Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6400 Comparison
Canon EOS M50
Sony a6400
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS M50 | a6400 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 | 2019 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 26, 2018 | January 15, 2019 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
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Camera Weight |
The Sony a6400 emerges as the winner with a score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS M50 trails behind at 59/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2018 and 2019, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the Sony a6400 being slightly larger and heavier than the Canon EOS M50.
The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in various aspects, which contributes to its higher score. Its launch price of $900 reflects its superior performance compared to the Canon EOS M50’s $779 price tag. However, the Canon EOS M50 has its advantages, such as being lighter and more compact, making it a more portable option.
Considering the scores and specifications, the Sony a6400 is the better camera, offering enhanced performance and features. The Canon EOS M50, on the other hand, provides a more budget-friendly and portable alternative for those prioritizing size and weight.
Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6400 Overview and Optics
The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in the optics department with a score of 68/100, a 9-point difference from the M50’s 59/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 24-megapixel CMOS sensors, APS-C sensor sizes, and a lack of image stabilization. They also feature different lens mounts, with the M50 using Canon EF-M and the a6400 utilizing Sony E.
The Sony a6400 excels in several aspects, including a slightly higher megapixel count of 24.2 and a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second. Additionally, the a6400 boasts a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 83 compared to the M50’s 58, indicating better overall image quality. The camera’s Bionz X processor further contributes to its enhanced performance.
While the Canon EOS M50 falls short in some areas, it still has its strengths. The camera features a Digic 8 processor, which although not as powerful as the a6400’s Bionz X, still provides reliable performance. Despite its lower score, the M50 remains a solid choice for photographers who prefer the Canon brand and its accompanying EF-M lens mount.
Comparing the optics of these two cameras, it is clear that the Sony a6400 offers better performance in terms of image quality and shooting speed. However, the Canon EOS M50 is not without merit, making it a viable option for those loyal to Canon’s ecosystem. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on personal preferences and brand loyalty.
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Optics
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Sony a6400
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP | 24.2 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. | 10 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 8 | 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. | 25,600 | 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. | 51200 | 102400 | |
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. | 143 | 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. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 2,360,000 dots | 2,359,296 dots |
Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6400 Video Performance
The Canon EOS M50 and Sony a6400 both have a video score of 91/100, making them evenly matched in terms of video capabilities. They share several specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K, maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, and a maximum video frame rate of 120fps. Both cameras also have built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Canon EOS M50 excels in its user-friendly interface, making it easier for beginners to navigate and adjust settings. This advantage allows users to quickly adapt to the camera and start capturing high-quality videos with minimal learning curve. Additionally, the M50’s color science is often praised for producing more pleasing skin tones and vibrant colors straight out of the camera, requiring less color grading in post-production.
On the other hand, the Sony a6400 offers better low-light performance and a larger selection of native lenses, which can be crucial for videographers who often shoot in challenging lighting conditions or require specific focal lengths. The a6400 also benefits from a faster autofocus system, resulting in smoother and more reliable focus transitions during video recording.
When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS M50 and Sony a6400, it is clear that both cameras offer impressive performance. The M50 is better suited for beginners or those who prefer a more straightforward user experience and more pleasing colors out of the box. The a6400, however, is the better choice for those who prioritize low-light performance, lens selection, and faster autofocus. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.
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Video
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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. |  4K | 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. | 3840 x 2160 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. | 120 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. | MPEG-4 | MPEG-4, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, XAVC S |
Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a6400 Features and Benefits
The Sony a6400 emerges as the winner in the features comparison with a score of 81/100, while the Canon EOS M50 scores 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, and the lack of GPS. Additionally, they both include WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in terms of screen resolution, offering 921,600 dots compared to the M50’s 1,040,000 dots. This higher resolution delivers sharper and clearer images on the a6400’s screen, enhancing the user experience while shooting and reviewing images.
While the Canon EOS M50’s features may not be as strong as the Sony a6400’s, it still has its advantages. For example, its touchscreen is more responsive, allowing for quicker and more efficient adjustments to camera settings. Furthermore, the M50’s flip screen offers more flexibility in shooting angles, which can be beneficial for capturing creative compositions or shooting in challenging environments.
Considering the individual strengths of each camera, the Sony a6400 is a better choice for those seeking higher screen resolution and overall superior features. On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 may be more suitable for users who prioritize a responsive touchscreen and a more versatile flip screen. Ultimately, both cameras offer a range of useful features, and the best choice depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
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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 | TFT 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 M50 vs Sony a6400 Storage and Battery
The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in storage and battery, scoring 37 out of 100, while the Canon EOS M50 scores 13. Both cameras have one memory card slot and are compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards with UHS-I support.
The Sony a6400’s battery life surpasses the Canon EOS M50, providing 410 shots compared to the Canon’s 235 shots. Furthermore, the Sony a6400 utilizes the NP-FW50 battery and offers USB charging, making it more convenient for on-the-go photographers.
The Canon EOS M50 uses the LP-E12 battery type, which does not support USB charging. This aspect may be a disadvantage for some users, but it does not affect the camera’s overall performance.
Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony a6400 proves to be a better option with its longer battery life and USB charging capability. The Canon EOS M50, on the other hand, offers fewer benefits in these areas but remains a competent camera for photography enthusiasts.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo (UHS-I compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E12 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 235 shots | 410 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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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.' | N/A | 24 bits | |
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.' | N/A | 13.6 EVs | |
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' | N/A | 1431 |
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Scores
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Alternatives to the Canon EOS M50 and Sony a6400
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 a6400:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS M50
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Sony a6400
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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