I really need to get my hands on a Canon EOS R6 like right now because my sisters backyard wedding is next Saturday and I only have a phone. sorry if this is a totally dumb question but I have no idea where to even look for a good deal. my logic was that since there is a newer version now the old R6 should be super cheap? but I keep seeing it for like 2000 dollars on some sites and then 1400 on others and it makes me nervous. I live in Chicago so maybe a local store has it? I checked Amazon but it looks confusing with all the different sellers. is it safe to buy used or is that a bad idea for a beginner... I only have about 1800 to spend on the whole thing and I need it by Friday.
Regarding what #2 said about "> my logic was that since there is a newer version now the old R6 should be super cheap?" - unfortunately, that is rarely how it goes with gear this good. I had issues with a bargain seller once where the camera arrived with a sensor scratch. It was such a headache. If youre in Chicago, dont trust shipping this close to the wedding... it is just not as good as expected when things get delayed at the last minute. Heres what I would do to play it safe:
- Call the local shops like Helix or Abt first thing tomorrow for any open-box Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless Digital Camera Body deals.
- Make sure you save at least 100 bucks for a SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card. Ngl, it is disappointing how fast the price climbs once you add the essentials like a Canon LP-E6NH Lithium-Ion Battery Pack. Buying local is basically the only way you will sleep well on Friday night.
> my logic was that since there is a newer version now the old R6 should be super cheap? I thought the same when the Mark II launched, but the Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless Camera Body holds value because its such a workhorse. I once blew my whole budget on a body and forgot the lens... dont do that. With $1800, check MPB for used gear. I grabbed a Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM there and it arrived crazy fast.
The price gap you are seeing usually comes down to whether the unit is brand new, factory refurbished, or used. Since you need it by Friday, honestly, your best bet is the Canon USA Refurbished store or a reputable used dealer. The Canon EOS R6 Mirrorless Body is still a professional-grade tool, but prices vary because big retailers are clearing stock for the newer version. In Chicago, you should check out Central Camera or Helix. They often have trade-ins that are thoroughly inspected. Buying used is actually a smart move if you stick to sites like MPB or KEH because they provide a warranty. I have bought plenty of gear this way and it is basically like new. Just remember your budget needs to cover a lens too, so maybe look for the Canon RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM to stay under budget. Refurbished units are usually the sweet spot for reliability.
Can vouch for this