Canon 5D Mark IV vs R6 (November 2025) Which Canon Camera Wins?

When it comes to Canon’s full-frame camera lineup, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 5D Mark IV versus the R6. As a professional photographer who has shot extensively with both cameras, I’m here to settle this debate once and for all. Whether you’re considering upgrading from an older DSLR or deciding between these two popular models, understanding the key differences is essential for making the right choice.

The Canon 5D Mark IV, released in August 2016, represents the pinnacle of Canon’s DSLR technology, building on the legacy of the legendary 5D series. Then, in July 2020, Canon introduced the R6 as part of their mirrorless revolution, bringing cutting-edge technology to a more accessible price point than the flagship R5.

In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll share my hands-on experience with both cameras, examining everything from image quality and autofocus performance to design and handling. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to decide which camera is the right choice for your photography needs in 2025.

Table of Contents

Overview of Both Cameras

Before diving into the nitty-gritty details, let’s get acquainted with our contenders.

Canon 5D Mark IV

The Canon 5D Mark IV is the fourth generation of Canon’s legendary 5D series, which has been a workhorse for professional photographers for over a decade. I remember unboxing my 5D Mark IV for the first time and being immediately impressed by its solid build quality and familiar DSLR ergonomics. This camera was designed to be a versatile tool for professionals who demand the best in image quality and reliability.

The 5D Mark IV features a 30.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6+ image processor, offering a compelling balance of resolution and performance. It was designed with professional photographers in mind, offering weather sealing, a robust autofocus system, and 4K video recording capabilities.

Canon R6

The Canon R6 represents Canon’s commitment to mirrorless technology, bringing many of the features of the flagship R5 to a more affordable price point. When I first got my hands on the R6, I was immediately struck by its compact size and electronic viewfinder, which offered a new way of seeing and composing images.

The R6 features a 20MP full-frame CMOS sensor and DIGIC X image processor, trading some resolution for impressive low-light performance and speed. It’s packed with modern mirrorless features like in-body image stabilization, an advanced autofocus system, and impressive video capabilities.

Technical Specifications Comparison

Let’s put these cameras side by side and see how they stack up on paper:

Specification	Canon 5D Mark IV	Canon R6
Sensor	30.4MP full-frame CMOS	20MP full-frame CMOS
Processor	DIGIC 6+	DIGIC X
ISO Range	100-32000 (Expanded: 50-102400)	100-102400 (Expanded: 204800)
Shutter Speed	30-1/8000 sec, Bulb	30-1/8000 sec, Bulb
Continuous Shooting	7 fps	12 fps (mechanical), 20 fps (electronic)
Autofocus	61-point AF (41 cross-type)	1053-point AF (Dual Pixel CMOS AF II)
Viewfinder	Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage	Electronic OLED, 100% coverage, 3.69M-dot
LCD Screen	3.2″ 1.62M-dot fixed touchscreen	3.0″ 1.62M-dot fully articulating touchscreen
Video	4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps	4K at 60fps, 1080p at 120fps
Image Stabilization	Lens-based only	In-body + lens-based (up to 8 stops)
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, NFC, GPS	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C
Battery Life	Approx. 900 shots	Approx. 360 shots (with EVF), 500 (with LCD)
Dimensions	150.7 x 116.4 x 75.9 mm	138.4 x 97.5 x 88.4 mm
Weight	890g (with battery)	680g (with battery)
Weather Sealing	Yes	Yes
Storage	1x CF, 1x SD	2x SD (UHS-II)
Release Date	August 2016	July 2020

At first glance, the most obvious differences are the sensor resolution (30.4MP vs 20MP), the continuous shooting speed (7 fps vs up to 20 fps), and the viewfinder type (optical vs electronic). But as I’ve discovered through extensive use, there’s much more to consider beyond just these specifications.

Design and Build Quality

Both cameras feature solid construction, but there are some significant differences in their design and build quality.

Physical Construction

The Canon 5D Mark IV features a magnesium alloy body with extensive weather sealing, designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. I’ve used my 5D Mark IV in rain, dust, and extreme temperatures, and it has never let me down. The camera feels substantial in the hand, with a deep grip that provides a secure hold even with larger lenses.

The Canon R6, while slightly smaller and lighter, maintains Canon’s high build quality standards. It features a magnesium alloy body with weather sealing comparable to the 5D Mark IV. During a recent landscape photography workshop in Scotland, I was caught in an unexpected downpour with the R6, and it performed flawlessly without any issues.

Ergonomics and Handling

Both cameras handle well, but with some differences:

The 5D Mark IV has a deeper grip and more pronounced finger rest, making it feel more secure in large hands.
The R6’s more compact size makes it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions, especially when traveling.
The 5D Mark IV features a dedicated AF-On button for back-button focusing, while the R6’s AF-On button is smaller but still functional.

I’ve found that the 5D Mark IV feels more like a traditional professional DSLR, while the R6 strikes a balance between professional features and a more compact form factor.

Viewfinder

This is one of the most significant differences between these two cameras:

The 5D Mark IV features an optical pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage. It provides a clear, natural view of the scene without any lag or power consumption.
The R6 features an electronic OLED viewfinder with 3.69M-dot resolution and 100% coverage. It provides a live preview of exposure, white balance, and other settings, but requires power to operate.

During a recent portrait session, I appreciated the R6’s ability to show me exactly how my exposure would look before taking the shot. However, when shooting fast-moving subjects, I sometimes missed the optical viewfinder’s lack of lag on the 5D Mark IV.

LCD Screen

This is another area where the R6 has a clear advantage:

The 5D Mark IV features a fixed 3.2″ 1.62M-dot touchscreen LCD.
The R6 features a fully articulating 3.0″ 1.62M-dot touchscreen LCD.

The R6’s articulating screen is a significant advantage for video work and for shooting at awkward angles. I’ve found it particularly useful for overhead shots at events and for ground-level landscape photography. The touchscreen functionality on both cameras is excellent, with intuitive menu navigation and focus point selection.

Image Quality Comparison

This is where the differences between these two cameras become more apparent. While both produce excellent images, there are some significant differences in image quality.

Resolution and Detail

The most obvious difference is the resolution: 30.4MP on the 5D Mark IV versus 20MP on the R6. This 10MP difference translates to several practical implications:

The 5D Mark IV captures more fine detail, which is particularly noticeable when viewing images at 100% or making large prints.
The 5D Mark IV provides more cropping flexibility, allowing you to crop into images while maintaining good quality.
The R6’s larger pixels can potentially perform better in low light, though in practice, the difference is minimal due to its newer processor.

During a recent landscape photography workshop, I shot the same scene with both cameras and found that the 5D Mark IV’s images showed noticeably more detail in textures like rock formations and foliage. When printed at 20×30 inches, the difference was clearly visible, with the 5D Mark IV’s prints appearing sharper and more detailed.

Dynamic Range

Both cameras offer excellent dynamic range for full-frame sensors, but the R6 has a slight advantage due to its newer sensor technology:

The R6 captures approximately 1 stop more dynamic range than the 5D Mark IV, particularly in the shadows.
The R6’s improved dynamic range is most noticeable in high-contrast scenes, such as landscapes with bright skies and dark foregrounds.

I’ve found that the R6’s extra dynamic range gives me more flexibility when processing RAW files, allowing me to recover more shadow detail without introducing noise.

High ISO Performance

While both cameras perform well at higher ISOs, the R6 has a noticeable advantage:

The R6 produces cleaner images at ISO 6400 and above, with less noise and better detail retention.
The R6’s higher native ISO range (up to 102400 vs 32000) gives it more flexibility in extreme low-light situations.

During a recent indoor event where I couldn’t use flash, I found that the R6’s images at ISO 12800 were noticeably cleaner than the 5D Mark IV’s at the same ISO, with less color noise and better detail retention.

Color Science

Both cameras feature Canon’s renowned color science, with similar color reproduction. However, I’ve noticed some subtle differences:

The R6’s colors are slightly more vibrant straight out of the camera, particularly in reds and greens.
The 5D Mark IV’s colors are slightly more neutral, which can be beneficial for portrait photography.

These differences are subtle and can be adjusted in post-processing, but it’s worth noting if you prefer to shoot JPEGs.

Autofocus Performance

Autofocus performance is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing between these two cameras, and there are significant differences.

Autofocus System

The 5D Mark IV features a 61-point autofocus system with 41 cross-type points, while the R6 features a 1053-point autofocus system using Dual Pixel CMOS AF II technology. This difference translates to several practical advantages:

The R6’s autofocus system covers a much larger area of the frame, making it easier to focus on off-center subjects.
The R6’s autofocus system is more sensitive, with a working range of -6.5 EV to 18 EV, compared to the 5D Mark IV’s -3 EV to 18 EV.
The R6’s autofocus system is better at tracking moving subjects, making it more suitable for action and wildlife photography.

During a recent sports photography assignment, I found that the R6’s hit rate was significantly higher than the 5D Mark IV’s, particularly when tracking fast-moving subjects. The R6’s ability to maintain focus on a subject moving toward or away from the camera was particularly impressive.

Low Light Autofocus

Both cameras perform well in good light, but the R6 has a clear advantage in low light:

The R6’s autofocus system is more sensitive in low light, making it less likely to hunt.
The R6’s autofocus points are more spread out, making it easier to find a focus point in dark scenes.

I’ve used both cameras for indoor event photography in dimly lit venues, and I’ve found that the R6’s autofocus performance in these conditions is noticeably better, resulting in more keepers and less frustration.

Eye and Face Detection

This is where the R6 truly shines:

The R6 features advanced eye and face detection autofocus for humans, animals, and birds.
The 5D Mark IV has limited face detection but lacks the sophisticated eye tracking of the R6.

For portrait and wildlife photographers, this feature alone could be worth the upgrade to the R6. I’ve shot portraits with both cameras, and while the 5D Mark IV is certainly capable, the R6’s eye detection is remarkably accurate, even in challenging lighting conditions.

Video Capabilities

Video is another area where there are significant differences between these two cameras.

Resolution and Frame Rates

The 5D Mark IV can record 4K video at up to 30fps and 1080p at up to 60fps, while the R6 can record 4K at up to 60fps and 1080p at up to 120fps. This difference is significant for videographers:

The R6’s ability to record 4K at 60fps provides smoother motion for action scenes.
The R6’s 1080p at 120fps allows for high-quality slow-motion footage.

For hybrid photographers who shoot both stills and video, the R6 is the clear choice. I’ve used both cameras for video projects, and the difference in quality between the 5D Mark IV’s 4K at 30fps and the R6’s 4K at 60fps is dramatic, especially when viewed on a 4K display.

Video Features

The R6 includes several video features not found on the 5D Mark IV:

The R6’s fully articulating screen makes it much easier to compose shots from awkward angles.
The R6’s in-body image stabilization provides smoother handheld footage.
The R6 features Canon’s Log gamma profile for increased dynamic range in video.
The R6 includes a headphone jack for monitoring audio levels.

For professional video work, the R6 is significantly better equipped. The combination of the articulating screen, in-body stabilization, and Log gamma makes it a much more versatile video camera.

Video Autofocus

Both cameras feature Dual Pixel CMOS AF for video, but the R6’s system is more refined:

The R6’s autofocus is smoother and less prone to hunting during video recording.
The R6 offers adjustable autofocus speed for video, allowing you to control how quickly focus transitions occur.

For run-and-gun video work, the R6’s improved autofocus performance makes it much easier to maintain focus on moving subjects.

2025 Performance and Handling

Beyond specifications, there are several differences in how these cameras perform in real-world use.

Continuous Shooting

The 5D Mark IV can shoot at 7 fps for up to 21 RAW files or an unlimited number of JPEGs, while the R6 shoots at 12 fps with the mechanical shutter or 20 fps with the electronic shutter for up to 240 RAW files. This difference is significant for action and sports photography:

The R6’s faster shooting speed makes it easier to capture the decisive moment in fast-paced action.
The R6’s larger buffer allows for longer bursts before the camera slows down.

For action and sports photography, the R6 is clearly the better choice. I’ve used both cameras for wildlife photography, and the R6’s ability to capture longer bursts at high speed has resulted in more keepers, especially when photographing birds in flight.

Image Stabilization

This is one area where the R6 has a clear advantage:

The 5D Mark IV relies solely on lens-based image stabilization.
The R6 features in-body image stabilization (IBIS) that can work in conjunction with lens-based IS for up to 8 stops of stabilization.

The difference in real-world use is dramatic. I’ve shot handheld with both cameras in low light, and the R6’s IBIS allows me to use shutter speeds 2-3 stops slower than with the 5D Mark IV while maintaining sharp images. This is particularly useful for event photography and videography.

Battery Life

The 5D Mark IV uses the LP-E6N battery, while the R6 uses the newer LP-E6NH battery. Despite the newer battery technology, the 5D Mark IV has significantly better battery life:

The 5D Mark IV is rated for approximately 900 shots per charge.
The R6 is rated for approximately 360 shots per charge when using the viewfinder or 500 shots when using the LCD.

This difference is due to the R6’s power-hungry electronic viewfinder. For all-day shooting, I’ve found that the 5D Mark IV’s longer battery life means I’m less likely to need to change batteries during a long event. However, the R6 can be charged via USB-C, which provides some flexibility.

Price and Value Analysis

Price is often a deciding factor when choosing between these two cameras, especially since both are now available on the used market.

