Canon R6 vs 5D Mark IV: Which One is the Better Camera?

When it comes to high-quality cameras, Canon has always been a brand that photographers turn to. With their latest releases, the Canon R6 vs 5D Mark IV, it can be difficult to decide which camera is the better option. 

Both cameras have their own unique features that make them great choices for different types of photographers. In this article, we will explore the differences between the Canon R6 and 5D Mark IV, helping you determine which camera is the better fit for your needs.

Introduction to Canon R6 and 5D Mark IV

Before we dive into the differences between these two cameras, let’s take a brief look at each of them individually.

Canon R6

The Canon R6 is a full-frame mirrorless camera that was released in 2020. It features a 20-megapixel sensor, 8-stop image stabilization, and can shoot up to 12 frames per second. It also has a dual-pixel autofocus system, which makes it ideal for shooting moving subjects.

Canon 5D Mark IV

The Canon 5D Mark IV is a full-frame DSLR camera that was released in 2016. It features a 30-megapixel sensor, 7 frames per second shooting speed, and a 61-point autofocus system. It also has a 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD, which makes it easy to navigate the camera’s settings.

Comparison between Canon R6 and 5D Mark IV

Now that we have a basic understanding of each camera, let’s dive into the differences between the Canon R6 and 5D Mark IV.

Canon R6

• 20.1 MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• DIGIC X image processor
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF II
• ISO range: 100-102400 (expandable to 204800)
• 4K video at up to 60fps
• In-body image stabilization (IBIS)
• Dual UHS-II SD memory card slots
• Price: $2,099-2,499

Canon 5D Mark IV

• 30.4 MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 6+ image processor
• 61-point AF system with 41 cross-type points
• ISO range: 100-32000 (expandable to 102400)
• 4K video at up to 30fps
• No IBIS
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Dual CompactFlash and SD memory card slots
• Price: $2,499

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design and build quality, both cameras are well-made and durable. The 5D Mark IV has a more traditional DSLR design, with a pentaprism viewfinder and a 3.2-inch LCD screen that can be tilted. 

The Canon R6, on the other hand, is a mirrorless camera, which means it’s smaller and lighter than the 5D Mark IV. It also has a 3-inch LCD screen that can be tilted and rotated, which is useful for shooting from different angles. 

The Canon R6 also has weather sealing, making it more resistant to dust and moisture than the 5D Mark IV.

Sensor and Image Quality

One of the most significant differences between the Canon R6 and 5D Mark IV is the sensor and image quality. While the Canon 5D Mark IV has a higher resolution sensor, the Canon R6 has a newer sensor technology, which provides better image quality and low-light performance. 

Additionally, the Canon R6’s image stabilization system is significantly more advanced, providing up to 8 stops of stabilization.

Autofocus System

Both cameras have impressive autofocus systems, but they work differently. The Canon R6 has a dual-pixel autofocus system, which provides fast and accurate autofocus performance, even when shooting moving subjects. 

The 5D Mark IV, on the other hand, has a 61-point autofocus system, which covers a larger area and provides better focus tracking.

Shooting Speed

Regarding shooting speed, the Canon R6 is the clear winner. It can shoot up to 12 frames per second, which makes it ideal for sports and action photography. The 5D Mark IV, on the other hand, can shoot up to 7 frames per second.

Video Recording

The Canon R6 is the better option for video recording. It can shoot 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, while the 5D Mark IV can only shoot 4K video at 30 frames per second. 

The Canon R6 also has a built-in headphone jack and can shoot slow-motion video at up to 120 frames per second.

Size and Weight

Finally, the size and weight of each camera are worth considering. The Canon R6 is significantly smaller and lighter than the 5D Mark IV, making it more portable and easier to handle. 

The 5D Mark IV is a larger and heavier camera, which some photographers prefer for its ergonomic design and more robust build quality.

Battery Life

Battery life is an important consideration when choosing a camera, especially if you plan on taking on long shoots. The Canon R6 has a slightly better battery life than the 5D Mark IV, with a CIPA rating of 380 shots per charge compared to the 5D Mark IV’s 900 shots per charge. 

However, the Canon R6 has a newer battery (LP-E6NH) than the 5D Mark IV (LP-E6N), which means it can be charged faster and has more capacity.

Portrait Photography with Canon R6 vs 5D Mark IV

When it comes to portrait photography with the Canon R6 versus the 5D Mark IV, both cameras are capable of producing high-quality images. However, there are a few differences to consider that may make one camera better suited for portrait photography than the other.

In terms of image quality, 

Both cameras feature full-frame sensors, which can produce beautiful, detailed portraits with a shallow depth of field. 

The 5D Mark IV has a higher resolution sensor, which can capture more detail and produce larger prints, but the R6’s 20.1-megapixel sensor is more than enough for most portrait needs.

When it comes to autofocus,

The R6 has an advantage over the 5D Mark IV with its Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system, which offers improved speed and accuracy, especially in low light. 

The R6 also has more AF points (1053 versus the 5D Mark IV’s 61), which can make it easier to achieve sharp focus on your subject’s eyes.

Shooting Speed 

The R6 also has a faster continuous shooting speed than the 5D Mark IV, which can be helpful for capturing candid moments or getting a variety of poses to choose from. Additionally, the R6’s fully articulating touchscreen LCD can make it easier to compose and capture shots from unique angles.

Overall, while both cameras are capable of producing beautiful portrait images, the Canon R6 may be the better choice for portrait photographers who value fast and accurate autofocus, higher continuous shooting speeds, and the flexibility of a fully articulating touchscreen LCD.

