CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Canon EOS M50 Mark II — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
DSLR · 21 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
58
SCORE
$391.09
best of 3 retailers
Best Price →
✓ WINNER
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Canon
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Mirrorless · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
59
SCORE
$599
best of 4 retailers
Best Price →
General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20082020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
17/09/200814/10/2020
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 152 x 114 x 75 mm116 x 88 x 59 mm
Camera weight 850 g387 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
21 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5616 x 37446000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
24 x 3614.9 x 22.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
3.9 fps04510 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EFCanon EF-M
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 4Digic 8
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
64003003280000256003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
503020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
256003003280000512003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
903001430300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Electronic
Viewfinder dots N/A236000009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10803840 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
30 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MOVMPEG-4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type TFT LCDTFT LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
920000115000150000010400001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, MicrodriveSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6LP-E12
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
850 shots1505000305 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II wins by a slight margin with a score of 59/100 compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II‘s score of 58/100. Both cameras have their unique features and cater to different photography enthusiasts.

The two cameras share some similarities, such as their brand and announcement years. The 5D Mark II, a DSLR camera, was released in 2008 and has a launch price of $2199, whereas the M50 Mark II, a mirrorless camera, was launched in 2020 with a price tag of $750.

The 5D Mark II outshines the M50 Mark II with its larger size (152 x 114 x 75mm) and heavier weight (850g / 1.87lbs), which may offer better stability for certain photography styles. On the other hand, the M50 Mark II has a more compact design (116 x 88 x 59mm) and is significantly lighter (387g / 0.85lbs), making it a more portable and travel-friendly option.

Taking all these factors into consideration, the M50 Mark II is the winner due to its modern technology, compact size, and lighter weight. However, the 5D Mark II still holds its ground as a reliable DSLR camera for those who prefer its larger size and sturdier build.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS M50 Mark II Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II and Canon EOS M50 Mark II both score 59/100 in our optics comparison. Despite having the same score, each camera has its own strengths and weaknesses in terms of optics.

Both cameras share some specs, such as having a CMOS sensor, no image stabilisation, and similar megapixel counts (21 for the 5D Mark II and 24 for the M50 Mark II). Their processors differ, with the 5D Mark II featuring a Digic 4 and the M50 Mark II a more advanced Digic 8.

The 5D Mark II excels in sensor size and DXOMARK score. Its full-frame sensor provides a larger surface area for capturing images, which can result in better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. Additionally, its DXOMARK score of 79 is significantly higher than the M50 Mark II’s score of 58, indicating superior overall image quality.

On the other hand, the M50 Mark II outperforms the 5D Mark II in shooting speed and lens mount. With a shooting speed of 10 frames per second, it is more than twice as fast as the 5D Mark II’s 3.9 fps. This makes the M50 Mark II more suitable for action photography. Furthermore, its Canon EF-M lens mount allows for a more compact and lightweight system, making it more portable than the 5D Mark II with its Canon EF lens mount.

In comparing the optics of these two cameras, the 5D Mark II offers better image quality with its full-frame sensor and higher DXOMARK score, while the M50 Mark II provides faster shooting speeds and a more portable lens system. Depending on the user’s needs and preferences, each camera has its own advantages in the realm of optics.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS M50 Mark II Video Performance

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark II in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the latter’s 43/100. Both cameras share some specifications, but the M50 Mark II has superior features that contribute to its higher score.

Both cameras can record video, but the M50 Mark II offers 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) while the 5D Mark II only has Full HD (1920 x 1080). This means that the M50 Mark II captures videos in a higher quality with more detail. Additionally, the M50 Mark II has a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, allowing for smoother and more dynamic footage, whereas the 5D Mark II is limited to 30fps. The M50 Mark II also comes with built-in time-lapse functionality, which the 5D Mark II lacks.

There are no specific areas where the 5D Mark II surpasses the M50 Mark II in terms of video capabilities. However, it is worth noting that the 5D Mark II has been a reliable and well-regarded camera for years, even though its video features have now been surpassed by newer models like the M50 Mark II.

Given the clear advantages of the M50 Mark II, it is the better choice for those prioritizing video quality and features. The 4K resolution, higher frame rate, and time-lapse functionality make it a more versatile and capable camera for capturing video. In contrast, the 5D Mark II, while still a solid camera, falls short in these areas and may not be the best choice for videographers.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS M50 Mark II Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II wins the features comparison with a score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II scores 54/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, no GPS, and WIFI capabilities.

The M50 Mark II outperforms the 5D Mark II in several aspects. It has a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, compared to the 5D Mark II’s 920,000 dots. The M50 Mark II also has a touchscreen, making it easier to navigate menus and settings. Additionally, it features a flip screen, which is useful for shooting from different angles and for vlogging purposes. The M50 Mark II also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless pairing with compatible devices.

The 5D Mark II, however, has no significant advantages over the M50 Mark II concerning features. Both cameras lack GPS, and while the 5D Mark II has WIFI, the M50 Mark II also possesses this capability, along with additional features.

Considering the features, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is the clear winner, offering a higher screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, and Bluetooth connectivity. These enhancements make it more versatile and user-friendly compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II. On the other hand, the 5D Mark II does not surpass the M50 Mark II in any specific feature. Therefore, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is the better choice for users seeking a camera with more advanced features.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS M50 Mark II Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark II outperforms the Canon EOS M50 Mark II in storage and battery, with a score of 71/100 compared to 21/100. Both cameras lack USB charging and have different battery types: the 5D Mark II uses the LP-E6, while the M50 Mark II uses the LP-E12.

The 5D Mark II excels with its longer battery life of 850 shots and two memory card slots, accepting Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive cards. This provides users with more storage options and increased shooting capacity.

On the other hand, the M50 Mark II has only one memory card slot, compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-I) cards. Its battery life is significantly shorter at 305 shots. Despite this drawback, the M50 Mark II’s storage compatibility with commonly used SD cards may be a benefit for some users.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the superior choice for extended shooting and versatile storage options, while the Canon EOS M50 Mark II offers compatibility with widely available SD cards.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs EOS M50 Mark II Alternatives

Still not sure which Canon camera is right for you? Our recent buying guides on the best Canon mirrorless for video or the best Canon camera for beginners may help! Or, check out these recent camera comparisons for more inspiration: