Canon 5D Mark IV vs R6: Which Reigns Supreme?

Hey there, friends! Over countless shoots, I’ve had the pleasure of using two incredible Canon cameras: the 5D Mark IV and the EOS R6. Both are fantastic, but they shine in different ways. Let’s dive into the Canon 5D Mark IV vs R6 comparison, sharing my experiences to help you pick the right one for your creative journey. Grab a coffee, and let’s get started!

Canon 5D Mark IV vs R6 Comparison

Camera Specifications Comparison

Here’s a quick look at how these cameras stack up technically. This table sums up the key specs to set the stage.

Feature	Canon 5D Mark IV	Canon EOS R6
Resolution	30.4 MP	20.1 MP
Sensor Type	Full-Frame CMOS	Full-Frame CMOS
ISO Range	100-32000 (expandable to 50-102400)	100-102400 (expandable to 50-204800)
Autofocus System	61-point AF with 41 cross-type points	Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with 6072 AF points
Continuous Shooting	7 fps	12 fps (mechanical), 20 fps (electronic)
Video Capabilities	4K at 30fps, MJPEG	4K at 60fps, H.264/H.265
Image Stabilization	No IBIS	5-axis IBIS (up to 8 stops)
Viewfinder	Optical	Electronic (3.69M dots, 120 fps)
LCD Screen	3.2″ 1.62M dots, fixed	3.0″ 1.62M dots, vari-angle
Weight	890 g	680 g
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, NFC, GPS	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Battery Life (CIPA)	900 shots	360 shots (EVF)
Memory Cards	CF (UHS-I), SD (UHS-I)	Dual SD (UHS-II)

The 5D Mark IV offers higher resolution, perfect for detailed stills. The R6, with its in-body stabilization and superior video specs, leans toward versatility.

Body and Design

The 5D Mark IV feels like a trusty workhorse. Its magnesium alloy body is rugged, weather-sealed, and ideal for tough conditions like dusty deserts or rainy forests. It’s heavier, but the solid grip inspires confidence during long shoots. I’ve taken it on rugged outdoor assignments, and it’s never let me down.

The R6, being mirrorless, is lighter and more compact. Its weather-sealed build holds up well, and the vari-angle touchscreen is a game-changer for creative angles or vlogging. I love its portability on hikes, though the 5D Mark IV’s heft suits studio work better.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus is where the R6 truly shines. Its Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system, with 6072 focus points, tracks subjects like birds or athletes with pinpoint accuracy. I once shot a flock of seagulls, and the R6’s eye-tracking nailed every frame. It’s especially impressive in low light, maintaining focus where others struggle.

The 5D Mark IV’s 61-point AF system is reliable but less advanced. It handles most scenarios well, but fast-moving subjects can challenge it. For static or slower subjects, like portraits, it’s more than capable.

Image Quality

Both cameras produce stunning images, but their strengths differ. The 5D Mark IV’s 30.4 MP sensor delivers incredible detail, ideal for landscapes or large prints. I shot a mountain range last year, and cropping into distant peaks revealed crisp textures. Its dynamic range (13.6 stops at base ISO) is solid for post-processing.

The R6’s 20.1 MP sensor is slightly less detailed when cropping heavily but excels in low light. With a dynamic range of 14.3 stops and cleaner images at high ISOs (up to 204800), it’s great for night shoots or dimly lit events. I’ve captured starry skies with minimal noise using the R6.

Video Capabilities

For video, the R6 is the clear winner. It shoots 4K at 60fps with 10-bit H.265, offering smooth footage for dynamic scenes. The vari-angle screen and IBIS make handheld shooting effortless, and the autofocus tracks faces flawlessly. I filmed a short documentary, and the R6’s focus peaking and zebras were invaluable.

The 5D Mark IV’s 4K at 30fps with MJPEG is solid but dated. Its fixed screen and lack of IBIS limit flexibility, and the 1.74x crop factor can be restrictive. If video is your focus, the R6’s modern features make it the better choice.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery life favors the 5D Mark IV, delivering around 900 shots per charge compared to the R6’s 360 shots (using the EVF). For all-day shoots, the 5D Mark IV keeps going longer. I’ve used it for entire wedding days without swapping batteries.

The R6 can use a battery grip to extend life, which I’ve found handy. Connectivity-wise, both have Wi-Fi, but the R6 adds Bluetooth for seamless smartphone pairing. Transferring images to my phone is quicker with the R6, especially on the go.

Real-World Performance

Let’s explore how these cameras perform in specific scenarios.

Landscape Photography

The 5D Mark IV’s high resolution is perfect for landscapes. I shot the Grand Canyon, cropping into rock formations without losing detail. Its optical viewfinder helps compose shots in bright sunlight. The R6, while lighter for long treks, requires more precise framing due to its lower resolution.

Wildlife Photography

Wildlife demands speed, and the R6 delivers. Its 20 fps electronic shutter and advanced AF tracked a sprinting deer perfectly during a forest shoot. The 5D Mark IV’s 7 fps is decent but struggles with erratic motion, making the R6 my go-to for action.

Portrait Photography

For portraits, both excel. The 5D Mark IV’s optical viewfinder offers a natural view, great for studio sessions. The R6’s EVF and low-light prowess shine during golden hour shoots, capturing skin tones beautifully even in dim conditions.

Event Photography

Events like weddings need reliability in low light. The R6’s IBIS lets me shoot at slower shutter speeds, keeping images sharp in dark venues. The 5D Mark IV relies on lens stabilization, which isn’t always enough with fast primes.

Video Content Creation

The R6 is a videographer’s dream. Its 4K 60fps and smooth AF made my documentary shots cinematic. The 5D Mark IV’s 4K 30fps works for basic video, but its fixed screen and crop factor feel limiting.

Lens Ecosystem

The lens ecosystem is a critical factor when choosing between these cameras. The 5D Mark IV uses the EF mount, which has a vast selection of lenses, from Canon’s L-series to third-party options like Sigma and Tamron. If you own EF lenses, you can use them natively, ensuring full performance. My EF 24-70mm f/2.8L has been a staple on the 5D Mark IV.

The R6 uses the RF mount, designed for mirrorless cameras. Canon’s RF lens lineup is growing, with options like the RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM being compact and sharp. You can use EF lenses on the R6 with an RF-EF adapter, but IBIS is fully effective only with RF lenses. I’ve used my EF 70-200mm f/2.8L on the R6, and while it works well, I miss the full IBIS benefits.

For photographers with EF lenses, the 5D Mark IV is more straightforward. But the RF system is Canon’s future, offering innovative designs and long-term support.

Future Considerations

Canon’s shift toward mirrorless makes the R6 more future-proof. New RF lenses and firmware updates are expanding rapidly, as seen on Canon’s official site. The 5D Mark IV, while compatible with EF lenses, may see less development as DSLRs wane. I’ve noticed Canon prioritizing mirrorless innovations, like advanced autofocus algorithms.

If you’re invested in EF lenses and prefer DSLRs, the 5D Mark IV is still a reliable choice. But for those wanting to stay ahead, the R6 aligns with Canon’s forward-looking strategy.

Ergonomics and Handling

The 5D Mark IV’s deeper grip and button layout feel intuitive for long shoots. Its top-facing LCD is handy for quick settings checks. The R6’s lighter weight and deeper grip make it comfortable, but I miss the top LCD. The R6’s EVF, with a 120 fps refresh rate, shows active focus points, which is a plus for action.

Memory Cards

The 5D Mark IV uses one CF and one SD card (UHS-I), offering flexibility but slower speeds. The R6’s dual UHS-II SD slots are faster, supporting its high burst rates. I’ve found the R6’s matching slots more convenient for backups.

Rolling Shutter

Both cameras suffer from rolling shutter in video, but the 5D Mark IV’s is less pronounced for stills. The R6’s electronic shutter can distort fast-moving subjects, so I stick to mechanical for action shots.

Weather Sealing

Both are weather-sealed, but the 5D Mark IV feels more robust. I’ve used it in heavy rain without issues. The R6 holds up well but feels slightly less tank-like, per reviews on PetaPixel.

Decision-Making: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Canon 5D Mark IV vs R6 depends on your priorities:

• Choose the 5D Mark IV if:
  • You’re a stills photographer needing high resolution for landscapes or prints.
  • You prefer a DSLR’s optical viewfinder and tactile handling.
  • You own EF lenses and want native compatibility.
  • You need longer battery life for extended shoots.
• Choose the R6 if:
  • You shoot video and need 4K 60fps with advanced autofocus.
  • You want cutting-edge autofocus for action or low light.
  • You prefer a compact, lightweight camera for travel.
  • You’re investing in Canon’s mirrorless future.

Both are exceptional, but the R6 feels like Canon’s future, while the 5D Mark IV is a reliable classic.

Conclusion

The 5D Mark IV and EOS R6 are stellar cameras, each with unique strengths. The 5D Mark IV excels in resolution and durability, perfect for detailed stills. The R6, with its video prowess and modern features, suits creators embracing mirrorless tech. I hope my experiences help you choose the camera that fuels your creativity!

FAQ

1. Which camera has better image quality?
   The 5D Mark IV’s 30.4 MP sensor offers more detail for cropping or prints, while the R6 excels in low light with cleaner high-ISO images.
2. Is the EOS R6 good for video?
   Yes, its 4K 60fps, IBIS, and advanced autofocus make it ideal for video.
3. Can I use EF lenses on the R6?
   Yes, with an RF-EF adapter, but IBIS is fully effective with RF lenses.
4. Which has better battery life?
   The 5D Mark IV lasts longer (900 shots vs. 360 for the R6 with EVF).
5. Is the 5D Mark IV still relevant in 2025?
   Yes, for high-resolution stills, but the R6 is more future-proof.
6. How does weather sealing compare?
   Both are weather-sealed, but the 5D Mark IV feels slightly more robust.
7. Which is better for action photography?
   The R6’s faster burst rate and autofocus make it superior for action.
8. Does the R6 overheat during video?
   It can overheat in extended 4K shoots, unlike the 5D Mark IV.