Shoot Like a Pro: Canon EOS 80D vs Canon EOS R6 Mark II with Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM – You Decide!

Are you a photographer looking for a versatile and reliable camera to capture stunning images and videos? Choosing between the Canon EOS 80D with its trusty EF-S 18-135mm lens and the cutting-edge Canon EOS R6 Mark II can be a daunting task. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, but they cater to different needs and budgets. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key differences between these two popular cameras, helping you determine which one is the perfect fit for your photographic journey.

The Tried and True: Canon EOS 80D with EF-S 18-135mm

The Canon EOS 80D, launched in 2016, has established itself as a dependable workhorse for amateur and enthusiast photographers. Paired with the versatile EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens, this combination provides a comprehensive solution for capturing a wide range of subjects.

Key Features of the Canon EOS 80D:

• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor: Delivers excellent image quality with ample detail and dynamic range.
• 7fps continuous shooting: Allows for capturing fast-paced action with ease.
• 45-point all cross-type autofocus: Ensures accurate and reliable subject tracking.
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC: Facilitates seamless image sharing and remote control.
• Vari-angle touchscreen LCD: Offers flexibility for shooting from different angles.
• EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens: Provides a versatile focal range for everyday photography, from landscapes to portraits.

Strengths of the Canon EOS 80D:

• Affordable price point: Makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious photographers.
• Reliable performance: Proven track record of delivering consistent results.
• Wide lens selection: Compatibility with Canon’s extensive EF and EF-S lens lineup.
• Excellent video capabilities: Full HD video recording at 60fps with good image stabilization.

Limitations of the Canon EOS 80D:

• Older technology: Compared to the R6 Mark II, the 80D’s sensor and autofocus system are less advanced.
• No 4K video recording: Limited to Full HD resolution, which may not be satisfactory for professional videographers.
• Limited low-light performance: The smaller sensor size results in higher noise levels in low-light conditions.

The Future of Photography: Canon EOS R6 Mark II

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II, released in 2022, represents a significant leap forward in mirrorless technology. It boasts an impressive array of features designed to meet the demands of professional and advanced photographers.

Key Features of the Canon EOS R6 Mark II:

• 20.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor: Captures exceptional image quality with incredible detail and dynamic range.
• 40fps continuous shooting with electronic shutter: Enables capturing fast-moving subjects with remarkable speed.
• 61-point dual-pixel CMOS AF: Provides lightning-fast and precise autofocus, even in challenging lighting conditions.
• In-body image stabilization (IBIS): Offers up to 8 stops of stabilization, ensuring sharp images even when shooting handheld.
• 4K video recording at up to 60fps: Delivers stunning video quality with advanced features like Canon Log 3 and HDR.
• Autofocus tracking during video recording: Enables smooth and accurate subject tracking while filming.

Strengths of the Canon EOS R6 Mark II:

• Exceptional image quality: The full-frame sensor delivers superior low-light performance and dynamic range.
• Advanced autofocus system: Provides unparalleled accuracy and speed for capturing fast-moving subjects.
• Superb video capabilities: 4K video recording at 60fps with various professional features.
• Compact and lightweight design: Makes it more portable and comfortable to use.

Limitations of the Canon EOS R6 Mark II:

• Higher price point: Significantly more expensive than the EOS 80D, making it less accessible for budget-conscious photographers.
• Limited lens selection: The RF lens system is still developing, offering a smaller range of options compared to the EF system.
• Larger file sizes: The higher resolution and advanced features result in larger file sizes, requiring more storage space.

Choosing the Right Camera: A Detailed Comparison

To make an informed decision, let’s compare the Canon EOS 80D with EF-S 18-135mm and the Canon EOS R6 Mark II across key areas:

Image Quality:

• Canon EOS 80D: The APS-C sensor delivers good image quality with ample detail and dynamic range. However, it struggles in low-light situations due to increased noise.
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II: The full-frame sensor excels in image quality, providing exceptional detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance.

Autofocus:

• Canon EOS 80D: The 45-point all cross-type autofocus system is reliable and accurate but lags behind the R6 Mark II’s advanced system.
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II: The 61-point dual-pixel CMOS AF offers lightning-fast and precise autofocus, even in low-light conditions.

Video Capabilities:

• Canon EOS 80D: Limited to Full HD video recording at 60fps, lacking the advanced features and 4K resolution of the R6 Mark II.
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II: Offers 4K video recording at up to 60fps with Canon Log 3, HDR, and advanced autofocus tracking.

Portability:

• Canon EOS 80D: The DSLR design with a larger body and lens makes it slightly bulkier than the mirrorless R6 Mark II.
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II: The compact and lightweight mirrorless design makes it more portable and comfortable to carry.

Price:

• Canon EOS 80D: Significantly more affordable than the R6 Mark II, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious photographers.
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II: The advanced features and full-frame sensor come at a premium price, making it a more expensive option.

The Verdict: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best choice between the Canon EOS 80D with EF-S 18-135mm and the Canon EOS R6 Mark II depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choose the Canon EOS 80D if:

• You’re on a tight budget and looking for an affordable camera with good image quality and versatility.
• You’re primarily interested in still photography and don’t require professional-level video capabilities.
• You want a camera with a wide selection of compatible lenses.

Choose the Canon EOS R6 Mark II if:

• You’re a professional or advanced photographer seeking the best possible image quality and performance.
• You need a camera with exceptional low-light performance and advanced autofocus capabilities.
• You’re serious about video recording and require 4K resolution and professional features.
• You prioritize portability and a compact design.

Beyond the Canon EOS 80D and R6 Mark II: Exploring Other Options

While the EOS 80D and R6 Mark II represent excellent choices, other cameras in the Canon lineup might also fit your needs. Consider exploring options like:

• Canon EOS 90D: A newer APS-C DSLR with a higher resolution sensor and improved autofocus compared to the 80D.
• Canon EOS R5: A full-frame mirrorless camera with even more advanced video capabilities than the R6 Mark II.
• Canon EOS R7: A relatively affordable APS-C mirrorless camera with impressive autofocus and video features.

The Future is Bright: Canon’s Continued Innovation

Canon continues to push the boundaries of camera technology, constantly innovating and expanding its product lineup. As the world of photography evolves, we can expect even more exciting advancements and choices for photographers of all levels.

The Final Word: Finding the Perfect Fit

Choosing the right camera is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs, priorities, and budget. By carefully considering the strengths and limitations of each camera, you can make an informed choice that empowers you to capture stunning images and videos for years to come.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: What is the difference between the Canon EOS 80D and the Canon EOS 90D?
A: The Canon EOS 90D is a newer and more advanced APS-C DSLR compared to the 80D. It features a higher resolution sensor (32.5MP), improved autofocus system, and faster continuous shooting speed (10fps).
Q: Is the Canon EOS R6 Mark II worth the upgrade from the original R6?
A: The Canon EOS R6 Mark II offers several improvements over the original R6, including a faster burst rate, improved autofocus, and enhanced video capabilities. If you’re a professional or advanced photographer who needs these advancements, the upgrade might be worthwhile. However, if you’re happy with the original R6’s performance, there’s no need to rush into an upgrade.
Q: What is the best lens for the Canon EOS 80D?
A: The best lens for the Canon EOS 80D depends on your specific needs and photographic interests. Some popular choices include the EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM (versatile all-rounder), the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM (budget-friendly portrait lens), and the EF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM (excellent for macro photography).
Q: Can I use EF lenses with the Canon EOS R6 Mark II?
A: Yes, you can use EF lenses with the Canon EOS R6 Mark II using the Canon EF-EOS R Mount Adapter. This adapter allows you to mount and use your existing EF lenses on the mirrorless R6 Mark II.