cross-type AF system, which is still quite capable, but the coverage is more centralized. The 5D Mark IV’s superior AF system is a major advantage for sports, wildlife, and action photography.
Build Quality and Durability
The 5D Mark IV is constructed with a more robust build, featuring a weather-sealed body that is designed to withstand harsh environments. This makes it a better choice for professional photographers who often shoot outdoors in rain, dust, or extreme temperatures. The 6D Mark II also has a weather-sealed body, but it’s not quite as rugged as the 5D Mark IV. The 5D Mark IV’s build quality ensures longevity and reliability, essential for demanding professional use. The more robust build of the 5D Mark IV will withstand more abuse.
Video Recording Features
The 5D Mark IV offers 4K video recording at 30fps, along with a variety of professional-grade video features, including Canon Log for increased dynamic range and more flexible color grading in post-production. The 6D Mark II, on the other hand, is limited to Full HD 1080p video recording at 60fps. The 5D Mark IV’s 4K capabilities make it a more versatile choice for videographers, especially those who want to future-proof their video workflow. The 5D Mark IV also offers higher bitrates.
Ergonomics and User Experience
Both cameras offer excellent ergonomics, with comfortable grips and well-placed controls. However, the 5D Mark IV has a slightly more sophisticated control layout, including a joystick for quick AF point selection. The 6D Mark II simplifies the control layout, making it easier for beginners. The 5D Mark IV’s more comprehensive controls cater to professional photographers who require quick access to various settings. Both cameras include a touchscreen, with the 6D Mark II’s being a fully articulating touchscreen.
Price and Value
The 5D Mark IV is the more expensive camera, reflecting its superior features and performance. The 6D Mark II offers a more affordable entry point into the full-frame market. The value proposition depends on your needs and budget. If you require the advanced features, the 5D Mark IV is worth the investment. The 6D Mark II is a strong contender if you are on a budget and still want excellent image quality and full-frame performance. Consider your priorities when making your decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 5D Mark IV If…
- You need superior video quality, including 4K recording.
- You require a more robust and durable body construction.
- You value a more advanced autofocus system with more focus points.
- You need built-in GPS for geotagging your photos.
Buy 6D Mark II If…
- You prioritize a lighter and more compact full-frame camera.
- You prefer a vari-angle touchscreen for flexible shooting angles.
- You are on a tighter budget and want a more affordable full-frame option.
- You mainly shoot stills and don’t need the advanced video features of the 5D Mark IV.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in image quality?
The 5D Mark IV excels with its 30.4MP sensor, providing more detailed images than the 6D Mark II’s 26.2MP sensor. This translates to greater flexibility when cropping and allows for more nuanced details in your photographs. The 5D Mark IV also features a wider dynamic range, better handling highlights and shadows in challenging lighting conditions, giving the 5D Mark IV a clearer advantage in overall image fidelity.
Which camera has a better autofocus system?
The 5D Mark IV has a superior autofocus system, boasting 61 AF points (41 cross-type) with broader coverage, making it more accurate and reliable, particularly when tracking moving subjects. The 6D Mark II, while improved, offers 45 AF points, all cross-type, but with a more centralized coverage area. The 5D Mark IV’s AF system is a significant advantage for action and wildlife photography.
Is the build quality significantly different?
Yes, the 5D Mark IV features a more robust and weather-sealed body, providing greater durability and protection against the elements, making it suitable for professional use in harsh conditions. The 6D Mark II also offers weather sealing, but it’s not quite as rugged as the 5D Mark IV. The 5D Mark IV is designed for rigorous use and demanding environments.
What are the video recording capabilities like?
The 5D Mark IV offers 4K video recording, along with professional features like Canon Log for enhanced dynamic range and flexibility in post-production. The 6D Mark II is limited to Full HD 1080p video. The 5D Mark IV’s 4K capabilities provide a more versatile video experience, especially for those wanting to future-proof their video workflow and produce higher-resolution content.
Which camera is better for beginners?
The 6D Mark II can be considered slightly better for beginners due to its simpler control layout and easier-to-use interface. However, both cameras are user-friendly. The 6D Mark II’s more streamlined design helps beginners learn the fundamentals of photography. The 5D Mark IV, while more complex, offers a broader range of customization options that can be learned over time.
Is the 5D Mark IV worth the extra cost?
That depends on your needs. If you require professional-grade features, superior autofocus, 4K video, and a more robust build, the 5D Mark IV is worth the investment. The 6D Mark II provides excellent value for its price, offering a great entry point into full-frame photography. Consider your shooting style and budget when making your decision.
Which camera is better for low-light photography?
Both cameras perform well in low-light conditions. However, the 5D Mark IV, with its slightly better noise performance and wider dynamic range, offers a small advantage in challenging low-light situations. The 6D Mark II still delivers excellent results, but the 5D Mark IV offers marginally cleaner images at higher ISO settings, allowing for more flexibility in post-processing.
Final Verdict
The Canon 5D Mark IV stands out with its superior image quality, advanced autofocus system, robust build, and 4K video capabilities. While the 6D Mark II offers excellent value and a user-friendly experience, the 5D Mark IV provides a more comprehensive feature set that caters to professional photographers and those seeking the highest level of performance. The 5D Mark IV is the clear winner.
Winner: Canon 5D Mark IV