Canon T6i vs T6: Which Dslr Reigns Supreme?
Choosing your first DSLR can feel overwhelming, especially with so many fantastic options available. The Canon EOS Rebel series has long been a favorite for beginners and enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of performance, affordability, and ease of use.
Today, we’re putting two popular models head-to-head: the Canon T6i and the Canon T6. Both cameras share the same DNA, but they also have key differences that could significantly impact your photography experience. This comparison will help you decide which camera best suits your needs and budget.
We’ll delve into their specifications, features, and image quality to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of each camera’s strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re a budding photographer or simply looking to upgrade, this guide will help you make an informed decision between the Canon T6i and T6.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Canon T6i | T6 |
|---|---|---|
| Megapixels | 24.2MP | 18MP |
| ISO Range | 100-12800 | 100-6400 |
| Autofocus Points | 19 | 9 |
| Continuous Shooting | 5 fps | 3 fps |
| Video Resolution | 1080p at 30fps | 1080p at 30fps |
| Touchscreen | Yes | No |
| LCD Screen Size | 3.0-inch | 3.0-inch |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 95% | 95% |
| Weight (Body Only) | 555g | 485g |
| Sensor Type | APS-C CMOS | APS-C CMOS |
| Image Processor | DIGIC 6 | DIGIC 4+ |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor Resolution
- Canon T6i: Boasts a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, offering significantly more resolution. This allows for larger prints and more flexibility in cropping without sacrificing image quality. The higher resolution also provides more detail.
- T6: Features an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a lower resolution than the T6i. While still capable of producing detailed images, it offers less flexibility in cropping and may show more limitations when printing at larger sizes.
- Winner: t6i
Autofocus System
- Canon T6i: Equipped with a 19-point all cross-type autofocus system. This provides faster and more accurate focusing, especially in challenging lighting conditions and with moving subjects. The wider coverage area also aids in composition.
- T6: Utilizes a 9-point autofocus system with only one cross-type point. This system is less sophisticated than the T6i’s, resulting in slower focusing and potentially less accurate tracking of moving subjects.
- Winner: t6i
LCD Screen
- Canon T6i: Features a vari-angle touchscreen LCD screen. This allows for versatile shooting angles, easy navigation through menus, and touch-to-focus capabilities. The touchscreen interface enhances the user experience.
- T6: Has a fixed LCD screen, lacking the flexibility of the vari-angle design. This limits shooting angles and usability, especially in situations where the camera is not at eye level.
- Winner: t6i
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Canon T6i: Offers a continuous shooting speed of approximately 5 frames per second (fps). This is suitable for capturing action shots and sequences.
- T6: Shoots at approximately 3 fps. This is slower than the T6i, making it less ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- Winner: t6i
Video Recording Capabilities
- Canon T6i: Records Full HD 1080p video at 30fps with more advanced features. It has more control over exposure and focus during video recording, offering more creative flexibility.
- T6: Records Full HD 1080p video at 30fps. Although capable of recording video, the T6 offers fewer manual controls during video recording, limiting creative options.
- Winner: t6i
ISO Range
- Canon T6i: Has a native ISO range of 100-12800, expandable to 25600. This wider range allows for shooting in a greater variety of lighting conditions, including low light.
- T6: Offers a native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 12800. While still usable, the lower native ISO range compared to the T6i may result in more noise in low-light situations.
- Winner: t6i
Wireless Connectivity
- Canon T6i: Includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity. This allows for easy sharing of photos and videos to smartphones, tablets, and social media platforms. It also enables remote camera control.
- T6: Also has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, offering similar sharing and remote control capabilities.
- Winner: Tie
Processor
- Canon T6i: Uses a DIGIC 6 image processor. This processor helps deliver better image quality and faster performance, including quicker autofocus and image processing.
- T6: Employs a DIGIC 4+ image processor. This older processor is slower than the DIGIC 6 in the T6i, which may lead to slower performance in some areas.
- Winner: t6i
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Image Quality (Overall) | Canon T6i |
| Autofocus System | Canon T6i |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | Canon T6i |
| Video Features | Tie |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
| Features | Canon T6i |
| Value | T6 |
What They Have in Common:
- Sensor Type: Both cameras utilize an APS-C CMOS sensor, which offers a good balance of image quality and size for beginner photographers.
- Video Recording: Both the T6i and T6 are capable of recording Full HD 1080p video at 30 frames per second, providing decent video quality for casual use.
- Lcd Screen: Both cameras are equipped with a 3.0-inch LCD screen, allowing users to review images and navigate the camera’s menu.
- Built-in Wi-Fi: Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easy image transfer to smartphones, tablets, or computers for sharing and backup.
- Viewfinder Coverage: Both cameras have a viewfinder that covers approximately 95% of the frame, providing a similar view of the scene.
Canon T6I Vs T6 Buying Guide
Image Quality Comparison
The Canon T6i boasts a superior image sensor compared to the T6. The T6i features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the T6 has an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor. This difference translates to higher resolution images with more detail, especially noticeable in prints and when cropping. The T6i also generally offers better low-light performance due to its improved sensor technology. The dynamic range is also slightly better on the T6i, leading to more flexibility in post-processing.
Autofocus Capabilities
The T6i significantly outperforms the T6 in autofocus performance. The T6i has a 19-point all cross-type autofocus system, enabling faster and more accurate focusing, particularly on moving subjects. In contrast, the T6 has a 9-point autofocus system, which is less precise and can struggle in challenging lighting conditions or with fast-moving action. The T6i’s faster autofocus is a significant advantage for capturing sharp images.
Video Recording Features
While both cameras offer video recording capabilities, the T6i offers more advanced features. The T6i records Full HD 1080p video at 30fps with more advanced controls and smoother autofocus during video recording. The T6 also records Full HD 1080p, but its autofocus is less refined during video capture, and it lacks some of the manual control options available on the T6i. The T6i is the better choice for serious videographers.
Ergonomics and Design
Both cameras share a similar design, but the T6i offers some ergonomic improvements. The T6i features a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, providing greater flexibility for composing shots from various angles, which the T6 lacks. The T6i also has slightly more physical controls, giving photographers quicker access to settings. Both cameras are compact and easy to handle.
Connectivity Options
The T6i offers more advanced connectivity features. Both cameras have Wi-Fi, but the T6i’s Wi-Fi implementation is generally more reliable and user-friendly. The T6i also offers NFC (Near Field Communication) for easier pairing with compatible devices. These connectivity options make it simpler to transfer images and videos to smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Price and Value for Money
The T6 is typically the more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, the T6i offers significantly more features and better performance for the slightly higher price. The T6i provides better value for money due to its superior image quality, autofocus system, and advanced features. Consider your budget and desired features when making your decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy canon t6i If…
- You want a camera with a higher resolution sensor for more detailed images.
- You prefer a camera with a more advanced autofocus system for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- You want the convenience of a touchscreen interface for easier navigation and focus point selection.
- You value the faster continuous shooting speed for capturing action shots.
Buy t6 If…
- You are on a tight budget and looking for an affordable entry-level DSLR.
- You are a beginner and prioritize simplicity in the camera’s operation.
- You don’t need the advanced features of the T6i and are primarily interested in basic photography.
- You prefer a lighter and more compact camera body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the resolution difference between the Canon T6i and the Canon T6?
The Canon T6i features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the T6 has an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor. This difference results in higher resolution images with more detail and the ability to crop images more aggressively without significant loss of quality. The T6i provides greater flexibility for printing and post-processing.
Does the Canon T6i have a better autofocus system than the Canon T6?
Yes, the Canon T6i has a superior autofocus system. It boasts a 19-point all cross-type autofocus system, which is faster and more accurate than the T6’s 9-point system. The T6i’s autofocus performs better in challenging lighting conditions and when tracking moving subjects. This is a significant advantage in various shooting situations.
Which camera offers better video recording capabilities?
The Canon T6i has better video recording capabilities. It offers Full HD 1080p video at 30fps with more advanced controls and smoother autofocus during video recording. The T6 also records Full HD 1080p, but its autofocus is less refined during video capture, and it lacks some of the manual control options available on the T6i.
Does the Canon T6i have a touchscreen?
Yes, the Canon T6i features a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, allowing users to compose shots from various angles and easily navigate menus. This is a significant advantage for both photography and videography. The T6 does not have a touchscreen, which limits flexibility in shot composition and menu navigation.
What connectivity options do these cameras offer?
Both cameras offer Wi-Fi connectivity. However, the Canon T6i’s Wi-Fi implementation is often considered more reliable and user-friendly. The T6i also includes NFC (Near Field Communication) for easier pairing with compatible devices. These features make it easier to transfer photos and videos to other devices for sharing.
Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Canon T6i’s more advanced features, such as the touchscreen and better autofocus, might provide a more enjoyable learning experience. However, the T6 is a more affordable option, which can be attractive to beginners. The T6i’s features might help beginners grow their skills faster.
Is the Canon T6i worth the extra cost compared to the T6?
Yes, the Canon T6i is generally worth the extra cost. Its superior image quality, faster autofocus, and more advanced features provide a better overall shooting experience. While the T6 is a good entry-level camera, the T6i offers significant improvements that justify the price difference, especially for serious photographers.
Final Verdict
The Canon T6i surpasses the T6 in several key areas, including image quality, autofocus performance, and video features. While the T6 is a capable entry-level camera, the T6i’s enhanced capabilities offer a more versatile and enjoyable shooting experience. The T6i’s vari-angle touchscreen and superior connectivity also contribute to its advantage.
Winner: Canon T6i