Canon R8 vs R6 vs R6 Mark II: Which One is Right for You?



Canon has expanded its mirrorless lineup to fit the needs of both enthusiasts and professionals, and three of its most compelling full-frame options—Canon EOS R8, EOS R6, and EOS R6 Mark II—are often considered by photographers and videographers looking to strike the right balance between price, performance, and features.

But how do these cameras actually differ? And more importantly, which one is right for you?

Let’s start by breaking down their core specifications in a clear comparison table.



📊 Canon R8 vs R6 vs R6 Mark II: Specification Summary

FeatureCanon EOS R8Canon EOS R6Canon EOS R6 Mark II
Sensor24.2MP Full-frame (CMOS)20.1MP Full-frame (CMOS)24.2MP Full-frame (CMOS)

Image Processor
DIGIC X
DIGIC X		DIGIC X
ISO Range100–102,400 (exp. to 204,800)
100–102,400 (exp. to 204,800)		100–102,400 (exp. to 204,800)

Burst Shooting
6 fps mech / 40 fps elec
12 fps mech / 20 fps elec		12 fps mech / 40 fps elec

Autofocus System		Dual Pixel CMOS AF IIDual Pixel CMOS AF IIDual Pixel CMOS AF II

In-Body IS (IBIS)		❌ No✅ Yes (up to 8 stops)✅ Yes (up to 8 stops)

Video Resolution		4K 60p (no crop)4K 60p (slight crop)4K 60p / 6K oversampled

CFexpress Support		❌ No❌ No❌ No

Viewfinder		2.36M-dot OLED3.69M-dot OLED3.69M-dot OLED

Rear LCD
3.0" vari-angle touchscreen, 1.62M dots		SameSame

Battery
LP-E17 (lower capacity)		LP-E6NHLP-E6NH

Body Construction		Polycarbonate, compactMagnesium alloy, weather-sealedMagnesium alloy, weather-sealed

Weight (Body Only)		~461g~680g~670g

Price (USD approx.)		$1,499$1,999$2,499


📸 Image Quality & Sensor Performance

Both the R8 and R6 Mark II feature a 24.2MP sensor, giving them a clear edge over the original R6's 20.1MP sensor. This small but meaningful bump in resolution benefits photographers who frequently crop or print larger.

However, all three cameras use Canon’s excellent DIGIC X processor, ensuring solid color science, noise performance, and fast processing. You’ll see little difference in real-world dynamic range unless you’re pixel peeping or editing heavily.

Verdict: For landscape, commercial, or detail-oriented work, the R6 Mark II or R8 offer more resolution. The R6 is still excellent for general use.

 


🔍 Autofocus & Speed

Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system is one of the best on the market. All three cameras use it, with intelligent subject tracking for humans, animals, and vehicles. But…

  • The R8 and R6 Mark II offer up to 40 fps with the electronic shutter.

  • The R6 is limited to 20 fps electronic and 12 fps mechanical.

The R6 and R6 II offer more buffer capacity, meaning they can handle longer bursts before slowing down—important for sports and wildlife.

Verdict: If you need speed, the R6 Mark II leads. The R8 is a close second but has a smaller buffer. The R6 lags slightly in burst capability.

 


📹 Video Capabilities

This is where things get more interesting.

  • Canon R8 can record 4K 60p with no crop and uses 6K oversampling, giving excellent sharpness. No 30-minute limit.

  • R6 Mark II improves with full-width 4K 60p using 6K oversampling and HDR PQ / C-Log3 support.

  • R6 records 4K 60p with a slight crop and tends to overheat during longer sessions.

None of them offer CFexpress card slots, limiting higher-end codecs, but the R6 II stands out for serious videographers.

Verdict: For hybrid shooters and video pros, R6 Mark II is the top choice. R8 is excellent for casual video, vlogging, or B-camera roles. R6 is more limited.

 


🎥 Stabilization

This might be the biggest practical difference.

  • R6 and R6 Mark II have In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)—up to 8 stops of correction with compatible lenses.

  • The R8 lacks IBIS, relying solely on lens IS.

If you shoot handheld, especially at slower shutter speeds or in low light, this makes a difference.

Verdict: For handheld photography or video, the R6 II and R6 have a huge edge. The R8 demands steadier technique or stabilized lenses.

 


⚙️ Build Quality & Ergonomics

The R6 and R6 Mark II feel more like professional tools—magnesium alloy bodies, deeper grips, dual card slots, and longer battery life.

The R8, by contrast, is more compact and lightweight but uses a smaller battery and only has one SD card slot. It’s travel-friendly, but not ideal for extended shoots or rough environments.

Verdict: If you shoot in tough conditions or need reliability for events, R6 II and R6 are safer choices.

 


🔌 Battery Life

  • R6 and R6 Mark II use the LP-E6NH, delivering better endurance.

  • R8 uses the LP-E17, which drains faster—especially when shooting video or high bursts.

Verdict: For weddings, long hikes, or event coverage, R6 II and R6 offer more stamina.

 


📷 Which Camera is Best for You?

✅ Choose the Canon R8 if you are...

  • A beginner upgrading to full-frame

  • A travel photographer needing a light setup

  • A hybrid creator working on a budget

  • Someone who shoots mostly with stabilized lenses

✅ Choose the Canon R6 if you are...

  • Shooting mainly photography (especially events)

  • Okay with 20MP resolution

  • Looking for reliable IBIS and pro build quality at a lower price

✅ Choose the Canon R6 Mark II if you are...

  • A professional or serious enthusiast

  • Shooting both high-quality photo and video

  • Requiring fast burst rates, IBIS, and excellent 4K video

  • Looking for the best all-around Canon mirrorless under $3,000


All three cameras are built on Canon’s solid foundation of image quality and usability, but they clearly cater to different needs and price points. The R8 is a smart, affordable entry into full-frame. The R6 is still a solid workhorse. And the R6 Mark II? It's simply one of the best hybrid cameras on the market today.

Before making your decision, think about what you shoot most—fast action? Video content? Travel? Each of these models shines in different scenarios.


About Us

We’re a team of professional photographers born and raised in Venice, specializing in capturing real moments with a documentary and editorial approach. Whether you're visiting the city for a romantic getaway, anniversary, or just because Venice deserves to be photographed, we offer personalized photo experiences tailored to each couple. If you're planning a romantic trip, take a look at what we offer as your dedicated honeymoon photographer in Venice and let us help turn your memories into lasting images.

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