Canon EOS 80D vs Sony a6500 Comparison
Canon EOS 80D
Sony a6500
Price | |||
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS 80D | a6500 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2016 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 18, 2016 | October 06, 2016 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a6500 triumphs over the Canon EOS 80D with a score of 72/100 compared to 64/100. Both cameras were released in 2016, with the Canon priced at $1200 and the Sony at $1400. They share similar specs, such as announcement and release dates. The a6500 excels with its smaller size (120 x 67 x 53mm) and lighter weight (453g), making it more portable than the 80D (139 x 105 x 79mm, 730g). However, the Canon EOS 80D is more affordable. While the Sony a6500 offers better portability, the Canon EOS 80D provides a more budget-friendly option for photographers.
Canon EOS 80D vs Sony a6500 Overview and Optics
The Sony a6500 wins in the optics comparison with a score of 74/100, while the Canon EOS 80D scores 63/100. Both cameras have common specifications, such as 24.2 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and a similar lens mount system (Canon EF-S for the 80D and Sony E for the a6500).
The Sony a6500 surpasses the Canon EOS 80D in several areas. It has a higher shooting speed of 11 frames per second compared to the 80D’s 7 frames per second. The a6500 also has a more advanced processor, the Bionz X, which contributes to its better performance. Furthermore, the a6500 has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, which is 85, while the 80D’s sensor scores 79. The presence of image stabilization in the Sony a6500 is another advantage, as it compensates for camera shake and provides clearer images.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 80D has the Digic 6 processor, which is still a reliable choice for image processing. However, it does not offer any significant advantages over the Sony a6500 in terms of optics.
Given these differences, the Sony a6500 is the better camera in terms of optics, with a higher score, faster shooting speed, better processor, and image stabilization. The Canon EOS 80D, although a decent camera, does not outperform the Sony a6500 in this aspect. Choosing the Sony a6500 for its superior optics would be a wise decision for photographers who prioritize image quality and performance.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 80D
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Sony a6500
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 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. | 6000 x 4000 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. | 15 x 22.5 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7 fps | 11 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-S | 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 6 | 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. | 16,000 | 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. | 100 | 100 | |
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 | 51200 | |
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. | 45 | 425 | |
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 80D vs Sony a6500 Video Performance
The Sony a6500 outperforms the Canon EOS 80D in video capabilities, scoring 77 out of 100 compared to the 80D’s score of 70. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having built-in microphone and headphone ports, which allow for better audio recording and monitoring. They also both offer manual exposure control during video recording, providing more creative freedom for users.
The Sony a6500’s superiority in video is evident in its higher resolution and frame rate. The a6500 offers 4K video recording with dimensions of 3840 x 2160, while the Canon 80D only provides Full HD with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, the a6500 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the 80D’s 60fps. These features make the Sony a6500 more suitable for professional videography and capturing fast-moving subjects.
The Canon EOS 80D has one advantage over the Sony a6500 in the form of built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create time-lapse videos without needing external accessories or software. However, this single advantage does not outweigh the overall superior video capabilities of the Sony a6500.
Considering the differences in video specifications, the Sony a6500 emerges as the better option for videographers due to its 4K resolution and higher frame rate. While the Canon EOS 80D has the advantage of built-in time-lapse functionality, it falls short in other aspects of video performance. Users seeking a camera with strong video capabilities should opt for the Sony a6500.
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Video
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Canon EOS 80D
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Sony a6500
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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. | MOV, MP4 | MPEG-4, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0 |
Canon EOS 80D vs Sony a6500 Features and Benefits
The Sony a6500 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, with a score of 81/100, while the Canon EOS 80D scores 70/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, absence of GPS, and WIFI connectivity.
The Sony a6500 outperforms the Canon EOS 80D in screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity. The a6500 has a screen resolution of 921,600 dots, which is higher than the 80D’s 1,040,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and more detailed image preview. Additionally, the Sony a6500 has Bluetooth connectivity, unlike the Canon EOS 80D. This feature allows for seamless pairing with compatible devices, making it easier to transfer images and control the camera remotely.
Despite its lower score, the Canon EOS 80D does have some advantages. For instance, it has a higher screen resolution than the Sony a6500. This means that the 80D’s screen displays images with more clarity and detail, which can be beneficial for photographers who rely on the screen for image composition and review.
Taking these factors into account, it is evident that the Sony a6500 has a better set of features compared to the Canon EOS 80D, as shown by its higher score. The a6500’s higher screen resolution and Bluetooth connectivity make it a more versatile and user-friendly camera. However, the Canon EOS 80D still offers advantages in terms of screen resolution, making it a suitable choice for photographers who prioritize image clarity on their camera’s screen.
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Features
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Canon EOS 80D
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Sony a6500
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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 80D vs Sony a6500 Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 80D outperforms the Sony a6500 in storage and battery with a score of 43/100, while the Sony a6500 scores 21/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and support SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Additionally, neither camera offers USB charging.
The Canon EOS 80D excels with its battery life, providing 960 shots per charge compared to the Sony a6500’s 350 shots. The 80D’s battery type is LP-E6N, which contributes to its extended battery life. This makes the Canon EOS 80D more suitable for longer shooting sessions.
On the other hand, the Sony a6500 accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo cards in addition to the standard SD format, providing users with more storage options. However, this advantage does not outweigh the significant difference in battery life.
When considering storage and battery, the Canon EOS 80D is the clear winner due to its longer battery life, while the Sony a6500’s additional memory card compatibility does not provide enough benefit to close the gap.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 80D
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Sony a6500
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6N | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 960 shots | 350 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 80D
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Sony a6500
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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.' | 23.6 bits | 24.5 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.' | 13.2 EVs | 13.7 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' | 1135 | 1405 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 80D
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Sony a6500
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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 80D vs Sony a6500 – 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 80D or the Sony a6500:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 80D
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Sony a6500
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B&H photo video |
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