Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 IV Comparison
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Sony a7 IV
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS 6D Mark II | a7 IV | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 | 2021 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | June 29, 2017 | October 21, 2021 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II with a score of 84/100 compared to 71/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as being released in 2017 and 2021, having launch prices of $2000 and $2499, and dimensions of 144 x 111 x 75mm and 131 x 96 x 80mm, respectively.
The Sony a7 IV excels due to its mirrorless camera type, resulting in a smaller and lighter body at 659g compared to the 6D Mark II’s DSLR type and weight of 453g. However, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II may still appeal to some users due to its lower price point.
Considering the difference in scores and specifications, the Sony a7 IV is the superior choice for those seeking a high-performing, compact camera, while the Canon EOS 6D Mark II offers a more affordable option for users who prioritize cost.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 IV Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in optics with a score of 85/100 compared to the Canon’s 69/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and respective lens mounts for their brands – Canon EF for the 6D Mark II and Sony FE for the a7 IV.
The Sony a7 IV surpasses the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in several aspects. It has a higher megapixel count of 33, allowing for more detailed and sharper images. The a7 IV also boasts a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, making it more suitable for capturing fast action. Its DXOMARK sensor score of 97 further highlights the superior image quality potential. Additionally, the Sony a7 IV features image stabilization, which helps reduce the effects of camera shake and allows for sharper images in low light or at slower shutter speeds.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II has a lower megapixel count of 26.2 and a slower shooting speed of 6.5 frames per second. Its DXOMARK sensor score is 85, indicating lesser image quality potential compared to the Sony a7 IV. The Canon 6D Mark II also lacks image stabilization, making it more challenging to capture sharp images in certain conditions without using a tripod or other stabilizing equipment.
Based on these comparisons, the Sony a7 IV emerges as the superior camera in terms of optics. Its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, better sensor score, and image stabilization make it a more versatile and capable choice for photographers seeking the best image quality. The Canon EOS 6D Mark II, while still a competent camera, falls short in these areas and may not be the ideal choice for those prioritizing optical performance.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 IV
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 26.2 MP | 33 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 | 7008 x 4672 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 E | |
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 XR | |
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 | 204400 | |
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 | 759 | |
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 | 3,686,400 dots |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 IV Video Performance
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the Canon’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Sony a7 IV has superior video specifications, making it the clear winner in this comparison.
The Sony a7 IV boasts a 4K maximum video resolution, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160, which is significantly higher than the Canon EOS 6D Mark II’s Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080. This difference in resolution allows the Sony a7 IV to capture more detail and produce higher quality video footage than the Canon EOS 6D Mark II.
Additionally, the Sony a7 IV has a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, while the Canon EOS 6D Mark II only reaches 30fps. This higher frame rate enables the Sony a7 IV to capture smoother, more professional-looking video, especially in fast-paced scenes or when shooting slow-motion footage.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II does not have any clear advantages over the Sony a7 IV in terms of video capabilities. Its lower resolution and frame rate limit its potential for professional video work or capturing high-quality footage.
Considering these differences, the Sony a7 IV stands out as the superior camera for video capabilities. Its higher resolution and frame rate offer better video quality and more versatility in various shooting situations. In contrast, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II’s limitations make it a less suitable choice for those prioritizing video performance.
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Video
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 IV
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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 | 120 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 | MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265 |
Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 IV Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II and the Sony a7 IV both have a feature score of 83 out of 100, indicating that these cameras possess similar capabilities. They share common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1,040,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen functionality, flip screen capability, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II outperforms the Sony a7 IV in one specific area: GPS functionality. This feature allows users to geotag their photos, providing additional information about the location where the images were captured. This can be particularly useful for travel and landscape photographers who want to document their journeys and easily organize their images.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV does not offer any distinct advantages over the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in terms of features. Both cameras have the same feature score and share almost all specifications, making them evenly matched in this aspect.
Given their equal feature scores and shared specifications, both cameras are suitable for various photography needs. The Canon EOS 6D Mark II’s GPS functionality sets it apart, making it a better choice for photographers who value geotagging capabilities. However, for those who do not require GPS, the Sony a7 IV is an equally viable option. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras will depend on individual preferences and specific photography requirements.
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Features
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 IV
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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 | 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 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 IV Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 6D Mark II in storage and battery with a score of 76/100 compared to Canon’s 45/100. Both cameras accept SD cards, but the Sony a7 IV also supports CFexpress Type A cards and UHS-II compatibility, providing faster data transfer rates. Additionally, the Sony a7 IV features two memory card slots, while the Canon EOS 6D Mark II only has one.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II has a longer battery life, providing 1200 shots compared to Sony’s 580 shots. However, the Sony a7 IV compensates for its shorter battery life with USB charging capabilities, allowing for convenient charging on-the-go. The Canon EOS 6D Mark II lacks this feature.
Despite the Canon EOS 6D Mark II’s longer battery life, the Sony a7 IV’s superior storage capabilities and USB charging option make it the better choice for photographers requiring flexibility and high-performance storage options.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 IV
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible) | |
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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 | 580 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 IV
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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 | 25.4 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 | 3379 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 IV
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs Sony a7 IV – 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 IV:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
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Sony a7 IV
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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