Canon EOS 6D vs Sony a7S Comparison
Canon EOS 6D
Sony a7S
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS 6D | a7S | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2012 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 17, 2012 | April 06, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 6D outperforms the Sony a7S with a score of 59/100 compared to 55/100. Both cameras share similarities such as their announcement year (2012 for EOS 6D and 2014 for a7S) and high launch prices ($2099 for EOS 6D and $2499 for a7S).
The Canon EOS 6D, a DSLR camera, excels with its larger size (145 x 111 x 71mm) and heavier weight (770g / 1.70lbs), which may provide better stability and handling. On the other hand, the Sony a7S, a mirrorless camera, offers a compact design (127 x 94 x 48mm) and lighter weight (489g / 1.08lbs), making it more portable and convenient for on-the-go photography.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 6D proves to be a better option for those who prioritize stability and handling, while the Sony a7S caters to photographers who value portability.
Canon EOS 6D vs Sony a7S Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 6D outperforms the Sony a7S in optics with a score of 61/100, compared to the Sony a7S’s score of 60/100. Both cameras possess several common specifications, including a CMOS sensor, Full Frame sensor size, and no image stabilization. Additionally, they both have distinct lens mounts, with the Canon 6D utilizing the Canon EF mount and the Sony a7S using the Sony FE mount.
The Canon EOS 6D surpasses the Sony a7S in megapixels, boasting 20.2 megapixels compared to the Sony a7S’s 12.2 megapixels. This difference results in higher image resolution and detail for the Canon 6D, making it better for capturing intricate subjects and producing larger prints. Furthermore, the Canon 6D is equipped with a Digic 5+ processor, which contributes to its efficient performance and processing capabilities.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S has a slightly faster shooting speed at 5 frames per second, compared to the Canon 6D’s 4.5 frames per second. This advantage enables the Sony a7S to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the Sony a7S has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor, scoring 87 compared to the Canon 6D’s score of 82. This indicates that the Sony a7S has better low-light performance and dynamic range.
Considering the optics of both cameras, the Canon EOS 6D is superior in terms of image resolution, while the Sony a7S excels in shooting speed and low-light performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 6D
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Sony a7S
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.2 MP | 12.2 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. | 5472 x 3648 px | 4240 x 2832 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 | 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. | 4.5 fps | 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 | 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 5+ | 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. | 25,600 | 102,400 | |
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 | 409600 | |
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. | 11 | 25 | |
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 | 2,400,000 dots |
Canon EOS 6D vs Sony a7S Video Performance
The Sony a7S emerges as the winner in video capabilities, scoring 56 out of 100 points, while the Canon EOS 6D trails behind with a score of 43. Both cameras share similar specifications in terms of maximum video resolution and dimensions, offering Full HD quality at 1920 x 1080 pixels. However, there are notable differences that set them apart.
The Sony a7S stands out due to its higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, double the Canon EOS 6D’s 30fps. This allows the Sony a7S to capture smoother and more fluid motion, making it more suitable for fast-paced action and sports videography. The higher frame rate also provides greater flexibility in post-production, enabling slow-motion effects without compromising video quality.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 6D does not surpass the Sony a7S in any specific video-related aspect. Both cameras lack built-in time-lapse functionality, which could be a drawback for photographers interested in capturing long-duration events or creating time-lapse videos without additional equipment or software.
Considering the differences in video capabilities, the Sony a7S is the better option for those prioritizing video performance. Its higher frame rate ensures smoother footage and increased versatility in post-production, making it an excellent choice for videographers and content creators. The Canon EOS 6D, while offering adequate video quality, does not excel in this area and may not be the ideal choice for those focusing on video capture.
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Video
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Canon EOS 6D
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Sony a7S
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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 | 60 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 | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Canon EOS 6D vs Sony a7S Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 6D outperforms the Sony a7S in features with a score of 57 out of 100, compared to the Sony a7S’s 54. Both cameras share some specifications: they have 3-inch screens, lack touchscreens and Bluetooth, and offer Wi-Fi connectivity.
The Canon EOS 6D’s advantages include its higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, compared to the Sony a7S’s 921,000 dots, which results in a clearer and more detailed display for viewing images. Additionally, the EOS 6D has GPS functionality, allowing users to geotag their photos and track locations, a feature absent in the Sony a7S.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S offers a flip screen, giving users more flexibility when composing shots at different angles. This feature is not available in the Canon EOS 6D, which has a fixed screen. Despite having a lower feature score, the Sony a7S’s flip screen may be a deciding factor for some photographers.
In comparing the features of the Canon EOS 6D and the Sony a7S, the EOS 6D has a slight edge due to its higher screen resolution and GPS capabilities. However, the Sony a7S provides the convenience of a flip screen, which may be more important to certain users. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on individual preferences and the specific features that are most important to the photographer.
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Features
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Canon EOS 6D
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Sony a7S
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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 | 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 | 921,000 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 vs Sony a7S Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 6D outperforms the Sony a7S in storage and battery with a score of 45/100 compared to the a7S’s 21/100. Both cameras share similarities, including one memory card slot and compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The EOS 6D excels in battery life, providing 1090 shots per charge with its LP-E6 battery, while the a7S lags behind, supplying only 380 shots using the NP-FW50 battery. This significant difference makes the 6D a more reliable choice for extended shooting sessions.
The Sony a7S, however, accepts additional memory card formats, such as Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo, offering users more flexibility in storage options. Despite this advantage, its overall storage and battery performance does not surpass the Canon EOS 6D.
Considering the storage and battery capabilities, the Canon EOS 6D proves to be a superior choice, especially for photographers requiring longer battery life. The Sony a7S provides added storage options but falls short in battery performance.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 6D
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Sony a7S
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,090 shots | 380 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 6D
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Sony a7S
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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.' | 22.2 bits | 23.9 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.' | 11.5 EVs | 13.2 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' | 813 | 3702 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 6D
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Sony a7S
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Canon EOS 6D vs Sony a7S – 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 or the Sony a7S:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 6D
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Sony a7S
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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