CameraReview

Canon EOS M vs Canon EOS M50 — 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 M50
Canon
Canon EOS M50
Mirrorless · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
59
SCORE
$474.48
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS MEOS M50
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20122018
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
23/07/201226/02/2018
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 109 x 66 x 32 mm116 x 88 x 59 mm
Camera weight 298 g390 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
18 MP05024 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.
128003003280000256003003280000
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.
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.
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.
3103001430300
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 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.
MPEG-4MPEG-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 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.
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 shots1505000235 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS M50 takes the lead with a score of 59/100, while the Canon EOS M trails behind with a 44/100 score. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similarities in launch price, with the EOS M50 priced at $779 and the EOS M at $799. However, there are notable differences in their specifications.

The EOS M50 has advantages over the EOS M, including its more recent release year (2018) and improved features. On the other hand, the EOS M, released in 2012, is lighter at 298g (0.66lbs) and has a smaller body measuring 109 x 66 x 32mm, making it more compact and portable.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Canon EOS M50 emerges as the better camera due to its updated features and higher score. However, the Canon EOS M may appeal to those seeking a more lightweight and compact option.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M50 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS M50 outperforms the Canon EOS M in optics, scoring 59/100 compared to the EOS M’s score of 42/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, Canon EF-M lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.

The EOS M50 surpasses the EOS M in megapixels, offering 24 compared to the EOS M’s 18. This results in higher image resolution, providing greater detail and improved image quality. Additionally, the EOS M50 boasts a significantly faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second (fps) compared to the EOS M’s 4.3 fps. This allows for capturing fast-moving subjects and rapid action shots with ease. Furthermore, the EOS M50 features a more advanced processor, the Digic 8, which contributes to better image processing and overall performance.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, scoring 65 points compared to the EOS M50’s 58 points. This indicates that the EOS M may produce better image quality in certain situations, despite its lower megapixel count.

Taking these factors into account, it is clear that the Canon EOS M50 offers superior optics performance in terms of resolution, shooting speed, and processing power. However, the EOS M’s higher DXOMARK sensor score highlights its potential for quality images under specific conditions. Ultimately, the Canon EOS M50 is the better choice for those seeking improved optics performance, while the Canon EOS M may suit those who prioritize sensor quality over other factors.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M50 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M50 outperforms the Canon EOS M in video capabilities with a significant difference in scores: 91/100 for the M50 and 43/100 for the EOS M. Despite the gap in scores, both cameras share some common video specifications. They both offer Full HD video resolution and have maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, both cameras have a maximum video frame rate of 30fps.

However, the Canon EOS M50 excels in several aspects that make it a superior choice for video. The M50 has a maximum video resolution of 4K, allowing for higher quality and more detailed footage. Its maximum video dimensions are 3840 x 2160, providing a larger and more immersive viewing experience. Furthermore, the EOS M50 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, enabling smoother slow-motion playback. The M50 also includes a built-in time-lapse functionality, adding versatility to its video capabilities.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M does not offer any notable advantages over the EOS M50 in terms of video capabilities. Its lower score reflects its limitations and the absence of features like 4K resolution, higher frame rates, and time-lapse functionality.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS M50 is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities. Its higher score is indicative of its superior features, such as 4K resolution, higher frame rates, and built-in time-lapse functionality. In contrast, the Canon EOS M falls short in these areas, making it a less suitable choice for those seeking advanced video capabilities.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M50 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS M50 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 70/100, compared to the Canon EOS M’s score of 57/100. Examining the specifications of both cameras reveals their similarities and differences, helping to understand why the M50 has a higher score.

Both cameras share a 3-inch touchscreen with a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots. Neither camera has GPS functionality. These common features establish a baseline for comparison.

The EOS M50’s higher score can be attributed to its additional features, such as a flip screen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity. The flip screen allows for more versatile shooting angles and is particularly useful for vlogging or taking selfies. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities enable easy sharing and transfer of photos, as well as remote control of the camera through a smartphone or tablet.

On the other hand, the EOS M does not offer any significant advantages over the M50. It lacks a flip screen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, which limits its overall functionality and convenience in comparison to the M50.

Considering these points, the Canon EOS M50 is the better camera in terms of features, offering greater versatility and connectivity options. Its flip screen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities make it more user-friendly and adaptable to various shooting situations. The Canon EOS M, while sharing some basic features with the M50, falls short in offering the same level of convenience and functionality due to its lack of additional features.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M50 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS M and the Canon EOS M50 both score 13/100 in storage and battery, indicating a tie in this category. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the EOS M50 is compatible with UHS-I cards, providing faster transfer speeds.

In terms of battery life, the EOS M50 has a slight advantage with 235 shots per charge, while the EOS M provides 230 shots. Both cameras use the same LP-E12 battery type. Neither camera supports USB charging.

Despite the EOS M50’s UHS-I compatibility and marginally longer battery life, both cameras perform similarly in storage and battery capabilities. Users of either camera can expect adequate performance in these areas, with no significant differences to impact their overall experience.

Canon EOS M vs EOS M50 – 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 M50: