Canon EOS M6 Mark II Vs 90D: Which Camera Wins?

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two awesome cameras from Canon: the Canon EOS M6 Mark II and the Canon 90D. If you're trying to figure out which one is the right fit for you, you've come to the right place. We'll break down everything from image quality and autofocus to ergonomics and video capabilities. Let’s get started!

Image Quality: Sensor and Processor Showdown

When it comes to image quality, both cameras pack a serious punch, but they achieve it in slightly different ways. The Canon EOS M6 Mark II and the Canon 90D both feature a 32.5-megapixel APS-C sensor, which is fantastic for capturing detailed and vibrant images. This high resolution allows for significant cropping flexibility and produces stunning prints. The detail resolving power is excellent in both, and you will find that both cameras allow you to capture every little nuance. The photos have a sharpness that brings out the subject in a crisp and clean way, whether you are using it for professional or personal photography.

Now, let's delve into the image processors. Both cameras are equipped with Canon's DIGIC 8 processor. This advanced processor ensures rapid image processing, excellent noise reduction, and enhanced dynamic range. The DIGIC 8 processor allows both cameras to handle the massive amount of data generated by their 32.5-megapixel sensors efficiently, leading to fast shooting speeds and improved overall performance. In practical terms, this means you’ll experience less lag when capturing images, especially in continuous shooting mode. The processor also contributes to better color reproduction and tonal range, resulting in more lifelike and visually appealing photos.

However, where they differ slightly is in their approach to maximizing image quality. The Canon 90D, being a DSLR, benefits from a more mature optical viewfinder, which can provide a more accurate representation of the scene, especially in bright sunlight. This can lead to better exposure and composition decisions right at the time of capture. On the other hand, the EOS M6 Mark II, being a mirrorless camera, uses an electronic viewfinder (EVF, sold separately) or the rear LCD screen. While EVFs have come a long way, some photographers still prefer the direct view offered by an optical viewfinder.

In terms of ISO performance, both cameras perform admirably, thanks to the DIGIC 8 processor. You can expect clean images up to ISO 3200, with manageable noise up to ISO 6400. Beyond that, noise becomes more noticeable, but it’s still usable for certain situations, especially with noise reduction software. The dynamic range is also quite impressive on both, allowing you to recover details in both shadows and highlights when editing your photos. Overall, the image quality is superb on both cameras, making them excellent choices for a wide range of photography genres. In summary, both share similar capabilities but have subtle differences that may sway your decision based on personal preferences and shooting conditions. For true-to-life previews, the 90D wins, but the M6 Mark II holds its own thanks to the advanced technology packed into a smaller package.

Autofocus: Tracking and Precision

Autofocus is where things get interesting! The Canon 90D features a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system, which is incredibly reliable and accurate, especially for tracking moving subjects. The Canon EOS M6 Mark II uses Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which offers fast and precise autofocus across a wider area of the sensor. Both are excellent, but they cater to different shooting styles.

The 45-point all cross-type AF system in the 90D is a workhorse. These cross-type points are sensitive to both horizontal and vertical lines, making them more effective at acquiring focus on a variety of subjects. This system is particularly beneficial when shooting through the optical viewfinder, as it provides a responsive and accurate focusing experience. The 90D also includes intelligent subject tracking, which helps to keep moving subjects in focus, making it great for sports and wildlife photography. The system is configurable, allowing you to customize the focus point selection based on your specific needs. Moreover, the 90D's AF system excels in challenging lighting conditions, providing reliable performance even in dimly lit environments.

On the other hand, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF in the EOS M6 Mark II is a game-changer for mirrorless cameras. This technology essentially turns every pixel on the sensor into a phase-detection autofocus point, resulting in incredibly fast and smooth focusing, especially in live view and video modes. The coverage area is also wider compared to the 90D's AF system, allowing you to focus on subjects near the edges of the frame. Eye Detection AF on the M6 Mark II is particularly impressive, as it can accurately detect and track the eyes of humans and animals, ensuring that your portraits are always sharp and in focus. This feature is a massive advantage for portrait and wedding photographers.

In practical use, the EOS M6 Mark II’s autofocus system shines in video recording, offering smooth and accurate focus transitions. The touch screen interface makes it easy to select focus points and track subjects with a simple tap. However, the 90D holds its own with its robust tracking capabilities and reliable performance through the optical viewfinder. For photographers who prefer the traditional DSLR experience and need a dependable autofocus system for fast-action photography, the 90D is an excellent choice. Meanwhile, the EOS M6 Mark II is ideal for those who value speed, accuracy, and advanced features like Eye Detection AF, especially for portrait and video work. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific shooting needs and preferences.

