Base_fiddle

I’ve been using my original Canon 5D EOS for a number of years and decided it’s time to upgrade. I’ve read about the Canon 5D Mark IV, but the price tag is more than I want to spend. Downshifting to the Canon 5D MIII would be an option financially, but it was released in 2002 and has older technology. Then I looked at the Canon 6D MII. Initially I wasn’t interested in it, because I don’t need GPS, WI-FI and video capture. But, some of the other features were attractive.

One of my primary objectives is to use my existing lens with a new Canon body, which is why I’m not considering non-Canon cameras. I currently have a Tamron 28-300 F3.5-6.3 lens, a Canon EF 17-40 1:4 lens, and a Canon EF 24-105mm 1:4 lens.

What do I use the camera for? I like to photograph in-flight birds (e.g., eagles, albatross, hawks, egrets, IBIS, vultures, pelicans, red-breasted woodpeckers, gannets) , telephoto shots of animals (in the wild and in zoos), scenery/landscaping, sunsets/sunrises, and family photos. I found that my 5D at times had a slow fps shooting speed, which sometimes caused me to miss shots. The 6D MII purportedly has a 6.5 fps shooting speed, which I’m hoping will take care of my shooting speed issue.

I’ve read about the less dynamic range of the 6D MII at an ISO of 100, but increasing the ISO apparently compensates for that issue. I’ve also read some negative reviews about limited autofocus coverage with the 45-point autofocus system, but that apparently is an issue only when focusing off center.

I’ve read the specs for the camera and like many features, e.g., 26.2MP CMOS, DIGIC 7 Image Processor, higher ISO speeds, Dual Pixel technology; live view shooting, articulating screen, etc.

I don’t pretend to understand all the technical analysis that I’ve read, which is why I’m posting this note and asking for input/advise – what else should I know – what features should I give more weight to in terms of Pros and Cons – what other camera options should I consider? I’d like to hear from anyone who uses a 6D MII and learn their level of satisfaction and post-acquisition comments.

Thanks, Jose

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

You'd be better off with a 5DIII if BIF is in your intended purposes. The 5DIII sports the same AF system that was included in the original 1DX model. The 6D line is purposefully limited to keep this lower-priced full frame model from cannibalizing the 5D line. Used prices for 5DIIIs now regularly fall below $1500. On paper the larger sensor and newer processor of the 6DII read like the better option, but all the other tools (excluding the articulating screen), still place the 5DIII above even the new 6DII model.

Selene03

I agree with the above post. The 6Ds are great cameras, but not so much for bif. The 5d mk III would fit your needs better.

Base_fiddle

Thanks very much for your reasoning and suggestion. That's exactly what I was looking for.
Jose

BebuLamar

If you go from the 5D to the 5D MKIII it's an update. If you go from the 5D to the 6D MKII it's also an update but a downgrade.

Base_fiddle

I enjoy shooting birds in flight and thought that going from my 5D to a MIII would be a good move, but hesitated and decided to ask the hogs. I'm glad I didn't make the move. Thanks for your feedback.
Jose

Base_fiddle

When I read about the 6D MII, it sounded like a downgrade, at least with respect to the price...how could a new camera be better, but less expensive. That's another reason for coming to the group. Thanks.

Base_fiddle

I've never bought a used camera. Should I assume that a Canon refurbished camera is a safer move than buying a used Canon 5D MIII from the Internet?
Jose

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

Yes, the refurb will be next to new, with warranty, where you do have to know how to evaluate a used camera. I have used cameras and haven't had a problem with any of them. A "babied" 5DIII will seem like a new camera too, if you shop carefully.

Base_fiddle

I don't know if I can specify a "babied" refurbished camera from Canon, but I see. I remember previous posts about shutter snaps, so I assume that knowing how "used" a camera is would be beneficial. Am I naïve in thinking that Canon would only refurbish cameras that still have a lot of life in them?

Selene03

I have bought a couple of cameras and lenses from Canon refurbished. They have been in "like new" condition when I have received them. I have put them through the ringers, and they have served me well. I would highly recommend Canon refurbished.

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

The shutter in the 5DIII is rated to 150,000. A used body will need to have the shutter count checked. But, even used a 50k, that camera has a lot of expected life.

The forum has debated aspects of Canon's statement on refurbished. I read this conservatively where if the body needs to be reboxed for sale, that could satisfy "replacing any needed parts with genuine Canon equipment". But, anything broken (aka not gently used), would not be a candidate for the refurb market. Others could read this statement differently.

From digital cameras and lenses, to camcorders, printers, and more, our refurbished products showcase our dedication to product excellence. Shipped back to us as gently used or unboxed returns, our trained Canon technicians perform comprehensive quality assurance inspections, replacing any needed parts with genuine Canon equipment. Plus, all refurbished products are backed by our standard 1-Year limited warranty.

https://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/refurbished-products-information

Base_fiddle

[quote=CHG_CANON]The shutter in the 5DIII is rated to 150,000. A used body will need to have the shutter count checked. But, even used a 50k, that camer.a has a lot of expected life...

Thanks again for your thoughts...excellent. I remember one incident with Canon last year when I sent my 5D in for cleaning. They told me that because it was so old, there were no parts available and they wouldn't clean it. My concern is that a 5D MIII is about 6 years long in the tooth and I wonder how much Canon really focuses on a camera that old. I'll communicate with Canon and see what I can find out. Thanks for the link...very interesting

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

Base, first I’ve never used a 5mkl, 6mkl or ll or a 5lll but know them pretty well on paper. That said I currently shoot some sports professionally with a 5s and 1Dx. I also shot them extensively with a 5Dll for years.
My first question is, have you shot BIF with your 5mkl? Have you been happy with your results? If you shot everything you mentioned with the 5D and where happy, the 6Dmkll will shoot those about 10x better than your 5mkl.
The 5lll is a great camera and more professional in body, sealing, ruggedness etc but it IS years old now.
If my cameras were as reliable with a tilt screen as without I would KILL to have that screen had they come with it!!! I miss a LOT of action shots from super low or over my head because I’m just guessing as to where I’m shooting!
To answer your question on buying used, both my 5s and 1Dx were bought used and I’ve never had a problem. BUT they were from Craig’s List so I actually met the owners and saw the cameras, it’s just the way I prefer it.
I would not be afraid of the 6ll either new, used or refurb and the focus system is mostly adequate.
If you want consistent reviews go here, he’s the best in the business:
https://www.the-digital-picture.com
Good luck
SS

robertjerl Loc: Corona, California

What SS said.
I had a 6D and I got BIF with it, used the pre-AF tricks. But I also had a 7DII which after I got it became my bird camera.
Now I have a 5DIV (started to get the 6DII but since I had the money decided to go all the way to the 5DIV). I traded my 6D, 7DII, a speed graphic with original flash and hard case, Tamron 150-600 (have a 100-400L mk2 and 1.4x) and a 55-250 for the 5DIV and an 80D. I miss the 7DII, I had gotten used to all the extra controls etc. and may get a 7DIII when it comes out (cheaper than getting a lens long enough to equal the reach with my 5DIV). The 80D does a good job on BIF etc, the 5DIV does a better job but doesn't have that 1.6 crop factor reach (don't anyone bother jumping in about that-I know and understand it.)
The 6DII has an improved sensor over everything but the 5DIV (5Ds & 5Dsr are a different kettle of fish) and the same AF as the 80D and some others. It will do a better job on BIF than your old 5D but not as good as the 5DIV (or the AF of the 5DIII - with a much newer sensor).
The dynamic range complaints were "fake news". It was only at ISO 100 and only under some circumstances. The DR of the 6DII is just fine at the ISOs most people use, plus it is as good at low light high ISO as the 6D or 5DIV.
As to the complaints about the coverage of the AF points - well would you believe that the 5DIV doesn't cover much more? Besides if you are like me you use center point AF or center expanded most of the time.

If you want to stay with FF and not spend the $ for the IV then get the 6DII. Or you could go to APS-C and get a 7DII since they are now down in price - the sensor is getting old but it is still a very good sensor. An 80D would be an improvement for BIF over the 5D and certainly a better sensor as long as APS-C is OK with you.