CameraReview

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7R III — 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 a7R III
Sony
Sony a7R III
Mirrorless · 42.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
83
SCORE
$1,749
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General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS M50a7R III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182017
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
26/02/201825/10/2017
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 116 x 88 x 59 mm127 x 96 x 74 mm
Camera weight 390 g657 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP05042.4 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40007952 x 5304
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 22.324 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 fps04510 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 FE
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.
256003003280000320003003280000
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.
100302005030200
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.
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 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 fps30 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-4XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4
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.
1040000115000150000014400001150001500000
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-E12NP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
235 shots1505000650 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7R III emerges as the winner with a score of 83/100, a significant 24-point lead over the Canon EOS M50, which scored 59/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The Sony a7R III is larger and heavier, measuring 127 x 96 x 74mm and weighing 657g, compared to the Canon EOS M50’s 116 x 88 x 59mm and 390g.

The Sony a7R III’s higher score highlights its superior performance and features. However, the Canon EOS M50 has its own advantages, such as its lower launch price of $779, making it more affordable than the Sony a7R III, which was priced at $3200 upon release.

Taking into account each camera’s specifications, the Sony a7R III is the better option for those seeking advanced features and performance, while the Canon EOS M50 is a more budget-friendly choice for casual photographers.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7R III Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in optics, scoring 84 out of 100 compared to the M50’s 59. Both cameras have a CMOS sensor, a shooting speed of 10 frames per second, and are compatible with their respective lens mounts – the Canon EF-M for the M50 and the Sony FE for the a7R III.

The Sony a7R III has a clear advantage in several areas. Its 42.4-megapixel resolution surpasses the M50’s 24 megapixels, allowing for greater detail and image quality. The a7R III also boasts a full-frame sensor, while the M50 has an APS-C sensor. The larger sensor size contributes to the a7R III’s impressive DXOMARK score of 100, significantly higher than the M50’s score of 58. Additionally, the a7R III features image stabilization, which the M50 lacks, ensuring sharper images in various shooting conditions.

In contrast, the Canon EOS M50 has the Digic 8 processor, while the Sony a7R III uses the Bionz X processor. Although both are powerful processors, the difference does not have a significant impact on the overall optics performance, as evidenced by the score difference.

Considering these factors, the Sony a7R III is the superior camera in terms of optics, with its higher resolution, larger sensor size, and image stabilization features. The Canon EOS M50, while not as strong in this area, still offers decent performance with its CMOS sensor and shooting speed. For those prioritizing optics performance, the Sony a7R III is the clear choice, while the Canon EOS M50 may still be suitable for less demanding users.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7R III Video Performance

The Canon EOS M50 clearly outperforms the Sony a7R III in terms of video capabilities, with a score of 91/100 compared to Sony’s 56/100. This significant 35-point difference highlights the superiority of the Canon EOS M50 in video performance.

Both cameras share common video specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 4K and maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, the differences in their capabilities become evident when examining other specs.

The Canon EOS M50 surpasses the Sony a7R III in maximum video frame rate, offering 120fps compared to Sony’s 30fps. This higher frame rate enables smoother slow-motion video capture and better overall footage quality. Additionally, the Canon EOS M50 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7R III lacks. This feature allows for creative time-lapse video creation without the need for additional equipment or software.

While the Canon EOS M50 holds a clear advantage in video capabilities, the Sony a7R III may still be preferred by some users for its other strengths, such as its higher resolution sensor and superior still image quality. However, for those focused on video performance, the Canon EOS M50 is the better choice.

Taking into account the substantial difference in video scores and the specific advantages offered by the Canon EOS M50, it is evident that this camera is superior in video capabilities. The Sony a7R III may have its merits in other areas, but when it comes to video performance, the Canon EOS M50 is the clear winner.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7R III Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in features with a score of 83/100 compared to the Canon’s 70/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 3-inch touchscreen, flip screen, and connectivity options like WiFi and Bluetooth. However, neither camera has GPS functionality.

The Sony a7R III surpasses the Canon EOS M50 with its higher screen resolution of 1,440,000 dots, as opposed to the Canon’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference contributes to the Sony a7R III’s better image clarity and overall user experience.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 still has some advantages despite its lower feature score. The camera’s more compact design and lighter weight make it a more portable option for users who prioritize mobility. Additionally, the Canon EOS M50 offers a more affordable price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

In comparing the features of these two cameras, the Sony a7R III emerges as the superior option due to its higher screen resolution and feature score. However, the Canon EOS M50’s compact design, lighter weight, and affordability make it a viable choice for those prioritizing portability and budget.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7R III Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in storage and battery with a score of 65/100 compared to the Canon’s 13/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards; however, the Sony a7R III is UHS-II compatible while the Canon EOS M50 is only UHS-I compatible. The Sony a7R III also has the advantage of two memory card slots, as opposed to the Canon’s single slot.

In terms of battery life, the Sony a7R III lasts significantly longer with 650 shots per charge, while the Canon EOS M50 manages only 235 shots. Both cameras use different battery types, with the Sony utilizing the NP-FZ100 and the Canon using the LP-E12. Neither camera offers USB charging.

Despite the lower score, the Canon EOS M50 does not have any distinct advantages in storage and battery over the Sony a7R III. The Sony a7R III’s superior storage compatibility, extra memory card slot, and longer battery life make it the clear winner in this category.

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7R III – Our Verdict

Canon EOS M50 vs Sony a7R III 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 a7R III: