Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 6D Comparison
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Canon EOS 6D
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Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS 5D Mark II | EOS 6D | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2008 | 2012 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 17, 2008 | September 17, 2012 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 6D narrowly beats the Canon EOS 5D Mark II with a score of 59/100 compared to 58/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, announced on September 17th, four years apart (5D Mark II in 2008 and 6D in 2012). They share similar launch prices, with the 5D Mark II at $2199 and the 6D at $2099.
The 6D has a slight advantage in size and weight, measuring 145 x 111 x 71mm and weighing 770g, while the 5D Mark II is slightly larger and heavier at 152 x 114 x 75mm and 850g. This makes the 6D more portable and convenient for photographers on the go.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark II has a sturdier build, which may be preferred by some users. The difference in scores is minimal, so both cameras offer great performance and quality. Ultimately, the choice depends on the user’s preferences and priorities.
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 6D Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 6D wins in the optics comparison with a score of 61/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II scores 59/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, Canon EF lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.
The EOS 6D outperforms the 5D Mark II in a few areas. First, the 6D has a faster shooting speed of 4.5 frames per second, compared to the 5D Mark II’s 3.9 frames per second. This allows the 6D to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Second, the 6D features a more advanced Digic 5+ processor, which contributes to improved image quality and faster processing times. Lastly, the 6D has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 82, compared to the 5D Mark II’s score of 79, indicating better overall sensor performance.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark II has a slightly higher megapixel count of 21, compared to the 6D’s 20.2. This means the 5D Mark II can capture slightly more detail in images, which may be beneficial for large prints or cropping. However, this advantage is minimal and may not be significant for most users.
In this comparison, the Canon EOS 6D emerges as the better camera in terms of optics, due to its faster shooting speed, more advanced processor, and higher sensor score. While the 5D Mark II has a small advantage in megapixel count, it is not enough to outweigh the benefits of the 6D. Therefore, the Canon EOS 6D is the recommended choice for those prioritizing optical quality.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 6D
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 21 MP | 20.2 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5616 x 3744 px | 5472 x 3648 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 36 mm | 24 x 36 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 3.9 fps | 4.5 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Canon EF | Canon EF | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic 4 | Digic 5+ | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 6,400 | 25,600 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 50 | 50 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 25600 | 102400 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 9 | 11 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (pentaprism) | Optical (pentaprism) |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 6D Video Performance
When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 6D, both cameras achieve the same video score of 43 out of 100. This equality in score is due to the similarities in their video specifications.
Both the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 6D have a maximum video resolution of Full HD, with video dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Additionally, both cameras offer a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. Neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite having the same video score, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II has some advantages over the Canon EOS 6D. However, these advantages are not related to video capabilities, as both cameras share the same specifications in this regard. Therefore, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II does not outperform the Canon EOS 6D in terms of video capabilities.
Similarly, the Canon EOS 6D does not outperform the Canon EOS 5D Mark II in video capabilities, as they both share the same video specifications. While the Canon EOS 6D may have advantages over the Canon EOS 5D Mark II in other aspects, these advantages do not pertain to video capabilities.
Considering the equal video scores and shared specifications, it is clear that both the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Canon EOS 6D offer similar video capabilities. Users looking for a camera with superior video performance will not find a significant difference between these two models. Therefore, the decision between these cameras should be based on other factors such as general specifications, optics, and individual preferences.
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Video
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 6D
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD | Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1920 x 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 30 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MOV | MOV |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 6D Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 6D emerges as the winner in the features category with a score of 57/100, slightly higher than the Canon EOS 5D Mark II, which scores 54/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, the absence of a touchscreen and flip screen, and the lack of Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, both models offer Wi-Fi capabilities.
The Canon EOS 6D outperforms the 5D Mark II in certain aspects, particularly with its higher screen resolution at 1,040,000 dots compared to 920,000 dots on the 5D Mark II. This higher resolution provides a clearer and more detailed image preview. Another distinguishing feature of the 6D is the inclusion of GPS functionality, which allows users to geotag their images with location information.
While the 5D Mark II has a slightly lower feature score, it remains a strong contender in the market. Its performance is comparable to the 6D in several areas, and it also offers Wi-Fi connectivity. However, the lack of GPS and lower screen resolution make it slightly less versatile than the 6D.
In comparing the two cameras, the Canon EOS 6D offers a few advantages over the 5D Mark II, such as a higher screen resolution and GPS functionality. Nonetheless, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is still a solid choice for photographers who prioritize Wi-Fi capabilities and do not require GPS or higher screen resolution. Both cameras cater to different user preferences, and the choice ultimately depends on the individual’s needs and priorities.
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Features
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 6D
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | TFT LCD | TFT LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 920,000 dots | 1,040,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS 6D Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II triumphs over the Canon EOS 6D in storage and battery with a score of 71/100 compared to the 6D’s 45/100. Both cameras share the same battery type, the LP-E6, and neither has USB charging capabilities.
The 5D Mark II outperforms the 6D in storage, offering two memory card slots and accepting a wider range of memory cards such as Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive. This versatility allows for more storage options and flexibility for the user.
On the other hand, the 6D has a longer battery life, with 1090 shots compared to the 5D Mark II’s 850 shots. This advantage makes it a more suitable choice for extended shooting sessions without needing to change batteries frequently.
In terms of storage and battery, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the superior choice due to its greater storage capacity and flexibility. However, the Canon EOS 6D’s longer battery life may be a deciding factor for those who prioritize extended shooting sessions.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 6D
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Memory Card | Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | LP-E6 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 850 shots | 1,090 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 6D
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 23.7 bits | 22.2 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 11.9 EVs | 11.5 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 1815 | 813 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Canon EOS 6D
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