If you have recently considered purchasing a new camera, you might have a tough time finding a difference when comparing the Canon T6 vs T6i. Both are great cameras, each with their own specific set of pros, cons, and features. The goal is to understand the differences between the two to help you make the right decision.
Typically reported is that the T6i is an excellent choice for semi-pros looking to take vibrant, clear, high-quality pictures or video. The T6, on the other hand, is better for individuals looking to learn more about photography and how to take better pictures. Of course, wording it that way is not enough. Determining between the two requires an in-depth look at the features they offer.
There is much about the Canon T6 and T6i there are near identical to one another. However, it is the subtle differences between the two that matter. Just because those differences are subtle, they are a big deal. From something as simple as LCD panel placement to something as major as the control features, you will find that one might be better for you than the other.
Fortunately, a breakdown of differences between the two midrange DSLRs can help you decide. Understanding each of the features point-by-point allows you to determine which camera has the features you both want and need. Whereas the T6 might seem like the right choice for some, the T6i might seem like the way to go for others. It is all about what you want and need.
CANON T6 REVIEW
The Canon Rebel T6 is an enticing choice for anyone looking to learn more about photography. If you are ready to put aside your smartphone in place of something a bit more professional and advanced, you might appreciate the T6. With the purchase of the T6, you gain access to Canon’s line of over 200 lenses. You also gain RAW image capture support, and an easy to read rear LCD.
Of course, that’s not all you can enjoy. The T6 also boasts features such as:
- ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable up to 12800)
- Optical viewfinder
- 3fps continuous shooting
- 1920×1080 video resolution
- 18MP (APS-C CMOS Sensor)
- Upgrade from the Canon EOS Rebel T5
There are, of course, some features that enthusiasts and photographers might not like. Cons to consider include:
- The fixed LCD screen (limited shooting flexibility)
- Lack of environmental sealing
- Lack of image stabilization
- Pentamirror optical viewfinder is not as bright as pentaprism viewfinders
Despite the cons associated with the Canon Rebel T6, entry-level photographers and those looking to enjoy photography as a new hobby will appreciate this camera. It offers a friendly learning curve that makes it easy for you to upgrade from your standard point and shoots and smartphones to a DSLR.
Other, more advanced DSLRs might prove a bit more difficult to use, whereas the T6 is versatile and user-friendly. The images produced by the camera are high-quality, beautiful images, though you will find that they may lack the same crisp, clean quality that other cameras offer.
Of course, the goal of the T6 is not to take the cleanest, most professional-looking photos. Instead, it is to ensure that you learn how to use a DSLR and have fun while doing so. Keep in mind that the pictures you do take will turn out great enough to hang beautifully on your wall.
CANON T6I REVIEW
Among the Rebel series, the T6i is one of the top choices for semi-professional photographers. It is the camera that eventually replaced the Canon EOS 700D. From an articulating screen to an impressive ISO range, there are many reasons why you might want to own a T6i of your own.
In fact, some of the key features of the Canon Rebel T6i include:
- 24MP (APS-C CMOS sensor)
- 3” articulated touchscreen
- 5fps continuous shooting
- 1920×1080 video resolution
- Built-in Wi-Fi
Just like the T6, the T6i also has its own set of pitfalls. Cons of the T6i include:
- Lack of image stabilization
- Lack of environmental sealing
- Pentamirror optical viewfinder (lacks the brightness of a pentaprism viewfinder)
- Limited buffering when shooting RAW images
Despite the setbacks, the T6i takes plenty of high-quality images and it is rather easy to use. Of course, there is somewhat of a learning curve to its use. While easy to use, it might not appear quite as simple as the T6, which is why the T6i is more for people who already know the basics of operating a DSLR. The T6i may seem like the right choice if you are looking to become an entry-level photographer.
The cross-type 19-point AF system offers smooth video shooting and object tracking. The 24MP image sensor ensures that your high-quality photos all look clean and crisp, just the way they should. With a 6000×4000 image resolution, you can capture crucial moments with vivid detail.
CANON T6 VS T6I
Both T6 and T6i are viable options for distinct reasons. When compared to the T6, the T6i is your go-to camera for image quality, which means entry-level pros are likely to enjoy this camera.
The T6i beats the T6 in the following categories:
- ISO Range: 12800 (T6) compared to 25600 (T6i)
- AF Points: 9 (T6) compared to 19 (T6i)
- Continuous Operation: 3fps (T6) compared to 5fps (T6i)
- Image Resolution: (5184×3456 (T6) compared to 6000×4000 (T6i)
- Megapixels: 18MP (T6) compared to 24.2MP (T6i)
- LCD: Fixed (T6) compared to articulated (T6i)
- LCD Resolution: 921,600 dots (T6) compared to 1,040,000 dots (T6i)
- JPEG Bugger Size: 15 (T6) compared to Unlimited (T6i)
Of course, the T6 does outweigh the T6i in other areas such as:
- Startup Time: 0.5 seconds (T6) compared to 0.9 seconds (T6i)
- Battery Life: 500 shots (T6) compared to 440 shots (T6i)
- Weight: 17.1 oz. (T6) compared to 19.8 oz. (T6i)
- Release Date: 2016 (T6) and 2015 (T6i)
As a somewhat newer camera, the T6 does offer at least some more advanced technological features compared to the T6i. The T6, bundled with the 18-55mm lens is also less of a cost compared to the price of the T6i, which is a few hundred dollars more than the T6. Therefore, the T6 is certainly a more budget-friendly option for those looking to own their first DSLR.
OPTING FOR THE T6
If you opt for the T6, you will have the chance to learn how to use a DSLR. The highly functional camera is easy to operate. You can quickly start it up and capture life’s moments in a flash. The long battery life means you can enjoy more time snapping pictures and less time waiting for a recharge. In fact, you gain 40 more shots from the T6 compared to the battery life of the T6i.
Of course, the T6 does have a lower resolution compared to the T6i, but it is not so significant that it makes a massive difference. In fact, to the untrained eye, the images taken by the T6i will likely appear like those taken by the T6. You will, however, notice a slight difference among images taken in low light settings since the ISO range of the T6 is lower than that of the T6i.
OPTING FOR THE T6I
The T6i gives you the chance to plant your feet firmly into the ground of an entry-level photographer position. If you already know the basic function of a DSLR and you are ready to graduate to more professional looking photo opportunities, the T6i will prove most valuable for you.
If you are keen at eyeballing photos for imperfections or you are used to zooming in to make corrections, you will notice the difference in resolution between the two cameras. Also, as an entry-level photographer, you are more likely to run into situations where you take photos in low-light settings. Therefore, the higher ISO range is sure to please.
SUMMARY
In truth, there is no clear winner between the T6 and T6i. The only things that determine which is the winning camera are how you plan to use them. If you plan on having fun and learning how to operate a DSLR, or perhaps you are on a tight budget, the T6 is your clear winner. There is no way to say that one is better than others since the result is clearly dependent on your situation.
However, if you are looking for something that leans a bit more toward the professional side of things that allows you to take cleaner looking photos in low-light, the T6i should be your go-to. There are many features that the T6i boasts that are better than the T6, but the same can also be said about the T6 versus the T6i.
Your best bet is to weigh your options now that you know what features each one offers. Determine how you plan to use your camera. If you know you are going to take a lot of low lighting shots, it might be worth spending a few hundred extra dollars to buy the Canon Rebel T6i. If you know that you are going to have access to good lighting, it doesn’t matter. But for the purposes of this blog, given the hobbyist doesn’t always take, or even have to take, lighting with them… I would opt for the Canon T6i.
