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Canon EOS R50 vs Sony a6500 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS R50

canon eos r50
70%

Sony a6500

sony a6500
Winner!
72%
Canon EOS R50
vs
Sony a6500
Price
Brand
Canon
Sony
Model
EOS R8
a6500
Released
2023
2016
Announcement Date
February 08, 2023
October 06, 2016
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a6500 edges out the Canon EOS R50 with a score of 72/100 compared to the latter’s 70/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless models with compact designs. The Canon EOS R50 measures 116 x 86 x 69mm and weighs 375g, while the Sony a6500 is slightly larger at 120 x 67 x 53mm but heavier at 453g.

The Canon EOS R50 has its advantages, such as being lighter and more affordable with a launch price of $679. On the other hand, the Sony a6500, despite its higher launch price of $1400, offers better overall performance, earning it a higher score. This difference in scores reflects the quality each camera brings to the table.

Considering these factors, the Sony a6500 proves to be a better camera choice, while the Canon EOS R50 may be more suitable for budget-conscious buyers who value a lighter camera.

Canon EOS R50 vs Sony a6500 Overview and Optics

The Sony a6500 narrowly wins over the Canon EOS R50 in terms of optics, with a score of 74/100 compared to the R50’s 73/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 24-megapixel CMOS sensors, APS-C sensor sizes, and similar shooting speeds (12 for the R50 and 11 for the a6500).

The Canon EOS R50 has a few advantages, such as its Digic X processor and higher DXOMARK score of 94 for its sensor. The R50 also features a Canon RF lens mount, which allows compatibility with Canon’s extensive range of RF lenses. These features contribute to the camera’s overall performance and image quality.

On the other hand, the Sony a6500 has a slightly higher megapixel count of 24.2 and features built-in image stabilization, which is absent in the R50. This makes it easier to capture sharp, blur-free images, particularly in low-light situations or when using longer focal lengths. The a6500 also utilizes a Sony E lens mount, providing access to a wide variety of compatible lenses from both Sony and third-party manufacturers.

While both cameras offer excellent optics, the Sony a6500 edges out the Canon EOS R50 due to its image stabilization and slightly higher megapixel count. However, the R50’s better processor and higher DXOMARK score should not be overlooked, as these factors also contribute to its overall performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as the importance of image stabilization and the desired lens ecosystem.

Optics
Optics
73%
74%
Megapixels
24 MP
24.2 MP
Image Resolution
6000 x 4000 px
6000 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
22.3 x 14.9 mm
15.6 x 23.5 mm
Sensor Format
APS-C
APS-C
Frame Rate
12 fps
11 fps
Lens Mount
Canon RF
Sony E
Image Processor
Digic X
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000
25,600
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
51200
51200
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 4000 s
1/ 4000 s
Autofocus Points
651
425
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Electronic
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
2,360,000 dots
2,359,296 dots

Canon EOS R50 vs Sony a6500 Video Performance

The Canon EOS R50 outperforms the Sony a6500 in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the Sony a6500’s 77/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution, 3840 x 2160 video dimensions, and a maximum video frame rate of 120fps. Despite these similarities, the Canon EOS R50 offers superior video performance.

One key advantage of the Canon EOS R50 is its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without requiring additional equipment or software. The Sony a6500, on the other hand, lacks this built-in feature, making it less convenient for time-lapse enthusiasts.

The Sony a6500, despite having a lower overall video score, may still have some advantages in specific scenarios. For example, it may perform better in low-light conditions or offer a more extensive selection of video settings. However, these potential benefits do not outweigh the advantages provided by the Canon EOS R50.

The Canon EOS R50 is the clear winner when it comes to video capabilities. Its higher score of 91/100 reflects its superior performance, particularly due to the built-in time-lapse functionality. While the Sony a6500 shares some common specifications, it falls short in overall video performance with a score of 77/100. Consequently, those seeking a camera with excellent video capabilities should opt for the Canon EOS R50.

Video
Video
91%
77%
Video
Max Video Resolution
4K
4K
Max Video Dimensions
3840 x 2160 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
120 p
30 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MP4, H.264, H.265
MPEG-4, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0

Canon EOS R50 vs Sony a6500 Features and Benefits

The Sony a6500 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 81 out of 100 points, while the Canon EOS R50 scores 72 out of 100 points. Both cameras share several features in common, including a 3-inch touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. Neither camera has GPS functionality.

The Sony a6500 excels with its higher feature score, primarily due to its screen resolution of 921,600 dots, which is significantly higher than the Canon EOS R50’s 1,620,000 dots. This difference in resolution provides the Sony a6500 with a sharper and clearer display, enhancing the user’s experience when composing shots, reviewing images, and navigating menus.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R50 still has some advantages, although they are not enough to surpass the Sony a6500’s overall feature score. The touchscreen and flip screen functionalities are equally present in both cameras, providing flexibility and convenience for various shooting situations. Additionally, the Canon EOS R50 has WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for seamless image transfer and remote control options.

In comparing the Canon EOS R50 and Sony a6500, it is evident that the Sony a6500 is the superior camera in terms of features. With a higher feature score and a significantly better screen resolution, the Sony a6500 provides an enhanced user experience. However, the Canon EOS R50 still offers valuable features such as the touchscreen, flip screen, and wireless connectivity options, ensuring it remains a viable choice for photographers.

Features
Features
72%
81%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,620,000 dots
921,600 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS R50 vs Sony a6500 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS R50 triumphs over the Sony a6500 in storage and battery with a score of 35/100 compared to the Sony’s 21/100. Both cameras share a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Sony a6500 also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo cards, offering an additional storage option.

The Canon EOS R50 excels in battery life, providing 370 shots per charge with its LP-E17 battery, while the Sony a6500 manages 350 shots with its NP-FW50 battery. Additionally, the Canon EOS R50 allows USB charging, making it more convenient for on-the-go charging.

On the other hand, the Sony a6500 has a slight advantage in storage compatibility due to its support for Memory Stick Pro Duo cards. However, this advantage is not enough to compensate for its weaker battery performance.

Considering the longer battery life and USB charging capability, the Canon EOS R50 proves to be the better choice in terms of storage and battery performance. Despite the Sony a6500’s additional storage compatibility, its limitations in battery life and charging options make it less desirable in comparison.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
35%
21%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I and II compatible)
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E17
NP-FW50
Battery Life
370 shots
350 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
N/A
85%
Portrait (Color Depth)
N/A
24.5 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
N/A
13.7 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
N/A
1405
Scores
Main Features
N/A
88%
Extra Features
N/A
84%
Construction and Durability
N/A
87%
Handling and Ergonomics
N/A
80%
Value for Money
N/A
85%
Total Score
N/A
85%

Canon EOS R50 vs Sony a6500 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R50 vs Sony a6500 Comparison image.

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