Tech & Gadgets
Sony A7 IV vs Canon R6 Mark II: Which Mirrorless Camera Should You Buy?
After shooting over 10,000 photos with both cameras across travel, portraits, and landscapes, here's my comprehensive comparison to help you choose the right full-frame mirrorless camera.
Quick Verdict
Sony A7 IV offers better video specs and more lens options, while Canon R6 Mark II delivers superior autofocus and ergonomics for photographers who prioritize stills.
Camera Specifications
Sony A7 IV
- 33MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor
- 4K 60fps video recording (10-bit 4:2:2)
- 693 phase-detection AF points
- 10fps continuous shooting
- IBIS with 5.5-stop stabilization
- Dual card slots (SD + CFexpress Type A)
Canon R6 Mark II
- 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- 4K 60fps video recording (6K oversampled)
- 1,053 dual pixel AF points
- 40fps continuous shooting
- IBIS with 8-stop stabilization
- Dual SD card slots (UHS-II)
Image Quality Comparison
The Sony A7 IV's 33MP sensor captures more detail and allows for larger prints or more aggressive cropping. The Canon R6 Mark II's 24MP sensor produces cleaner images at high ISO and excels in low-light situations. Both cameras deliver excellent dynamic range and color science.
Autofocus Performance
Canon's Dual Pixel AF II is incredibly sticky and reliable, especially for tracking moving subjects. Sony's 693-point system with Real-time Tracking is also excellent but occasionally loses subjects in challenging lighting. For wildlife and sports, Canon has a slight edge.
Video Capabilities
Sony A7 IV offers 10-bit 4:2:2 recording internally, S-Log3, and better codec options, making it the better hybrid camera. Canon R6 Mark II has excellent video quality but records in 8-bit internally (10-bit via HDMI).
Lens Ecosystem
Sony has a more mature lens lineup with more third-party options from Sigma and Tamron. Canon's RF mount is growing rapidly with excellent optics but fewer budget options currently available.
Pricing
- Sony A7 IV Body: $2,498
- Canon R6 Mark II Body: $2,499
Pros and Cons
Sony A7 IV
Pros:
- Higher resolution (33MP vs 24MP)
- Better video specs (10-bit 4:2:2)
- More lens options available
- Excellent dynamic range
- CFexpress Type A support
Cons:
- Menu system is complex
- Slightly slower burst rate
- Ergonomics not as comfortable
- Smaller viewfinder
Canon R6 Mark II
Pros:
- Incredible autofocus system
- 40fps burst mode for action
- Better ergonomics and controls
- 8-stop IBIS (class-leading)
- Dual SD card slots
Cons:
- Lower resolution (24MP)
- 8-bit internal video recording
- Fewer third-party lens options
- More expensive RF lenses
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose Sony A7 IV if you shoot hybrid content (photos and video), need higher resolution, or want access to more affordable lenses. Choose Canon R6 Mark II if you prioritize autofocus performance, shoot fast action, or prefer Canon's color science and ergonomics.