CameraReview

Canon EOS M50 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Canon
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Mirrorless · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
59
SCORE
$599
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✓ WINNER
Nikon Z5
Nikon
Nikon Z5
Mirrorless · 24 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
78
SCORE
$1,067.91
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General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS M50 Mark IIZ5
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
14/10/202021/07/2020
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 116 x 88 x 59 mm134 x 100.5 x 69.5 mm
Camera weight 387 g675 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 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 40006016 x 4016
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 22.323.9 x 35.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
10 fps0454.5 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-MNikon Z
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Expeed 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.
256003003280000512003003280000
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.
5120030032800001024003003280000
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.
400080032000800080032000
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.
14303002730300
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 236000009900000368640009900000
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.
4K4K
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.
3840 x 21603840 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.
120 fps60 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, MOV
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 TFT 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"3.2"
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 / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E12EN-EL15c
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
305 shots1505000470 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 Mark II with a score of 78/100 compared to 59/100. Both cameras are mirrorless, released in 2020, with the Canon EOS M50 Mark II announced on 10/14/2020 and the Nikon Z5 on 07/21/2020. They share similarities in their design, but the Nikon Z5 is the superior camera.

The Nikon Z5 exceeds the Canon EOS M50 Mark II in terms of performance, justifying its higher launch price of $1400 compared to the Canon’s $750. However, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II has the advantage of being lighter and more compact, with dimensions of 116 x 88 x 59mm and weighing 387g, while the Nikon Z5 measures 134 x 100.5 x 69.5mm and weighs 675g.

Given the difference in scores, the Nikon Z5 is the clear winner in terms of overall performance. However, if size and weight are significant factors, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II may be a more suitable choice.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II outperforms the Nikon Z5 in terms of video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the Nikon Z5’s score of 83/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 maximum video dimensions. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is superior due to its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is double the Nikon Z5’s 60fps. This allows the Canon EOS M50 Mark II to capture smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, providing an advantage for videographers who require high-quality slow-motion capabilities in their work.

The Nikon Z5, although scoring lower in video capabilities, may still be a suitable choice for some users. It offers the same 4K maximum video resolution and maximum video dimensions as the Canon EOS M50 Mark II, ensuring that both cameras can capture high-quality footage. Additionally, the built-in time-lapse functionality in the Nikon Z5 allows for creative time-lapse videos without the need for additional software.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II proves to be the better option for videographers who prioritize high frame rates and slow-motion capabilities. However, the Nikon Z5 remains a viable choice for those who are satisfied with a lower maximum frame rate but still require 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z5 wins the feature comparison with a score of 72/100, while the Canon EOS M50 Mark II scores 70/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, Bluetooth, and lack of GPS. However, there are differences that make one camera better than the other in certain aspects.

The Nikon Z5 excels with its larger 3.2-inch screen size, offering a bigger display for easier framing and reviewing of photos. This advantage allows photographers to better visualize their work, leading to improved composition and overall image quality.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II has some strengths as well. Although its screen size is smaller at 3 inches, the camera shares the same screen resolution as the Nikon Z5, with 1,040,000 dots. This means that the image quality displayed on the screen is similar between the two cameras, despite the difference in screen size.

In terms of features, the Nikon Z5 holds a slight advantage due to its larger screen size. However, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II remains competitive with its similar screen resolution. Both cameras offer a range of connection options, such as WiFi and Bluetooth, which are essential for modern photographers. The lack of GPS in both cameras may be a drawback for some users, but it does not significantly impact their overall performance.

Considering the feature scores and specifications, the Nikon Z5 emerges as the winner with a slightly higher score and a larger screen size. The Canon EOS M50 Mark II, however, is still a strong contender with its comparable screen resolution and connectivity options. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras will depend on the individual photographer’s preferences and priorities.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 Storage and Battery

The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 Mark II in storage and battery with a score of 73/100, while the Canon scores 21/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the Nikon Z5 has two memory card slots and supports UHS-II compatibility, providing better storage options and faster transfer speeds than the Canon’s single slot with UHS-I compatibility.

In terms of battery life, the Nikon Z5 lasts for 470 shots using the EN-EL15c battery, while the Canon EOS M50 Mark II reaches 305 shots with its LP-E12 battery. Moreover, the Nikon Z5 offers USB charging, adding convenience and flexibility for users on the go.

Although the Canon EOS M50 Mark II falls short in storage and battery performance, it still provides a decent battery life and storage capacity for casual photographers. However, the Nikon Z5’s superior storage options, longer battery life, and USB charging make it a more reliable and versatile camera for various shooting scenarios.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M50 Mark II vs Nikon Z5 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 M50 Mark II or the Nikon Z5: