CameraReview

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6300 — 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
Sony a6300
Sony
Sony a6300
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · 4K video
61
SCORE
$493.64
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS M50a6300
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.
26/02/201803/02/2016
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 116 x 88 x 59 mm120 x 67 x 49 mm
Camera weight 390 g404 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 fps04511 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-MSony E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Bionz 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.
3:23:2
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.
512003003280000512003003280000
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.
14303004250300
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 236000009900000235929609900000
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 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, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, H.264
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"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
104000011500015000009216001150001500000
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
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E12NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
235 shots1505000400 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a6300 takes the lead with a score of 61/100, while the Canon EOS M50 trails close behind at 59/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released within two years of each other, with the Sony a6300 launching in 2016 and the Canon EOS M50 in 2018. They share similarities in size and weight, as the Sony a6300 measures 120 x 67 x 49mm and weighs 404g, while the Canon EOS M50 comes in at 116 x 88 x 59mm and 390g.

Though the Sony a6300 has a higher score, the Canon EOS M50 holds its own with a lower launch price of $779 compared to the Sony a6300’s $1000. However, the Sony a6300’s better score highlights its superior performance and features, making it worth the higher price for some users.

Despite the slight difference in scores, both cameras offer quality performance and share key specifications. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and budget constraints.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6300 Overview and Optics

The Sony a6300 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in optics with a score of 68/100, compared to the M50’s 59/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 24 megapixels (24.2 for the a6300), CMOS sensors, APS-C sensor size, and the absence of image stabilization. Moreover, they have similar shooting speeds with the M50 at 10 frames per second and the a6300 at 11 frames per second.

The Sony a6300 excels with its higher DXOMARK sensor score of 85, compared to the Canon EOS M50’s 58. This difference results in better image quality and low-light performance. Additionally, the a6300’s Bionz X processor provides faster image processing, contributing to its slightly higher shooting speed.

Although the Canon EOS M50 falls behind the a6300 in terms of optics, it still has some advantages. The M50 features the Digic 8 processor, which is known for its reliable performance. Furthermore, the Canon EF-M lens mount offers compatibility with a wide range of Canon lenses, providing versatility for photographers.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a6300 is the superior choice for those prioritizing optics and image quality. Its higher DXOMARK sensor score and faster processor ensure better results in various shooting conditions. On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 is a viable option for photographers who value lens compatibility and the reliable performance of the Digic 8 processor.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6300 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M50 and the Sony a6300 both achieve a video score of 91/100, indicating that they have comparable video capabilities. Both cameras share key specifications, such as 4K max video resolution, max video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, a max video frame rate of 120fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Canon EOS M50 stands out with its user-friendly interface and compact design, making it a popular choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike. The camera’s Dual Pixel autofocus system ensures fast and accurate focusing during video recording, providing a smooth and professional result. Additionally, the EOS M50 offers a fully articulating touchscreen, allowing for easy control and monitoring during video capture.

On the other hand, the Sony a6300 boasts a more robust build and a higher dynamic range, which can result in better video quality in challenging lighting conditions. Furthermore, the a6300 features advanced video profiles such as S-Log, which provides greater flexibility in post-production color grading. This camera also benefits from a larger selection of native lenses, giving users more options to achieve their desired look.

Both cameras offer impressive video capabilities, with the Canon EOS M50 excelling in ease of use and autofocus performance, while the Sony a6300 shines with its advanced video profiles and greater lens selection. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s priorities and preferences.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6300 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS M50 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 70/100, while the Sony a6300 scores 54/100. Both cameras share several features, including a 3-inch screen size, flip screen, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras are equipped with WiFi capabilities.

The Canon EOS M50 outperforms the Sony a6300 in several aspects. Firstly, the M50 has a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, compared to the a6300’s 921,600 dots. This results in a clearer and sharper display for the user. Secondly, the M50 has a touchscreen, which makes it more user-friendly and convenient to navigate through settings and menus. Lastly, the M50 also has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless integration with other devices and simpler image transfer.

On the other hand, the Sony a6300 has a few advantages over the Canon EOS M50. It shares the same screen size and flip screen capabilities, making it equally versatile for various shooting angles. However, the absence of touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity makes it slightly less user-friendly and convenient compared to the M50.

Taking into account the various features and specifications, the Canon EOS M50 proves to be the better camera due to its higher screen resolution, touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity. These features make it more user-friendly and versatile than the Sony a6300. Although the a6300 has some advantages, they are not significant enough to surpass the M50’s overall performance and functionality.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6300 Storage and Battery

The Sony a6300 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in storage and battery, scoring 24 points compared to the M50’s 13 points. Both cameras share similarities in this aspect, as they each possess one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Neither camera offers USB charging capabilities.

The a6300’s superior battery life sets it apart from the M50, providing 400 shots compared to the M50’s 235 shots. The a6300 uses the NP-FW50 battery type, while the M50 uses the LP-E12 battery type. However, the M50 has the advantage of being compatible with UHS-I memory cards, offering faster read and write speeds for improved performance.

In terms of storage and battery, the Sony a6300 holds a clear advantage due to its longer battery life, while the Canon EOS M50’s UHS-I compatibility offers a slight edge in memory card performance.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6300 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6300 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 Sony a6300: