Canon EOS 6D Mark II test, the full -format reflex of cannon

At a time when hybrids are kings, and especially this year for the 24 × 36 mm hybrid, are the SLRs still?The question is completely legitimate and one could even be even more radical by wondering if we are not living in the last years of this type of devices.The reflex manufacturers are counted on the fingers of one hand (Canon, Nikon, Pentax and to a certain extent Leica, Hasselblad and Phase One), the announcements of new products are rarer, the different ranges are already well established andtend to simplify.

Here we are going to be interested in the Canon EOS 6D Mark II, second generation of the emblematic cannon housing and entry -level of the universe so coveted by photographers: 24 x 36 mm.Let's go for our cannon EOS 6D Mark II test.

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Présentation du Canon EOS 6D Mark II

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II was announced a little less than two years ago in June 2017 and came to replace the 6D, first of the name which was announced in 2012.If we follow this renewal frequency, we immediately understand that this device still has a few years before him.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II and the canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM

The first philosophy of this case has not changed.Canon's idea: offer a full -format product "accessible" to as many people as possible.At the time of its release, this device was offered below 2200 € naked.Today, at a time when these lines are written, it is found around € 2,000 and canon, with its network of resellers, regularly offers promotional operations.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a small format reflex type digital camera (with a real optical aim that covers 98% of the field) in EF cannon mount and equipped with a full -format CMOS sensor of 26 million pixels with technologyDual Pixel AF (we'll come back to it).This is the youngest of the 24 × 36 mm of the Canon Family.Above him we find the EOS 5D Mark IV, the 5DS and 5DS R and the 1DX Mark II.

The range of 24 x 36 mm Canon SLRs: EOS 6D II, EOS 5D IV, EOS 5DS/R, 1DX II.

Associated with this sensor, we find the DIGIC 7 image processor.It makes it possible to operate the two autofocus systems (SLR with up to 45 cross and digital collimators with 63 collimators in phase detection on the sensor), to ensure a rate of acquisition rising to 6.5 frames per second, ofPropose an ISO beach amount to ISO 40,000 (extensible to 102,400 ISO), and allowing videos in Full HD 1920 x 1080 pixels to 60 frames per second (MPEG4-AVC / H.264).So much for the main lines.For the rest, we can emphasize the presence of an adjustable rear screen, Wi-Fi connection, GPS and a 4K Time-Lapse mode.

Handling of the cannon eos 6D Mark II

Let's start with the grip of this device.

The EOS 6D Mark II is a 24 × 36 mm SLR: we are therefore far from the minimalist measurements of certain hybrids or even the most compact APS-C boxes like the last EOS 250D.The device is relatively imposing (11 cm high, 14 cm long) and heavy (675 grams on the scale) which gives it an excellent grip thanks to its generous side handle (7.5 cm deep).

It is possible to use it with a grip, which is positioned under the case, to improve the grip for people with large hands.This grip also improves the comfort of use in portrait mode with a recall of the main commands and increases autonomy (2 batteries).The use of this grip can also be useful when very heavy objectives are installed on it: this improves the distribution of the loads of the whole and therefore the balance.Anyway, we can say that this box associated with a standard zoom will weigh all the same or more than 1 kg.On long sessions of hands -on or around the neck, it can pull!

The chassis of the case is made of aluminum alloy and polycarbonate resin with fiberglass while the case itself is made of polycarbonate (plastic therefore) and some derivatives.It is not particularly protected against bad weather, it will therefore be necessary to be careful in conditions of slightly extreme shots.In hand, the device seems robust and well finished.Its design is all that is most classic for Canon.It takes up the main lines of the 5D range.It's quite elegant and discreet.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II: view from above.

Although it belongs to the range of amateur boxes, there is a design that approaches more of a professional model in terms of ergonomics and many direct orders.On the top of the device to start, we have on the left of the viewfinder of a dial of lockable shots (to avoid changes in untimely modes) and just below the general switch.

As for fashions, all levels of photographers will be satisfied.The most novice will play with automatic mode (with subject recognition), the different scenes modes and the self -car creative mode (CA) which allows you to educate yourself simply to the management of the depth of field and the images of images of images.The most experts will use the traditional P, AV, TV, M modes.We even find a B or Bulb mode for long poses and two customizable modes C1 and C2.

On the right of the viewfinder is placed a recall screen for very practical backlit parameters, direct access keys for autofocus modes, acquisition, ISO sensitivity, light measurement.We also find an adjustment wheel and the trigger.Note in passing that this device is devoid of extra flash.Indeed, the imposing optical viewfinder of the Pentaprism type which covers 98 % of the field takes up the place.It is therefore impossible to come and unclog the shadows of a portrait without using an external cobra flash.

At the rear we find the viewfinder, a switch/trigger for the video, a large adjustment wheel associated with a multi-directional wheel for navigation, a key for exposure memorization, another to configure the autofocus collimators,The famous key of Quick Menu mode (quick setting) and rigor buttons to access the menus.The rear screen is ultra comfortable and all options: adjustable with selfie position, touch (for navigation in the menu, visualization of photos or the screening area in screen), with a definition of more than 1 millionpixels.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II: Rear view.

On the sides are the interfaces: microphone input (but where is the return headset?), USB, mini HDMI and wired remote control.The device works with SD format (UHS-1), the most widespread, but it only has a single cards.On the underside is the access hatch to the rechargeable battery (external charger provided) announced for more than 1000 photos in autonomy.We are far from the latest hybrids that find it difficult to exceed 500 images with a single battery.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II: Rear view, écran orientable.

Interface level, it is not only wired since EOS 6D II incorporates WiFi and Bluetooth.The device is therefore completely controlled remotely from a smartphone or tablet with the Camera Connect application which can be used as a remote control or to unload and share its photos quickly.The GPS is also there, a good point for explorers or only to remember the place where a photo has been taken.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II: Canon Camera Connect.

All the interest and the pleasure of using a reflex lies in the presence of a real optical viewfinder.Viewfinder through which you can "isolate yourself" and focus only on its framework.A viewfinder anchored in an analog universe which physically and in real time transcribed the scene framed to determine the exact time of the trigger.No pixels so here but glass.The 6D II viewfinder, of Pentaprism type, is very comfortable.It covers 98% of the field, has a magnification of 0.71x and an eye clearance of 2.1 cm.Inside there is a recall of the current shots in progress and we have the possibility of displaying, for example, a grid to facilitate the composition.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II: optical viewfinder or screen.

As for the menu interface and settings, Canon offers something well thought out, logical and practical on its 6D II..The "hard" device settings are accessible via the menu which is organized in thematic shutters: shooting, display, general settings, customizable functions, my personal menu.

Tactile screens of the screen are very practical for navigating in it but we can just as well use the multidirectional wheel.Even if the title of the parameters is quite clear, we would have liked to have aid information for all functions.In terms of shooting, to adjust the different parameters, you can either use the quick access keys concerned or the Q key and navigate the Summary screen.Information makes it possible to understand their operation.Finally the different automatic modes are very clear with examples photos.

Legend: The Canon EOS 6D Mark II: the menus.

Qualité d’image du Canon EOS 6D Mark II

We tested this cannon EOS 6D Mark II with a zoom type lens: the EF 24-105 mm f/4 L cannon is II USM.This is a Trans-Standard Optics in Professional Voliant Canon L which has a constant f/4 opening, optical stabilization and autofocus engine in USM technology.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II and the canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM.

In terms of image quality, 6D II leaves with good points to start with its technical sheet and sensor.It is a large 24 × 36 mm Capture Capture in CMOS technology of almost 26 million pixels therefore capable of producing images with a definition of 6240 x 4160 pixels.

It has a low pass filter and a Bayer matrix for the return of colors.The definition of 26 Mpx is largely sufficient for a large majority of photographers, even in 2019.The possibilities of cropping images or giant prints will naturally be lower than with a 50 million pixels.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 24 mm, f/10, 100 ISO, 1/500 s

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 105 mm, f/4, 100 ISO, 1/250 s

Who says large sensor and measured definition called large pixels: count approximately 5.8 micrometers side.Associated with a recent image processor, this is a good recipe for very good low light performance (high ISO sensitivities) and good capture dynamics.The 6D II climbs to ISO 40,000 and can be pushed to 102,400 ISO (H2).By applying standard noise correction algorithms, we observe very good performance up to around 6,400 ISO.Beyond that, noise is felt and the quality of image drops and beyond ISO 25,600, we end up with an indigestible pixel pixture.Dynamic level, we have visually estimated at 5 il, enough to recover details in the shadows (especially with 3 it) and the high lights (2 it maximum) on contrasting subjects and in RAW.

100 ISO 200 ISO 400 ISO 800 ISO 1600 ISO 3200 ISO 6400 ISO 12800 ISO 25600 ISO 40000 ISO 51200 ISO (H1) 102400 ISO (H2)

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 45 mm, f/8, 2000 ISO, 1/40 s

Good point, the EOS 6D II offers digital optical corrections on board the case: vignetting, chromatic aberrations, distortions and diffraction.Of course, this only works if the device recognizes the objective associated with it: only canon models therefore.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 35 mm, f/4, 800 ISO, 1/40 s

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 24 mm, F5.6, 2500 ISO, 1/40 s

The EOS 6D II is fairly well armed autofocus level whether in optical or digital aim.In optics, it uses a traditional phase detection system with a dedicated sensor.The module is made up of 45 Crusaders F/5.6.

We find a very precise management of these and we have the possibility of choosing a crosshairs, a group or a work area for the autofocus.It is extremely practical, especially for sport photo in continuous mode with follow -up of the subject.No less than 16 personalized functions in the case are dedicated to the AF system.For the fastest subjects, the device can ensure a rate of acquisition of 6.5 images per second in burst on 150 photos in JPEG or 21 in RAW.This is not the best in the matter but it is already more than sufficient for many photographers.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 24 mm, f/4, 5000 ISO, 1/40 s

In direct aim (Live View), it is the sensor that takes over from the autofocus with hybrid technology mixing contrast detection (100 % of the covered field) and phase detection thanks to Dual Pixel technology.63 collimators are available.The screen target also opens the door to facial detection, very effective.All this system works naturally very well in photo but it is especially in video that it makes sense: a precise, fast, reactive AF and with follow -up of the subject.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 31 mm, f/8, 160 ISO, 1/40 s

Canon EOS 6D Mark II et Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L IS II USM @ 50 mm, f/4, 100 ISO, 1/640 s. Canon EOS 6D Mark II et Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L IS II USM @ 24 mm, f/4, 400 ISO, 1/40 s.

Video capacities of the EOS 6D Mark II

In video, the EOS 6D Mark II also has something to defend itself although its functions are limited to a recording of sequences in Full HD 1920 x 1080 pixels.In this definition, he can offer a rate of acquisition of up to 60 frames per second.

There is also a 5-axis digital stabilization (beware, it is not compatible with all the objectives, in particular fixed focal telephotectives) and a 4K Time-Lapse mode.Beyond these functions, it is mainly the general performance of the 24 × 36 mm sensor, the Dual Pixel with the monitoring of the face for the AF and the adjustable screen which make it a choice all found for the video in Full HD!

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 105 mm, f/4, 100 ISO, 1/100 s

Canon EOS 6D Mark II et Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L IS II USM @ 24 mm, f/4, 100 ISO, 1/50 s. Canon EOS 6D Mark II et Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L IS II USM @ 105 mm, f/4, 100 ISO, 1/2500 s.

Quelles sont les alternatives au Canon EOS 6D Mark II ?

At Canon, the EOS 6D Mark II is the gateway to the full reflex format universe, at least in the new.Those who are not frightened on the occasion will have more choice of more or less proven models according to their budget: EOS 6D first of the name, in the same template the EOS 5D Mark III / Mark IV / S or even the imposing professional boxesEOS 1DX / 1DS III / 1DS II.

Canon is obviously not the only manufacturer to offer a "affordable" 24 × 36 mm SLR solution, that is to say below 2000 euros naked.Nikon is also positioned on this segment with its D610 or its D750 and their FX format sensors.Pentax also offers his K-1 Mark II.

The Nikon D610, the D750 and the Pentax K1 Mark II.

Finally, the world of 24 × 36 mm hybrid (without optical reflex aim therefore) is in full mutation and more and more players are positioned on this market.Under the 2000 euros mark we can find for example the brand new Canon Eos RP and the Sony A7 II.With a slightly higher budget, you can turn to the Sony A7 III, the Nikon Z6, the Canon Eos R or the Panasonic Lumix S1.

Note that the owners of canon objectives in EF mount (Canon, Tamron, Sigma or Tokina for example) will be able to use them just as well (with more or less compromise) on Canon, Sony or Panasonic hybrids.It will then be necessary to combine them with more or less exotic adaptation rings, which for some allow the automation of objectives to be preserved (autofocus, diaphragm management).

Please note, small reminder: the passage from the Canon APS-C universe with EF-Smarkets in EF-S to 24 × 36 mm SLR is impossible!

The Canon EOS RP and the Sony A7 II.

Canon Eos R, Nikon Z6, Panasonic S1 and Sony A7 III.

Who is the Canon EOS 6D Mark II for?

This case has been designed and designed for different types of photographers who wish to practice photography (be it a passion and/or a profession) with a reflex.We think first of all of users of Canon APS-C SLRs already equipped with EF mounting objectives and who want to cross the CAP of 24 × 36 mm.

As a reminder, and in broad outline, the use of a full -format sensor ensures optimal image quality (capture dynamic, performance in low lights), allows you to play in an ideal way with the depth effects of fieldAnd to free yourself from this terrible conversion coefficient of 1.6x on the focal lengths which reduces the big angles.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II and Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L is II USM @ 24 mm, f/4, 100 ISO, 1/3200 s

This device will also seduce novices in SLR use who want to have fun from the start with a complete model equipped with a 24 × 36 mm sensor.Finally, it is also a very relevant solution for a professional photographer who wishes to have a second security box at a lower cost.

Although video performance is there, the EOS 6D Mark II will find it difficult to compete with specialized hybrids and their ultra-efficient professional video functions (4K, Ultra High Speed for example).But for making high -quality fairly simple videos in Full HD, he will do the trick.It is also used by many "blogging youtubers" who appreciate, among other things, the presence of the Dual Pixel sensor for the autofocus and the adjustable screen with Selfie position.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II et Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L IS II USM @ 97 mm, f/4, 100 ISO, 1/400 s. Canon EOS 6D Mark II et Canon EF 24-105 mm f/4 L IS II USM @ 24 mm, f/4, 640 ISO, 1/40 s.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II: The choice of reason!

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is therefore the choice of reason for all people who wish to set foot in the world of 24 × 36 mm photography with optical aim.

The box, quite affordable, has all the functions and technologies necessary to face the vast majority of shot situations and produce quality pictures in photo and video.It is also, with its EF mount, compatible with one of the largest available optical parks (new and/or used) currently.

Despite everything, this case lacks a bit of audacity, whether in terms of its design, its grip than its features.If you like to be at the top of the trend, go your way and prefer a hybrid at Canon or not.If you want a reassuring case, a good investment (value for money) and not take a risk, the 6D II is for you.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is available at a rate of € 1499 naked and € 1,898 in kit with the 24-105 mm f/3 lens.5-5.6 EF IS STM.

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