CameraReview

Canon EOS M3 vs Canon EOS M50 — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS M3
Canon
Canon EOS M3
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
56
SCORE
$349.99
best of 2 retailers
Best Price →
✓ WINNER
Canon EOS M50
Canon
Canon EOS M50
Mirrorless · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
59
SCORE
$474.48
best of 2 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS M3EOS M50
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20152018
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
06/02/201526/02/2018
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 111 x 68 x 44 mm116 x 88 x 59 mm
Camera weight 366 g390 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006000 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.
4.2 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 6Digic 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.
4903001430300
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.
MP4MPEG-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-E17LP-E12
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
250 shots1505000235 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS M50 emerges as the winner with a score of 59/100, while the Canon EOS M3 scores 56/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as being mirrorless and having similar dimensions; the M3 measures 111 x 68 x 44mm and weighs 366g, while the M50 measures 116 x 88 x 59mm and weighs 390g.

The EOS M50 outperforms the M3 due to its more recent release in 2018, compared to the M3’s 2015 release, and its lower launch price of $779, as opposed to the M3’s $870.

However, the EOS M3 has a slightly smaller size and lighter weight, making it more portable and convenient for some users.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS M50 is the better camera overall, offering improved features and a more competitive price. The Canon EOS M3, though, may still appeal to those seeking a lighter and more compact option.

Canon EOS M3 vs EOS M50 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS M3 slightly outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in terms of optics, scoring 60/100 compared to the M50’s 59/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, a Canon EF-M lens mount, and the lack of image stabilization.

The EOS M3 has a slight edge in megapixels, with 24.2 compared to the M50’s 24. This difference contributes to the M3’s higher DXOMARK score of 72, as opposed to the M50’s 58. The M3 also features a Digic 6 processor, which, although older than the M50’s Digic 8, still contributes to its overall superior optics performance.

On the other hand, the EOS M50 boasts a significantly faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, compared to the M3’s 4.2. This advantage makes the M50 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action shots. Additionally, the M50’s Digic 8 processor provides better overall performance, including faster autofocus and improved image quality at higher ISO settings.

While both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, the EOS M3’s higher score in optics is primarily due to its superior megapixel count and DXOMARK score. However, the EOS M50’s faster shooting speed and improved processor performance make it a strong contender, especially for those who prioritize action photography. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Canon EOS M3 vs EOS M50 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M50 outperforms the Canon EOS M3 in video capabilities with a video score of 91/100 compared to the M3’s 43/100. Both cameras share certain video features, including the ability to record in Full HD resolution and dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, the M50 surpasses the M3 in several key aspects, making it the superior choice for videography.

The M50 offers 4K video resolution, providing higher quality and more detailed footage than the M3’s Full HD resolution. Additionally, the M50 can record at a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, allowing for smooth slow-motion footage. In contrast, the M3’s maximum frame rate is limited to 30fps. The M50 also includes time-lapse functionality built-in, enabling users to create stunning time-lapse videos with ease. The M3 lacks this feature, which may limit its appeal to videographers.

Although the M3’s video capabilities are inferior to the M50’s, it still provides decent quality Full HD footage for casual videographers or those on a tighter budget. The M3’s lower video score does not necessarily make it a bad camera, but it does highlight the M50’s superiority in this area.

When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS M3 and Canon EOS M50, it is clear that the M50 offers significantly better performance. With 4K video resolution, a higher maximum frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality, the M50 stands out as the better option for videography enthusiasts. While the M3 still produces satisfactory Full HD videos, it cannot compete with the advanced features and superior quality offered by the M50.

Canon EOS M3 vs EOS M50 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS M50 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS M3 scores 57/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1,040,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen capability, flip screen, GPS absence, and WIFI connectivity. The superior feature score of the EOS M50 is due to its additional advantages, including Bluetooth connectivity.

The EOS M50’s Bluetooth feature sets it apart from the EOS M3. This allows users to easily connect their camera to other devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, for seamless file transfer and remote control capabilities. This added connectivity makes the EOS M50 a more convenient and versatile option for photographers who prioritize wireless connectivity.

On the other hand, the EOS M3 does not offer any significant advantages over the EOS M50. Both cameras share many essential features, making the EOS M50 the better choice due to its Bluetooth connectivity. However, if the additional Bluetooth feature is not a priority, the EOS M3 may still be a viable option for photographers seeking a more budget-friendly option or those who already own the camera.

Considering these points, the Canon EOS M50 is the better camera in terms of features. Its Bluetooth connectivity makes it more versatile and convenient for users who value wireless connections. While the EOS M3 does not offer any unique advantages over the EOS M50, it may still serve as a suitable option for those not prioritizing Bluetooth or seeking a more affordable choice.

Canon EOS M3 vs EOS M50 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS M3 triumphs over the Canon EOS M50 in storage and battery with a score of 16/100 compared to 13/100. Both cameras share similarities, including one memory card slot and compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the EOS M3 has a slight advantage with a battery life of 250 shots, while the EOS M50 only offers 235 shots. Additionally, the EOS M3 uses the LP-E17 battery type, whereas the EOS M50 uses the LP-E12 battery type.

Despite the lower score, the EOS M50 does have a redeeming quality in its compatibility with UHS-I SD cards, allowing for faster data transfer rates. Unfortunately, neither camera offers USB charging capabilities.

Taking these factors into consideration, the EOS M3 proves to be the superior choice in terms of storage and battery performance, while the EOS M50 is slightly better in memory card compatibility.

Canon EOS M3 vs EOS M50 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M3 vs EOS M50 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 M3 or the Canon EOS M50: