It’s not ‘better’. They are completely different works. Both symphonies most well-known movements are the respective 1st movements. 5th’s first movement is powerful while the 6th is calm and beautiful. But the 6th symphony is known as the Pastoral and is wonderful, but very different than the fifth symphony.

On mobile which is why this reply is so short.

Because 7 ate 9

Personally, I think more emotion was put into the 5th. That rapid changes (to me) signify shifts in mind as it goes through moments of happiness, despair, anxiety, and realization. While the 6th is a steady rhythm of victory or positive realization.

I also think the 5th is more popular because it is definitely more of a challenge to the orchestra because of the rapid changes and muting. The 6th is just a constant flow most of the time and just highly expresses the skill of the violinist (Beethoven). With the 6th, it's like he said "the Orchestra is going to be backup and not the center of the sound"

For anyone reading this thread that can't turn on their speakers to check right now:

Beethoven's 5th: Judge Judy intro Beethoven's 6th: Fantasia

Define “better”. Surely it’s a matter of personal opinion?

Beethoven sold out, man.

Because otherwise we wouldn't have Walter Murphy's "A Fifth of Beethoven".