Canon EOS Rebel T6i Review

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Review posted 07/15/2015 by Kyle Schurman
Preview posted 02/05/2015 by William Chambers

Quick Take
Pros
  • Very good image quality
  • 24.2-megapixels of resolution greatly exceeds this camera's predecessor
  • Offers both RAW and JPEG image formats
  • Minimal noise in low and mid-ISO settings
  • Fast performance in Viewfinder mode
  • Includes DIGIC 6 image processor, which is improvement over predecessor
  • 19 autofocus points in T6i
  • Articulated LCD with touch screen capabilities is great for using the T6i on a tripod
  • Good mix of full manual control and auto shooting options
  • Q button works well for making quick changes to camera's settings
  • Large number of special effect options
  • Good popup flash performance
  • Very good movie quality
  • Quiet lens in movie mode when used with an STM Canon lens
  • Camera's weight is good and right handgrip is of a good size
  • Sturdy build quality
Cons
  • Some features are only available in Viewfinder mode, others only available in Live View, which will confuse some photographers
  • Special effect modes are included in three different areas, which is confusing
  • Some buttons that work in Viewfinder mode result in error messages in Live View mode, which is frustrating
  • On-screen menu structure could have been reworked to take advantage of touch screen
  • Autofocus in movie mode is a little slow
  • Live View performance is well behind Viewfinder performance, outside of continuous shot mode
  • ISO only can be adjusted by full stops, not one-third stops like many advanced cameras
  • If you use Live View often, you'll drain the battery very quickly
  • Overall battery life is not as good as it should be for a DSLR
  • T6i offers Wi-Fi connectivity, but it's difficult to set up and drains the battery quickly
Bottom Line
The image sensor in the Canon EOS Rebel line of DSLR cameras was due for an upgrade, and Canon has done so with the release of the EOS Rebel T6i. While the T6i doesn't have a larger image sensor than its predecessor in physical size, it does offer 24.2-megapixels of resolution, which is a 33% increase in pixels, and its image quality does surpass the T5i. Canon also gave the Rebel T6i an updated autofocus system, an updated image processor, and an updated metering sensor, all of which contribute to a really nice interchangeable lens camera. It's one that's definitely worthy of considering for almost any photographer looking for a strong entry-level DSLR, even for those that own the T5i. Read more in our Full Conclusion.
At CES 2015, Canon updated their popular EOS Rebel line with two new models, the EOS T6i and the EOS T6s.

These models offer nearly identical core features, which include the highest resolution image sensor found on an APS-C EOS model, at 24.2-megapixels. Other shared specifications are a DIGIC 6 image processor, their Hybrid CMOS AF III system with 19 cross-type AF points, full 1080/30p HD video recording capabilities, built-in Wi-Fi with NFC tech, and a 3.0-inch Vari-angle LCD screen.

While the new image sensor is one of the main spotlight features, the inclusion of Wi-Fi is a first for the EOS Rebel line. This ability allows you to easily upload and share images via their Camera Connect app (available for iOS and Android platforms), and even remotely control the cameras from your smart devices. The addition of NFC helps ensure simple paring, with a simple touch of the devices.

The T6s adds a few features over its sibling, like a top mounted date LCD (another first for the Rebel line).

Canon EOS Rebel T6i Features:
  • 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS image sensor
  • Canon EF/EF-S lens mount system
  • DIGIC 6 image processor
  • Hybrid CMOS AF III autofocus system, with 19 cross-type points
  • 3.0-inch Vari-angle LCD screen with 1.04 million dots
  • ISO range from 100-12,800, expandable to 25,600
  • Full 1080p HD video recording (MP4 format)
  • Advanced (PSAM) exposure options
  • Easy to use (Auto, Scene modes, etc.) exposure options for beginners
  • Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC technology
  • SD card slot
  • Li-ion battery (good for about 400-500 shots)
The Canon EOS Rebel T6i is available now with a suggested retail price of $749.99 for the body only, $899.99 bundled with the EF-S 18-55 STM lens, or $1,099 bundled with the EF-S 18-135 STM lens.

See our best price box at the top right of this page to see current online pricing.

Additional Product Views

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