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Canon 6D Review

  • Overview
  • Alternatives
  • Lenses
  • Canon 6D

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    Main Features

    • 20MP - Full frame CMOS Sensor
    • ISO 100 - 25600( expands to 50-102400)
    • 3" Fixed Type Screen
    • Optical (pentaprism) viewfinder
    • 4.5 fps continuous shooting
    • Full HD - 1920 x 1080 video
    • Built-in Wireless
    • Built-in GPS
    • 770g. 145 x 111 x 71 mm
    • Weather Sealed Body
    • Replaced by Canon 6D MII
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    Canon 6D Overview

    First introduced in February 2013 , Canon EOS 6D is a 20.0MP Advanced DSLR camera with a Full frame (36 x 24 mm ) sized CMOS sensor and Canon EF lens mount. Canon later replaced 6D with 6D MII. Follow the link to read our in-depth comparison of these cameras:
    Compare Canon EOS 6D vs Canon 6D MII

    Canon 6D Review - Click for Table of Contents

    1. Overview
    2. Pros and Cons
    3. Lens Mount and Lenses
    4. Sensor and Photography Features
    5. Physical Specs
    6. LCD and Viewfinder
    7. Connectivity, Storage and Battery
    8. Video
    9. Other Features
    10. Photography Type Scores
    11. Alternatives
    12. Popular Comparisons
    13. Frequently Asked Questions
    14. Detailed Specifications

    Canon 6D has an Overall Score of 72/100 and ranked #43 out of 208 in DSLR cameras (Top 10 DSLR), and ranked #130 out of 1226 in all Cameras (Top 10 Overall).

    Main Scores
    Imaging
    Features
    Value for Money
    Portability
    Overall Score
    Check our Smart Finder Tool to filter, sort and compare all digital cameras.



    Canon 6D Physical Specs
    Canon 6D weighs 770 g (1.70 lb / 27.16 oz) and has external dimensions of 145 x 111 x 71 mm (5.71 x 4.37 x 2.8″). Considering that the average weight of DSLR type cameras is 773g, its weight is about average in its class. With a thickness of 71mm, it also has an average thickness.
    Weight Comparison

    DSLR Cameras

    Canon 6D
    Min
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    Max
    Thickness Comparison

    DSLR Cameras

    Canon 6D
    Min
    Average
    Max

    Here is the front and top view image of Canon 6D with the dimensions:

    Canon 6D Body Size Dimensions
    Front and Top View External Dimensions and Size of Canon 6D Camera Body

    In order to give you a better idea about the real life size of Canon 6D, we have added an image of how it looks next to a credit card and an AA type battery.


    Canon 6D Body Size Compared to a Credit card and a Battery
    Physical size of the Canon 6D Body Compared to a Credit Card and an AA Battery


    Below you can find the comparison of the weight and thickness of Canon 6D with its main competitors:

    Canon 6D Size Compared to Main Competitors
    Model Weight vs 6D Thickness vs 6D
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 6D MII
    Compare
    765g 5g lighter 75mm 4mm thicker
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 5D MII
    Compare
    850g 80g heavier 75mm 4mm thicker
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 5D MIII
    Compare
    950g 180g heavier 76mm 5mm thicker
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 7D
    Compare
    860g 90g heavier 74mm 3mm thicker
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 80D
    Compare
    730g 40g lighter 79mm 8mm thicker
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Nikon D610
    Compare
    850g 80g heavier 82mm 11mm thicker
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 60D
    Compare
    755g 15g lighter 79mm 8mm thicker
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 70D
    Compare
    755g 15g lighter 79mm 8mm thicker

    Weather Sealing

    Canon 6D has environmental sealings on its body which makes it a weather resistant camera, providing resistance against the water and dust getting in to the camera. If you like outdoors photography and want to be able to use your camera in extreme conditions, Canon 6D will serve you well. If you attach one of these Canon 6D weather Sealed lenses to your camera, you will have a great all weather kit.

