- 20MP High-Quality Camera
- Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- ISO Range of 100-102400; Expandable to 204800
- 4K UHD 2160p Video
- DIGIC X Image Processor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Up to 12 Fps Shooting Speed
- 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- Up to 20 Fps Electronic (silent) Shutter
- Subject Tracking
- 3.0” tilted Touchscreen LCD
- Built-in WIFI
- Built-in Blueto
- 30.4 Megapixel Camera
- Full-frame CMOS Sensor
- 4k Video Recording
- Up to 7.0 Fps Shooting Speed
- Dust Deletion Feature
- Noise reduction
- Canon EF Mount lens
- Responsive AF
- Smooth AF for Video
- 61 AF points
- Selection of AF Area
- Digic 6+ Image Processor
- Built-in WIFI
- NFC Feature
- Built-in GPS
- 3.2 inches Touch
Canon r6 vs Canon 5d mark iv Comparison:
Overview:
In this comparison, two Canon cameras with various body styles are used: The Canon 5D MIV, released in August 2016, is an advanced DSLR camera with a 30.0MP Full frame sensor.
The Canon R6, released in July 2020, is a Professional Mirrorless camera with a 20.0MP Full frame sensor.
You can see that R6 is 4 years younger than 5D MIV. See if the two cameras’ different ages make a significant difference.
Many photographers continue to use DSLRs with satisfaction, so those who haven’t made the switch yet may find it quite helpful to compare the two identically priced cameras.
The 5D Mark IV has been and will continue to be an excellent workhorse for many professionals.
The R6 appears to be the logical pick due to a few additional “obvious” improvements.
However, there are certain drawbacks that some people could overlook.
For instance, many photographers truly value the top-facing LCD on the 5D Mark IV, which the R6 sadly lacks.
The size/weight benefits of mirrorless cameras over DSLR cameras and recent advancements in their focus speeds make this comparison even more interesting despite specific fundamental differences between the two body types.
Before we begin our more thorough comparison, let’s glance at the primary characteristics of the Canon R6 and Canon 5D MIV.
Specification:
Canon R6 Key Specs | Canon 5D MIV Key Specs |
---|---|
Announcement Date: 2020-07-09 | Announcement Date: 2016-08-25 |
20MP – Full-frame CMOS Sensor | 30MP – Full-frame CMOS Sensor |
ISO 100 – 102400 (expands to 50 – 204800) | ISO 100 – 32000 (expands to 50 – 102400) |
Canon RF Mount | Canon EF Mount |
Sensor-shift Image Stabilization | N/A |
3690k dot electronic viewfinder | Optical (pentaprism) viewfinder |
12.0fps (20.0fps Electronic) steady shooting | 7.0fps steady shoot |
4K (UHD) – 3840 x 2160 of video resolution | 4K (DCI) – 4096 x 2160 video resolution |
Built-in Wireless | Built-in Wireless |
680g. 138 x 98 x 88 mm | 890g. 151 x 116 x 76 mm |
Weather Sealed Body | Weather Sealed Body |
Body Comparison:
The side-by-side comparison of the Canon 5D Mark IV and the Canon R6 below shows their physical dimensions and weights.
The two cameras are displayed according to how big they are in comparison.
The front, top, and back views are repeated three times.
The nearest millimeter is used to round up all size measurements.
Front View: The Canon R6 is noticeably more negligible (23 percent) than the Canon 5D Mark IV if the cameras’ front view area (width x height) is regarded as an aggregate measure of their size.
Additionally, the R6 is somewhat lighter (24%) than the 5D Mark IV.
It is important to note that you can use both cameras in challenging locations or in bad weather because they are both dust- and splash-proof.
Size and Weight:
When looking for the best camera for your purposes, size and weight play a significant role in your decision.
The Canon R6 is 680 g (1.50 lb / 23.99 oz) in weight and measures 138 x 98 x 88 mm externally (including batteries).
The Canon 5D MIV is 890 g (1.96 lb / 31.39 oz) in weight and has external measurements of 151 x 116 x 76 mm (5.94 x 4.57 x 2.99′′). (Including batteries).
To fully understand the size and weight of the two camera systems, you may want to research and compare the characteristics of the various lenses.
Sensor comparison:
One of the most critical factors affecting image quality is the sensor size within a digital camera.
Larger individual pixels on a sensor with the same technical generation will typically have richer color depth, more excellent dynamic range, and better low-light sensitivity than smaller pixels on a smaller sensor.
The photographer will also have possibility to use a shallow depth of field to separate a subject from the backdrop with a large sensor camera.
The drawback is that larger sensors frequently correspond with bulkier, more expensive camera bodies and lenses.
Full-frame Sensor:
Both cameras have a full-frame sensor and a format factor of 1, also frequently called a “crop factor.”
It places the review cameras among the large-sensor cameras that strive for the highest level of image quality within the range of camera sensors.
The sensor width to sensor height for both cameras is natively 3:2.
Image processing engine:
The R6 features a more sophisticated image processing engine than the 5D Mark IV (DIGIC X), which has processing speed, color accuracy, and noise reduction advantages.
Images are made better for human interpretation as a result.
You can analyze the Images and data for automated interpretation.
You can achieve any desired density and contrast by manipulating the image’s pixels.
Images may be conveniently stored and accessed.
Resolution Power:
Despite having identical sensor sizes, the 5D Mark IV delivers a better resolution of 30.1 megapixels than the R6’s 20 MP.
This megapixel advantage results in a linear resolution improvement of 23%.
However, these sensor specifications suggest that the 5D Mark IV has a smaller pixel size and a higher pixel density (with a pixel pitch of 5.36 m compared to 6.57 m for the R6).
Furthermore, it has been seen that the R6 is much more recent than the 5D Mark IV (by 3 years and 10 months).
As a result, its sensor will have benefited from advancements in technology that have increased the ability of individual pixels to gather light during this time.
Print Size:
Due to the Canon 5D Mark IV’s higher resolution, photographs can be cropped more efficiently, and larger prints may be possible.
The maximum print size for the 5D Mark IV is 33.6 x 22.4 inches, or 85.3 x 56.9 cm, for high-quality output (200 dots per inch), 26.9 x 17.9 inches, or 68.3 x 45.5 cm, and 22.4 x 14.9 inches, or 56.9 x 37.9 cm, for very good quality (250 dpi).
For the Canon R6, the relevant measurements are 27.4 x 18.2 inches (or 69.5 x 46.3 cm), 21.9 x 14.6 inches (or 55.6 x 37.1 cm), and 18.2 x 12.2 inches (or 46.3 x 30.9 cm) for outstanding quality.
Sensitivity Range and CMOS:
The basic sensitivity range of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is ISO 100 to ISO 32000, and it may be increased to ISO 50-102400.
The Canon EOS R6’s comparable ISO settings are ISO 100 to ISO 102400, with an additional 50-204800 ISO settings available.
Both cameras include CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensors.
Hence they are both technologically advanced.
The RGB colors are recorded by both cameras using a Bayer filter on a square grid of photosensors.
The majority of digital cameras have this configuration.
DXO Mark has published sensor performance measurements generated using a standardized technique since 2007.
Based on laboratory testing, this service rates each camera sensor overall for dynamic range (“DXO Landscape”), color depth (“DXO Portrait”), and low-light sensitivity (“DXO”) (“DXO Sports”).
The two cameras under consideration have nearly identical Overall DXO ratings, indicating that they offer comparable imaging capabilities.
Frame per Rate:
“Frame rate” or “Frame per rate” refers to the number of frames that are recorded per second (fps).
The smoother the end movie plays, the higher the frame rate.
At 60 frames per second (fps), 60 frames are collected per second; other supported frame rates are 50, 30, 25, and 24 fps.
Many contemporary cameras now have video recording capabilities and still image capture.
Both cameras’ sensors have a fast enough readout speed to capture moving photos, but the R6 has a higher frame rate than the 5D Mark IV.
Unlike the 5D Mark IV, which can only capture video in 4K/30p, it can capture movies in 4K/60p.
The EOS R6 captures outstanding video and high-quality still images, all with Dual Pixel CMOS AF offering continuous tracking autofocus.
Viewfinder:
Cameras can and do differ across many attributes besides body and sensor.
For instance, the 5D Mark IV has an optical viewfinder, whereas the R6 has an electronic one (3690k dots).
A viewfinder is a part of the camera that enables the photographer to see the region of the subject that you will capture on camera.
It frequently functions as a direct visual or rangefinder focusing system in modern cameras and can also be used to show exposure settings or meter data.
The electronic viewfinder makes it possible to project additional shooting information into the framing view, while the optical viewfinder gives lag-free viewing and a perfect framing image.
Both systems have their advantages.
The viewfinders of both cameras have the same field of view (100%).
Still, the R6’s viewfinder has a higher magnification (0.76x vs. 0.71x), making the size of the transmitted image appear closer to the size perceived by the unaided eye.
LCD:
The 3.20″ LCD screen on the Canon 5D MIV is a little bigger than the 3.0″ screen on the Canon R6.
Top Level LCD:
A top-level LCD is one characteristic that the 5D Mark IV has, but the R6 does not.
Although the control panel is smaller than the back screen, it conveys specific important shooting data and could be helpful for quickly and easily verifying settings.
Because of the water protection cover, you cannot tilt your standard LCD screen when taking underwater photos at shallow angles.
So, to observe the ISO, Aperture value, etc., you can rely on the top LCD panel.
Articulated Screen:
Fixed screens prevent you from taking pictures or viewing them from unusual angles, like above your head or waist.
Screens that move do.
After using one for a while, switching back to a camera without an articulated screen can be challenging.
The screen on the R6 is articulating and can be turned to face the user.
Vloggers and photographers who are interested in snapping selfies will value this quality.
The 5D Mark IV, in comparison, lacks a selfie screen.
Shutter Speed:
The information about the reported shutter speed applies to the mechanical shutter.
However, some cameras have an electronic shutter, while others also include a mechanical shutter.
The R6 is one of those cameras with an extra electronic shutter, allowing for entirely silent photography.
However, this mode is less convenient for photography under artificial light sources or while capturing moving objects (risk of the rolling shutter) (risk of flickering).
Intervalometer Built-in:
If your camera includes an intervalometer, you can set it up such that it will automatically shoot a set number of photos at a set interval without you needing to press the shutter button or be there.
As soon as the built-in intervalometer reaches the preset number of photos, it will cease shooting.
The Canon R6 and the Canon 5D Mark IV are equipped with an intervalometer.
By doing this, the photographer can take time-lapse photos of events like flower budding, a sunset, or the rising of the moon without buying an external camera trigger and associated software.
Memory Card:
While the R6 uses SDXC cards, the 5D Mark IV writes its imaging data to Compact Flash or SDXC cards.
The dual card slots on both cameras can significantly assist if a memory card fails.
While the 5D Mark IV can use UHS-I cards (up to 104 MB/s), the R6 supports UHS-II cards (Ultra-High-Speed data transfer of up to 312 MB/s).
Connectivity comparison:
The degree to which a camera can communicate with its surroundings might be crucial when choosing a camera for particular imaging applications.
Studio photographers like the Canon 5D Mark IV’s PC Sync connection, which allows the camera to operate professional strobe lights (unlike the R6).
Travel and landscape photographers will benefit from the 5D Mark IV’s integrated geolocalization sensor and the ability to store GPS data in its EXIF data.
The 5D Mark IV and the R6 are both recent models currently available.
While the R6 lacks a direct predecessor, the Canon 5D Mark IV superseded the previous Canon 5D Mark III.
The Canon 5D Mark IV Manual (free pdf) or the Canon R6 Manual online provide further details on the capabilities and functionality of the 5D Mark IV and R6, respectively.
Battery:
The digital camera battery life is one of the critical aspects that will determine how much you like taking pictures.
You run the danger of missing that crucial shot if you ignore it.
The R6 can capture 360 pictures on a single charge of its LP-E6NH power pack, compared to the 5D Mark IV’s 900 shots from its LP-E6N battery.
Charging the R6’s power pack through the USB connection might be easy.
Lenses:
The number of available lenses is a crucial deciding factor when selecting an interchangeable lens camera.
The Canon 5D MIV has an advantage over the Canon R6 regarding the lenses available for these two cameras.
Only 32 lenses are available for the Canon R6’s RF lens system, compared to 257 lenses for the Canon 5D MIV’s Canon EF mount.
The presence of image stabilization is another crucial factor.
The Canon R6 has a significant edge in this area because it includes sensor-based image stabilization (IS), stabilizing all lenses attached to the body.
According to CIPA standards, the R6’s integrated image stabilization technology can effectively counteract vibration up to 8.0-stops.
Contrarily, the Canon 5D MIV lacks this capability, so you must purchase a lens with optical stabilization.
Photography Type:
In this section, we rank and contrast the Canon R6 and Canon 5D MIV for different photography genres to help you choose if you are interested in one or more of these fields.
Portrait Photography:
When selecting the best camera for portraiture, there are several factors to consider.
One of the most critical considerations is employing a crop sensor or a full frame.
A GOOD candidate for this sort of photography is the Canon 5D MIV, which has a score of 67 for portrait photography, while the Canon R6, which has a score of 76 for portrait photography.
Street Photography:
For street photography, the most incredible camera will offer a better in-the-moment photographic experience.
Being present, pounding the pavement, and catching that ideal moment when everything comes together are all essential elements of street photography.
We could spend all day long debate about the best camera for street photography.
With a score of 65 for street photography, the Canon 5D M IV is a respectable contender in this field.
The Canon R6 is an EXCELLENT choice for this genre of photography, with a score of 99 for Street Photography.
You won’t need to look for other cameras because they will meet all your street photography needs.
Landscape Photography:
Cameras used for landscape photography frequently have specialized abilities since they are commonly mounted on tripods for too lengthy exposures for handled photography.
The most crucial elements are frequent resolution, build quality, weatherproofing, and total size rather than burst modes or superior focusing.
The Canon R6 is an AVERAGE candidate for this photography category, scoring 48 for landscape photography.
AVERAGE contender for this kind of photography, the Canon 5D MIV has a score of 54 for landscape photography. when traveling
Is Canon R6 worth buying?
Definitely, in my review of this beautiful camera, I learned that this Canon EOS R6 might be the mirrorless alternative to the very popular EOS 6D Mark II DSLR. Still, it’s way more than just an upgrade. I like that autofocus interpretation and image stabilization is best-in-class, while a blitzing burst rate makes it ideal for any sports or wildlife scenario. I took it to the forest to capture wildlife creatures which caught most of the audience’s attention on my blog page. For such a general, I can guide it’s a brilliant choice.
Is the R6 a professional camera?
Yes, it is a professional camera in my expertise. For photographers who want to create attacking professional-looking videos with the flexibility of grading footage appreciation to the Canon-Log and HDR PQ choices, the Canon EOS R6 is a flawless catch-all mirrorless. As a professional shooter, I used this to capture the streets of Paris on my visit there. Champs-Élysées, officially Avenue des Champs-Élysées broad avenue in Paris, one of the world’s most famous, which stretches 1.17 miles. I captured my client’s picture, which became famous and trendy on Instagram. It was her 25th birthday, and she wanted a shoot with balloons on her favorite sparkling road.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has the following advantages:
- More specifics have a linear resolution of 23 percent greater and more megapixels (30.1 versus 20MP).
- Optical viewfinder for precise, lag-free composition; brighter framing
- Verification of settings is made simpler because of the LCD on top, which controls the shooting settings.
- It has a larger rear LCD (3.2″ vs. 3.0″) for reviewing images and controlling settings.
- Longer lasting: Capable of 900 shots as opposed to 360 on a single charge.
- Feature an inbuilt GPS sensor to log localization information for simpler geotagging.
- Effortless device pairing: NFC supports quick wireless image transmission over close ranges.
- Improved studio light management has a PC Sync socket connecting strobe lights of the highest caliber.
- More significantly reduced: It has been accessible for much longer (launched in August 2016).
- 30.4 Megapixel Camera
- Full-frame CMOS Sensor
- 4k Video Recording
- Up to 7.0 Fps Shooting Speed
- Dust Deletion Feature
- Noise reduction
- Canon EF Mount lens
- Responsive AF
- Smooth AF for Video
- 61 AF points
- Selection of AF Area
- Digic 6+ Image Processor
- Built-in WIFI
- NFC Feature
- Built-in GPS
- 3.2 inches Touch
Benefits of the Canon EOS R6 include:
- Various bright and dark details are captured (0.7 EV of extra DR).
- Better JPG: DIGIC X, as opposed to DIGIC 6+, is a more recent image processing engine.
- Awesome video offers higher frame rates for movies (4K/60p as opposed to 4K/30p).
- Additional information about framing has a camera data viewfinder that is electronic.
- Features a viewfinder with greater magnification and a larger picture (0.76x vs. 0.71x).
- With a swivel screen allowing unusual angles in either portrait or landscape configuration, the LCD is more adaptable.
- More conducive to selfies: has a screen that can be turned to face the front and is articulated.
- A faster burst (12 vs. 7 flaps/sec) is used to capture the critical moment.
- It has an electronic shutter option for entirely silent photography, which is less unsettling.
- More condensed, 138x98mm versus 151x116mm, is smaller, making it easier to fit inside a bag.
- Less hefty: It weighs less (by 210g or 24%) and is simpler to transport.
- Charges more easily while traveling thanks to its USB port; sharper pictures have a stabilizing system built in to lessen the effects of handshaking.
- More suitable for legacy lenses can use adapters to use a variety of foreign lenses.
- Effortless wireless transfer: Supports Bluetooth for cordless image sharing.
- Supports a more advanced SD data transfer standard for quicker buffer cleaning (UHS-II v/s UHS-I).
- More reasonable: It was added to a less expensive category (29 percent cheaper at launch)
- Modernized: Reflects 3 years, 10 months, and significant technological advancements since the 5D Mark IV debut.
- 20MP High-Quality Camera
- Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- ISO Range of 100-102400; Expandable to 204800
- 4K UHD 2160p Video
- DIGIC X Image Processor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Up to 12 Fps Shooting Speed
- 5-Axis Image Stabilization
- Up to 20 Fps Electronic (silent) Shutter
- Subject Tracking
- 3.0” tilted Touchscreen LCD
- Built-in WIFI
- Built-in Blueto
Price:
Naturally, the cost will play a significant role in any camera decision.
The market niche that the camera’s producer has been aiming for is evident from the indicated launch costs.
The R6 was introduced at a noticeably lower price than the 5D Mark IV (by 29%), which places it in a different market niche.
Retail pricing typically remains initially close to the debut price before discounts become accessible after a few months.
Further discounts and stock clearing sales frequently drive the camera price even lower later in the product cycle, especially when the successor model is due to debut.
Conclusion:
The R6 is the undisputed competition champion if the count of individual advantages (bullet points above) is used as a benchmark (18: 9 points).
However, different photographers will find different camera strengths helpful, so before choosing a camera, you might want to consider each camera feature in light of how important it is for your particular photographic requirements.
A professional wedding photographer will regard camera differences differently from a travel photographer, and a cityscape photographer will have different needs from a macro photographer.
As a result, choosing the best and most worthwhile camera is frequently a subjective process.
Related post:
Best Canon Cameras for Photography:
I am a Professional and Certified Digital Photographer born in the USA. I have been in this field of photography for 22 years, and in these years, I have used many photography lenses and Cameras, which I want to share here on this website about my experience. The idea for Bestoflens.com is to provide honest information about different Lenses and Camera products in the format of a “Best lenses for AYZ” list. I want this website to be the last destination for people to pick the best Cameras and lenses to fit their needs. You can find our unbiased reviews here on Bestoflens.
Thank you for such a thorough comparison of these 2 cameras which I own. I will share your review site with a friend.
I also see the large benefit of having eye AF for portrait photography within the R6 in comparison to the 5D4.