Canon EOS R6 vs Nikon Z6 Comparison
Canon EOS R6
Nikon Z6
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS R6 | Z6 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 27, 2020 | August 23, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon Z6 edges out the Canon EOS R6 with a score of 81/100 compared to 80/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similarities in size and weight, with the Nikon Z6 measuring 134 x 101 x 68mm and weighing 675g, while the Canon EOS R6 comes in at 138 x 98 x 88mm and 680g.
The Canon EOS R6 has a higher launch price of $2499 compared to the Nikon Z6’s $2000. Despite the price difference, the Nikon Z6 still manages to outperform the Canon EOS R6 by a slight margin. This could be due to factors such as image quality, autofocus performance, or other features that are not reflected in the general specifications.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 is a more recent release, hitting the market in 2020, while the Nikon Z6 was released in 2018. This means that the Canon EOS R6 may offer more advanced technology and features, justifying its higher price.
Taking these points into consideration, the Nikon Z6 offers a slightly better performance at a lower price, while the Canon EOS R6 brings the advantage of more recent technology.
Canon EOS R6 vs Nikon Z6 Overview and Optics
The Nikon Z6 outperforms the Canon EOS R6 in optics, with a score of 83/100 compared to the Canon’s 79/100. Both cameras share several key specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras feature their respective brand’s lens mount: Canon RF for the EOS R6 and Nikon Z for the Z6.
The Nikon Z6 surpasses the Canon EOS R6 in two crucial aspects: megapixels and DXOMARK score for the sensor. The Z6 boasts 24.5 megapixels, while the R6 has 20.1 megapixels, giving the Nikon Z6 an advantage in image resolution. Moreover, the Z6 has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 95, compared to the R6’s 90, indicating better overall image quality.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 outshines the Nikon Z6 in shooting speed. With a speed of 20 frames per second, the R6 doubles the Z6’s 12 frames per second. This faster shooting speed makes the R6 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography.
In terms of their processors, the Canon R6 uses a Digic X processor, while the Nikon Z6 employs an Expeed 6 processor. Although both processors are efficient, it’s difficult to directly compare them as they are designed specifically for their respective camera brands.
Taking all factors into consideration, the Nikon Z6 claims the optics victory with its higher megapixel count and superior DXOMARK sensor score, making it ideal for photographers seeking top-notch image quality. However, the Canon EOS R6 remains a strong contender for those prioritizing fast shooting speeds in their photography.
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Optics
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Canon EOS R6
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Nikon Z6
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.1 MP | 24.5 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 | 6048 x 4024 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. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm | 23.9 x 35.9 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. | 20 fps | 12 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 RF | Nikon Z | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic X | Expeed 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. |  3:2 | 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. | 102,400 | 51,200 | |
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. | 204800 | 204800 | |
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/ 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. | 1,053 | 273 | |
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 | 3,690,000 dots | 3,690,000 dots |
Canon EOS R6 vs Nikon Z6 Video Performance
The Canon EOS R6 outperforms the Nikon Z6 in video capabilities with a score of 91/100 compared to the Nikon’s 83/100. Both cameras share common features such as 4K maximum video resolution, 3840 x 2160 maximum video dimensions, and built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Canon EOS R6 excels with its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, doubling the Nikon Z6’s 60fps. This enables the EOS R6 to capture smoother slow-motion footage, providing more creative flexibility for videographers. The higher frame rate also allows for better performance in fast-paced situations, such as sports or wildlife videography.
The Nikon Z6 does not have any significant advantages over the Canon EOS R6 in terms of video capabilities. Its lower video score and maximum frame rate place it at a disadvantage compared to the EOS R6. However, it is essential to consider other factors such as price, ergonomics, and lens availability when making a final decision between the two cameras.
Given the differences between the Canon EOS R6 and Nikon Z6, the EOS R6 emerges as the better choice for videographers due to its superior video performance. The higher video score and maximum frame rate set it apart from the Nikon Z6, providing smoother slow-motion and better performance in fast-paced situations. While the Nikon Z6 remains a solid option for photography, those prioritizing video capabilities should opt for the Canon EOS R6.
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Video
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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. |  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 | 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. | MP4 | MOV, MP4 |
Canon EOS R6 vs Nikon Z6 Features and Benefits
The Nikon Z6 surpasses the Canon EOS R6 with a feature score of 87/100 compared to the R6’s 85/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a touchscreen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. They also lack GPS functionality.
The Nikon Z6 outperforms the Canon EOS R6 in terms of screen size and resolution. The Z6 boasts a 3.2-inch screen with a resolution of 2,100,000 dots, providing a larger and sharper display than the R6’s 3-inch screen with 1,620,000 dots resolution. This advantage allows for better image preview and menu navigation on the Nikon Z6.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 features a flip screen, which the Nikon Z6 lacks. This flip screen is beneficial for photographers and videographers who need to capture images or record videos from various angles and positions. This feature provides the R6 with more versatility in certain shooting situations.
Considering these points, the Nikon Z6 is superior in terms of screen size and resolution, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize display quality. Conversely, the Canon EOS R6’s flip screen adds flexibility in capturing images and videos from different angles. Both cameras are strong contenders with unique strengths in their feature sets, making the final decision dependent on individual preferences and specific use cases.
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Features
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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 | TFT 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" |  3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,620,000 dots | 2,100,000 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 R6 vs Nikon Z6 Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS R6 outperforms the Nikon Z6 in storage and battery with a score of 68/100 compared to Nikon’s 35/100. Both cameras have USB charging capabilities and share similar battery types, with the Canon using LP-E6NH and the Nikon using EN-EL15b.
Canon’s R6 has two memory card slots, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards with UHS-II compatibility. This is a significant advantage over the Nikon Z6, which has only one memory card slot and accepts XQD cards. This allows the Canon R6 users to have more storage options and flexibility.
Moreover, the Canon R6 offers a longer battery life with 360 shots, while the Nikon Z6 provides 310 shots. The extended battery life of the Canon R6 allows for more photos to be taken without needing to recharge or replace the battery.
Despite the lower score, the Nikon Z6’s use of XQD cards can provide faster read and write speeds, which may benefit some users. However, given the dual card slots and longer battery life, the Canon EOS R6 is the superior choice for storage and battery capabilities.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon Z6
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | XQD | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6NH | EN-EL15b | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 360 shots | 310 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS R6
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Nikon Z6
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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.' | 24.2 bits | 25.3 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.' | 14.3 EVs | 14.3 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' | 3394 | 3299 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS R6
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Nikon Z6
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Alternatives to the Canon EOS R6 and Nikon Z6
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS R6 or the Nikon Z6:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS R6
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Nikon Z6
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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