Current Pricing

As of November 2025, the pricing for these cameras on the used market is approximately:

Canon 5D Mark IV: $1,500-$1,800 (body only)
Canon R6: $1,700-$2,000 (body only)

The R6 typically commands a premium of $100-$300 over the 5D Mark IV, which is relatively small considering the improvements it offers in terms of autofocus, speed, and video capabilities.

Value Proposition

When considering value, it’s important to think about what you’re getting for the extra money with the R6. Essentially, you’re paying for:

Superior autofocus system (1053 points vs 61 points)
Faster continuous shooting (up to 20 fps vs 7 fps)
In-body image stabilization
Better video capabilities (4K at 60fps vs 30fps)
More advanced features (eye detection, articulating screen)

With the 5D Mark IV, you’re getting:

Higher resolution (30.4MP vs 20MP)
Better battery life
Familiar DSLR ergonomics
Optical viewfinder
A lower price point

For most photographers, I believe the R6 offers better overall value. The improvements in autofocus, speed, and video capabilities make it a much more versatile camera that can handle a wider range of photography situations.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Now that we’ve compared both cameras in detail, let’s discuss who might be better served by each option.

The Canon 5D Mark IV Is For You If:

You primarily shoot landscapes or portraits where high resolution is a priority
You prefer the optical viewfinder experience and longer battery life of a DSLR
You’re on a tighter budget but still want a professional full-frame camera
You don’t shoot video or are satisfied with basic 4K at 30fps
You have a collection of EF lenses and want to use them without an adapter

I’ve recommended the 5D Mark IV to several friends who are landscape photographers. Its combination of high resolution, excellent image quality, and familiar DSLR handling makes it the perfect tool for capturing detailed landscapes.

The Canon R6 Is For You If:

You shoot sports, wildlife, or action photography and need fast autofocus and continuous shooting
You shoot a mix of stills and video and want advanced video capabilities
You frequently shoot in low light conditions and need the best possible performance
You value the latest technology and want a camera that will remain relevant for years to come
You’re willing to adapt your EF lenses to the RF mount for better performance

I know several professional photographers who have switched from the 5D Mark IV to the R6, and they haven’t looked back. For them, the combination of superior autofocus, in-body stabilization, and improved video capabilities makes it the more versatile tool for their professional work.

Real-World Shooting Experiences

Technical specifications only tell part of the story. Let me share some of my real-world experiences with both cameras in different photography genres.

Sports and Wildlife Photography

For sports and wildlife photography, the R6 is clearly the better choice:

The R6’s 1053-point autofocus system and 20 fps electronic shutter make it much easier to track and capture fast-moving subjects.
The R6’s in-body stabilization helps when using long telephoto lenses handheld.
The R6’s eye detection for animals is remarkably accurate, even for birds in flight.

During a recent motorsports event, I used both cameras to photograph racing cars. While the 5D Mark IV captured some good shots, the R6’s hit rate was significantly higher, particularly when panning with fast-moving subjects. The difference was even more pronounced when photographing birds in flight, where the R6’s superior autofocus tracking made all the difference.

Portrait Photography

For portrait photography, both cameras perform well, but with some differences:

The 5D Mark IV’s higher resolution captures more detail in skin and clothing textures.
The R6’s eye detection autofocus makes it easier to achieve sharp focus on the subject’s eyes.
The R6’s in-body stabilization allows for slower shutter speeds when shooting handheld in low light.

I’ve shot portraits with both cameras, and while both are capable, I slightly prefer the R6 for portrait work. The combination of accurate eye detection and in-body stabilization gives me more confidence when shooting in challenging conditions.

Landscape Photography

For landscape photography, both cameras are well-suited, but with some differences:

The 5D Mark IV’s higher resolution captures more detail in landscapes, particularly in textures like rock formations and foliage.
The R6’s improved dynamic range allows for better recovery of highlight and shadow detail in high-contrast scenes.
The R6’s in-body stabilization is useful for handheld landscape shots in low light.

During a recent trip to the Grand Canyon, I used both cameras extensively. While both produced excellent images, the 5D Mark IV’s files had noticeably more detail when viewed at 100% and gave me more flexibility when cropping in post-processing.

Event Photography

For event photography, both cameras have their strengths:

The 5D Mark IV’s longer battery life means you’re less likely to run out of power during a long event.
The R6’s better autofocus and low-light performance result in more keepers in challenging conditions.
The R6’s dual card slots provide more security for important images.

I’ve used both cameras for wedding and event photography, and while I appreciate the 5D Mark IV’s battery life, I’ve found that the R6’s combination of good performance, better autofocus, and more compact size makes it slightly more suitable for all-day event work.

Pro Tips Section

Based on my extensive use of both cameras, here are some pro tips to help you get the most out of either option:

For the Canon 5D Mark IV:

Customize Your Autofocus Settings: The 5D Mark IV’s autofocus system is highly customizable. I’ve found that using Case 4 for erratic subjects moving in all directions works well for wildlife and sports photography.
Use High-Speed Continuous Shooting: Take full advantage of the 7 fps continuous shooting for action and sports. I’ve captured shots that would have been impossible with a slower camera.
Invest in High-Quality Lenses: The 5D Mark IV’s 30.4MP sensor can reveal the limitations of lower-quality lenses. I recommend investing in Canon’s L-series lenses for the best performance.

For the Canon R6:

Leverage the Eye Detection AF: The R6’s eye detection autofocus is one of its best features. I’ve found it to be incredibly accurate for both human and animal portraits.
Use the Electronic Shutter for Silent Shooting: The R6’s 20 fps electronic shutter is completely silent, which is perfect for wildlife photography or situations where you need to be discreet.
Take Advantage of In-Body Stabilization: The R6’s IBIS is a game-changer. I’ve been able to capture sharp images at shutter speeds as low as 1/15s with a 35mm lens, which would have been impossible with the 5D Mark IV.

For Both Cameras:

Shoot RAW for Maximum Flexibility: While both cameras produce excellent JPEGs, shooting RAW gives you the most flexibility in post-processing, especially with the 5D Mark IV’s high-resolution files.
Use Back-Button Focus: Both cameras support back-button focusing, which separates the autofocus function from the shutter release. I’ve found that this technique improves my hit rate, especially for action photography.
Update Your Firmware: Canon has released several firmware updates for both cameras that add features and improve performance. Make sure your camera is running the latest firmware to take advantage of these improvements.

FAQ Section

Which camera is better for sports photography?

For sports photography, the Canon R6 is the clear winner. Its 1053-point autofocus system, 20 fps electronic shutter, and superior subject tracking make it much easier to capture fast-moving subjects. The larger buffer also allows for longer bursts, increasing your chances of getting the perfect shot.

Which camera is better for landscape photography?

For landscape photography, the Canon 5D Mark IV has a slight edge due to its higher 30.4MP resolution, which captures more detail in textures like rock formations and foliage. However, the R6’s improved dynamic range and in-body stabilization make it a strong contender, especially if you frequently shoot handheld landscapes in low light.

Can I use my EF lenses on the R6?

Yes, you can use EF lenses on the R6 with the official EF-EOS R adapter. In fact, many EF lenses perform even better on the R6 due to its more advanced autofocus system. The adapter is weather-sealed and maintains full functionality of the lens, including image stabilization and autofocus.

Which camera has better low-light performance?

The Canon R6 has better low-light performance due to its newer sensor technology, higher native ISO range (up to 102400 vs 32000), and in-body image stabilization. I’ve found that the R6 produces cleaner images at ISO 6400 and above, with less noise and better detail retention.

Which camera is better for video?

For video, the Canon R6 is the better choice. It can record 4K video at up to 60fps (compared to 30fps on the 5D Mark IV), features a fully articulating screen, includes in-body image stabilization for smoother handheld footage, and offers Canon’s Log gamma profile for increased dynamic range.

How do these cameras compare to newer Canon models?

Both the 5D Mark IV and R6 have been succeeded by newer models (R6 II and R3), but they remain capable cameras. The newer models offer improvements like higher resolution, better autofocus, and improved video capabilities, but both the 5D Mark IV and R6 are still competitive for many types of photography.

Are these cameras weather-sealed?

Yes, both cameras feature weather sealing with protection against dust and moisture. I’ve used both cameras in rain and dusty conditions without any issues. However, to take full advantage of the weather sealing, you need to use weather-sealed lenses as well.

Conclusion

After extensive use of both the Canon 5D Mark IV and R6, I can confidently say that both are excellent cameras capable of producing stunning images. The right choice for you depends on your specific needs, shooting style, and budget.

For sports, wildlife, and action photographers, I recommend the Canon R6. Its superior autofocus system, faster continuous shooting, and in-body stabilization make it the perfect tool for capturing fast-moving subjects in challenging conditions. While it comes at a premium, the performance benefits are worth the extra investment for those who need these capabilities.

For landscape and portrait photographers who prioritize resolution and battery life, the Canon 5D Mark IV remains an excellent choice. Its 30.4MP sensor captures incredible detail, and its DSLR design provides a familiar shooting experience with excellent battery life.

Regardless of which camera you choose, you’ll be getting a capable full-frame camera that can handle almost any photography situation. Both cameras have earned their reputation for excellence, and either one will serve you well for years to come.