Canon EOS 6D vs Nikon D600: The Full-Frame DSLR Duel for Enthusiasts and Pros

When you’re hunting for a capable, full-frame DSLR that balances performance, image quality, and cost - without venturing into the stratosphere of flagship prices - two stalwarts from the early 2010s often come to mind: Canon’s EOS 6D and Nikon’s D600. Both heralded as “affordable full-frame” cameras in their day, these bodies still show up on the used market and even find loyal owners among professionals and enthusiasts wanting classic DSLR control.

Having spent years rigorously testing and comparing cameras across genres, I’ve taken a deep dive not just into specs on paper but hands-on performance and real-world usability of both these models. This long-form comparison aims to give you the nuanced, experience-driven insights you need - whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or video projects. Let’s get into it.

Size, Ergonomics, and Handling: Getting Comfortable Behind the Camera

Before poking at pixels, how the camera feels in your hands often makes or breaks a shoot. Both the Canon 6D and Nikon D600 are mid-sized DSLRs designed to be manageable yet robust full-frame bodies.

The Canon 6D tips the scales at about 770 grams with dimensions of 145 x 111 x 71 mm, while Nikon’s D600 feels noticeably heftier at 850 grams and a chunkier build measuring 141 x 113 x 82 mm.

In practice, the Nikon’s extra heft translates to a slightly more substantial grip and a sturdier feel - you’ll appreciate this if you have larger hands or shoot for extended sessions without tiring. The Canon, on the other hand, edges out on portability with a slimmer profile and lighter weight, ideal for travel photography or street work when discretion and endurance matter.

Canon’s button layout remains straightforward, with a comfortable thumb rest and accessible dials. Nikon packs a bit more control on the top plate, which some will find advantageous for quicker exposure adjustments.

Overall, if I had to pick, the Nikon D600 feels like it’s built more for pro-style handling and longevity in tough shooting situations, while the 6D is friendlier for those prioritizing lightweight carry and intuitive ergonomics.

Control Layout and Interface: A Tale of Two Roof Designs

Both cameras house traditional DSLR layout conventions but with subtle differences influencing workflow flow.

Canon’s 6D employs the classic two-command dial setup, with a dedicated mode dial on the left shoulder - a boon for photographers who switch modes frequently on the fly. Its rear interface opts for a non-touch 3” Clear View II LCD screen with 1040k dots - crisp and bright but fixed, so no tilting here.

Nikon’s D600 ups the ante with a larger 3.2” screen, albeit with lower 921k resolution, but also a fixed TFT LCD. The placement of buttons is more clustered but allows access to more direct adjustments like ISO and white balance without diving into menus.

Neither camera features touchscreens or tilt displays - a common mid-2010s limitation - so you’ll rely mainly on physical controls and the optical viewfinder. The D600’s pentaprism viewfinder impressively covers 100% of the frame, while the 6D’s optical finder clocks in at a respectable but lesser 97% coverage.

For me, the Nikon wins marginally here in top-plate controls and viewfinder coverage, which enhances framing confidence. But Canon’s simplicity appeals if you prefer a less cluttered, more immediate control interface.

Sensor and Image Quality: Measuring Up the Heart of the Camera

Here’s where things get juicy. The full-frame sensors in these cameras define their photographic identity, dictating detail, dynamic range, and noise performance.

Canon’s 6D features a 20.2MP CMOS sensor paired with the DIGIC 5+ processor - solid but not cutting-edge even at launch. Nikon’s D600 sports a 24.3MP CMOS sensor with the EXPEED 3 engine, offering a bump in resolution and processing power.

Looking at DxOMark’s scores, which I reference alongside my own tests, the D600 scores an impressive overall 94 points with notable strengths in dynamic range (14.2 EV) and color depth (25.1 bits). The Canon 6D, by contrast, rates 82 points overall, with a dynamic range of 12.1 EV and color depth of 23.8 bits.

Practically, this means the Nikon delivers cleaner shadows, smoother gradients, and more leeway in post-processing - great when pulling out detail from tricky lighting situations or shooting landscapes with broad tonal spans.

ISO performance shows similar trends; the Nikon’s low-light ISO score (2980) is mildly better than the Canon’s (2340), yielding less noise at high sensitivities - a factor to reckon with in night photography or indoor sports.

That said, Canon’s sensor holds its own in skin tone rendering, often described as pleasingly warm and natural - so if portrait work is your passion, 6D’s color science is a plus. Nikon leans slightly cooler but more neutral.

In summary, Nikon’s sensor is objectively superior for image quality and dynamic range, but Canon still excels in portrait-friendly color fidelity.

Viewing and Interface: The Rear Screen and Viewfinder Experience

Working with the camera means relying heavily on how well you can compose and review shots.

Canon’s 3” fixed LCD is bright and detailed but lacks touch responsiveness and tilt, which can be limiting when shooting at awkward angles.

Nikon’s 3.2” screen is larger but noticeably less sharp. Neither model supports touchscreen control, so menu navigation and focus point selection depend on physical buttons and dials.

Optical viewfinders remain the key compositional tools here. Nikon’s 100% frame coverage offers an advantage - what you see is truly what you get. Canon’s 97% coverage means slight framing surprises at edges, which seasoned shooters can compensate for more readily than beginners.

Personally, I find Nikon’s cleaner, more encompassing viewfinder experience a big plus during fast-paced shooting or critical composition work, but Canon’s screen offers slightly better live view focus accuracy thanks to DIGIC 5+ processing.

Autofocus Systems and Performance: Tracking the Decisive Moment

Autofocus can make or break portraits, wildlife, and sports photography. Both cameras utilize phase-detection autofocus sensors but significantly differ in AF point counts and coverage.

• Canon 6D: 11 focus points with just 1 cross-type sensor
• Nikon D600: 39 focus points with 9 cross-type sensors

The D600’s broader AF array translates into quicker, more precise focusing across the frame, plus better subject tracking in continuous AF modes. For me personally, this difference is stark in wildlife and sports situations - the Nikon tracks moving subjects more reliably, reducing the number of missed frames.

The Canon 6D does incorporate face detection AF in Live View, but its fewer points limit its versatility. However, 6D’s center point is sensitive and accurate when paired with high-quality Canon EF lenses.

Continuous shooting rates reflect the same practical disparity: 4.5 fps for Canon vs 5.5 fps for Nikon - not a huge gap, but that extra frame per second counts during critical action moments.

If autofocus prowess and speed are paramount to your workflow, Nikon clearly leads here.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Choices and Availability

Lens options are often a stealth driver of system appeal.

Both Canon EF and Nikon F mounts boast extensive lineups with over 250 and 300 native lenses respectively - everything from affordable third-party glass to professional L/AF-S series optics.

Canon’s EF mount has long been favored for its vast array of primes, fast zooms, and reliability with autofocus performance. Nikon’s F mount is also mature and benefits from excellent recent lens releases as well as many quality legacy lenses.

Notably, Nikon’s D600 accepts lenses with in-camera vibration reduction (VR), though the camera itself lacks in-body stabilization. Canon’s 6D likewise lacks IBIS, relying on IS-equipped lenses.

Personally, I gravitate towards Canon’s lens lineup for portraits and cinema-esque shots, while Nikon’s options lend a bit more breadth in telephoto zooms ideal for wildlife and sports.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Ready for the Elements?

When shooting outdoors, durability matters.

Both cameras employ magnesium alloy frames with polycarbonate exteriors and claim “weather sealing” that protects against dust and moisture. Canon 6D is somewhat better regarded for sealing tightness, although user reports caution that neither is truly rugged under heavy rain or dust storms.

Nikon’s D600 is marginally heavier and bulkier, reflecting a more substantial shell, but the Canon’s smaller size and lighter weight often win over photographers who travel light or shoot urban environments.

Neither camera is splash-proof; both require protective rain covers for serious bad weather assignments.

Battery Life and Storage: Staying Powered and Saving Shots

Canon’s 6D shines with excellent battery life, rated for around 1090 shots per charge - above average for DSLRs of this class. Nikon’s D600 offers a more modest 900 shots but compensates with dual SD card slots for extended shooting sessions and instant backup.

Dual card slots in D600 are a major asset for professionals shooting weddings, events, or commercial work that demands data redundancy. The 6D’s single slot requires more care and frequent offloading.

Battery spare availability and pricing favor Canon’s LP-E6, which remains a standard across multiple Canon bodies. Nikon’s EN-EL15 is also widely used but slightly less common.

Video Capabilities: Not Just for Stills Anymore

Both cameras offer Full HD 1080p video but no 4K recording - expected for their era.

Canon 6D records 1080p at up to 30 fps; Nikon D600 offers marginally more frame rate flexibility, including 1080p at 24, 25, 30 fps and 720p up to 60 fps. Sound recording ports differ: Nikon includes a headphone jack for monitoring, which I value greatly during serious video shoots; Canon offers a mic input but no headphone output.

Neither camera includes in-body stabilization; video handheld will require stabilized lenses or rigs. The 6D’s DIGIC 5+ processor allows for decent video quality, especially with Canon's color science pleasing skin tones on video as well as stills.

If video is a significant part of your workflow, Nikon’s audio monitoring is a clear advantage, and the slight increase in frame rate options improves versatility.

Specialized Photography Use-Cases: Fitting the Work to the Camera

How do these cameras hold up across specific photography disciplines? From my tests and real-world usage:

Portrait Photography

• Canon 6D shines with skin tone accuracy and smooth gradation.
• Nikon D600 provides finer detail and dynamic range but cooler color balance.
• Both cameras lack eye-detection AF, but Nikon’s superior AF tracking offers an edge for capturing expressions on the fly.

Landscape Photography

• Nikon’s stronger dynamic range and higher resolution deliver richer, more detailed terrain and foliage renders.
• Canon’s superior high-ISO noise handling helps in dawn/dusk light but pushes you towards more manual exposure work.
• Weather sealing is comparable, but Nikon’s 100% viewfinder coverage helps precise composition.

Wildlife and Sports

• Nikon’s faster burst rate, more focus points, and better tracking are decisive.
• Canon’s 4.5 fps and limited AF points make it less suitable for fast action.
• Lens choices are vast on both sides, though Nikon’s tele zooms get an edge.

Street Photography

• Canon’s compact size, lighter weight, and quieter shutter are advantageous for low-key shooting.
• Nikon’s bulkier body and louder shutter can be less discreet.
• Both have less effective live-view autofocus for quick candid shots.

Macro Photography

• Both rely on lens optics for magnification; neither has specialized macro features.
• Canon’s better high-ISO handling helps in natural light macro.
• Focus precision is comparable; Nikon’s AF point density can assist in focus lock.

Night/Astro Photography

• Nikon’s higher dynamic range and lower noise are highly beneficial.
• Canon’s built-in GPS assists with location tagging - a useful feature for astrophotographers.
• Longer exposures require sturdy tripods on both.

Video

• Nikon’s headphone jack and more frame options better serve videographers.
• Canon’s better color science helps maintain pleasing skin tones.
• Neither has 4K, so 1080p is the ceiling.

Travel Photography

• Canon’s smaller size and lighter weight make for easier trekking.
• Nikon’s dual card slots and robust build appeal to pros shooting diverse locales.
• Battery life favors the 6D for all-day shooting.

Professional Use

• Nikon’s dual slots, fuller AF array, and higher resolution support demanding workflows.
• Canon’s superior battery life and renowned reliability in Canon ecosystems make it a favorite for many.
• Both offer full RAW support and solid tethering options, though Nikon’s optional wireless adds flexibility.

Connectivity and Extras: Staying Current in a Wireless World

The Canon 6D uniquely includes built-in GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity out of the box, a rare feature in cameras of this era. This is valuable if geotagging and remote control via smartphone apps are part of your workflow.

Nikon D600’s connectivity is optional via accessories, meaning you pay extra to get comparable wireless features.

USB ports are both USB 2.0, with HDMI output available on both for external monitors or live streaming.

Neither camera features Bluetooth or NFC, reflecting their release dates and design priorities.

Price-to-Performance: Which is the Better Value Today?

When these cameras launched, Canon 6D retails around $1700 body-only, Nikon D600 closer to $1900. On the used market today, that gap tightens with respective depreciation.

Considering image quality, autofocus capability, and features, Nikon arguably offers more bang for the buck if you prioritize resolution, dynamic range, and AF performance.

Canon’s 6D appeals if you favor ease of use, battery life, and lighter travel setups.

The best value depends on your priorities: Nikon for robust all-rounder power and pro features, Canon for user-friendly, dependable full-frame access.

Summing It Up: Which One Should You Choose?

No two full-frame DSLRs of this vintage are alike, and the optimal choice boils down to your shooting style, priorities, and existing lens investments. Here’s my concise take:

Choose the Canon EOS 6D if:

• You prioritize lightweight, compact handling for travel or street photography
• Portrait photography with flattering skin tones is your main focus
• Longer battery life is critical for your shooting style
• You want built-in GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity without extra accessories
• You prefer Canon’s lens system or already own Canon glass

Choose the Nikon D600 if:

• You require higher resolution and wider dynamic range for landscapes, wildlife, or studio work
• Fast, accurate autofocus and better tracking speed matter for your shooting needs
• Dual SD card slots for backup or extended shooting sessions are important
• Audio monitoring is crucial for video work
• You value 100% viewfinder coverage and a more professional-feeling body

Canon 6D front Canon 6D screen back Nikon D600 front Nikon D600 screen back

Above, you can see sample images matched side-by-side - note the Nikon's finer detail and broader dynamic range in shadows and highlights, while Canon presents warmer tones.

Performance scores lean favorably towards Nikon, particularly in sensor quality and autofocus, while Canon scores well for battery and connectivity.

Breaking down different genres, Nikon dominates sports, wildlife, and landscapes; Canon wins street, travel, and portraits.

Final Thoughts

Both Canon 6D and Nikon D600 deserve respect as pioneering affordable full-frame DSLRs, still capable of producing stunning images with expert handling. Your choice will reflect what you prioritize - be it Nikon’s technical edge or Canon’s user-friendly elegance.

Personally, when performance and versatility matter most, I lean towards the Nikon D600. If portability and ease of use take precedence, the Canon 6D remains a reliable companion.

Either way, investing time learning your chosen system’s quirks and strengths will pay dividends, long after the shutter clicks.

I hope this detailed comparison helps you make an informed decision. Feel free to check out my hands-on video reviews linked above for in-depth handling demos and image samples. Happy shooting!