Mastering the art of DSLR shooting
Comparison

Battle of the Lenses: Canon EOS 6D Mark II vs. EOS R – Which Reigns Supreme?

Drew is a passionate photographer and the founder of the popular camera review blog, "DrewCaptures." With over a decade of experience behind the lens, Drew has developed a deep understanding of the latest camera gear and technologies.

What To Know

  • A classic and affordable 50mm prime lens offering sharp images and a shallow depth of field, making it ideal for portraits and low-light photography.
  • If you prioritize fast and accurate autofocus, especially for action or low-light photography, the Canon EOS R with the **RF 35mm f/1.
  • If you’re looking for a versatile setup that can handle a wide range of photographic scenarios, the Canon EOS R with the **RF 35mm f/1.

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison of two popular setups: the Canon EOS 6D Mark II with the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens versus the **Canon EOS R with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens**.
This comprehensive comparison will explore the strengths and weaknesses of both setups, covering aspects like image quality, autofocus performance, versatility, and overall user experience. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of which setup best aligns with your photographic needs and budget.

The Contenders: A Quick Overview

Canon EOS 6D Mark II with Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM:

  • Camera: A full-frame DSLR known for its excellent image quality, affordability, and impressive low-light performance.
  • Lens: A classic and affordable 50mm prime lens offering sharp images and a shallow depth of field, making it ideal for portraits and low-light photography.

Canon EOS R with Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro:

  • Camera: A mirrorless full-frame camera boasting advanced autofocus, high-resolution sensor, and a compact design.
  • Lens: A versatile 35mm prime lens offering sharp images, image stabilization, and macro capabilities, making it suitable for a wide range of subjects.

Image Quality: A Detailed Look

Both setups deliver exceptional image quality, but subtle differences exist. The Canon EOS 6D Mark II boasts a 26.2MP sensor, producing high-resolution images with excellent detail and dynamic range. The **Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM** lens provides sharp images with pleasing bokeh, especially at wider apertures.
The Canon EOS R, on the other hand, features a 30.3MP sensor, resulting in even higher resolution images with remarkable detail and vibrant colors. The **Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens complements this with its sharp optics and exceptional sharpness throughout the aperture range.
Ultimately, the choice between the two boils down to personal preference. If you prioritize high resolution and vibrant colors, the Canon EOS R with the **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens might be the better choice. However, the **Canon EOS 6D Mark II** with the **EF 50mm f/1.8 STM** lens still delivers excellent image quality, especially at a more affordable price point.

Autofocus Performance: A Comparative Analysis

The Canon EOS R with its **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens takes the lead in autofocus performance. Its advanced autofocus system, featuring Dual Pixel CMOS AF, ensures fast and accurate focus acquisition, even in challenging lighting conditions. The **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens also benefits from the superior autofocus capabilities of the **EOS R** system.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II, while equipped with a reliable autofocus system, falls slightly behind in terms of speed and accuracy, particularly in low-light situations. The **EF 50mm f/1.8 STM** lens, while offering decent autofocus, isn’t as fast or as accurate as the **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro**.
If you prioritize fast and accurate autofocus, especially for action or low-light photography, the Canon EOS R with the **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens is the clear winner. However, the **Canon EOS 6D Mark II** still offers reliable autofocus for general photography.

Versatility: Exploring the Range of Possibilities

The Canon EOS R with the **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens offers greater versatility. The 35mm focal length is a true all-rounder, suitable for street photography, landscapes, portraits, and even close-up macro shots thanks to the lens’s dedicated macro capabilities. The **EOS R**’s mirrorless design also provides a compact and lightweight system, making it ideal for travel and everyday photography.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II with the **EF 50mm f/1.8 STM** lens is a more specialized setup. The 50mm focal length is excellent for portraits and low-light photography but less versatile for other genres like landscapes or street photography. The DSLR design also makes the system slightly larger and heavier.
If you’re looking for a versatile setup that can handle a wide range of photographic scenarios, the Canon EOS R with the **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens is the better choice. However, the **Canon EOS 6D Mark II** with the **EF 50mm f/1.8 STM** lens remains a solid option for portrait and low-light photography.

User Experience: A Comparative Analysis

The Canon EOS R offers a more modern and intuitive user experience. Its electronic viewfinder provides a clear and crisp display, while the touchscreen interface allows for easy navigation and control. The **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens also features a smooth and silent focusing mechanism, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II, while still a capable camera, feels slightly dated in comparison. Its optical viewfinder can be a bit dim, and the menu system can be less user-friendly. The **EF 50mm f/1.8 STM** lens, while offering decent performance, doesn’t have the same silent and smooth focusing experience as the **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro**.
If you prioritize a modern and intuitive user experience, the Canon EOS R with the **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens is the superior choice. However, the **Canon EOS 6D Mark II** still offers a reliable and comfortable shooting experience for those who prefer a more traditional DSLR approach.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Setup for You

Ultimately, the best setup for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Canon EOS 6D Mark II with Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM: Choose this setup if you prioritize affordability, excellent image quality, and a classic DSLR experience.
  • Canon EOS R with Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro: Choose this setup if you prioritize versatility, advanced autofocus, a modern and intuitive user experience, and macro capabilities.

Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations

While we’ve focused on the Canon EOS 6D Mark II and **Canon EOS R**, it’s important to consider other factors that might influence your decision:

  • Budget: The **Canon EOS 6D Mark II** with the **EF 50mm f/1.8 STM** lens is a more affordable option.
  • Lens Ecosystem: The **Canon EF** lens system offers a wider range of options, while the **Canon RF** system is still growing.
  • Your Photography Style: Consider the type of photography you enjoy most and choose the setup that best aligns with your needs.

Reaching a Final Decision: A Guiding Light

The decision between the Canon EOS 6D Mark II Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM and the **Canon EOS R Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** is a matter of personal preference. Both setups offer excellent image quality and a satisfying user experience.
By carefully considering your budget, photography style, and desired features, you can confidently choose the setup that best meets your needs and helps you capture stunning images.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use Canon EF lenses on the Canon EOS R?
A: Yes, you can use Canon EF lenses on the Canon EOS R with the optional Canon EF-EOS R Mount Adapter.
Q: What are the key differences between DSLR and mirrorless cameras?
A: DSLR cameras use an optical viewfinder and a mirror to reflect the image to the viewfinder. Mirrorless cameras use an electronic viewfinder and do not have a mirror. Mirrorless cameras generally offer faster autofocus, smaller and lighter designs, and more advanced features.
Q: What are the benefits of a prime lens?
A: Prime lenses typically offer sharper images, wider apertures for shallow depth of field, and are often smaller and lighter than zoom lenses.
Q: What is image stabilization?
A: Image stabilization helps to reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images, especially in low-light conditions.
Q: Which setup is better for beginners?
A: Both setups are suitable for beginners. The Canon EOS 6D Mark II with the **EF 50mm f/1.8 STM** lens offers a more affordable entry point, while the **Canon EOS R** with the **RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro** lens provides a more modern and user-friendly experience.

Was this page helpful?

Drew D.

Drew is a passionate photographer and the founder of the popular camera review blog, "DrewCaptures." With over a decade of experience behind the lens, Drew has developed a deep understanding of the latest camera gear and technologies.
Back to top button