Upgrade Your Camera Game: Canon EOS 60D EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM vs Canon EOS 6D EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM

Choosing your first DSLR camera kit can be overwhelming, especially when faced with the enticing options from Canon. The Canon EOS 60D paired with the EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM and the Canon EOS 6D with the EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM are popular choices for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Both kits offer versatility and affordability, but which one truly reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make the right decision.

The Cameras: A Tale of Two Generations

The Canon EOS 60D and the Canon EOS 6D represent two distinct generations of Canon’s DSLR lineup. The 60D, released in 2010, is a more traditional APS-C camera, while the 6D, launched in 2012, is a full-frame DSLR. This fundamental difference significantly impacts their performance and capabilities.

Canon EOS 60D: The APS-C Workhorse

The EOS 60D boasts a 18-megapixel APS-C sensor, known for its excellent image quality and versatility. Its 9-point autofocus system, while not as advanced as newer cameras, is still reliable for capturing sharp images. The 60D also features a 3-inch rotating LCD screen, making it perfect for shooting from different angles.

Canon EOS 6D: Stepping into Full-Frame

The EOS 6D features a 20.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, offering superior low-light performance, shallower depth of field, and a wider field of view compared to the 60D. It also boasts an advanced 11-point autofocus system with a cross-type sensor in the center for improved accuracy. The 6D’s 3.0-inch fixed LCD screen is smaller but still provides a clear view of your images.

The Lenses: A Comparative Look

The lenses included in each kit are crucial for the overall performance and versatility of the system. Let’s examine their key differences.

Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM: The APS-C All-Rounder

The EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM is a popular choice for APS-C cameras like the 60D. Its versatile focal length range covers wide-angle to telephoto perspectives, making it suitable for various photography genres, including landscapes, portraits, and everyday snapshots. The lens features image stabilization, which helps reduce camera shake, and a fast USM autofocus motor for quick and accurate focusing.

Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: The Full-Frame Companion

The EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is a standard zoom lens designed for full-frame cameras like the 6D. Its focal length range is similar to the 17-85mm, but its wider aperture allows for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field. The lens also features image stabilization and STM autofocus, which is known for its smooth and quiet operation, particularly for video recording.

Performance and Image Quality: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Here’s a breakdown of how the two kits stack up in terms of their strengths and weaknesses:

Canon EOS 60D + 17-85mm: The Budget-Friendly Option

• Pros:
• Affordable price point
• Versatile 17-85mm lens
• Excellent image quality for its price
• Compact and lightweight
• Cons:
• APS-C sensor limits low-light performance and depth of field
• Autofocus system is not as advanced as full-frame cameras
• Limited video recording capabilities

Canon EOS 6D + 24-105mm: The Full-Frame Advantage

• Pros:
• Full-frame sensor for superior image quality, low-light performance, and shallow depth of field
• Advanced autofocus system for accurate subject tracking
• Excellent video recording capabilities
• Versatile 24-105mm lens
• Cons:
• Higher price point compared to the 60D kit
• Larger and heavier than the 60D kit

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Kit for You

Ultimately, the best kit for you depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choose the Canon EOS 60D + 17-85mm if:

• You’re on a tight budget and want a versatile camera for everyday photography.
• You’re primarily shooting in well-lit conditions.
• You’re not overly concerned with low-light performance or shallow depth of field.

Choose the Canon EOS 6D + 24-105mm if:

• You’re willing to invest in a full-frame camera for its superior image quality and low-light performance.
• You’re interested in exploring creative photography techniques like shallow depth of field.
• You need advanced autofocus and video recording capabilities.

Beyond the Kit: Exploring Further Options

Once you’ve chosen your preferred kit, you can always expand your photographic horizons by exploring additional lenses and accessories. For instance, if you’re interested in portrait photography, you might consider investing in a fast prime lens like the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM. Likewise, if you’re passionate about wildlife photography, a telephoto lens like the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM could be a valuable addition to your arsenal.

The Final Word: Embracing the Photographic Journey

Choosing the right camera kit is just the beginning of your photographic journey. The key is to find the tools that inspire you to create and experiment. Whether you opt for the Canon EOS 60D + 17-85mm or the Canon EOS 6D + 24-105mm, remember that the most important factor is your passion for capturing the world through your lens.

Questions You May Have

Q: Which kit is better for beginners?
A: Both kits are suitable for beginners. The 60D kit offers a more affordable entry point, while the 6D kit provides a greater learning curve with its full-frame sensor and advanced features.
Q: Can I upgrade the lenses later?
A: Absolutely! Both kits allow you to upgrade to different lenses as your skills and needs evolve. You can find a wide range of Canon lenses to suit various photography genres.
Q: What about video recording?
A: The 60D has limited video recording capabilities, while the 6D offers full HD video recording with advanced features like manual controls and stereo sound.
Q: Which kit is better for low-light photography?
A: The 6D kit excels in low-light conditions due to its larger full-frame sensor, which captures more light.
Q: Which kit is more compact and lightweight?
A: The 60D kit is more compact and lightweight than the 6D kit, making it more portable for travel and everyday use.