CameraReview

Canon EOS M vs Canon EOS M3 — 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 M3
Canon
Canon EOS M3
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
56
SCORE
$429
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS MEOS M3
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20122015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
23/07/201206/02/2015
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 109 x 66 x 32 mm111 x 68 x 44 mm
Camera weight 298 g366 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
18 MP05024.2 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 fps0454.2 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 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.
3:23:2
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.
310300490300
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.
NoneNone
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
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-4MP4
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
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E12LP-E17
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
230 shots1505000250 shots1505000
USB charging

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.

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.

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.

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.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M3 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M vs EOS M3 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 M3: