CameraReview

Canon EOS R vs Canon EOS R6 Mark II — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS R
Canon
Canon EOS R
Mirrorless · 30.3 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
80
SCORE
$1,799
best of 1 retailer
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Canon EOS R6 Mark II
Canon
Canon EOS R6 Mark II
Mirrorless · 24 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
78
SCORE
$1,899
best of 3 retailers
Best Price →
General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182022
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
05/09/201811/02/2022
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 136 x 98 x 84 mm138.4 × 98.4 × 88.4 mm
Camera weight 485 g588 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
30.3 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6720 x 44806000 x 4000
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 3624 x 36
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull 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.
8 fps04540 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 RFCanon RF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Digic 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.
3:23:2
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.
4000030032800001024003003280000
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.
50302005030200
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.
10240030032800002048003003280000
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.
800080032000800080032000
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.
5655030048970300
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 369000009900000369000009900000
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.
30 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.
MP4MPEG-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 LCDTFT 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 3.2"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2100000115000150000016200001150001500000
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-E6NLP-E6NH
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
370 shots1505000360 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II comes out ahead with a score of 78/100, while the Canon EOS R trails slightly with a score of 74/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share some similarities, such as their announcement and release years, with the EOS R in 2018 and the EOS R6 Mark II in 2022. Size-wise, they are quite close, with the EOS R measuring 136 x 98 x 84mm and the EOS R6 Mark II at 138.4 × 98.4 × 88.4mm.

The EOS R6 Mark II offers advantages with its higher score, despite being slightly heavier at 588g compared to the EOS R’s weight of 485g. This difference may indicate better performance and features in the newer model. On the other hand, the EOS R has a lower launch price of $2300, while the EOS R6 Mark II is priced at $2499, making the EOS R more budget-friendly.

Taking all these points into account, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II emerges as the winner due to its superior score, suggesting improved features and performance. However, the Canon EOS R remains a viable option for those seeking a more affordable camera.

Canon EOS R vs EOS R6 Mark II Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II takes the lead in optics with a score of 83/100, while the Canon EOS R trails behind with a score of 73/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, Full Frame sensor size, and the Canon RF lens mount. However, there are differences that set these two models apart, making one superior to the other in specific aspects.

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II excels due to its faster shooting speed of 40, compared to the Canon EOS R’s shooting speed of 8. The R6 Mark II also features a more advanced Digic X processor, which contributes to better image processing performance. Additionally, the R6 Mark II has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 91, compared to the EOS R’s score of 89. These factors make the R6 Mark II a better option for those seeking faster performance and improved image quality. Furthermore, the R6 Mark II comes with image stabilization, providing an advantage for photographers who require steadier shots.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R boasts a higher megapixel count of 30.3, compared to the R6 Mark II’s 24 megapixels. This factor allows the EOS R to capture more detailed images, making it a better choice for photographers who prioritize high-resolution photography.

Taking these aspects into account, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the better choice for photographers in need of faster performance, better image processing, and image stabilization. However, the Canon EOS R remains a strong contender for those who prioritize capturing high-resolution images.

Canon EOS R vs EOS R6 Mark II Video Performance

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS R in video capabilities, scoring 83/100 compared to the EOS R’s 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.

The EOS R6 Mark II excels in its higher max video frame rate of 60fps, double the EOS R’s 30fps. This difference allows the EOS R6 Mark II to capture smoother and more detailed videos, especially in fast-moving scenes or for slow-motion effects. The higher frame rate gives the EOS R6 Mark II a clear advantage over the EOS R in terms of video performance.

On the other hand, the EOS R does not offer any significant advantages in video capabilities compared to the EOS R6 Mark II. Both cameras have the same max video resolution and dimensions, but the EOS R falls short in the max video frame rate category.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II proves to be the superior camera for video capabilities. Its higher video score reflects its better performance, mainly due to the doubled max video frame rate. The EOS R, while still offering 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality, does not match the EOS R6 Mark II’s video performance. For those prioritizing video capabilities in their camera choice, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the clear winner.

Canon EOS R vs EOS R6 Mark II Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R triumphs over the Canon EOS R6 Mark II with a feature score of 87/100 compared to 72/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. However, the Canon EOS R outperforms the R6 Mark II in certain aspects, while the latter has its own advantages.

The Canon EOS R has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches and a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, providing a better display and user experience. In contrast, the R6 Mark II has a smaller 3-inch screen with a lower resolution of 1,620,000 dots. The EOS R’s superior screen size and resolution offer enhanced image preview and easier navigation through settings.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II features GPS functionality, which the EOS R lacks. This provides the advantage of geotagging photos, enabling users to track the location of their shots easily. This can be beneficial for travel and landscape photographers who wish to document their journeys.

In terms of features, the Canon EOS R is a stronger contender with a higher score and better screen specifications. However, the R6 Mark II’s GPS functionality may appeal to users who prioritize location tracking in their photography. The choice between these two cameras ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities in terms of features.

Canon EOS R vs EOS R6 Mark II Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS R in storage and battery with a score of 68/100, while the EOS R scores 35/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards (UHS-II compatible) and offer USB charging. However, the EOS R6 Mark II has the advantage of two memory card slots, providing more storage flexibility and backup options.

The battery life for the EOS R is slightly better, providing 370 shots compared to the EOS R6 Mark II’s 360 shots. Both cameras use different battery types: the EOS R uses LP-E6N, while the R6 Mark II uses LP-E6NH. This difference in battery types may impact compatibility with existing accessories.

Despite the minor advantage in battery life for the EOS R, the EOS R6 Mark II’s dual memory card slots make it the superior choice for storage and battery capabilities.

Canon EOS R vs EOS R6 Mark II – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R vs EOS R6 Mark II 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 R or the Canon EOS R6 Mark II: