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We shoot a specially designed chart in carefully controlled conditions and the resulting images are analysed using DXO Analyzer software to generate the data to produce the graphs below.
A high signal to noise ratio (SNR) indicates a cleaner and better quality image.
For more more details on how to interpret our test data, check out our full explanation of our noise and dynamic range tests.
Here we compare the Canon EOS 6D with the Nikon D600, Canon EOS 7D, Sony Alpha a77 and Canon EOS 5D Mk III. These images were captured using a full-production sample of the Canon 6D.
JPEG signal to noise ratio
These results show that the Canon EOS 6D's JPEG files have a similar signal to noise ratio to those from the Nikon D600 and Canon EOS 5D Mk III throughout the sensitivity range, beating those from the Canon EOS 7D and Sony Alpha a77 at every ISO setting.
Raw signal to noise ratio
The signal to noise ratios of the TIFF images (after conversion from raw) from the Canon EOS 6D are again very similar to those from the Canon EOS 5D Mk III and Nikon D600, although the Nikon's performance trails off at higher sensitivities. The 6D beats the Canon EOS 7D and Sony Alpha a77 at every ISO.
JPEG dynamic range
JPEG results for dynamic range are more confused than those for signal to noise ratio, with the Canon EOS 6D performing comparatively poorly at low ISOs, lagging behind the Nikon D600, Sony Alpha a77 and Canon EOS 5D Mk III but still beating the Canon EOS 7D. In the mid-range it picks up while some of the other cameras drop off, making it the second-best performer for a while, until it ends up on top by the upper end of the sensitivity range.
Raw dynamic range
This chart indicates that TIFF images (after conversion from raw) from the Canon EOS 6D have a similar level of dynamic range as the JPEG images. The 6D starts out producing less dynamic range than the Nikon D600 and Canon EOS 5D Mk III, but a greater range than the Canon EOS 7D and Sony Alpha a77. But by ISO 400 it is the second best performer behind the Nikon, and at higher ISOs it takes the lead by a significant margin.
