Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 III Comparison
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Sony a7 III
Price | |||
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS 6D Mark II | a7 III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | June 29, 2017 | February 27, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II with a score of 81 compared to 71. Both cameras were released in 2017 and 2018, respectively, and share the same launch price of $2000. They also have similar camera sizes, with the Canon being slightly larger and lighter at 144 x 111 x 75mm and 453g, while the Sony measures 127 x 96 x 74mm and weighs 650g.
The Sony a7 III’s higher score highlights its superior performance as a mirrorless camera. Its compact size and additional features make it a better choice for most users. However, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is not without its merits as a DSLR, offering a lighter weight which could be beneficial in certain situations.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 III is the clear winner in this comparison due to its overall performance and features. However, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II remains a viable option for those who prefer a lighter DSLR camera.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in optics with a score of 81/100 compared to the Canon’s 69/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and a lens mount specific to their respective brands (Canon EF and Sony FE).
The Sony a7 III excels with its higher shooting speed of 10 frames per second (fps) compared to the Canon’s 6.5 fps. This faster shooting speed allows the Sony a7 III to capture better action shots and fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the Sony a7 III has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 96, compared to the Canon’s 85. This means the Sony a7 III delivers better image quality and low-light performance. Furthermore, the Sony a7 III features image stabilization, which helps reduce the impact of camera shake, resulting in sharper images.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II offers a slightly higher megapixel count at 26.2 compared to the Sony’s 24.2. This difference in megapixels provides the Canon with a marginal advantage in capturing more detail and higher resolution images. However, this advantage is not significant enough to outweigh the benefits offered by the Sony a7 III in other optical aspects.
In comparing the optics of these two cameras, it is evident that the Sony a7 III is the superior choice due to its faster shooting speed, higher DXOMARK sensor score, and the added benefit of image stabilization. While the Canon EOS 6D Mark II has a slight edge in megapixels, the overall optical performance of the Sony a7 III makes it the better camera for most photographers.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 26.2 MP | 24.2 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. | 6240 x 4160 px | 6000 x 4000 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 35.9 mm | 23.8 x 35.6 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. | 6.5 fps | 10 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 | Sony FE | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic 7 | Bionz X | |
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. | 40,000 | 51,200 | |
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. | 102400 | 204800 | |
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/ 4000 s | 1/ 8000 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. | 45 | 693 | |
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) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 2,359,296 dots |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 III Video Performance
The Sony a7 III edges out the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in video capabilities with a higher score. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. However, there are notable differences in their video capabilities that contribute to the a7 III’s slight advantage.
Both models have a built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a useful feature for capturing stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software. This feature can be particularly beneficial for photographers who enjoy capturing the passage of time in their videos, such as the movement of clouds or the setting sun.
The Sony a7 III excels in terms of video resolution, offering 4K video recording with maximum dimensions of 3840 x 2160. This is a significant advantage over the Canon EOS 6D Mark II, which only offers Full HD video recording with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080. The higher resolution provided by the Sony a7 III allows for more detailed and visually impressive videos.
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Video
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 III
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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 |  4K | |
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 | 3840 x 2160 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. | 60 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. | MP4, MOV | XAVC S, AVCHD |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II wins the features comparison with a score of 83/100, while the Sony a7 III follows closely with 81/100. Both cameras share several common specifications: 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capability, flip screen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II outperforms the Sony a7 III in screen resolution and GPS functionality. It boasts a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, providing a sharper and more detailed display compared to the Sony a7 III’s 921,600 dots. Additionally, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II has GPS, allowing for geotagging of photos and easy tracking of shooting locations. This feature is absent in the Sony a7 III, which may disappoint users who prioritize location-based data.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 III’s lower feature score does not necessarily indicate inferiority. Both cameras excel in their respective areas, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the user’s preferences and priorities. While the Canon EOS 6D Mark II has a slight advantage in screen resolution and GPS, these may not be critical factors for some photographers.
Considering the close scores and shared features, both the Canon EOS 6D Mark II and the Sony a7 III are excellent choices for photographers seeking a high-quality camera with an array of useful features. The decision between the two should be based on individual needs and preferences, with the Canon offering higher screen resolution and GPS, while the Sony a7 III remains a strong contender despite its slightly lower feature score.
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Features
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 III
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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 | LCD | 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. | 1,040,000 dots | 921,600 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 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in storage and battery with a score of 81, compared to the Canon’s 45/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the Sony a7 III offers an additional memory card slot and compatibility with Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards. This gives the Sony a7 III an advantage in storage flexibility and capacity. It also offers USB charging.
In terms of battery life, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II surpasses the Sony a7 III with 1200 shots per charge, while the Sony a7 III provides 750 shots. The Canon uses the LP-E6N battery type, while the Sony utilizes the NP-FZ100.
Despite the lower score, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II excels in battery life, offering photographers extended shooting time. However, the Sony a7 III’s superior storage options and additional memory card slot make it the overall winner in this category.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 III
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6N | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,200 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 III
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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.' | 24.4 bits | 25.1 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 | 14.7 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' | 2862 | 3722 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 III
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 III – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 6D Mark II or the Sony a7 III:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 III
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