Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Mirrorless Cameras For Travel

Canon EOS R6 Mark II vs Sony α6400

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Canon EOS R6 Mark II and Sony α6400 score essentially the same (4.1 vs 4.1). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Canon EOS R6 Mark II
Ranked #3 in Best Mirrorless Cameras For Travel
Canon EOS R6 Mark II
$1,998as of May 29

The Canon EOS R6 is a 20MP full-frame mirrorless camera designed for enthusiast photographers and videographers. Reviewers praised its excellent image quality, fast shooting capabilities, and robust autofocus system. However, the camera's tendency to overheat during video recording and its 30-minute recording limit have been significant drawbacks. While early versions suffered from reliability issues and firmware problems, Canon's updates have largely resolved these concerns. The R6 sits below the R5 in the lineup and offers a well-rounded combination of stills and video features, though it's not the best stills-and-video hybrid option available. It's ideal for photographers seeking a versatile, high-quality camera but may not suit videographers requiring extended recording times.

Strengths
  • 20MP Dual Pixel CMOS sensor with excellent image quality and detail retention
  • Dual Pixel AF II with AI-trained subject tracking and 100% AF coverage
  • In-body stabilization rated at up to 8EV of correction
Watch-outs
  • Tends to hit temperature limits during extended video recording
  • 30-minute recording limit imposed by firmware
  • Some users report IBIS wobble with certain wide-angle lenses
Sony α6400
Ranked #4 in Best Mirrorless Cameras For Travel
Sony α6400
$848as of May 29

The Sony α6400 stands out primarily for its exceptional autofocus system, which DPReview calls 'one of the best implementations out there' and 'game-changing' for its price range. RTINGS.com notes its 11fps continuous RAW shooting and 4K video capabilities. However, reviewers like Alik Griffin criticize its handling and ergonomics, while others point out the lack of in-body stabilization and confusing menu system. Despite these drawbacks, it's considered one of the most capable APS-C cameras at its price point, particularly for those prioritizing autofocus performance over user experience.

Strengths
  • Industry-leading autofocus implementation with 425 phase- and contrast-detect AF points
  • 11fps continuous RAW shooting capability
  • Detailed 4K video with 100mbps recording and slow motion
Watch-outs
  • Ergonomics are hit-and-miss with no substantive changes from predecessor
  • Lacks in-body stabilization limiting video and low-light performance

How they stack up

Canon EOS R6 Mark II

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II offers better image quality and in-body stabilization than the Sony α7 IV, but unlike the Nikon Z5II, it lacks dual card slots and has a shorter battery life. Compared to the Fujifilm X-S20, it provides more advanced video features and higher frame rates, though the X-S20 has better vlog mode and 4K/60 4:2:2 recording.

Sony α6400

The Sony α6400 excels in autofocus performance compared to the Canon EOS R50, but lacks the 4K/60p recording and 10-bit color depth of the Sony α6700. Unlike the Fujifilm X-T5, it has a more compact design and better low-light performance, though the X-T5 provides higher frame rates and better in-body stabilization.

Specs side-by-side

SpecCanon EOS R6 Mark IISony α6400
Sensor20MP Dual Pixel CMOS24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS
StabilizationIn-body stabilization rated at up to 8EVNo in-body stabilization
VideoUHD 4K at up to 60p4K/30p, 1080 up to 60p/120p
AutofocusDual Pixel AF II with AI-trained subject tracking425 Phase- & Contrast-Detect AF Points
Burst Rate20 fps with e-shutter, 12 fps mechanicalUp to 11 fps
Display3.0-inch articulating touch LCD3.0" 921.6k-Dot Tilting
EVF3.7M-dot EVFXGA Tru-Finder 2.36m-Dot OLED
WeightLess than 1 lb (body only)
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