Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7 II Comparison
Canon EOS M50
Sony a7 II
Price | |||
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS M50 | a7 II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 26, 2018 | November 20, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 II emerges as the winner with a score of 69/100, outperforming the Canon EOS M50, which scored 59/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were launched in 2014 and 2018, respectively. They share similarities in size, with the Sony a7 II measuring 127 x 96 x 60mm and the Canon EOS M50 at 116 x 88 x 59mm.
The Sony a7 II’s higher score signifies its better performance, which is evident in its launch price of $1600 compared to the Canon EOS M50’s $779. However, the Canon EOS M50 has an advantage in weight, being lighter at 390g compared to the Sony a7 II’s 599g.
Taking these specifications into account, the Sony a7 II is a more capable camera, justifying its higher score and price. On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 offers a more lightweight and affordable option for those prioritizing portability and budget.
Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7 II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 II emerges as the winner in optics, with a score of 78/100, while the Canon EOS M50 trails behind with a score of 59/100. Both cameras have 24-megapixel CMOS sensors, but the Sony a7 II has a slight edge with 24.2 megapixels. Additionally, both cameras use different processors – the Canon EOS M50 is equipped with a Digic 8 processor, and the Sony a7 II has a Bionz X processor.
The Sony a7 II excels in several aspects, including a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor (90 versus 58), a full-frame sensor size compared to the Canon EOS M50’s APS-C sensor size, and built-in image stabilization. The full-frame sensor size and superior DXOMARK score contribute to better image quality, while the image stabilization ensures sharper photos, especially in low-light conditions or when using longer focal lengths.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second compared to the Sony a7 II’s 5 frames per second. This makes the Canon EOS M50 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography.
Both cameras have different lens mounts, with the Canon EOS M50 using a Canon EF-M mount and the Sony a7 II using a Sony E mount. This factor is essential when considering lens compatibility and future lens investments.
To conclude, the Sony a7 II outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in optics, offering better image quality, sensor size, and image stabilization. However, the Canon EOS M50 has an advantage in shooting speed, making it a viable choice for action photography. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.
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Optics
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Canon EOS M50
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Sony a7 II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP | 24.3 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 | 23.9 x 35.8 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C |  Full Frame | |
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 | 5 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 | 50 | |
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 | 51,200 | |
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 | 50 | |
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 | 51200 | |
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/ 8000 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 | 117 | |
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 | 2,359,000 dots |
Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7 II Video Performance
The Canon EOS M50 takes the lead in video capabilities with a score of 91/100, while the Sony a7 II scores significantly lower at 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a built-in microphone, manual focus, and the ability to shoot in various formats.
The Canon EOS M50 outperforms the Sony a7 II in several aspects. Firstly, it offers a higher maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160) compared to the Sony a7 II’s Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. This means the EOS M50 can capture more detailed and sharper videos. Moreover, the EOS M50 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, whereas the Sony a7 II can only reach 60fps. This enables the EOS M50 to record smoother slow-motion videos. Additionally, the Canon EOS M50 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7 II lacks, providing more creative options for videographers.
Despite its lower score, the Sony a7 II does have some advantages over the Canon EOS M50. Its full-frame sensor allows for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field. Furthermore, the Sony a7 II has a more advanced image stabilization system, which can help reduce camera shake when shooting handheld video.
Taking these factors into account, it is clear that the Canon EOS M50 is the superior choice for those who prioritize video capabilities. Its higher resolution, faster frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality make it a versatile and powerful tool for videography. However, the Sony a7 II still has merit for those who value low-light performance and image stabilization.
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Video
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Canon EOS M50
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Sony a7 II
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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 |  Full HD | |
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 | 1920 x 1080 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 | 60 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 | XAVC S |
Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7 II Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS M50 outperforms the Sony a7 II in terms of features, scoring 70/100 compared to the Sony a7 II’s 57/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3-inch screen, flip screen, lack of GPS, and WIFI connectivity.
The Canon EOS M50 excels with its 1,040,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen capabilities, and Bluetooth connectivity. The touchscreen allows for easier navigation and control, while Bluetooth enhances the camera’s wireless capabilities. These features contribute to the Canon EOS M50’s higher score and make it a more user-friendly option.
The Sony a7 II, despite its lower feature score, has a slightly higher screen resolution of 1,230,000 dots. This provides a marginally clearer display, which may be beneficial for some users. However, the lack of a touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity are notable drawbacks.
The Canon EOS M50’s higher feature score reflects its superior specifications and user experience. Its touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity provide added convenience and functionality, making it a better choice for most users. The Sony a7 II’s marginally higher screen resolution is not sufficient to outweigh its shortcomings in other areas.
Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, but the Canon EOS M50 is the clear winner in terms of features. While the Sony a7 II has a slightly higher screen resolution, it lacks the touchscreen and Bluetooth capabilities that make the Canon EOS M50 a more user-friendly and versatile option.
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Features
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Canon EOS M50
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Sony a7 II
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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 | 1,230,000 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 a7 II Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 II triumphs over the Canon EOS M50 in storage and battery with a score of 35 to the M50’s 13. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and do not support USB charging. However, the Sony a7 II accepts SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo memory cards, while the Canon EOS M50 only supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-I compatible) cards.
A significant advantage of the Sony a7 II is its longer battery life, offering 350 shots compared to the Canon EOS M50’s 235 shots. The a7 II uses the NP-FW50 battery type, whereas the M50 relies on the LP-E12. The Canon EOS M50 does not have any clear advantages in storage and battery over the Sony a7 II.
Considering the differences, the Sony a7 II provides better storage options and longer battery life, making it the superior choice for photographers who require extended shooting sessions and versatile memory card compatibility.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS M50
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Sony a7 II
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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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 | 350 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS M50
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Sony a7 II
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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 | 24.9 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 | 2449 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS M50
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Sony a7 II
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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 |
Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7 II – 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 M50 or the Sony a7 II:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS M50
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Sony a7 II
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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