Ergonomics and Design: Handling and Portability

When it comes to ergonomics and design, the Canon 90D and Canon EOS M6 Mark II are worlds apart. The 90D is a traditional DSLR with a larger body, deeper grip, and more physical controls. The EOS M6 Mark II is a compact mirrorless camera, prioritizing portability and simplicity.

The Canon 90D is designed for comfortable and confident handling, especially during long shooting sessions. Its robust build and deep grip provide excellent support, making it easy to hold steady even with larger lenses. The physical controls are thoughtfully laid out, allowing you to quickly adjust settings without taking your eye off the viewfinder. The top LCD screen provides at-a-glance information about your shooting parameters, while the customizable buttons and dials let you tailor the camera to your specific needs. The 90D also features a fully articulating touchscreen, which is great for shooting from various angles. However, its larger size and weight can be a drawback for photographers who prioritize portability.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is all about compactness and convenience. Its sleek, lightweight design makes it easy to carry around all day, whether you’re traveling or shooting street photography. The minimalist control layout is intuitive and user-friendly, making it a great choice for beginners. While it lacks the deep grip of the 90D, the EOS M6 Mark II is still comfortable to hold, especially with smaller lenses. The touchscreen interface is responsive and easy to navigate, providing quick access to various settings. However, the lack of a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) may be a deal-breaker for some photographers, although an external EVF is available as an optional accessory.

In terms of design, the 90D exudes a professional and rugged feel, while the EOS M6 Mark II is more modern and stylish. The 90D’s larger size allows for more direct access to controls, which can be an advantage for experienced photographers who prefer to adjust settings manually. The EOS M6 Mark II’s compact size makes it less intimidating and more approachable for casual shooters.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and shooting style. If you value ergonomics, a secure grip, and comprehensive physical controls, the 90D is the better option. If you prioritize portability, simplicity, and a sleek design, the EOS M6 Mark II is the way to go. Consider how you plan to use the camera and what features are most important to you when making your decision.

Video Capabilities: 4K Recording and Features

For video capabilities, both cameras shine, but again, they have their strengths. Both the Canon EOS M6 Mark II and the Canon 90D can record 4K video, but there are differences in how they achieve this.

The Canon 90D can record 4K UHD video at up to 30 frames per second without any crop, utilizing the full width of its sensor. This is a significant advantage as it allows for a wider field of view and avoids the telephoto effect that can occur with cropped video. The 90D also supports 1080p Full HD recording at up to 120 frames per second, which is great for creating smooth slow-motion footage. The built-in microphone jack allows you to connect an external microphone for improved audio quality, and the headphone jack lets you monitor your audio levels in real-time. The 90D’s video features are well-suited for filmmakers and content creators who need versatility and high-quality video.

The Canon EOS M6 Mark II also records 4K UHD video at up to 30 frames per second, but with a slight crop. While the crop factor reduces the field of view, it also provides a bit more reach, which can be useful in certain situations. The M6 Mark II also supports 1080p Full HD recording at up to 120 frames per second for slow-motion effects. Like the 90D, it has a microphone jack for connecting an external microphone, but it lacks a headphone jack. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system in the M6 Mark II is a major advantage for video recording, providing smooth and accurate autofocus transitions. The touch screen interface makes it easy to select focus points and track subjects with a simple tap.

In terms of video quality, both cameras produce sharp and detailed footage. The 90D’s uncropped 4K recording offers a wider field of view, while the M6 Mark II’s cropped 4K provides a bit more reach. Both cameras offer manual controls for video recording, allowing you to adjust settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to achieve the desired look.

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific video needs. If you need uncropped 4K recording and a headphone jack for audio monitoring, the 90D is the better option. If you value smooth and accurate autofocus and don’t mind the slight crop, the M6 Mark II is an excellent choice. Consider what types of videos you plan to shoot and what features are most important to you when making your decision. Both cameras are capable of producing high-quality video, making them versatile tools for content creation.

Conclusion: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Alright, guys, so which camera should you choose – the Canon EOS M6 Mark II or the Canon 90D? It really depends on what you're looking for. If you want a compact, lightweight mirrorless camera with excellent autofocus and a modern feature set, the M6 Mark II is a fantastic option. But, if you prefer the traditional DSLR experience with a robust build, more physical controls, and uncropped 4K video, the 90D might be more your speed.

In a nutshell:

• Canon EOS M6 Mark II: Best for those prioritizing portability, advanced autofocus (especially for video), and a modern mirrorless experience.
• Canon 90D: Best for those wanting a traditional DSLR with a solid grip, more physical controls, and uncropped 4K video.

No matter which one you pick, you’re getting a stellar camera that will help you capture some amazing shots! Happy shooting!