Canon EOS M3 vs Sony a6100 Comparison
Canon EOS M3
Sony a6100
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS M3 | a6100 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2015 | 2019 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 06, 2015 | August 28, 2019 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a6100 emerges as the winner with a score of 66/100, while the Canon EOS M3 trails behind with 56/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless models, announced in 2015 and 2019 respectively. They have comparable sizes and weights, with the a6100 being slightly larger and heavier (120 x 67 x 59mm, 396g) than the M3 (111 x 68 x 44mm, 366g).
The a6100’s higher score reflects its superior features, despite being cheaper at $750 compared to the M3’s $870 launch price. However, the EOS M3 may still have its advantages, such as being lighter and more compact, making it easier to carry around.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a6100 is a better choice due to its higher score and lower price, while the Canon EOS M3 could be favored by those prioritizing portability.
Canon EOS M3 vs Sony a6100 Overview and Optics
The Sony a6100 wins in optics, scoring 68/100, while the Canon EOS M3 scores 60/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having 24 megapixels, a CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, and no image stabilization. They also have different lens mounts, with the Canon using an EF-M mount and the Sony using an E mount.
The Sony a6100 outperforms the Canon EOS M3 in several areas. Its shooting speed of 11 is significantly faster than the Canon’s 4.2, allowing for quicker image capture. Additionally, the Sony a6100 has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 82, compared to the Canon’s 72. This indicates that the Sony has a better sensor performance, resulting in improved image quality.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS M3 has a slight edge in megapixels, with 24.2 compared to the Sony’s 24. This small difference may not be significant in real-world usage, but it does give the Canon a minor advantage in image resolution. However, this advantage is not enough to surpass the Sony a6100’s overall superior optics performance.
Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, but the Sony a6100 proves to be the better option in terms of optics. Its faster shooting speed and higher sensor score contribute to its higher overall score and make it the preferred choice for those prioritizing image quality and performance. The Canon EOS M3, while having a minor advantage in resolution, falls short in other key areas, making the Sony a6100 the clear winner in this comparison.
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Optics
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Canon EOS M3
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Sony a6100
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 24 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6000 x 4000 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 | 15.6 x 23.5 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. | 4.2 fps | 11 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 | Sony E | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic 6 | Bionz X | |
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 | 32,000 | |
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 | 51000 | |
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. | 49 | 425 | |
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 | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 1,440,000 dots |
Canon EOS M3 vs Sony a6100 Video Performance
The Sony a6100 outperforms the Canon EOS M3 in video capabilities, earning a video score of 91/100 compared to the M3’s 43/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as offering Full HD video resolution (1920 x 1080) and having a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. However, the a6100 surpasses the M3 in several aspects.
The Sony a6100’s superior video quality is evident in its 4K video resolution (3840 x 2160), which is significantly higher than the M3’s Full HD resolution. Additionally, the a6100 boasts a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, allowing for smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage. The camera also features built-in time-lapse functionality, providing further creative options for videographers.
Despite the Canon EOS M3’s lower video score, it may still be a suitable choice for some users, particularly those who don’t require 4K resolution or advanced video features. The M3’s Full HD resolution and 30fps frame rate are sufficient for casual video recording or simple content creation.
To sum up, the Sony a6100 is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities, offering 4K resolution, a higher frame rate, and time-lapse functionality. The Canon EOS M3, while not as advanced in this area, could still be a viable option for those with less demanding video needs. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras will depend on individual preferences and requirements.
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Video
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Canon EOS M3
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Sony a6100
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD |  4K | |
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 | 3840 x 2160 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 | 120 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. | MP4 | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S, H.264 |
Canon EOS M3 vs Sony a6100 Features and Benefits
The Sony a6100 triumphs over the Canon EOS M3 with a feature score of 68/100, compared to the M3’s 57/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capability, flip screen, absence of GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the winning camera, the Sony a6100, has additional advantages over its competitor.
The Sony a6100 is superior due to its higher feature score and the presence of Bluetooth connectivity, which the Canon EOS M3 lacks. This allows for seamless connection with other devices, making the transfer of photos and videos more efficient. Additionally, the a6100 has a slightly higher screen resolution at 921,600 dots, compared to the M3’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference results in a crisper display and better image quality during playback and review.
The Canon EOS M3, despite its lower feature score, has some advantages over the Sony a6100. Its screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots is higher than the a6100’s 921,600 dots, providing a marginally better display and image quality during playback. However, the absence of Bluetooth connectivity puts the M3 at a disadvantage when compared to the a6100.
In comparing the features of the Canon EOS M3 and the Sony a6100, it is evident that the Sony a6100 is the superior choice due to its higher feature score and the inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity. The Canon EOS M3 offers a slightly higher screen resolution but falls short in overall features. Ultimately, the Sony a6100 is the better camera, offering a more comprehensive set of features for both amateur and professional photographers.
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Features
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Canon EOS M3
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Sony a6100
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | 921,600 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 M3 vs Sony a6100 Storage and Battery
The Sony a6100 outperforms the Canon EOS M3 in storage and battery, with a score of 37/100 compared to the M3’s 16/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the a6100 also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo cards.
The a6100’s battery life is significantly longer, providing 420 shots compared to the M3’s 250 shots. The a6100 uses an NP-FW50 battery, while the M3 relies on an LP-E17 battery. Additionally, the a6100 offers USB charging, making it more convenient to recharge on the go.
The M3 does not have any advantages in storage and battery over the a6100. The Sony a6100 is the clear winner in this category, with better battery life and more versatile memory card compatibility. The Canon EOS M3 falls short in comparison, offering fewer shots per charge and lacking USB charging capability.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS M3
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Sony a6100
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E17 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 250 shots | 420 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS M3
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Sony a6100
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | N/A | ||
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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.' | 22.8 bits | N/A | |
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.' | 11.8 EVs | N/A | |
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' | 1169 | N/A |
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Scores
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Canon EOS M3
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Sony a6100
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Canon EOS M3 vs Sony a6100 – 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 M3 or the Sony a6100:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS M3
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Sony a6100
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B&H photo video |
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