CameraReview

Canon EOS M vs Canon EOS M2 — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS M
Canon
Canon EOS M
Mirrorless · 18 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
86
SCORE
$448
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Canon EOS M2
Canon
Canon EOS M2
Mirrorless · 18 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
46
SCORE
No live offers
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS MEOS M2
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20122013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
23/07/201203/12/2013
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 109 x 66 x 32 mm116 x 88 x 59 mm
Camera weight 298 g387 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
18 MP05018 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5184 x 34566000 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.
14.9 x 22.314.9 x 22.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-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.
4.3 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 EF-MCanon 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 5Digic 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.
128003003280000128003003280000
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.
1003020010030200
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.
256003003280000256003003280000
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.
400080032000400080032000
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.
310300310300
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.
NoneElectronic
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 HDFull HD
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 10801920 x 1080
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 fps30 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.
MPEG-4MOV
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 LCDLCD
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.
1040000115000150000010400001150001500000
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 SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E12LP-E12
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
230 shots1505000305 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS M2 outperforms the Canon EOS M with a score of 46/100 compared to the latter’s 44/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2012 and 2013, respectively. They share similar specifications, such as launch prices of $799 for the EOS M and $650 for the EOS M2.

The EOS M2 takes the lead due to its better performance and lower price. However, the EOS M has a slight advantage in terms of size and weight, measuring 109 x 66 x 32mm and weighing 298g, compared to the EOS M2’s 116 x 88 x 59mm and 387g.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS M2 emerges as the better option with improved performance and a more affordable price. The EOS M, though, might be more suitable for those who prioritize a compact and lightweight camera.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M2 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS M2 outperforms the Canon EOS M in optics with a score of 44/100 compared to 42/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 18-megapixel resolution, CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Canon EF-M lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.

The EOS M2’s advantages lie in its faster shooting speed and superior processor. With a shooting speed of 10 frames per second, the M2 doubles the EOS M’s 4.3 frames per second, allowing for better action and sports photography. The M2 also features a Digic 8 processor, an improvement over the EOS M’s Digic 5 processor, which results in faster processing and better image quality.

On the other hand, the EOS M does not have any notable advantages over the EOS M2 in terms of optics. Both cameras have the same DXOMARK sensor score of 65, indicating similar image quality and low-light performance. The only aspect where the EOS M is on par with the EOS M2 is the 18-megapixel resolution, which is the same for both cameras.

Considering the optics of both cameras, the Canon EOS M2 is the better choice due to its faster shooting speed and enhanced processor. This makes the M2 more suitable for action and sports photography, as well as providing better overall image quality. The Canon EOS M, while sharing some common features with the M2, does not offer any significant advantages in optics, rendering it less competitive in comparison.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M2 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M2 outperforms the Canon EOS M in video capabilities, with a 14-point lead in their respective video scores (57/100 for the M2 and 43/100 for the M). Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as Full HD max video resolution and max video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. They also have the same max video frame rate of 30fps.

The EOS M2’s superiority in video performance is mainly due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without requiring additional accessories or software, making it a more versatile and convenient option for videographers.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M does not offer any significant advantages in video capabilities compared to the EOS M2. Its video performance is inferior, and it lacks the built-in time-lapse functionality that makes the M2 stand out. Therefore, the EOS M is not a better choice for videographers focusing on video quality and features.

Considering all these factors, it is clear that the Canon EOS M2 is the better choice for videographers and content creators looking for a camera with superior video capabilities. The built-in time-lapse functionality adds value to the M2, making it a more versatile and user-friendly option. In contrast, the Canon EOS M falls short in this aspect and does not offer any significant advantages in video performance.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M2 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS M and Canon EOS M2 both have a feature score of 57 out of 100. Despite having the same score, each camera has its unique advantages and disadvantages.

Both cameras share several specifications. They have the same screen size of 3 inches and a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots. Additionally, both cameras have touchscreens but do not include flip screens or GPS capabilities.

The Canon EOS M2 surpasses the EOS M in terms of connectivity. The M2 has built-in Wi-Fi, which allows users to transfer images to their devices and control the camera remotely. This feature is absent in the EOS M, making it less convenient for users who want to share their photos quickly or use their smartphones as remote controls.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M does not have any significant advantages over the EOS M2. Both cameras have identical feature scores and share most specifications. The lack of Wi-Fi in the EOS M might be considered a disadvantage, but it does not make the camera better in any aspect than the M2.

Considering these points, the Canon EOS M2 appears to be a better choice for users who value connectivity and remote control capabilities. The Canon EOS M does not offer any distinct advantages over the M2, making it a less appealing option for those who want to maximize their camera’s features.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M2 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS M2 outperforms the Canon EOS M in storage and battery with a score of 21/100 compared to the EOS M’s 13/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the EOS M2 is UHS-I compatible, allowing for faster data transfer.

The EOS M2 also boasts a longer battery life, providing 305 shots per charge, while the EOS M only offers 230 shots. Both cameras use the same battery type, the LP-E12, and neither has USB charging capabilities.

Despite its lower score, the EOS M remains a viable option for those seeking a basic camera with standard memory card compatibility and a decent battery life. However, the EOS M2’s UHS-I compatibility and extended battery life make it the superior choice in terms of storage and battery performance.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M2 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M vs EOS M2 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS M or the Canon EOS M2: