Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR vs Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM: The Ultimate Showdown

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with two popular options like the Canon EOS 6D with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Nikon D5600 with the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens. Both are excellent choices for photographers of all levels, offering a balance of features, performance, and price. This in-depth comparison will help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each setup, making your decision easier.

Sensor and Image Quality

The Canon EOS 6D boasts a full-frame 20.2MP CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D5600 utilizes an APS-C 24.2MP CMOS sensor. The larger sensor in the Canon EOS 6D allows for better low-light performance, shallower depth of field, and a wider dynamic range. The Nikon D5600, with its smaller sensor, offers a higher pixel density, resulting in sharper images, especially when cropping.
Canon EOS 6D:

• Strengths: Better low-light performance, shallower depth of field, wider dynamic range.
• Weaknesses: Lower pixel density, less cropping flexibility.

Nikon D5600:

• Strengths: Higher pixel density, sharper images, greater cropping flexibility.
• Weaknesses: Less impressive low-light performance, shallower depth of field, narrower dynamic range.

Autofocus System

The Canon EOS 6D features a 11-point autofocus system, while the Nikon D5600 utilizes a 39-point autofocus system. The Nikon D5600’s autofocus system is faster and more accurate, particularly in low-light situations. However, the Canon EOS 6D’s autofocus system, while slower, is still reliable for general photography.
Canon EOS 6D:

• Strengths: Reliable autofocus for general photography.
• Weaknesses: Slower and less accurate autofocus, fewer focus points.

Nikon D5600:

• Strengths: Faster and more accurate autofocus, more focus points.
• Weaknesses: Can struggle in low-light situations.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras offer Full HD video recording at 30fps. The Canon EOS 6D includes a microphone input for external audio recording, while the Nikon D5600 features a built-in stereo microphone. The Canon EOS 6D’s video quality is slightly better, with more detail and less noise. However, the Nikon D5600’s video features are more user-friendly, with features like time-lapse and slow-motion recording.
Canon EOS 6D:

• Strengths: Better video quality, microphone input.
• Weaknesses: Less user-friendly video features.

Nikon D5600:

• Strengths: User-friendly video features, time-lapse and slow-motion recording.
• Weaknesses: Lower video quality.

Lenses

The Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is a versatile zoom lens that offers a wide range of focal lengths, making it suitable for various photography styles. The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens also provides a wide zoom range, but with a slightly wider field of view due to the APS-C sensor. Both lenses offer image stabilization, making them ideal for handheld shooting.
Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM:

• Strengths: Versatile zoom range, good image quality, image stabilization.
• Weaknesses: Limited low-light performance, slower aperture.

Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR:

• Strengths: Wider field of view, good image quality, image stabilization.
• Weaknesses: Limited low-light performance, slower aperture.

Design and Features

The Canon EOS 6D boasts a classic DSLR design with a comfortable grip and a sturdy build. It features a 3.0-inch LCD screen and a built-in optical viewfinder. The Nikon D5600 offers a similar design with a comfortable grip and a durable build. It features a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD and a built-in optical viewfinder. Both cameras are equipped with Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for easy sharing of images.
Canon EOS 6D:

• Strengths: Classic DSLR design, comfortable grip, sturdy build, optical viewfinder.
• Weaknesses: Smaller LCD screen, no touchscreen functionality.

Nikon D5600:

• Strengths: Comfortable grip, durable build, tilting touchscreen LCD, optical viewfinder, Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity.
• Weaknesses: None significant.

Price and Value

The Canon EOS 6D with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens is priced higher than the Nikon D5600 with the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens. However, the Canon EOS 6D offers a full-frame sensor, which is a significant advantage for many photographers. The Nikon D5600, while less expensive, provides excellent value for its features and performance.
Canon EOS 6D:

• Strengths: Full-frame sensor, high-quality build.
• Weaknesses: Higher price.

Nikon D5600:

• Strengths: Affordable price, excellent value for its features.
• Weaknesses: APS-C sensor.

Which Camera is Right for You?

The best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Canon EOS 6D if:

• You prioritize low-light performance and a shallow depth of field.
• You want a camera with a full-frame sensor.
• You are willing to spend more for a higher-quality camera.

Choose the Nikon D5600 if:

• You prioritize affordability and value for money.
• You need a camera with a high pixel density and excellent autofocus.
• You want a camera with user-friendly video features.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs

While the Canon EOS 6D and the Nikon D5600 are both excellent cameras, they cater to different needs. The Canon EOS 6D is a professional-grade camera that excels in low-light situations and offers a wider dynamic range. The Nikon D5600 is a more affordable option that delivers excellent image quality and user-friendly features. Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that best suits your photography style and budget.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q1: Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are suitable for beginners. The Nikon D5600 is slightly easier to use due to its user-friendly interface and touchscreen LCD.
Q2: Which camera is better for landscapes?
The Canon EOS 6D is better for landscapes due to its full-frame sensor, which allows for wider dynamic range and shallower depth of field.
Q3: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
The Nikon D5600 is better for wildlife photography due to its faster autofocus system and higher pixel density.
Q4: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Canon EOS 6D is better for low-light photography due to its full-frame sensor and better low-light performance.
Q5: Which camera has better battery life?
The Nikon D5600 has a slightly better battery life than the Canon EOS 6D.