    Canon 6D Sensor and Photography Features

    Canon 6D has a 20.0MP Full frame (36 x 24 mm ) sized CMOS sensor and features Digic 5+ processor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 5472 x 3648 pixels with aspect ratios of and 3:2. 6D has a native ISO range of 100 - 25600 which can be boosted to 50-102400 and it can save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.

    Canon 6D is not the highest resolution Full frame camera. Sigma fp L with its 61.0MP sensor is leading in this class. Check the comparison of Canon 6D vs Sigma fp L or take a look at Highest resolution DSLR cameras list.

    Canon 6D DxOMark Sensor Scores

    DxOMark is a benchmark that scientifically assesses image quality of camera sensors. Canon 6D sensor has been tested by DxO Mark and got an overall score of 82 for its image quality. You can find the details of their analysis of Canon 6D here.

    Let's look at how the size of the Canon 6D's Full frame sensor compares with other standard sensor sizes.

    Canon 6D Sensor Size Comparison
    Comparison image of Canon 6D Sensor Size with other standard sensors

    Canon 6D Lens Mount and Lenses

    Canon 6D has a Canon EF lens mount and currently there are 250 native lenses available for this mount. EF mount has the widest and most complete native lens offerings in the DSLR world which helps Canon to protect its place as the number 1 choice amongst professional photographers all over the world.

    Canon 6D doesn't have a sensor based image stabilization system but 76 of these lenses already comes with Optical Image Stabilization. There are also 83 lenses with weather sealing for 6D that you can couple with its weather sealed body.

    Here are some of the most popular Canon 6D Lenses on Camera Decision:

    Popular Canon EF Mount Lenses for Canon 6D
    Model Focal Length on 6D Coverage Weight Focusing Street Price
    Canon EF 50mm f1.8 II Lens Canon EF 50mm f1.8 II
    50mm 35mm FF 130gr AF Amazon B&H Photo
    Canon EF 24-105mm f4L IS USM Lens Canon EF 24-105mm f4L IS USM
    24-105mm 35mm FF 670gr AF Amazon B&H Photo
    Canon EF 50mm f1.8 STM Lens Canon EF 50mm f1.8 STM
    50mm 35mm FF 159gr AF Amazon B&H Photo
    Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS USM Lens Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS USM
    70-300mm 35mm FF 630gr AF Amazon B&H Photo
    Canon EF 15mm f2.8 Fisheye Lens Canon EF 15mm f2.8 Fisheye
    15mm 35mm FF 330gr AF Amazon B&H Photo
    Canon EF 50mm f1.4 USM Lens Canon EF 50mm f1.4 USM
    50mm 35mm FF 290gr AF Amazon B&H Photo
    Canon EF 40mm f2.8 STM Lens Canon EF 40mm f2.8 STM
    40mm 35mm FF 130gr AF Amazon B&H Photo
    Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8L IS II USM Lens Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8L IS II USM
    70-200mm 35mm FF 1490gr AF Amazon B&H Photo

    Check our Canon 6D Lenses page for more detailed lens search.



    Canon 6D LCD and Viewfinder

    Canon 6D has a Fixed Type 3" LCD screen with a resolution of 1,040k dots. Both the screen size and the screen resolution is up to the standards of this class.



    Canon 6D back view and LCD

    6D has a built-in Optical (pentaprism) viewfinder, making it easier to shoot in direct sunlight and in other situations where it might be difficult to view the LCD monitor. The viewfinder has a coverage of 97% and a magnification ratio of 0.71x. 97% coverage means that what you see in your viewfinder while shooting will slightly be different from the actual image.

    Canon 6D Connectivity, Storage and Battery

    Thanks to the built-in wireless (Wi-Fi) connectivity feature, Canon 6D lets you transfer your photos directly to compatible devices without any physical connection. One other feature that we like is the ability to use our smartphone as a remote to control our 6D. You can change camera settings, release shutter, view LCD screen and tranfer files using remote control app.

    You can connect 6D to compatible devices via its HDMI port or USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) port.

    Battery

    Canon 6D is powered by battery which provides a shooting life of 1090 according to CIPA standards. Considering that the average battery life of DSLR type cameras is 948 shots, its battery life is about average in its class but it would still be wise to invest in some spare batteries for long photo trips.

    Battery Life Comparison in Advanced DSLR Cameras

    Canon 6D
    Min
    Average
    Max

    Nikon D780 with its 2260shots is the model with longest battery life among Advanced DSLR cameras. Check the comparison of Canon 6D vs Nikon D780 or take a look at Longest Battery Life DSLR cameras list.

    Canon 6D Features Compared to Main Competitors
    Model Max Video Battery Life Wi-fi Bluetooth NFC
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 6D MII
    Compare
    1920 x 1080 1200shots Yes Yes Yes
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 5D MII
    Compare
    1920 x 1080 850shots No No No
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 5D MIII
    Compare
    1920 x 1080 950shots No No No
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 7D
    Compare
    1920 x 1080 800shots No No No
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 80D
    Compare
    1920 x 1080 960shots Yes No Yes
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Nikon D610
    Compare
    1920 x 1080 900shots No No No
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 60D
    Compare
    1920 x 1080 1100shots No No No
    Canon EOS 6D Camera Canon 70D
    Compare
    1920 x 1080 920shots Yes No No

    Canon 6D Video Features

    With Canon 6D, you can record your videos at a highest resolution of 1920 x 1080 at 29.97,25,23.976 fps and save in and H.264 formats. Full HD resolution of Canon 6D will be adequate in most of the situations. But if you are after the highest resolution videos available, see our list of Top Cameras with 4K (Ultra-HD) Video.

    6D has a built-in Stereo microphone and a Mono speaker. Canon 6D also has a port for an external microphone so you can record high quality sound with the help of an external microphone.

    Canon 6D Other Features

    Max Shutter speed

    Canon 6D can shoot continuously at max speed of 4.5 fps and has max shutter speed of 1/4000 sec.

    Flash

    Unfortunately 6D doesn't have a built-in flash but it has a flash shoe for mounting external flashes.

    Focusing

    Canon 6D features both Contrast Detection and Phase Detection autofocus (AF) systems which ensures speed and accuracy of focusing in most situations. The AF system has 11 focus points and 1 of these sensors are of Cross-type. Cross-type sensors locks focus faster and more accurate compared to single type sensors.

    Canon 6D also features Face detection AF where it intelligently detects the faces in the frame and locks the focus automatically.

    User Manual
    You can download Canon 6D's User Manual here

    Canon 6D PROs and CONs Review

    Now let's get in to more details of our Canon 6D review by analysing its specs and features and listing out its pros and cons compared to average competitor cameras in its class.

    PROs
    Built-in Wireless (Wi-fi)
    Full HD Video
    Optical Built-in Viewfinder
    Built-in GPS
    Face Detection Focusing
    20.0MP - High Resolution Sensor
    25.600 Max ISO
    11 Focus Points
    1.040k dots LCD Resolution
    Long Battery Life (1090 shots)
    External Microphone Port
    Environmental Sealing
    0.71x magnification - Large Viewfinder
    Good Low Light ISO - 2340
    1 Cross Type Focus Points
    Top LCD Display
    Flash Sync Port
    AF Micro Adjustment (Fine Tune)
    Dual-axis Electronic Level
    Remote control with a smartphone
    Report a correction

    Buy Canon 6D from AMAZON or B&H PHOTO


    CONs
    No Image Stabilization
    No Articulating Screen
    No Touch Screen
    Heavy Body: 770g
    Report a correction
    What type of Photography is Canon 6D Good for?
    In this section, we review and score Canon 6D in 5 different photography areas.

