Canon EOS M vs EOS M3 Comparison
Canon EOS M
Canon EOS M3
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Canon | Canon | |
Model | EOS M | EOS M3 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2012 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 23, 2012 | February 06, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS M3 emerges as the winner with a score of 56/100, outscoring the Canon EOS M by 12 points. Both cameras are mirrorless and were launched at relatively similar prices, with the EOS M at $799 and the EOS M3 at $870. They also have comparable sizes and weights, with the EOS M being slightly smaller and lighter.
The EOS M3’s higher score is due to its superior specifications, making it a better camera overall. However, the EOS M has some advantages, such as its smaller size and lighter weight, which can be beneficial for those prioritizing portability.
Considering the difference in scores and specifications, the Canon EOS M3 is the better choice for most users, but the EOS M still has its merits for those seeking a more compact option.
Canon EOS M vs EOS M3 Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS M3 outperforms the Canon EOS M in optics, scoring 60/100 compared to the EOS M’s score of 42/100. This 18-point difference highlights the superiority of the EOS M3 in terms of image quality and performance. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Canon EF-M lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.
The EOS M3’s advantages include a higher megapixel count of 24.2, compared to the EOS M’s 18 megapixels. This allows for greater detail and image resolution. Additionally, the EOS M3 features a more advanced processor, the Digic 6, which improves the camera’s overall performance, noise reduction, and color accuracy. The EOS M3 also has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 72, as opposed to the EOS M’s score of 65, indicating better image quality and low-light performance.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS M has a slightly faster shooting speed of 4.3 compared to the EOS M3’s 4.2. However, this minimal difference does not significantly impact the overall performance and user experience.
Taking these factors into consideration, it is evident that the Canon EOS M3 is the superior camera in terms of optics. Its higher megapixel count, advanced processor, and better sensor performance contribute to its higher score and better image quality. While the EOS M has a marginally faster shooting speed, it is not enough to outweigh the benefits of the EOS M3’s improved specifications. Therefore, the Canon EOS M3 is the better choice for those seeking enhanced optical performance.
|
Optics
|
Canon EOS M
|
Canon EOS M3
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 18 MP | 24.2 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5184 x 3456 px | 6000 x 4000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
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 22.3 mm | 14.9 x 22.3 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 4.3 fps | 4.2 fps | |
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-M | Canon 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 5 | Digic 6 | |
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. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 12,800 | 12,800 | |
Minimum 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. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum 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. | 25600 | 25600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 4000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
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. | 31 | 49 | |
In-body Stabilization 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. | None | None |
Canon EOS M vs EOS M3 Video Performance
When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS M and the Canon EOS M3, there is no clear winner as both cameras have the same video score of 43 out of 100. This result shows that the cameras have similar video performance and features.
Both the Canon EOS M and the Canon EOS M3 share common specifications in terms of video capabilities. They both have a maximum video resolution of Full HD, with video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, their maximum video frame rate is 30fps. Neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite having the same video score, there may be some areas where one camera outperforms the other. However, based on the provided specifications, there is no discernible difference in video performance between the Canon EOS M and the Canon EOS M3. Both cameras offer the same level of video quality, making them equally suitable for capturing high-quality video footage.
In this comparison, neither the Canon EOS M nor the Canon EOS M3 has a clear advantage over the other in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras provide the same video quality and features, making them equally suitable for users who prioritize video performance. As a result, potential buyers should consider other factors, such as general specifications and optics, when deciding between these two cameras.
|
Video
|
Canon EOS M
|
Canon EOS M3
|
|
|
|
|
||
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 HD | Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions 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 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
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 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse 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-4 | MP4 |
Canon EOS M vs EOS M3 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS M and Canon EOS M3 both have a feature score of 57/100. These cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1040000-dot screen resolution, and a touchscreen. Neither camera has GPS or Bluetooth capabilities.
The EOS M3 stands out with a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity. The flip screen allows for more versatile shooting angles and is particularly helpful for capturing self-portraits or recording vlogs. Wi-Fi connectivity simplifies the process of transferring images to smartphones, tablets, or computers, making it easier to share photos on social media or with friends and family.
On the other hand, the EOS M does not offer any notable advantages over the EOS M3 in terms of features. It lacks both a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity, which are present in the EOS M3. This absence of features may be a disadvantage for some users, particularly those who value flexibility in shooting angles and ease of photo sharing.
Both cameras have identical feature scores, but the EOS M3 is the superior option due to its additional features. The flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity make the EOS M3 more versatile and user-friendly, while the EOS M does not provide any unique benefits in comparison. Users should consider the EOS M3 for its enhanced functionality and convenience.
|
Features
|
Canon EOS M
|
Canon EOS M3
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in 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 | LCD | 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 Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,040,000 dots | 1,040,000 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS M vs EOS M3 Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS M3 outperforms the Canon EOS M in storage and battery, scoring 16/100 compared to the EOS M’s 13/100. Both cameras share similar storage specifications, each having a single memory card slot and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards.
The EOS M3’s battery life is longer, providing 250 shots per charge, while the EOS M offers 230 shots. The EOS M3 uses the LP-E17 battery type, whereas the EOS M uses the LP-E12. Neither camera supports USB charging.
Although the EOS M’s battery life is slightly shorter, it may still be sufficient for casual users. However, the EOS M3’s longer battery life is advantageous for extended shooting sessions or situations where recharging is not possible.
Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Canon EOS M3 holds a slight edge over the Canon EOS M, mainly due to its longer battery life. This makes the EOS M3 a better choice for those who prioritize battery performance in their cameras.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Canon EOS M
|
Canon EOS M3
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
|---|---|---|---|
Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E12 | LP-E17 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 230 shots | 250 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS M
|
Canon EOS M3
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 22.1 bits | 22.8 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 11.2 EVs | 11.8 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 827 | 1169 |
|
Scores
|
Canon EOS M
|
Canon EOS M3
|
|
Main Features | N/A | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Canon EOS M vs EOS M3 – Our Verdict
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 M3:
|
User Scores
|
Canon EOS M
|
Canon EOS M3
|
|
B&H photo video |
|---|