Canon 6D vs EOS 5D Mark II: key pros and cons for moving to full frame
Asked 10/25/2012
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I’m currently shooting with a Canon 50D and want to move to full frame. The 5D Mark III is out of budget, and I’m staying with Canon because I already have EF lenses. I’m deciding between the Canon 6D and the EOS 5D Mark II.
Ignoring video, what are the main advantages and disadvantages of each body based on their specs and likely real-world use? I’m especially interested in differences that matter for still photography.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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Based on the specs the 6D has
- a smaller lighter body
- better AF system
- WIFI and GPS built it
- slightly better screen and more recent UI
- SD card slot instead of CF (users may have a preference, or a collection of cards already)
The 5D mkII has
- magic lantern firmware option
- lower price
- CF card slot
- is available now
plus a host of lesser differences, e.g.
- faster max shutter speed 1/8000s vs 1/4000 (may be useful for shooting wide open in daylight)
- marginally faster sync speed + pc sync port (for shooting with remote flashes)
The resolution difference of both cameras is negligible. Results aren't out yet but I would imagine the 6D performs slightly better with regards to low light noise. In general it's a newer model and whilst it is based around a 40D/50D type chassis it equals or exceeds the 5D mkII in most areas, the only reason I see to go with a 5D mkII would be cost/availability or if you strongly prefer the ergonomics of a larger body or if you wanted to shoot a lot of video with magic lantern.
Originally by user1375. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1375
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For stills, the 6D’s main advantages are that it’s newer, smaller/lighter, has a more modern interface/screen, built-in Wi‑Fi/GPS, SD cards, and is expected to do better in low light/high ISO. Its autofocus is generally considered an upgrade on paper as well.
The 5D Mark II’s main advantages are lower used price, CF cards, availability, compatibility with Magic Lantern, and a few pro-oriented features: 1/8000s max shutter speed instead of 1/4000s, slightly faster flash sync, and a PC sync port. Those can matter if you shoot wide open in bright daylight or use studio/remote flash a lot.
Image resolution is essentially a wash; the difference is negligible.
So the choice comes down to priorities:
- Choose the 6D if you want newer tech, lighter weight, better expected high-ISO performance, and built-in connectivity.
- Choose the 5D Mark II if budget matters most, you prefer CF, or you specifically need 1/8000s shutter speed / PC sync.
If low-light stills are important, the 6D is the stronger bet. If controlled lighting and cost matter more, the 5D Mark II still makes sense.
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