    Canon 6D for Portrait Photography

    Canon 6D has a score of 65 for Portrait Photography which makes it a GOOD candidate for this type of photography. If you are looking for a camera that is better suited to Portrait Photography, we recommend you to check our Top 10 DSLR Cameras for Portrait Photography list.
    Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
    Very High Resolution Sensor: 20.0MP
    Optical Built-in Viewfinder
    Good Ergonomics&Handling
    No Image Stabilization

    Read the details of how we scored Canon 6D for Portrait Photography

    Canon 6D for Street Photography

    Canon 6D has a score of 64 for Street Photography which makes it a GOOD candidate for this type of photography. If you are looking for a camera that is better suited to Street Photography, we recommend you to check our Top 10 DSLR Cameras for Street Photography list.
    Optical Built-in Viewfinder
    Live-view
    Face-Detection Focusing
    Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
    No Image Stabilization
    Large Body

    Read the details of how we scored Canon 6D for Street Photography

    Canon 6D for Sports Photography

    Canon 6D has a score of 80 for Sports Photography which makes it a GOOD candidate for this type of photography. If you are looking for a camera that is better suited to Sports Photography, we recommend you to check our Top 10 DSLR Cameras for Sports Photography list.
    Environmental Sealings
    Fast Max shutter speed: 1/4000s
    1 Cross Type Focus sensors
    11 Focus Points
    Good Battery Life: 1090 shots
    Good Low Light ISO
    Wireless Connection
    Good Ergonomics&Handling
    Optical Built-in Viewfinder
    Average Continuous Shooting: 4.5fps
    No Image Stabilization

    Read the details of how we scored Canon 6D for Sports Photography

    Canon 6D for Daily Photography

    Canon 6D has a score of 77 for Daily Photography which makes it a GOOD candidate for this type of photography. If you are looking for a camera that is better suited to Daily Photography, we recommend you to check our Top 10 DSLR Cameras for Daily Photography list.
    Environmental Sealings
    Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
    Large Body
    770g
    Body Thickness 71mm

    Read the details of how we scored Canon 6D for Daily Photography

    Canon 6D for Landscape Photography

    Canon 6D has a score of 47 for Landscape Photography which makes it an AVERAGE candidate for this type of photography. If Landscape is important for you, we recommend you to check our Top DSLR Cameras for Landscape Photography list.
    Live-view
    Built-in GPS
    Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
    Very High Resolution Sensor: 20.0MP
    Environmental Sealings

    Read the details of how we scored Canon 6D for Landscape Photography
    Canon 6D Alternatives
    In this section, we analyse how Canon 6D compares with other DSLR cameras within a similar price range.
    Read a more detailed analysis of Canon 6D alternatives.

    Popular Comparisons of Canon 6D

    Here is the eight most popular comparisons of Canon 6D amongst Camera Decision readers.

    Canon 6D MII
    Canon 6D MII
    Compare
    Canon 5D MII
    Canon 5D MII
    Compare
    Canon 5D MIII
    Canon 5D MIII
    Compare
    Canon 7D
    Canon 7D
    Compare
    Canon 80D
    Canon 80D
    Compare
    Nikon D610
    Nikon D610
    Compare
    Canon 60D
    Canon 60D
    Compare
    Canon 70D
    Canon 70D
    Compare

    Canon 6D Alternatives in Mirrorless Cameras

    It would also be interesting to compare Canon 6D with Mirrorless Cameras. Below we have listed 4 highest ranked Mirrorless cameras in Canon 6D's price range.

    Canon M50 II
    Canon M50 II
    Compare
    Fujifilm X-T200
    Fujifilm X-T200
    Compare
    Canon M50
    Canon M50
    Compare
    Fujifilm X-H1
    Fujifilm X-H1
    Compare
    Panasonic G85
    Panasonic G85
    Compare
    Panasonic GX8
    Panasonic GX8
    Compare
    Olympus E-M5 II
    Olympus E-M5 II
    Compare
    Canon M6 MII
    Canon M6 MII
    Compare
    Frequently Asked Questions about Canon 6D
    Does the Canon 6D have Image Stabilization?
    Does the Canon 6D have RAW support?
    Does the Canon 6D have Weather Sealing?
    Does the Canon 6D have built-in GPS?
    What is the Max ISO of Canon 6D?
    What is the Sensor Size of Canon 6D?
    is the Canon 6D a Full Frame (FF) camera?
    Does the Canon 6D have Touch Screen?
    Does the Canon 6D have built-in Wireless?
    What is the Max Continuous Shooting Speed (fps) of Canon 6D?
    What is the Weight of Canon 6D?
    What are the Dimensions of Canon 6D?
    Canon EOS 6D Detailed Specifications

    General
    Brand Canon
    Model Canon EOS 6D
    Announced 2013-02-12
    Body Type Mid-size SLR
    Lens
    Manual Focus
    Lens Mount Canon EF
    Number of Lenses 250
    Focal Length Multiplier 1x
    Macro Focus Range n/a
    Screen
    Screen Type Fixed Type
    Screen Technology Clear View II TFT LCD
    Screen Size 3"
    Screen Resolution 1,040k dots
    Live View
    Touch Screen
    Viewfinder
    Viewfinder Optical (pentaprism)
    Viewfinder Resolution no electronic viewfinder
    Viewfinder Coverage 97%
    Viewfinder Magnification 0.71x
    Photography Features
    Min Shutter Speed 30s
    Max Mechanical Shutter Speed 1/4000s
    Continuous Shooting 4.5 fps
    Shutter Priority
    Aperture Priority
    Manual Exposure Mode
    Exposure Compensation Yes
    Custom White Balance
    Image Stabilization
    Built-in Flash
    Flash Range no built-in flash
    Max Flash Sync 1/180s
    Flash Modes no built-in flash
    External Flash
    AE Bracketing
    WB Bracketing
    Exposure Modes
    Multi-Segment
    Average
    Spot
    Partial
    AF-Area
    Center Weighted
    DxO Sensor Scores
    DxO Overall Score 82
    DxO Color Depth 23.8
    DxO Dynamic Range 12.1
    DxO Low Light ISO 2340
    Report a correction

    Sensor
    Sensor Type CMOS
    Sensor Size Full frame
    Sensor Dimensions 36 x 24 mm
    Sensor Area 864.00mm2
    Sensor Resolution 20 megapixels
    Max Image Resolution 5472 x 3648
    Max Native ISO 25,600
    Max Boosted ISO 102400
    Min Native ISO 100
    Min Boosted ISO 50
    RAW Support
    Autofocus
    AF Touch
    AF Continuous
    AF Single
    AF Tracking
    AF Selective
    AF Center
    AF Multi Area
    AF Live View
    AF Face Detection
    AF Contrast Detection
    AF Phase Detection
    Number of Focus Points 11
    Number of Cross Focus Points 1
    Video Features
    Video Resolutions 1920 x 1080 (29.97, 25, 23.976 fps), 1280 x 720 (59.94, 50 fps), 640 x 480 (25, 30 fps)
    Max Video Resolution 1920 x 1080
    Video Formats H.264
    Microphone Port
    Headphone Port
    Connectivity
    Wireless Connectivity Built-In
    HDMI
    USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
    Physical
    Environmental Sealing
    Water Proof
    Dust Proof
    Shock Proof
    Crush Proof
    Freeze Proof
    Weight 770g
    Physical Dimensions 145 x 111 x 71mm
    Battery Life 1090 shots
    Battery Type Battery Pack
    Battery Model LP-E6
    Other Features
    Self Timer Yes (2 or 10 sec)
    Timelapse Recording
    GPS Built-in
    Storage Type SD/SDHC/SDXC
    Storage Slots 1


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