CameraReview

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IV — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS R6
Canon
Canon EOS R6
Mirrorless · 20.1 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
80
SCORE
$1,499.95
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✓ WINNER
Sony a7R IV
Sony
Sony a7R IV
Mirrorless · 61.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
84
SCORE
$2,481.26
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General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS R6a7R IV
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202019
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
27/08/202016/07/2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 138 x 98 x 88 mm129 x 96 x 78 mm
Camera weight 680 g665 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.1 MP05061.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5472 x 36489504 x 6336
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.
23.9 x 35.923.8 x 35.7
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.
20 fps04510 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 RFSony FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic XBionz 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.
1024003003280000320003003280000
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.
20480030032800001024003003280000
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.
105303004250300
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 369000009900000576000009900000
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 fps30 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.
MP4XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4
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"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1620000115000150000014400001150001500000
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-E6NHNP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
360 shots1505000670 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Canon EOS R6 with a score of 84/100 compared to the R6’s 80/100. Both cameras share common features, such as being mirrorless and having similar sizes and weights. The Sony a7R IV is slightly lighter at 665g, while the Canon EOS R6 weighs 680g.

The Sony a7R IV excels with its higher score, which reflects its better overall performance. Additionally, it was released in 2019 at a launch price of $3500, making it a more established option in the market. On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6, released in 2020, is a more recent addition to the market with a lower launch price of $2499.

Despite the Sony a7R IV’s higher score, the Canon EOS R6 has its advantages, such as its more affordable price. Both cameras have their merits, and the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preferences and budget constraints.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IV Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Canon EOS R6 in optics, scoring 85/100 compared to the R6’s 79/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. They also have different lens mounts, with the Canon using the RF mount and the Sony using the FE mount.

The Sony a7R IV is superior in several aspects. It has a significantly higher megapixel count at 61.2, allowing for greater detail in images compared to the R6’s 20.1 megapixels. The a7R IV also boasts a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 99, indicating better overall image quality. The Bionz X processor in the a7R IV contributes to its improved performance in handling high-resolution images.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 has a faster shooting speed of 20 frames per second, doubling the a7R IV’s 10 frames per second. This makes the R6 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. The Digic X processor in the R6 allows for efficient handling of the camera’s shooting speed.

In terms of optics, the Sony a7R IV is the clear winner with its higher megapixel count and DXOMARK sensor score, making it the better choice for photographers who prioritize image quality and resolution. However, the Canon EOS R6’s faster shooting speed gives it an edge in action photography and situations where capturing rapid movement is crucial.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IV Video Performance

The Canon EOS R6 outperforms the Sony a7R IV in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the Sony’s 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Canon EOS R6 surpasses the Sony a7R IV mainly due to its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is significantly faster than the Sony’s 30fps. This difference allows the Canon EOS R6 to capture smoother, more detailed slow-motion footage, providing more creative possibilities for videographers.

While the Sony a7R IV may not match the Canon EOS R6 in terms of video frame rate, it still offers solid video performance. Its 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality are valuable features for many users. However, the lower frame rate does limit its versatility in comparison to the Canon EOS R6.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R6 emerges as the superior choice for video capabilities. Its higher frame rate provides more options for videographers, while still maintaining the same resolution and time-lapse features as the Sony a7R IV. On the other hand, the Sony a7R IV remains a competent option for video but falls short in comparison to the Canon EOS R6.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IV Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R6 wins the features comparison with a score of 85/100, while the Sony a7R IV scores 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen, touchscreen capability, flip screen, absence of GPS, and the presence of WIFI and Bluetooth.

The Canon EOS R6 outperforms the Sony a7R IV primarily due to its higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots, compared to the Sony’s 1,440,000 dots. This difference provides the EOS R6 with a clearer and more detailed display, giving users an advantage when reviewing images and navigating the camera’s settings.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R IV does not have any significant advantages over the Canon EOS R6 in terms of features. Both cameras share the same screen size, and their connectivity options are identical. Furthermore, the absence of GPS in both models levels the playing field in this aspect.

Considering the features of both cameras, the Canon EOS R6’s higher screen resolution gives it the edge over the Sony a7R IV. The shared specifications between the two models indicate that they cater to similar user needs, with the EOS R6 offering a slightly better viewing experience. The lack of any standout feature in the Sony a7R IV means that it falls short in this comparison. Ultimately, the Canon EOS R6 emerges as the better choice for users who prioritize camera features.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IV Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Canon EOS R6 in storage and battery with a score of 79/100 compared to 68/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as two memory card slots and compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-II) cards. Additionally, both models offer USB charging capabilities.

The Sony a7R IV has a better battery life, providing 670 shots per charge, while the Canon EOS R6 only offers 360 shots. This significant difference makes the Sony a7R IV more suitable for extended shooting sessions.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 does not have any distinct advantages in storage and battery over the Sony a7R IV. The lower score in this category reflects this fact.

Considering the longer battery life and equal storage capabilities, the Sony a7R IV is the superior choice in this comparison.

Alternatives to the Canon EOS R6 and Sony a7R IV

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IV 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 R6 or the Sony a7R IV: