CameraReview

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IVA — 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
$2,116.53
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✓ WINNER
Sony a7R IVA
Sony
Sony a7R IVA
Mirrorless · 61 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
85
SCORE
$2,078.40
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202021
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
27/08/202007/04/2021
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 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 35.935.7 x 23.8
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.
105303005670300
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 fps120 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, H.264
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"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1620000115000150000023600001150001500000
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 IVA outperforms the Canon EOS R6 with a score of 85/100 compared to 80/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2020 and 2021, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the Sony a7R IVA being slightly smaller and lighter at 129 x 96 x 78mm and 665g. The Canon EOS R6 measures 138 x 98 x 88mm and weighs 680g.

The Sony a7R IVA’s higher score indicates its superior performance in certain aspects. However, the Canon EOS R6 has its advantages as well, such as a lower launch price of $2499 compared to the Sony’s $3500. This makes the Canon EOS R6 a more budget-friendly option.

Taking into account the scores, specifications, and price, the Sony a7R IVA is the better camera for those who prioritize performance and can afford a higher price tag. On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 offers a more affordable option while still delivering quality results.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IVA Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R IVA outperforms the Canon EOS R6 in optics, with a score of 85/100 compared to the R6’s 79/100. Both cameras share several important specifications, including full-frame CMOS sensors, image stabilization, and compatibility with their respective brand’s lens mounts (Canon RF and Sony FE).

The Sony a7R IVA has a significant advantage in megapixels, boasting 61 compared to the R6’s 20.1. This higher resolution allows for more detail and better image quality, particularly in large prints or heavy cropping. Additionally, the a7R IVA has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, at 99 versus the R6’s 90. This difference suggests improved overall image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance for the Sony camera.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 has a faster shooting speed, capturing 20 frames per second (fps) compared to the a7R IVA’s 10 fps. This feature is beneficial for action and sports photography, where capturing fast-moving subjects is crucial. The R6 also has a more advanced processor, the Digic X, which may contribute to faster processing and better noise reduction.

In terms of optics, the Sony a7R IVA is the winner, offering better resolution and overall image quality. However, the Canon EOS R6 is not without its strengths, providing a faster shooting speed suitable for action photography. Each camera has its advantages, and the choice between them will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IVA Video Performance

The Canon EOS R6 and Sony a7R IVA are evenly matched in video capabilities, as both cameras have a video score of 91/100. These cameras share several key specifications, making them strong competitors in the realm of video performance.

Both the Canon EOS R6 and Sony a7R IVA boast a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, they both offer a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, providing users with the ability to capture smooth, high-quality footage. These cameras also come equipped with built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing for creative and dynamic video content.

The Canon EOS R6 excels in its autofocus system and image stabilization, providing users with consistently sharp and stable footage. This feature is particularly useful for videographers who are capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting handheld.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R IVA shines in its dynamic range and color depth, offering videographers a greater degree of control and flexibility in post-production. This advantage allows users to achieve more accurate color representation and enhanced detail in their final output.

Both cameras stand out for different reasons, with the Canon EOS R6 offering superior autofocus and stabilization, while the Sony a7R IVA excels in dynamic range and color depth. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the videographer. Regardless of the selection, both the Canon EOS R6 and Sony a7R IVA provide exceptional video capabilities, making them strong contenders in the market.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IVA Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R6 and the Sony a7R IVA both earn a feature score of 85/100, making them equally competitive in terms of their features. They share several specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras offer WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

Despite having the same feature score, the Sony a7R IVA outperforms the Canon EOS R6 in terms of screen resolution, boasting 2,360,000 dots compared to the R6’s 1,620,000 dots. This higher resolution translates to a clearer and more detailed display, which can be advantageous for photographers who rely on accurate image preview and review.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 does not surpass the Sony a7R IVA in any specific feature based on the given specifications. However, it is important to note that the feature score does not solely determine the quality of a camera. Other factors, such as image quality, performance, and ergonomics, may contribute to a camera’s overall value and user experience.

Taking these points into account, both the Canon EOS R6 and the Sony a7R IVA offer impressive features that cater to different preferences and needs. The Sony a7R IVA excels in screen resolution, providing a superior display experience. Meanwhile, the Canon EOS R6 matches the a7R IVA in several aspects, making it a worthy competitor. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s priorities and requirements.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IVA Storage and Battery

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

The Sony a7R IVA excels with its impressive battery life of 670 shots, significantly longer than the Canon EOS R6’s 360 shots. This advantage allows for extended shooting sessions without needing to replace the battery frequently. The a7R IVA’s NP-FZ100 battery type contributes to this superior performance.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R6 has the same storage capabilities as the Sony a7R IVA, but its battery life falls short. The R6’s LP-E6NH battery type may not offer the same longevity as the a7R IVA’s NP-FZ100.

In comparing storage and battery performance, the Sony a7R IVA emerges as the clear winner due to its longer battery life. However, both cameras provide similar storage options, allowing for flexibility and convenience in handling memory cards.

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IVA – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R6 vs Sony a7R IVA 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 IVA: