CameraReview
Canon EOS M5
60
SCORE
Canon · Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video

Canon EOS M5

General 60Optics 64Video Performance 70Features and Benefits 61Storage and Battery 16
From $428.38 — 3 offers
KEY FACTS
BrandCanon
ModelEOS M5
Released2016
Announcement date15/09/2016
Camera typeMirrorless
What We Like
+Competitive image quality
+Good low-light performance
+Face detection AF
+Digital video stabilization
+Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity
