CameraReview

Canon EOS M50 vs Nikon D5600 — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS M50
Canon
Canon EOS M50
Mirrorless · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
59
SCORE
$474.48
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D5600
Nikon
Nikon D5600
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
66
SCORE
$525.26
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General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS M50D5600
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182016
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
26/02/201810/11/2016
Camera type MirrorlessDSLR
Camera size 116 x 88 x 59 mm124 x 97 x 70 mm
Camera weight 390 g465 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP05024.2 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 22.315.6 x 23.5
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.
10 fps0455 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 F DX
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Expeed 4
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.
256003003280000256003003280000
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.
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.
1430300390300
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.
ElectronicOptical (pentamirror)
Viewfinder dots 236000009900000N/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.
4KFull 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.
3840 x 21601920 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.
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-4MOV
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.
1040000115000150000010370001150001500000
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-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E12EN-EL14a
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
235 shots1505000970 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D5600 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 with a score of 66/100 compared to 59/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as being released in the same two-year period (2016-2018) and having similar launch prices ($700 for Nikon and $779 for Canon).

The Canon EOS M50’s advantage is its lighter weight (390g) and smaller size (116 x 88 x 59mm), making it more portable. On the other hand, the Nikon D5600 is slightly heavier (465g) and larger (124 x 97 x 70mm), but it surpasses the Canon in overall performance, which is reflected in its higher score.

Considering these factors, the Nikon D5600 is the better choice for those prioritizing performance, while the Canon EOS M50 is more suitable for users seeking a lightweight and compact camera.

Canon EOS M50 vs Nikon D5600 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D5600 wins the optics comparison against the Canon EOS M50 with a score of 65/100, a 6-point lead over the Canon’s 59/100 score. Both cameras share a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, and lack of image stabilization. However, each camera has its own advantages and drawbacks in terms of optics.

The Nikon D5600 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in several aspects. It has a slightly higher megapixel count at 24.2, which contributes to marginally better image resolution. The D5600 also boasts a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 84, compared to the M50’s 58, indicating better overall image quality. Additionally, the Nikon F DX lens mount offers a wider selection of lenses, providing more versatility for different shooting scenarios.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, double the D5600’s 5 frames per second. This makes the M50 more suitable for capturing fast-paced action and sports photography. The Canon also benefits from a more advanced processor, the Digic 8, which may lead to improved performance in aspects such as autofocus and image processing.

In terms of optics, the Nikon D5600 is the stronger choice due to its higher image quality and broader lens compatibility. However, the Canon EOS M50’s faster shooting speed and advanced processor make it a viable option for those who prioritize action photography. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras should depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Canon EOS M50 vs Nikon D5600 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M50 emerges as the superior camera in terms of video capabilities, with a score of 91/100 compared to the Nikon D5600’s 70/100. Both cameras share certain features, including time-lapse functionality built in. However, the Canon EOS M50 outshines the Nikon D5600 in several aspects, making it the better choice for videographers.

The Canon EOS M50 boasts a maximum video resolution of 4K, providing incredibly sharp and detailed footage. This is a significant advantage over the Nikon D5600, which only offers Full HD resolution. Furthermore, the maximum video dimensions of the Canon EOS M50 are 3840 x 2160, as opposed to the Nikon D5600’s 1920 x 1080. This difference results in higher quality video with the Canon EOS M50.

Another area where the Canon EOS M50 outperforms the Nikon D5600 is in the maximum video frame rate. The Canon EOS M50 can shoot at an impressive 120fps, while the Nikon D5600 is limited to 60fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother motion and better slow-motion capabilities in the Canon EOS M50.

The Nikon D5600 does not offer any significant advantages over the Canon EOS M50 in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality, but this feature is not enough to compensate for the Nikon D5600’s lower resolution and frame rate.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS M50 is the clear winner in video capabilities. Its 4K resolution, higher maximum video dimensions, and 120fps frame rate make it a more powerful and versatile tool for videographers. The Nikon D5600, while still a decent camera, falls short in this comparison and would be better suited for photographers who prioritize still images over video.

Canon EOS M50 vs Nikon D5600 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D5600 edges out the Canon EOS M50 in features, scoring 72/100 compared to the M50’s 70/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, which include a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth capabilities. Additionally, neither camera has GPS functionality.

The Nikon D5600 is better in two main aspects. First, it has a slightly larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the M50’s 3-inch screen. This allows for easier navigation and better image preview. Second, the D5600 has a marginally higher screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots, as opposed to the M50’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference in resolution results in crisper and clearer image display on the D5600.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 does not have any significant advantages over the Nikon D5600 in terms of features. Both cameras offer similar specs, and the differences are minimal.

In terms of features, the Nikon D5600 is a slightly better choice due to its larger screen size and marginally higher screen resolution. However, the Canon EOS M50 is still a strong contender, with only a small difference in feature score. Ultimately, the decision between the two cameras should be based on the individual preferences of the user, considering their specific needs and priorities.

Canon EOS M50 vs Nikon D5600 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D5600 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in storage and battery, scoring 43/100 compared to the M50’s 13/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-I compatible) memory cards. Neither camera features USB charging.

The D5600’s superior battery life sets it apart, offering 970 shots per charge with its EN-EL14a battery. In contrast, the M50’s LP-E12 battery only provides 235 shots per charge. This significant difference makes the Nikon D5600 a more reliable option for extended shooting sessions.

The Canon EOS M50 does not have any advantages in storage and battery over the Nikon D5600. As a result, the D5600’s longer battery life makes it the better choice in this category.

Canon EOS M50 vs Nikon D5600 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M50 vs Nikon D5600 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 or the Nikon D5600: