Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R III Comparison
Canon EOS R6
Sony a7R III
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS R6 | a7R III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2017 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 27, 2020 | October 25, 2017 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7R III outperforms the Canon EOS R6 with a score of 83/100 compared to 80/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as being mirrorless and having similar dimensions and weight. The Sony a7R III excels with its higher score, despite being released in 2017 and having a higher launch price of $3200. On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6, released in 2020, is a more affordable option at $2499.
Although the Sony a7R III has a higher score, the Canon EOS R6 might be a better choice for some users due to its lower price and newer release date. However, the Sony a7R III remains a strong competitor with its superior performance. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and budget considerations.
Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R III Overview and Optics
The Sony a7R III wins the optics comparison with a score of 84/100, while the Canon EOS R6 scores 79/100. Both cameras share some common specifications: they have CMOS sensors, full-frame sensor sizes, and offer image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras use their respective brands’ lens mounts – Canon RF for the EOS R6 and Sony FE for the a7R III.
The Sony a7R III outperforms the Canon EOS R6 in several aspects. The a7R III has a higher megapixel count at 42.4, compared to the R6’s 20.1, providing greater detail and resolution in images. The a7R III also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 100, which means it delivers better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. The Bionz X processor in the Sony a7R III also contributes to the overall performance of the camera.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 has its advantages. The R6 offers a faster shooting speed of 20 frames per second, compared to the a7R III’s 10. This makes the R6 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. The Digic X processor in the R6 also ensures fast and efficient processing of images.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R III is the better choice for photographers who prioritize image quality and resolution. The higher megapixel count and superior DXOMARK sensor score make it an excellent option for landscape, portrait, and low-light photography. However, the Canon EOS R6 is a strong contender for those who require faster shooting speeds for action and sports photography. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
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Optics
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Canon EOS R6
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Sony a7R III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.1 MP | 42.4 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 | 7952 x 5304 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 | 24 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 | 10 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 | Sony FE | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic X | 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. | 102,400 | 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. | 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 | 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/ 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 | 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 | 3,690,000 dots | 3,686,400 dots |
Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R III Video Performance
The Canon EOS R6 outperforms the Sony a7R III in video capabilities with a score of 91/100 compared to the latter’s 56/100. Both cameras share 4K as their maximum video resolution and have the same maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, the similarities end there, as the Canon EOS R6 offers superior features.
The Canon EOS R6 boasts a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, significantly higher than the Sony a7R III’s 30fps. This allows the R6 to capture smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, making it a better choice for videographers who require this feature. Additionally, the R6 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a7R III lacks. This means that the R6 users can create stunning time-lapse videos without needing extra equipment or software.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R III does not have any clear advantages in video capabilities over the Canon EOS R6. Its lower video score and fewer features make it less appealing for those who prioritize video performance.
Taking all of this into consideration, the Canon EOS R6 clearly outshines the Sony a7R III in terms of video capabilities. Its higher video score of 91/100, faster frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality make it the superior choice for videographers and filmmakers. Meanwhile, the Sony a7R III, with its lower video score and lack of standout features, may not be the best option for those who value video performance in their cameras.
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Video
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Canon EOS R6
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Sony a7R III
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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 | 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. | MP4 | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R III Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS R6 takes the lead in features with a score of 85/100, while the Sony a7R III trails slightly behind at 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capability, flip screen, and the absence of GPS. They also both offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon EOS R6 stands out with its superior screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots, compared to the Sony a7R III’s 1,440,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and sharper image display, enhancing the user’s experience when framing shots, reviewing images, and navigating menus.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R III still holds its ground with its strong feature set, only falling short by two points in the overall comparison. While it might not have the same screen resolution as the Canon EOS R6, it maintains its competitiveness by offering similar features and connectivity options.
Taking into account the common specifications and the slight edge the Canon EOS R6 has in screen resolution, it is the winner in the features category. However, the Sony a7R III remains a strong contender and should not be overlooked. Both cameras provide a range of useful features and connectivity options, making them suitable for various photography needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and requirements.
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Features
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Canon EOS R6
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Sony a7R III
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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. | 1,620,000 dots | 1,440,000 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 Sony a7R III Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS R6 edges out the Sony a7R III in storage and battery performance with a score of 68/100 compared to Sony’s 65/100. Both cameras possess two memory card slots and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards with UHS-II compatibility.
The EOS R6 surpasses the a7R III with its USB charging capability, providing convenience for on-the-go photographers. However, the a7R III outperforms the EOS R6 in battery life, delivering 650 shots per charge compared to the EOS R6’s 360 shots. The a7R III utilizes the NP-FZ100 battery type, while the EOS R6 uses the LP-E6NH battery.
Despite the longer battery life of the Sony a7R III, the Canon EOS R6’s USB charging option makes it a more practical choice for photographers who prioritize flexibility and ease of charging.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS R6
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Sony a7R III
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6NH | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 360 shots | 650 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS R6
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Sony a7R III
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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 | 26 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 | 14.7 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' | 3394 | 3523 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS R6
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Sony a7R III
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Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R III Alternatives
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User Scores
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Canon EOS R6
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Sony a7R III
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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