Canon R6 vs Olympus E-M1

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Canon R6 versus Olympus E-M1, both Pro Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Canon and Olympus. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the R6 (20MP) and E-M1 (16MP) and the R6 (Full frame) and E-M1 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The R6 was announced 6 years later than the E-M1 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before delving in to a complete comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the R6 grades against the E-M1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon EOS R6 and Olympus OM-D E-M1. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon R6 Gallery and Olympus E-M1 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Canon R6 offers outer measurements of 138mm x 98mm x 88mm (5.4" x 3.9" x 3.5") having a weight of 680 grams (1.50 lbs) and the Olympus E-M1 has dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 63mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.5") along with a weight of 497 grams (1.10 lbs).

Compare the Canon R6 versus Olympus E-M1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at the time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the R6 compared to the E-M1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the R6 and E-M1 is 61 and 71 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to envision the contrast between sensor measurements simply by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic below might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the R6 and E-M1.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The R6 using its larger sensor will make getting shallow DOF less difficult and the Canon R6 will resolve extra detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics a little more aggressively. The newer R6 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.