Canon T6 vs T6i: Should You Get The New One?

You would not think that two models of the camera from Canon are so similar in name yet so different in specifications.

That is why, if you are considering the Rebel T6i or T6 it is worth comparing them in detail.

A huge improvement in the sensor, as well as a few other key changes, means that one camera is a far better buy than the other. If money is not an issue that is.

Find out more in the detailed comparison at the topmost part of this review (including in-depth comparison below).

The Differences Between Them

These two popular cameras from Canon are very similar, so let me make your life a little easier and highlight the main differences, and why they matter:

• Weight & Size: although almost identical looking, the T6i is over 2.5oz heavier than the T6. Is it worth the extra features? Keep reading…
• Image Quality: The biggest difference between these two cameras is the 6.2 Megapixels extra the T6i packs into the sensor. This is going to give you a lot of scope for better pictures, more room for cropping in post-processing, and more.
• Autofocus: The number of focus points can really help you make sure you get what you needed to focus on. That is why the 19 points on the T6i is a vast improvement (10 more) over the 9 that the T6 had.
• ISO Range: If you shoot a lot in the dark (no, not pitch black, but dark enough) then the extra ISO setting on the T6i (up to 12800 vs 6400) might give you that extra edge you need in low light.
• Burst rate: If you shoot moving objects (cars, animals, kids, etc) then the burst mode on the T6i has an extra 2 shots you are going to love (5 vs 3 on the T6)
• LCD Screen: Another area Canon has really improve on with the T6i is the LCD. It looks similar to the T6 but it has three big advantages. First, it is slightly better with a higher resolution. And, it is also a touch screen (not so on the T6) On top of that, the big difference is that it can swivel and rotate. So, it is great for getting shots in more difficult locations or angles, or even to use as a vlogging camera.
• Battery: It could be the newer processor or the bigger sensor, but the T6i has lower average battery life. This is one of the big downsides of upgrading to the T6i. Perhaps the only one worth mentioning.
• Price: It is hard to give specific prices because it depends on when you are reading this, but in general the T6i will be slightly more expensive than the T6 because it is a newer and more upgraded model. We are normally talking a couple of hundred dollars or less.

Overall, the T6i is the clear winner in this comparison on everything but battery life and price.

With the T6i you get a vastly improved sensor with 6 more Megapixels, which is a killer improvement. There is also improved Autofocus, ISO, and burst speed. And the rotating LCD is a huge improvement. I use mine all the time and could never go back to a fixed screen.

Shared Features

Aside from all those differences, what do these cameras have in common?

• Decent focus: although these are entry-level cameras, they still perform well on auto-focus both with stills and video. Obviously, the T6i is slightly better, but it’s not a huge difference.
• Wide ISO Range: From 100 – over 12800, you have lots of low light options if your lens does not have a wide enough aperture (always the better option) but the T6i has one more stop
• Wide Shutter Speed Range: from an insane 1/4000 to 30 seconds, you can shoot anything from fast-moving objects to great sunsets
  Video: with 1080p at 30fps the video is reasonable, but you might need to upgrade in a few years when 4K becomes
• standard. For now, it’s enough to get you started.
• Kit Lens: The 18-55mm is a decent enough lens to start with on both cameras, it allows you to shoot at a variety of distances in both landscape and people situations.

There are a few weaknesses on both these cameras in terms of specs though, so I thought I would also list those:

• Panoramic Shots: Something we are all used to from our phones, this is missing from these two cameras. You will have to stitch them on your computer. Lightroom and Photoshop both do this well, so it’s not a big deal.
• Timelapse: A lot of more modern cameras have a built-in intervalometer that allows you to do timelapse. Again, not a killer missing feature, but a nice to have – which they don’t have :>

Canon T6 Review

Canon T6i Review

Is The Upgrade Worth It?

Personally, if money is not an issue, I would go with the more modern and better T6i. With the extra 6 megapixels, it is a no-brainer. Plus the better auto-focus and swivel LCD screen, it is a far better and easier to use camera.