CameraReview

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS M6 Mark II
Canon
Canon EOS M6 Mark II
Mirrorless · 33 MP · APS-C · 4K video
63
SCORE
$849
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✓ WINNER
Nikon Z5
Nikon
Nikon Z5
Mirrorless · 24 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
78
SCORE
$1,067.91
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General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS M6 Mark IIZ5
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
28/08/201921/07/2020
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 120 x 70 x 49 mm134 x 100.5 x 69.5 mm
Camera weight 408 g675 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
33 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6960 x 46406016 x 4016
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.
14.9 x 22.323.9 x 35.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
14 fps0454.5 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 EF-MNikon Z
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Expeed 6
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.
256003003280000512003003280000
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.
1003020010030200
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.
5120030032800001024003003280000
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.
14303002730300
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 236000009900000368640009900000
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.
4K4K
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.
3840 x 21603840 x 2160
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.
120 fps60 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.
MPEG-4MPEG-4, MOV
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 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"3.2"
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 / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E17EN-EL15c
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
305 shots1505000470 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z5 takes the lead with a score of 78/100, while the Canon EOS M6 Mark II trails behind at 63/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released within a year of each other, with the EOS M6 Mark II in 2019 and the Z5 in 2020. They share similarities in their camera type and release years.

The Nikon Z5 outshines the Canon EOS M6 Mark II with its higher score, which reflects its better performance. However, the EOS M6 Mark II has a lower launch price of $850 compared to the Z5’s $1400, making it a more affordable option. The EOS M6 Mark II is also lighter, weighing 408g, while the Z5 weighs 675g.

Considering the scores and specifications, the Nikon Z5 is a better camera, but the Canon EOS M6 Mark II offers a more budget-friendly and lightweight alternative.

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z5 is the clear winner in optics, scoring 81/100, while the Canon EOS M6 Mark II scores 62/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as CMOS sensors and compatible lens mounts for their respective brands (Canon EF-M for the M6 Mark II and Nikon Z for the Z5).

The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS M6 Mark II in several aspects. The Z5 has a full-frame sensor, which provides better image quality and low-light performance than the M6 Mark II’s APS-C sensor. The Z5 also boasts a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor (97) compared to the M6 Mark II (58), indicating superior image quality. Additionally, the Nikon Z5 features image stabilization, a valuable asset for photographers aiming for crisp, blur-free images.

However, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II does have some advantages over the Nikon Z5. With 33 megapixels, the M6 Mark II offers higher resolution than the Z5’s 24 megapixels, allowing for more detailed images and greater flexibility in post-processing. The M6 Mark II also has a faster shooting speed of 14 frames per second, compared to the Z5’s 4.5 frames per second, making it a better choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.

When considering optics, the Nikon Z5 is the superior choice due to its full-frame sensor, higher DXOMARK score, and image stabilization. The Canon EOS M6 Mark II, however, may be more suitable for those seeking higher resolution and faster shooting speed. Ultimately, the right camera depends on individual preferences and intended use.

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M6 Mark II outperforms the Nikon Z5 in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the Nikon Z5’s 83/100. Both cameras offer similar specifications, such as 4K max video resolution, max video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II boasts distinct advantages that contribute to its higher score.

The most significant advantage of the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is its max video frame rate of 120fps, which is twice that of the Nikon Z5’s 60fps. This higher frame rate enables smoother slow-motion video capture and better overall video quality. Additionally, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is likely to provide more flexibility in post-production due to its higher frame rate, allowing for more creative possibilities.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z5 does not offer any clear advantages in video capabilities over the Canon EOS M6 Mark II. Both cameras share the same max video resolution, max video dimensions, and time-lapse functionality, but the Nikon Z5 falls short in terms of video frame rate. This limitation may affect the overall video quality and flexibility in post-production.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II emerges as the better option for video capabilities. Its higher video score reflects the advantages it offers over the Nikon Z5, particularly in terms of max video frame rate. The Nikon Z5, while still a capable camera, does not surpass the Canon EOS M6 Mark II in any significant aspect related to video performance. Therefore, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is the clear winner in this comparison.

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z5 wins the features comparison with a score of 72/100, while the Canon EOS M6 Mark II scores 70/100. Both cameras share several specs, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS absence, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity. Their screen resolutions are also identical at 1,040,000 dots.

The Nikon Z5 excels with its larger screen size of 3.2 inches, providing users with a more convenient and comfortable viewing experience. This advantage enhances the camera’s usability, particularly when reviewing images and navigating through menus.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II does not have any specific features that outshine the Nikon Z5. However, its slightly smaller screen size of 3 inches may appeal to some users who prefer a more compact camera for portability and ease of use. The two-point difference in the feature scores does not significantly impact the camera’s overall performance and user experience.

Both cameras offer solid features for their respective users. The Nikon Z5, with its larger screen size, is a better choice for those who prioritize a larger display for improved usability. The Canon EOS M6 Mark II remains a strong contender, especially for users who prefer a slightly smaller screen size and a more compact camera. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the individual’s preferences and priorities.

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 Storage and Battery

The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS M6 Mark II in storage and battery, scoring 73 out of 100 compared to the Canon’s 35. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards (UHS-II compatible) and have USB charging capabilities. However, the Nikon Z5 holds an advantage in two key areas.

First, the Nikon Z5 boasts two memory card slots, providing users with more storage flexibility and backup options, while the Canon EOS M6 Mark II has only one slot. Second, the Nikon Z5 has a longer battery life, offering 470 shots per charge compared to the Canon’s 305 shots. This difference makes the Nikon Z5 a more reliable choice for extended shooting sessions.

The Canon EOS M6 Mark II doesn’t hold any significant advantages in storage and battery over the Nikon Z5. The Nikon Z5’s dual memory card slots and longer battery life make it a better option for photographers who require ample storage and longer shooting times.

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 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 M6 Mark II or the Nikon Z5: