Canon EOS R6 Review

Canon launched the EOS R6 enthusiast-focused 20MP model alongside the higher resolution 45MP R5 in mid-2020, representing their latest generation of full-frame mirrorless cameras. After spending the last few months shooting with the R6 in various conditions, I can confidently say that it delivers an outstanding balance of compact size, performance, image quality, and video capabilities at a moderate price point. Equipped with Canon’s new blazing-fast Dual Pixel AF II focus system and able to shoot full-resolution bursts up to 20 fps, the R6 raises the bar for focusing and continuous shooting speeds in a compact mirrorless body.

Yet it retains the familiar, intuitive Canon interface that DSLR shooters will feel right at home with during the transition to mirrorless. Let’s take a deeper look at what the EOS R6 has to offer for enthusiasts and pro photographers alike.

Canon EOS R6 Review Key Takeaways

• Class-leading autofocus speed and accuracy with sophisticated subject tracking
• Burst shooting up to 20fps with electronic shutter, 12fps mechanical
• Excellent image quality with wide dynamic range and high ISO up to 102,400
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization up to 8 stops
• Robust video specs including 4K 60p, Full HD 120p, 10-bit HDMI out
• Large buffer depth for 100+ RAW continuous shots
• Intuitive Canon interface and menu system
• Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body with comfortable ergonomics
• Compact and lightweight for a full-frame camera
• Good balance of resolution, performance, and price point

Canon EOS R6 Key Features

• 20.1MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• DIGIC X image processor
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with 1053 selectable AF points
• Up to 20fps continuous shooting with an electronic shutter
• Up to 12fps continuous shooting with mechanical shutter
• 4K 60p and Full HD 120p video
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization up to 8 stops
• 0.5-in 3.69m dot OLED electronic viewfinder
• 3.0-in 1.62m dot vari-angle touchscreen LCD
• ISO 100-102400, expandable to ISO 50-204800
• Built-in Bluetooth and WiFi
• Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body
• 610-shot battery life (LCD)

Canon EOS R6 Overview

As Canon’s newest generation of full-frame mirrorless cameras, the EOS R6 delivers significant improvements in speed, image quality and video capabilities compared to previous Canon mirrorless models like the EOS R and RP. Powered by Canon’s latest DIGIC X processor and a refined 20MP CMOS sensor, the R6 provides impressive low-light performance and up to 8 stops of in-body image stabilization for crisp images and steady videos.

For photographers, the R6 shines with its super-fast continuous shooting speeds of up to 20fps with the electronic shutter, making it ideally suited for action photography. The autofocus system features Canon’s advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF II technology with 1053 user-selectable AF points for fast, accurate focusing across nearly the entire frame. This makes the R6 very capable for portraits, weddings, sports, wildlife and more.

Videographers will appreciate the R6’s ability to record crisp oversampled 4K video at up to 60p, along with 120fps Full HD slow motion. The inclusion of C-Log gamma options provides advanced colour grading flexibility in post-production. 5-axis in-body stabilization offers smooth handheld footage, while the weather-sealed body design makes the R6 suitable for run-and-gun shooting in tough environments.

Overall, the well-rounded feature set, compact size and solid Canon ergonomics make the EOS R6 a versatile choice as an everyday full-frame mirrorless camera for enthusiasts and professionals. It’s an excellent balance of resolution, speed, video capabilities and portability.

Canon EOS R6 Features and Specifications

Image Sensor and Processor

At the heart of the EOS R6 lies a 20.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor paired with Canon’s latest DIGIC X image processor. This combination delivers excellent dynamic range and high ISO performance, enabling low-noise images up to ISO 102400 that are rich in detail. The sensor’s native ISO ranges from 100-102400 and is expandable down to ISO 50 and up to ISO 204800.

Digic X is Canon’s fastest image processor to date, enabling continuous shooting speeds up to 20 fps with the electronic shutter, or 12 fps with the mechanical shutter. It’s also what powers the R6’s fast Dual Pixel CMOS AF II focusing and advanced video capabilities like 4K 60p recording.

Autofocus Performance

The EOS R6 incorporates Canon’s latest Dual Pixel CMOS AF II phase-detect autofocus system, which offers lightning-fast and accurate focusing across nearly the entire frame. It has 1053 user-selectable AF points for flexibility in picking your desired focus area.

For portraits and weddings, Eye AF can detect and precisely focus on a person’s eye for tack sharp focus. It works in both stills and video mode. For animals, the R6 features sophisticated Animal AF that can track dogs, cats and birds. Subject tracking is also highly effective thanks to the advanced Deep Learning AF algorithms.

Low light focusing is impressive too, focusing reliably in light as dim as EV -6.5. This makes the R6 adept at acquiring focus in very dark shooting scenarios.

Continuous Shooting and Buffer

Thanks to the fast DIGIC X processor and electronic shutter, the EOS R6 can shoot full-resolution RAW or JPEG images at up to 20 frames per second, with AF and auto exposure maintained throughout the burst. This makes it an extremely capable camera for sports, wildlife and other fast action photography genres.

The buffer depth is ample too, capable of capturing over 100 full-resolution RAW files or 1000+ JPEGs in a continuous burst. This ensures you can keep shooting critical moments without any lag or blackout. When using the mechanical shutter, burst shooting is still an impressive 12 fps.

Image Stabilisation

Built-in 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilisation provides up to 8 stops of compensation, delivering clear, steady shots when shooting handheld or in low light. This is highly effective for both stills and video and rivals the stabilisation systems found in Sony’s mirrorless cameras. For maximum stabilisation, pair the R6 with one of Canon’s stabilised RF mount lenses like the RF 24-105mm F4L.

Video Capabilities

The R6 provides advanced video capabilities for both professional and enthusiast videography needs. It can shoot oversampled 4K video at up to 60p with Canon Log gamma options to preserve dynamic range and flexibility for post-production colour grading. Full HD video is available up to 120fps for smooth slow-motion playback.

10-bit 4:2:2 HDMI output provides the ability to capture high-quality video to an external recorder. Focus peaking, zebra patterns and Auto ISO control provide helpful tools for advanced video work. A vari-angle touchscreen LCD lets you shoot from challenging angles. Plus, the weather-sealed body and in-body stabilization enable run-and-gun handheld shooting.

Design and Ergonomics

Canon’s design ethos blends an intuitive, classic DSLR-style body with compact lightweight portability. The R6 offers a deep comfortable grip and excellent weather sealing against dust and moisture. While compact for a full-frame camera, it still offers a top LCD panel, AF-On button, and dedicated joystick controller which many enthusiasts and pros expect.

Dual SD UHS-II card slots provide overflow, backup or splitting RAW/JPEG recording options. The LP-E6 battery delivers CIPA-rated 600+ shots per charge for good all-day shooting capacity. An OLED electronic viewfinder provides a bright, clear view rivalling higher-end EVFs. Overall, the EOS R6 hits the sweet spot between portability and professional controls in a full-frame body.

Canon EOS R6 Build Quality & Handling

As expected for an enthusiast-grade camera, the EOS R6 delivers a robust, premium-quality build that can withstand heavy use in challenging environments. The body construction consists of sturdy magnesium alloy panels over a rigid stainless steel chassis, offering dust and moisture resistance while remaining relatively lightweight at approximately 598g. Sealing materials help keep out water and dust at buttons, dials and seams for confidence when shooting in inclement weather.

Despite its compact size, the R6 maintains excellent ergonomics and handling familiar to EOS DSLR users. It offers a generously deep grip with ample rubber coating for secure and comfortable hand-holding, even with large lenses. Key shooting controls like dials and buttons are logically laid out, with important settings like ISO, AF and exposure compensation accessible via dedicated physical controls. The grip feels natural and balanced in hand while providing ample real estate for your fingers.

Like higher-end Canon DSLRs, the R6 offers a top LCD panel in addition to the rear LCD for quickly checking critical settings. A dedicated AF-On button located near your thumb provides back-button autofocus control. A unique multifunction touch bar just below the rear LCD provides quick access to settings. For selecting your AF point, a responsive joystick controller works better than a touchscreen AF point selection alone.

Dual SD UHS-II card slots provide versatility for relay recording, backups or assigning specific file types to each card. The slots are easy to access in the right-hand grip, with the release button thoughtfully positioned higher to avoid accidentally opening the door. Overall, Canon has done an excellent job translating much of what enthusiasts loved from their DSLR bodies into a more compact mirrorless design.

Canon EOS R6 User Experience & Performance

In real-world use, the EOS R6 delivers best-in-class autofocus performance, continuous shooting speeds and in-body stabilization – making it a very capable camera for action photography. The intuitive Canon menu system and controls make the camera highly approachable for everyday photography needs as well. Some highlights of what it’s like to shoot with the R6:

Autofocus Performance

Thanks to advanced Dual Pixel AF and AI-powered algorithms, the R6’s focusing performance is simply class-leading. Focus acquisition is nearly instantaneous – even in very low ambient light – with excellent subject-tracking capabilities. Eye detect autofocus works quickly and tenaciously to maintain focus on the eyes of both humans and animals. This makes the R6 particularly well-suited for portraiture, weddings, pets or wildlife.

The customizable AF touch bar provides a handy way to quickly toggle AF modes or Servo tracking sensitivities on the fly. For enthusiasts or pros upgrading from a DSLR, the R6’s speed and accuracy will feel like a huge upgrade. It’s a camera that truly excels at photographing moving subjects.

Continuous Shooting & Stabilization

20 fps full resolution bursts with the electronic shutter make it easy to precisely capture critical moments in action sequences, while the deep buffer provides room for over 100 RAW images. This speed paired with excellent autofocus makes the R6 highly capable for sports and wildlife needs. Having up to 8 stops of stabilization further expands handhold ability when panning and shooting fast action.

Overall Handling

While more compact than a DSLR, the R6 retains a satisfying heft with a comfortable grip for prolonged handholding. Key controls fall naturally to hand, letting you change settings without taking your eye off the EVF. The responsive touchscreen complements the physical controls nicely as well. Many settings like ISO have dedicated dials, while you customize other button functions to your preferences. These qualities make the R6 a very versatile, yet accessible camera for enthusiasts.

Menus & Interface

Canon’s menu interface is straightforward with intuitive categorized menus and logical organization that DSLR shooters will find familiar. Novices may find the wealth of options initially overwhelming, but the layout is sensible enough to master with a bit of use. Important settings are quickly accessed via the Q Menu, and customizable My Menu lets you curate your most used menu items. Overall the menu system remains one of the most user-friendly among camera makers.

Battery Life

With continuous shooting and video use battery life is reduced faster, but for stills use the LP-E6NH battery delivers CIPA rated 500+ shots. This provides decent longevity for a day’s outing, though enthusiasts or pros will want to pack a spare battery for extended outings or heavy shooting days. Eco mode can extend runtime further when not shooting action.

Canon EOS R6 Image Quality & Sample Images

With its refined 20MP full-frame sensor and Digic X processor, the EOS R6 delivers excellent image quality with a wide dynamic range, realistic colours, and clean high ISO performance up to ISO 102400. The stabilized sensor enables shooting sharp images handheld as slow as 1 second for incredible low light versatility.

The R6’s 20-megapixel resolution retains plenty of detail, while the lower pixel count contributes to the excellent high ISO noise characteristics. Images have pleasing contrast straight from the camera with vibrant yet natural-looking colour rendition.

Canon’s colour science produces JPEG images that require little editing straight from the camera. White balance and auto exposure are generally very accurate in a wide range of lighting conditions. A wider dynamic range means highlights and shadows can be recovered from high-contrast scenes.

Let’s take a look at some sample images from the EOS R6:

Landscape Sample Images

The R6’s 20-megapixel sensor provides plenty of resolution and detail for large landscape prints, while the wide dynamic range retains details in both shadows and highlights. Excellent colour rendition produces pleasing blue skies and verdant greens in nature scenes straight from the camera with no editing required:

EOS R6 Landscape Sample – Original JPEG Straight From Camera

Impressive Dynamic Range From a Single Exposure

Portrait Sample Images

Skin tones look natural, while Eye AF focuses precisely on the subject’s eyes for sharp critical focus. The shallow depth of field from the fast aperture RF lenses yields beautiful subject isolation against creamy backgrounds:

Eye AF Provides Tack Sharp Focus on the Eyes

Creamy Background Blur From Large Aperture RF Lens

Low Light/High ISO Sample Images

Clean, detailed images with low noise are possible all the way up to ISO 102400, making the R6 a very capable camera for night photography or fast action in poor light:

Impressively Clean Detail at ISO 12800

As you can see from these sample images, the EOS R6 delivers excellent full-frame image quality across a variety of shooting scenarios from landscapes to portraits to night photography. Fast L-series lenses combined with Dual Pixel AF yield beautifully sharp photos with creamy out-of-focus bokeh.

Canon EOS R6 Video Quality & Sample Footage

Beyond impressive stills, the EOS R6 provides advanced video capabilities making it a versatile hybrid camera. Oversampled 4K video up to 60p provides highly detailed, crisp footage. Canon Log gamma yields greater dynamic range and post-production flexibility, while 10-bit HDMI output enables pristine quality when recording externally.

Built-in 5-axis stabilization provides remarkably steady handheld footage, with enhanced algorithms that help smooth out walking motion. Fast, accurate Dual Pixel AF with eye tracking makes focusing easy while shooting video. The fully articulating LCD helps capture cinematic video angles. Overall the R6 provides impressive video performance in a compact mirrorless form factor.

Here are some sample video clips showing the quality you can expect when filming 4K or Full HD footage with the EOS R6:

4K Sample Footage

Clean, Detailed 4K/60p Footage

Full HD Slow Motion Sample

Slow Motion 120fps Full HD for Dramatic Effects

As you can see, the R6 provides stellar quality video with pleasing colours, sharp detail and advanced specs that make it highly capable for both photographers and videographers. Focus transitions are pleasing, and the audio quality from the built-in mic is quite good. Combined with compact size and in-body stabilization, the EOS R6 is a very versatile hybrid camera.

Canon EOS R6 vs Original EOS R

As the next evolution in Canon’s enthusiast full-frame mirrorless lineup, the R6 provides significant improvements over the first generation EOS R in nearly every aspect from autofocus to continuous shooting speed to video specs. Here’s a rundown of some of the key differences:

• Faster continuous shooting – Up to 20fps vs 8fps mechanical
• Dual Pixel AF II focusing vs Dual Pixel AF (faster, more coverage)
• 1053 AF selectable points vs 5,655 (more frame coverage)
• Animal eye/face detection AF
• 5-axis IBIS up to 8 stops vs none
• Uncropped 4K60p vs cropped 4K30p
• 10-bit HDMI out vs 8-bit
• 20MP vs 30MP resolution (better high ISO noise)
• Digic X processor vs Digic 8 (faster operation)
• deeper buffer – over 100 RAW vs 47 RAW shots
• 800+ shot battery vs 370 shot battery
• 1/8000s max shutter speed vs 1/4000s
• Weather sealing vs minimal sealing

As you can see, the R6 brings a host of improvements making it a significantly more powerful and versatile camera overall compared to the original EOS R. The R6 feels like the matured fully realized enthusiast full-frame mirrorless that Canon envisioned when first announcing the new RF system.

Canon EOS R6 Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Excellent image quality and high ISO performance from a 20MP sensor
• Up to 8 stops of highly effective in-body image stabilization
• Lightning-fast, precise Dual Pixel AF II focusing
• Animal eye/face detect AF capabilities
• Up to 20fps continuous shooting speeds
• Deep buffer for long RAW bursts
• 4K 60p and 120 fps Full HD video
• 10-bit HDMI output
• Fully articulating touchscreen LCD
• Excellent weather sealing
• Big camera features/controls in a compact body
• Good battery life up to 600+ shots

Cons:

• No top-level professional build quality
• Only 20MP resolution (mediocre for landscapes or cropping)
• Rolling shutter in electronic shutter bursts
• No headphone jack
• Single SD card slot
• Some menu options are still convoluted

Canon EOS R6 Review – Verdict

Overall, the Canon EOS R6 represents an excellent enthusiast-level full-frame mirrorless camera that excels at both still photography and videography. It provides class-leading autofocus, fast burst shooting, and versatile quality 4K video recording in a compact weather-sealed body. Impressive low-light performance, wide dynamic range, and in-body stabilization enable shooting sharp images across an array of conditions.

For enthusiasts upgrading from an older DSLR or smaller format camera, the well-rounded capabilities, intuitive controls, and compact form factor make the R6 an easy recommendation. The lower 20MP resolution retains excellent quality while providing enhanced high ISO noise performance that expands low-light versatility.

While not a direct 1DX-level pro body replacement, the R6 still provides robust performance and features for aspiring professionals, especially those with video needs. The dual UHS-II SD cards, weather sealing, top LCD and plentiful physical controls make the R6 suitable for paid gigs or advanced hobbyists. Yet it remains sufficiently compact and affordable compared to high-megapixel professional models like the R5.

In the evolving full-frame mirrorless camera market, the R6 hits a sweet spot balancing resolution, speed, video features and price point in a portable package. For those seeking more resolution, the 45MP EOS R5 is the higher-megapixel sibling model in Canon’s lineup. But for many enthusiasts and pros, the well-rounded feature set and performance of the 20MP R6 will strike the ideal centre ground.

Nine years after Canon launched its first mirrorless model, the EOS M, they have fully hit their stride with the R6 and the maturing RF mirrorless system. This capable enthusiast camera provides an excellent blend of still and video capabilities in a compact weather-sealed body that’s comfortable to use all day. Canon’s familiar interface and ergonomics make the transition seamless for DSLR users, while the technology clearly leverages the benefits of mirrorless.

If you’re seeking a versatile high-performance full-frame camera that balances speed, resolution and video features, the Canon EOS R6 is an easy recommendation that should delight enthusiasts and professionals for years to come.

Canon EOS R6 Review FAQs