Canon EOS M6 Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix GF6: A Comprehensive Mirrorless Showdown for Every Photographer

Choosing the right mirrorless camera is a balancing act. Between sensor size, autofocus prowess, ergonomics, and real-world handling, the choices sometimes feel like shifting sands. In this review, we’ll dive deep into two distinct rangefinder-style mirrorless cameras: the relatively recent Canon EOS M6 Mark II (from 2019) and the considerably older entry-level Panasonic Lumix GF6 (from 2013). Though years apart in their release and targeting different market segments, their comparison yields insights into how mirrorless technology has evolved - and what photographers might gain or lose by choosing one over the other.

Having personally field-tested thousands of cameras across genres, I focus here less on specs alone and more on practical performance, design choices, and who benefits most from each system. We’ll scrutinize sensor technologies, autofocus systems, handling nuances, video capabilities, and how they suit different photography styles. This analytic narrative should empower your buying decision whether you're hunting for a robust advanced mirrorless option or an affordably capable starter model.

Let’s unwrap these two contenders.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics, and Build Quality

In the realm of mirrorless cameras, size and ergonomics often dictate how happily you shoot for hours. Although both the Canon M6 Mark II and Panasonic GF6 sport rangefinder-style mirrorless bodies, their designs reveal significant differences that speak to their intended users and usage.

The Canon M6 Mark II measures approximately 120x70x49 mm and weighs in at 408 grams - a compact yet substantial feel that suggests a camera you can comfortably lug on one shoulder for a full day. The Panasonic GF6 is slightly smaller and lighter at 111x65x38 mm and 323 grams, favoring extreme portability. The GF6's slim profile in your hand approaches point-and-shoot territory, betraying its entry-level ambitions.

But size isn't everything. The Canon’s grip is more pronounced and sculpted, providing better wrist support during prolonged use, especially when paired with larger lenses. In contrast, the GF6 favors sleekness over grip depth, which might frustrate users with larger hands or who tend to shoot handheld for long stretches.

Both cameras feature tilting 3-inch touchscreens at 1040k-dot resolution that fold upwards for creative angles - a handy trait for vlogging or low-to-ground shots.

Looking from the top, the M6 II’s controls scream professional ambition: dedicated dials for exposure modes, ISO, and exposure compensation, along with customizable buttons. Panasonic’s GF6 offers more streamlined controls, fewer physical buttons, and a mode dial with the usual PASM options, reflecting its entry-level design.

Build quality-wise, neither camera offers weather sealing, dust resistance, or any robust environmental protection. The M6 Mark II uses a sturdy polycarbonate chassis with metal accents - tough enough for most typical outdoor shooting, but not for demanding fieldwork. Panasonic’s GF6 leans more plastic and less rugged, so caution is advised for rougher environments.

Ergonomics Verdict:

If you prioritize handheld comfort with extended shooting sessions or lenses that add heft, the Canon M6 Mark II’s ergonomics win hands down. The Panasonic GF6's lightweight and compact frame suit casual shooting and travel but may feel limiting for more serious work.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Sensor technology plays a pivotal role in determining the photographic output’s fidelity. When comparing an advanced 2019 APS-C sensor to a 2013 Four Thirds sensor, technical differences are pronounced.

Sensor Size and Resolution

The Canon M6 Mark II houses a 22.3 x 14.9 mm APS-C CMOS sensor (approx. 332.3 mm²) with an impressive 32.5 megapixels resolution (6960 x 4640 pixels). The Canon APS-C’s larger sensor area relative to Panasonic’s delivers advantages in noise performance, depth of field control, and dynamic range.

The Panasonic GF6 uses a smaller 17.3 x 13 mm Four Thirds CMOS sensor (~224.9 mm²) with a modest resolution of 16 megapixels (4592 x 3448 pixels). While Four Thirds sensors have historically trailed APS-C in image quality, Panasonic’s sensor technology in this vintage model was respectable for its time - just not competitive with newer APS-C models.

Image Quality and Noise Performance

Because of the Canon’s larger sensor and newer DIGIC 8 processor, its base ISO 100 (expandable to 51200) performs better under low light, preserving detail with less noise. The GF6 starts at ISO 160 (expandable to 25600), but high ISO shots tend to show more grain and color aberrations.

Dynamic range also favors Canon’s sensor, enabling more recovery in shadows and highlights - a crucial advantage in high-contrast outdoor or landscape photography.

Anti-Aliasing and Pixel Density

Both cameras include an anti-aliasing filter, though Canon’s high megapixel count results in finer detail renderings at the expense of computational heavy lifting. The GF6’s lower pixel density smoothes images slightly but reduces visible noise.

Raw Capture and Post-Processing

Both support raw formats, empowering serious photographers with flexibility in post-processing. The Canon’s 14-bit raw files provide richer tonal gradations and better color fidelity compared to Panasonic’s 12-bit raw typical of its era.

Autofocus Systems: The Race for Precision and Speed

Autofocus (AF) performance can define a camera’s success in real-world applications, especially when shooting moving subjects like wildlife or sports.

Canon M6 Mark II AF Capabilities

Canon’s M6 Mark II employs a hybrid autofocus system consisting of 143 phase-detection autofocus points spread across the sensor area. This abundant, densely packed AF point layout enables rapid and accurate focusing, including excellent face and eye detection for portraits. The camera offers touch-to-focus on the screen and continuous AF tracking modes that work well for sports and wildlife moving unpredictably.

Panasonic GF6 AF System

In contrast, the GF6 relies solely on contrast-detection autofocus with fewer AF points (number unspecified) and no phase detection, reflective of its 2013 positioning. Contrast AF, while precise in static scenes, struggles with speed and tracking dynamic subjects. Face detection is present but less responsive. The lack of phase detection precludes faster focusing in demanding situations.

Continuous Shooting Rates and Burst Shooting

The M6 II impresses with a 14 fps mechanical shutter burst rate, suitable for capturing fleeting sports or wildlife moments. The GF6 offers only 4 fps burst shooting, limiting potential for action shots.

Rear LCD and Electronic Viewfinder: Seeing Your Shots Clearly

Viewfinding affects how natural and immersive the shooting experience feels.

The Canon M6 Mark II sports a 3-inch 1040k-dot tilting touchscreen LCD plus the option for an optional Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) with 2360k-dot resolution, providing 100% frame coverage. The optional EVF is sharp, bright, and responsive, very useful in bright outdoor conditions where LCDs wash out.

The Panasonic GF6 lacks a built-in EVF, relying purely on its fixed-tilting touchscreen. While the screen offers wide viewing angles and adequate resolution, harsh sunlight visibility and precision framing can suffer without a viewfinder.

The Canon also offers a faster and more intuitive touchscreen interface, including touch shutter, focus area selection, and quick drag AF. The Panasonic’s touchscreen response is adequate but less fluid.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Having a versatile lens ecosystem can extend a camera’s usefulness dramatically.

The Canon M6 Mark II features the EF-M mount with approximately 23 native lenses available - including primes and zooms across a range of focal lengths, designed specifically for APS-C mirrorless. Adapters exist for Canon’s vast EF and EF-S DSLR lenses but add bulk and potential AF speed compromises.

Canon M6 MII screen back Panasonic GF6 front Panasonic GF6 screen back

The Panasonic GF6 uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, boasting over 100 lenses from Panasonic, Olympus, and third-party manufacturers. This extensive ecosystem includes everything from ultra-wide zooms and portraits to dedicated fast macro lenses, making it incredibly versatile for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

In summary:

• Canon EF-M: Smaller native lineup but fast-growing, APS-C optimized.
• MFT mount: Vast selection, smaller lenses (due to sensor size), great for portability.

Shooting Across Genres: How Do They Really Perform?

Let’s move from specs to practicalities by examining key photography disciplines and how each camera fares.

Portrait Photography

The Canon M6 Mark II’s larger sensor and 32.5 MP resolution deliver beautifully detailed portraits with smooth skin rendering, especially when paired with fast EF-M primes. The 143-point hybrid autofocus excels in eye detection, locking quickly and tracking minute eye movements. The shallower APS-C depth of field helps produce attractive background blur (bokeh), isolating subjects nicely from backgrounds.

The Panasonic GF6, constrained by a smaller sensor and 16 MP resolution, delivers competent portraits but with noticeably deeper depth of field, making background separation more challenging without very fast lenses. Its contrast AF occasionally hunts in dimmer indoor conditions, and lack of eye detection reduces focusing precision on eyes.

Landscape Photography

The Canon’s higher resolution, superior dynamic range, and ISO latitude allow capturing subtle landscape textures under challenging lighting. Its shooting versatility and exposure bracketing features assist HDR landscapes.

The GF6, while capable under good light, suffers a bit in highlight retention and shadow roll-off. However, its MFT ecosystem offers excellent compact wide-angle lenses favorable for landscape shooters who prioritize portability.

Neither camera has official weather sealing, so rough conditions require protective care.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Here, the Canon M6 Mark II comes into its own: lightning-fast phase-detection AF, 14 fps burst shooting rate, and ample AF tracking points enable capturing action crisply. The APS-C sensor’s 1.6x crop factor also “extends” reach on telephoto lenses, aiding subject framing without extra bulk.

The Panasonic GF6's slower 4 fps burst and purely contrast-detection AF make it unsuited for fast-paced subjects and tracking erratic animals or athletes effectively.

Street Photography

Street shooters often crave a discreet form factor with silent shutter options and good low-light AF.

Canon’s optional electronic shutter at up to 1/16000s speed aids stealth photography, while the fast AF system manages quickly changing scenes. Still, the M6 II’s bulkier handgrip makes it less pocketable.

The GF6 wins points here for discretion with its tiny frame and light weight. The quieter operation and tilt screen aid creative angles, although its autofocus may lag when scanning crowds quickly.

Macro Photography

Neither camera offers built-in macro modes or focus stacking, but their AF systems affect ease of close focusing.

Canon’s sophisticated AF with 143 points and manual focus assist offers more confidence in nail-focused close-up images. MFT lenses from Panasonic’s ecosystem include excellent macros with image stabilization.

Night and Astro Photography

Canon’s lower noise levels at high ISO and longer shutter max speed (30s native) aid astrophotography and night scenes. Noise reduction works subtly for retaining detail. While neither offers dedicated astro modes, the Canon’s sensor gives better base image quality.

The GF6 maxes at 60s shutter but struggles with noise above ISO 1600, limiting long-exposure usability.

Video Capabilities

The Canon M6 Mark II supports 4K UHD (3840x2160) at 30p with a solid bitrate, utilizes H.264 compression, and includes an external mic jack (no headphone jack), suiting vloggers and hybrid shooters. Although it lacks internal image stabilization, pairing with stabilized lenses helps.

The Panasonic GF6’s video tops out at Full HD 1080p (60i/30p), encoded in AVCHD and MPEG-4, without microphone or headphone ports. It lacks 4K and modern codecs, reflecting its age.

Travel and Everyday Use

Battery life favors the Panasonic GF6 slightly (340 shots vs 305 for Canon). However, the Canon’s superior versatility and image quality often outweigh a marginal battery advantage.

Considering weight and size, GF6 edges out in portability, but Canon’s hands-down superior image quality and features justify carrying extra bulk on trips.

Professional Workflows

Canon’s 14-bit raw files, faster writing speeds (due to UHS-II card support), and customizable controls appeal more to pros. The camera accepts USB-PD charging, a modern convenience for long shoots.

Panasonic’s GF6 offers limited control customization, slower interfaces, and USB 2.0 connectivity reflecting its market niche and release date.

Connectivity, Storage, and Power

Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi, but only the Canon M6 Mark II incorporates Bluetooth for seamless pairing and remote control - a notable convenience in today’s connected workflows.

The Canon supports SD cards with UHS-II speeds, accelerating buffer clearance, which benefits burst shooting. Panasonic’s GF6 uses SD cards but limited to slower UHS-I speeds.

Both use single SD card slots, so no redundancy options exist for critical shooting.

Environmental and Durability Considerations

Neither camera offers significant environmental sealing, so photographers in rain, dust, or cold conditions must exercise caution with either.

Pricing and Value Proposition

At launch and current market pricing:

• Canon EOS M6 Mark II: Approximately $849 USD.
• Panasonic Lumix GF6: Around $325 USD (used or discounted, given age).

The Canon delivers markedly advanced features, image quality, and flexibility for about 2.5x the price of the GF6. This premium suits enthusiasts and professionals seeking robust performance.

The GF6 remains attractive for budget-conscious beginners or casual shooters prioritizing portability and ease.

Performance Summary at a Glance

Genre-Specific Strengths and Weaknesses

Practical Recommendations for Different Users

For Enthusiasts and Professionals:
The Canon EOS M6 Mark II is a clear choice. Its high-resolution sensor, fast and precise AF system, advanced controls, and 4K video cater well to those demanding higher image quality, speed, and flexibility. It shines in portraits, wildlife, sports, landscapes, and video. The optional EVF fills a critical gap many might expect in an advanced mirrorless.

For Beginners and Casual Shooters on a Budget:
The Panasonic GF6 remains a compelling starter camera. Compact and light, with decent image quality at base ISO and access to a broad MFT lens ecosystem, it suits travel and street photography. However, autofocus and video capabilities are outdated by modern standards. For casual social photography and simple everyday use, it’s still adequate.

Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Mirrorless Cameras

Comparing the Canon EOS M6 Mark II and Panasonic Lumix GF6 is essentially a contrast between two evolutionary stages of mirrorless technology.

The Canon M6 II embodies 2019 tech maturity - marrying high resolution, speedy hybrid AF, and feature-rich shooting into an enthusiast-grade body. The GF6dates back to 2013’s early mirrorless wave - a lightweight, approachable camera suited to casual shooters but with obvious technological limits.

Canon M6 MII screen back Panasonic GF6 front Panasonic GF6 screen back

If you want a mirrorless camera that can keep up with demanding photography situations across genres - portraits, wildlife, landscapes, video, and fast action - the Canon M6 Mark II rewards your investment with versatility and quality. On the other hand, for a simple, budget-friendly, and extremely portable package that excels primarily in daylight or less demanding conditions, the Panasonic GF6 still holds value for certain users.

In the end, understanding your shooting style and priorities helps demystify the choice. When possible, I always recommend hands-on trials to feel these ergonomics and AF systems in action firsthand - no spec sheet alone tells the whole story. For those who can't test cameras physically, I hope this deep-dive aids your decision wisely.

The photographic journey is as much about equipment as it is about the eye behind the lens. Whether wielding the new Canon powerhouse or the sprightly Panasonic classic, your next great image awaits.