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Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Sony a6400 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS M6 Mark II

Canon EOS M6 II camera image
63%

Sony a6400

Sony A6400 mirrorless camera image
Winner!
70%
Canon EOS M6 Mark II
vs
Sony a6400
Price
Brand
Canon
Sony
Model
EOS M6 Mark II
a6400
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2019
2019
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 28, 2019
January 15, 2019
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a6400 emerges as the winner with a score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS M6 Mark II trails behind with 63/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as being mirrorless and having a 2019 release year. The Canon EOS M6 Mark II is slightly cheaper at $850, compared to the Sony a6400 at $900. In terms of size and weight, the cameras are almost identical with minimal differences.

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS M6 Mark II, which justifies its higher score. Although the Canon EOS M6 Mark II has a lower price, the Sony a6400 proves to be a better camera in terms of overall performance. Thus, the higher score of the Sony a6400 reflects its superior quality, making it a more desirable option for photographers.

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Sony a6400 Overview and Optics

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS M6 Mark II in optics with a score of 68/100 compared to the Canon’s 62/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, and the lack of image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras have their own lens mounts, with the Canon using the EF-M mount and the Sony using the E mount.

The Sony a6400 is superior in terms of its sensor, as evidenced by its DXOMARK score of 83, compared to the Canon’s 58. This higher score means the Sony a6400 provides better image quality, particularly in low light situations. Furthermore, the a6400’s processor, the Bionz X, is known for its fast processing speed and efficient noise reduction capabilities.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II has its advantages, such as a higher megapixel count (33 vs. 24.2) and a faster shooting speed (14 vs. 11). These features make the Canon more suitable for capturing detailed images and fast action scenes.

In terms of optics, the Sony a6400 is the better choice due to its higher DXOMARK score and superior processing capabilities. However, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II may be more appealing to those who prioritize higher resolution and faster shooting speeds. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Optics
Optics
62%
68%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
33 MP
24.2 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6960 x 4640 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.
14.9 x 22.3 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.
14 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-M
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 8
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
32,000
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.
51200
102400
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/ 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.
143
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.
Electronic
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
2,360,000 dots
2,359,296 dots

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Sony a6400 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M6 Mark II and the Sony a6400 share an identical video score of 91/100, indicating that both cameras have impressive video capabilities. They have several common features, including a maximum video resolution of 4K, video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, a frame rate of 120fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.

Despite the identical scores, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II offers certain advantages over the Sony a6400. Its compact size and lighter weight make it more portable and easier to handle, especially for vloggers and content creators who require a camera that is easy to carry around. Additionally, the M6 Mark II has a fully articulating touchscreen, allowing for more flexible shooting angles and easier framing of shots.

On the other hand, the Sony a6400 has its own set of advantages. It features a more advanced autofocus system, providing faster and more accurate focus during video recording. Furthermore, the a6400 has a longer battery life, which is beneficial for extended video shoots or when capturing time-lapse videos that require the camera to be operational for long periods.

Both the Canon EOS M6 Mark II and the Sony a6400 are strong contenders in the world of video-capable cameras. The M6 Mark II’s portability and articulating touchscreen make it an attractive option for vloggers and content creators, while the a6400’s advanced autofocus system and longer battery life cater to those who prioritize focus accuracy and extended shooting times. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Video
Video
91%
91%
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.
4K
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.
3840 x 2160 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.
120 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.
MPEG-4
MPEG-4, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, XAVC S

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Sony a6400 Features and Benefits

The Sony a6400 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 81/100, compared to the Canon EOS M6 Mark II’s score of 70/100. Both cameras share several common features, such as a 3-inch touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. However, neither camera has GPS functionality.

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS M6 Mark II in some aspects. Although both cameras have a 3-inch screen, the a6400 has a higher screen resolution of 921,600 dots, compared to the M6 Mark II’s 1,040,000 dots. This means that the a6400 provides a clearer and sharper display, which is beneficial when reviewing images or navigating menus.

The Canon EOS M6 Mark II still has some advantages over the Sony a6400. Its screen resolution is slightly higher, which may result in a better image quality when reviewing photos. However, this difference is not significant enough to outweigh the benefits of the Sony a6400’s higher overall feature score.

Taking all factors into consideration, the Sony a6400 is a better camera in terms of features. Its higher feature score and better screen resolution make it the preferred choice for photographers looking for a camera with advanced capabilities. While the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is still a good camera, the Sony a6400 offers more value and performance in this comparison.

Features
Features
70%
81%
Built-in 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
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 M6 Mark II vs Sony a6400 Storage and Battery

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS M6 Mark II in storage and battery, scoring 37/100 compared to 35/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and offer USB charging. They accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, but the Sony a6400 also supports Memory Stick Duo and UHS-I compatibility, while the Canon has UHS-II compatibility.

The Sony a6400 provides a longer battery life of 410 shots, compared to the Canon’s 305 shots. This advantage allows users to capture more images before needing to recharge or replace the battery. The Sony uses the NP-FW50 battery, while the Canon relies on the LP-E17 battery.

Although the Canon EOS M6 Mark II scores slightly lower in storage and battery, its UHS-II compatibility enables faster read and write speeds for memory cards, which can be beneficial for some users.

Considering both cameras’ storage and battery capabilities, the Sony a6400 holds a slight edge due to its longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility. However, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II’s UHS-II compatibility may be a deciding factor for those requiring faster memory card performance.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
35%
37%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo (UHS-I compatible)
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E17
NP-FW50
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
305 shots
410 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
58%
83%
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.'
N/A
24 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.'
N/A
13.6 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'
N/A
1431
Scores
Main Features
N/A
92%
Extra Features
N/A
80%
Construction and Durability
N/A
93%
Handling and Ergonomics
N/A
87%
Value for Money
N/A
85%
Total Score
N/A
87%

Alternatives to the Canon EOS M6 Mark II and Sony a6400

Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Sony a6400 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 Sony a6400:

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