What To Know
- While the 6D Mark II is a more advanced full-frame camera, the 550D is an affordable and versatile APS-C camera.
- The Canon 6D Mark II is a more expensive camera than the 550D, with a current market price of around $1,500 compared to the 550D’s price of around $400.
- If you are a beginner or hobbyist photographer looking for an affordable and versatile camera, the 550D is a great option.
The Canon 6D Mark II and 550D are two popular DSLR cameras that cater to different levels of photography enthusiasts. While the 6D Mark II is a more advanced full-frame camera, the 550D is an affordable and versatile APS-C camera. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison between these two models to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Canon 6D Mark II | Canon 550D |
| — | — | — |
| Sensor | Full-frame (36 x 24mm) CMOS | APS-C (22.3 x 14.9mm) CMOS |
| Resolution | 26.2 megapixels | 18 megapixels |
| ISO Range | 100-40,000 (expandable to 50-102,400) | 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800) |
| Autofocus | 45-point all cross-type | 9-point all cross-type |
| Continuous Shooting | 6.5 fps | 3.7 fps |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism with 100% coverage | Pentamirror with 95% coverage |
| LCD Screen | 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen | 3.0-inch fixed LCD screen |
| Video Recording | 4K (30p) | 1080p (30p) |
| Weight | 765 grams | 530 grams |
Sensor and Image Quality
The most significant difference between these two cameras lies in their sensors. The 6D Mark II features a full-frame sensor, which is larger than the APS-C sensor found in the 550D. This larger sensor allows the 6D Mark II to capture images with a wider dynamic range, better low-light performance, and shallower depth of field. As a result, the 6D Mark II produces images with superior image quality, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.
Autofocus and Performance
The 6D Mark II boasts a more advanced autofocus system with 45 cross-type autofocus points. This provides faster and more accurate focusing, even in low light. The 550D, on the other hand, has a 9-point autofocus system, which is still capable but may struggle in certain situations.
In terms of performance, the 6D Mark II offers a faster continuous shooting speed of 6.5 fps compared to the 550D’s 3.7 fps. This makes it a better choice for capturing fast-moving subjects or sequences.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The 6D Mark II features a pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage, providing a bright and clear view of the scene. The 550D, on the other hand, uses a pentamirror viewfinder with 95% coverage, which may result in some vignetting around the edges.
Both cameras have LCD screens, but the 6D Mark II‘s vari-angle touchscreen is more versatile. It allows you to tilt and swivel the screen for more flexible shooting angles, making it easier to capture shots from high or low perspectives.
Video Recording
The 6D Mark II is a more capable video camera than the 550D. It can record 4K video at 30p with full-HD autofocus, while the 550D is limited to 1080p at 30p. The 6D Mark II also offers features such as Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth and accurate focusing during video recording.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
The 6D Mark II has a larger and more ergonomic body than the 550D. It features a comfortable grip and well-placed controls, making it easier to handle and operate. The 6D Mark II also has a more robust weather-sealed construction, making it better suited for use in challenging outdoor conditions.
Price and Value
The Canon 6D Mark II is a more expensive camera than the 550D, with a current market price of around $1,500 compared to the 550D’s price of around $400. However, the 6D Mark II offers superior image quality, performance, and features. If you are a serious photographer who values these aspects, the 6D Mark II is worth the investment.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The choice between the Canon 6D Mark II and 550D depends on your photography needs and budget. If you are a beginner or hobbyist photographer looking for an affordable and versatile camera, the 550D is a great option. It offers good image quality, a user-friendly interface, and a wide range of lenses to choose from.
However, if you are a more experienced photographer who demands superior image quality, performance, and features, the Canon 6D Mark II is the better choice. It offers a full-frame sensor, advanced autofocus, 4K video recording, and a weather-sealed body.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which camera has a better dynamic range?
A: The Canon 6D Mark II has a better dynamic range due to its larger full-frame sensor.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon 6D Mark II has better low-light performance due to its larger sensor and wider ISO range.
Q: Which camera has a faster continuous shooting speed?
A: The Canon 6D Mark II has a faster continuous shooting speed of 6.5 fps compared to the 550D’s 3.7 fps.
Q: Which camera has a more versatile LCD screen?
A: The Canon 6D Mark II has a vari-angle touchscreen that allows for more flexible shooting angles.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon 6D Mark II is a better video camera, offering 4K recording, full-HD autofocus, and Dual Pixel CMOS AF.