Street Photography with Canon R6 vs 5D Mark IV

For street photography, the Canon R6 may be a better camera than the 5D Mark IV for a few reasons.

Body Weight and other aspects

Firstly, the R6 has a smaller and lighter body, which makes it easier to carry around and handle in crowded or busy environments. Additionally, the R6 has a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, which can be helpful for shooting from different angles or getting low-angle shots without having to crouch down.

Autofocus System 

The R6 also has a faster autofocus system with more AF points, which can be useful for capturing quick moments on the street. Its image stabilization system can also help you get sharp shots even in low-light situations without having to use a tripod.

In terms of video capabilities, 

The R6 can shoot 4K at up to 60 fps, which may be useful for street videography or capturing movement on the street. However, the 5D Mark IV can also shoot high-quality video at 4K up to 30 fps.

Sports Photography with Canon R6 vs 5D Mark IV

When it comes to sports photography, both the Canon R6 and the 5D Mark IV have their advantages and disadvantages.

Shooting Speed

The R6 has a faster maximum continuous shooting speed of 12 frames per second with the mechanical shutter and up to 20 frames per second with the electronic shutter. This makes it well-suited for capturing fast-moving action.

Autofocus System & Pixel CMOS 

The R6 has an autofocus system that features 1053 AF points, which is more than the 61 AF points of the 5D Mark IV. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system on the R6 is also more advanced than the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system on the 5D Mark IV, with improved tracking capabilities and better low-light performance.

Resolution Sensor & Battery Life

On the other hand, the 5D Mark IV has a higher resolution sensor of 30.4 megapixels compared to the 20.1 megapixels of the R6. This can be an advantage when it comes to cropping or printing large images. Additionally, the 5D Mark IV has a longer battery life, allowing you to shoot for longer periods without needing to change batteries.

In terms of video capabilities

The R6 is the clear winner, as it can shoot 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, while the 5D Mark IV can only shoot 4K at up to 30 frames per second. If video is an important aspect of your sports photography, the R6 may be the better choice.

Overall, both the Canon R6 and the 5D Mark IV can be great options for sports photography, and the decision will ultimately come down to your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed and autofocus performance, the R6 may be the better choice. If you prioritize resolution and battery life, the 5D Mark IV may be the better choice.

Landscape Photography with Canon R6 vs 5D Mark IV

When it comes to landscape photography, both the Canon R6 and the 5D Mark IV are excellent cameras that can produce stunning results. However, there are some differences between the two that may make one a better choice for you than the other.

 image Sensor

The Canon 5D Mark IV has a higher resolution sensor, which means you’ll be able to capture more detail in your landscape photos. However, the Canon R6 has a newer sensor and image processor, which allows it to produce cleaner and sharper images at high ISO settings. This can be particularly useful for landscape photography where you may need to shoot in low-light conditions.

Autofocus System

The Canon R6 has a newer and more advanced autofocus system with more AF points and better tracking capabilities. This can be helpful when shooting landscapes with moving elements, such as waterfalls or clouds. The Canon 5D Mark IV has a good autofocus system as well, but it may not be as fast or precise as the R6’s.

Range and Color Reproduction

Both cameras have excellent dynamic range and color reproduction, which is important for landscape photography. However, the Canon R6 has a wider ISO range, which means you’ll have more flexibility when it comes to adjusting your exposure settings.

Body Weight and other aspects

In terms of handling, the Canon R6 is smaller and lighter than the 5D Mark IV, which can make it easier to carry around when hiking or traveling to different locations. It also has a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, which can be useful for composing shots from different angles.

Price

Both cameras are priced similarly, with the Canon R6 costing $2,499 and the 5D Mark IV also priced at $2,499. However, keep in mind that you may need to purchase additional lenses and accessories depending on your photography needs.

Lenses for  Canon R6 vs 5D Mark IV

For the Canon R6:

• Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM: A versatile zoom lens with a fast aperture, image stabilization, and great image quality.
• Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM: A fast prime lens with excellent bokeh and low-light performance.
• Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM: A telephoto zoom lens with a fast aperture and image stabilization, ideal for sports and wildlife photography.

For the Canon 5D Mark IV:

• Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM: A versatile zoom lens with a fast aperture and great image quality.
• Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM: A fast prime lens with excellent bokeh and low-light performance.
• Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM: A telephoto zoom lens with a fast aperture and image stabilization, ideal for sports and wildlife photography.

These lenses are all high-quality options that can produce excellent results on either camera. Ultimately, the choice of lens will depend on your specific needs and shooting style.

Conclusion

Both the Canon R6 and the 5D Mark IV are excellent cameras, but they have different features that make them suited for different types of photography.

The 5D Mark IV has a higher resolution sensor, longer battery life, and a traditional DSLR design, while the Canon R6 has better autofocus, image stabilization, and video capabilities.

Ultimately, the better camera for you depends on your individual photography needs and preferences. We hope this article has helped you decide which camera is the better choice for you.

FAQs

Which camera is better for portrait photography?

If you prioritize high-resolution images and a traditional DSLR design, the 5D Mark IV is the better choice. However, if you want a more compact camera with better autofocus and image stabilization, the Canon R6 is the better choice.

Which camera is better for video?

The Canon R6 is the better choice for video, with a higher frame rate and in-body image stabilization. The 5D Mark IV is still a capable camera for video, but it lacks IBIS and has a lower frame rate.

Which camera is better for sports and action photography?

Both cameras have fast autofocus systems, but the Canon R6 has a more advanced AF system with eye and face detection AF. Additionally, the Canon R6 can shoot at a higher frame rate, making it better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects.