CameraReview

Canon EOS 6D vs Canon EOS 70D — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS 6D
Canon
Canon EOS 6D
DSLR · 20.2 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
59
SCORE
$436.77
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✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 70D
Canon
Canon EOS 70D
DSLR · 20.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
60
SCORE
$426.36
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20122013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
17/09/201202/07/2013
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 145 x 111 x 71 mm139 x 104 x 79 mm
Camera weight 770 g755 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.2 MP05020.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5472 x 36485472 x 3648
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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 3615 x 22.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
4.5 fps0457 fps045
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 EFCanon EF-S
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 5+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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
256003003280000128003003280000
Min 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.
503020010030200
Max 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.
1024003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
400080032000800080032000
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.
110300190300
In-body stabilisation
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)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HDFull HD
Max video format
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 10801920 x 1080
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 fps30 fps
Timelapse 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.
MOVMOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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 LCDLCD
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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000010400001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6LP-E6
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1090 shots1505000920 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 70D narrowly edges out the Canon EOS 6D with a score of 60/100 compared to the 6D’s 59/100. Both cameras are DSLRs released in the early 2010s, with the 6D in 2012 and the 70D in 2013. They share similar sizes and weights, with the 6D measuring 145 x 111 x 71mm and weighing 770g, while the 70D measures 139 x 104 x 79mm and weighs 755g.

The 70D’s higher score is due to its better performance and features. However, the 6D has its advantages as well, such as a lower launch price of $1,199 compared to the 70D’s $2,099. This makes the 6D a more affordable option for those on a budget.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 70D is the better camera overall, but the Canon EOS 6D may be more suitable for those seeking a more budget-friendly option.

Canon EOS 6D vs EOS 70D Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 6D outperforms the Canon EOS 70D in optics with a score of 61/100 compared to the 70D’s 58/100. Both cameras have 20.2 megapixels, CMOS sensor types, Digic 5+ processors, and no image stabilization. However, there are some differences that set these cameras apart.

The 6D has a full-frame sensor, while the 70D has an APS-C sensor. This difference gives the 6D an advantage in image quality, as full-frame sensors generally produce better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range. Additionally, the 6D’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 82, compared to the 70D’s score of 68, further confirming its superior image quality.

Both cameras have Canon’s EF lens mount, but the 6D is compatible with EF lenses, while the 70D uses EF-S lenses. This distinction means that the 6D has access to a wider range of high-quality lenses, allowing for more versatility in shooting situations.

The 70D does have a faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second (fps), compared to the 6D’s 4.5 fps. This advantage makes the 70D more suitable for action photography, where capturing fast-moving subjects is crucial.

Taking all these factors into account, the Canon EOS 6D is the better camera in terms of optics due to its full-frame sensor, higher DXOMARK score, and compatibility with EF lenses. However, the Canon EOS 70D may be more suitable for action photography with its faster shooting speed.

Canon EOS 6D vs EOS 70D Video Performance

The Canon EOS 6D and Canon EOS 70D both receive a video score of 43/100, indicating no clear winner in terms of video capabilities. These cameras share several common video specifications, including Full HD video resolution, maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, and a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. Neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.

Despite the tie in video scores, there may be specific aspects where one camera outperforms the other. The Canon EOS 6D, for instance, could potentially offer better low-light performance, given its full-frame sensor. This advantage may result in improved video quality in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the 6D may produce less noise in the footage, leading to clearer and sharper videos.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 70D might have some advantages over the 6D in terms of video autofocus performance. The 70D features Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which is known for its fast and accurate autofocus during video recording. This can be particularly useful for tracking moving subjects and maintaining focus throughout the video.

Taking these factors into consideration, it is evident that the Canon EOS 6D offers potential benefits in low-light performance and noise reduction, while the Canon EOS 70D excels in autofocus capabilities. However, it is essential to note that both cameras share the same video score, and their differences may not significantly impact the overall video quality. The choice between these two cameras should be based on individual preferences and specific video requirements.

Canon EOS 6D vs EOS 70D Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 70D comes out ahead with a feature score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS 6D trails behind with a score of 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, 1040000 dots screen resolution, WiFi capabilities, and no Bluetooth.

The EOS 70D outperforms the 6D in two significant areas: it has a touchscreen and a flip screen. These features provide a more interactive and flexible user experience, allowing photographers to easily adjust settings and capture images from various angles.

On the other hand, the EOS 6D has GPS functionality, which the 70D lacks. This feature enables photographers to geotag their images, providing valuable location data and making it easier to organize and sort photos based on location.

In comparing these two cameras, the EOS 70D’s touchscreen and flip screen features give it a clear advantage, offering a more versatile and user-friendly experience. The EOS 6D’s GPS functionality is a valuable feature for some photographers, but it may not be a priority for all users.

Ultimately, the Canon EOS 70D’s higher feature score reflects its superior performance in terms of user experience and versatility. The Canon EOS 6D’s GPS functionality is a noteworthy advantage, but it may not be enough to sway users away from the more user-friendly and versatile EOS 70D.

Canon EOS 6D vs EOS 70D Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 6D outperforms the Canon EOS 70D in storage and battery with a score of 45/100, compared to the 70D’s 37/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including one memory card slot, compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, an LP-E6 battery type, and no USB charging capability.

The 6D’s advantage lies in its longer battery life, providing 1090 shots per charge, while the 70D offers 920 shots. This allows users to capture more moments without worrying about battery replacement or recharging.

On the other hand, the 70D does not have any notable advantages in storage and battery over the 6D, as both cameras share the same storage specifications.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Canon EOS 6D emerges as a more reliable option in terms of battery life, while the Canon EOS 70D does not offer any significant benefits in this aspect.

Canon EOS 6D vs EOS 70D – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 6D vs EOS 70D Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 6D or the Canon EOS 70D: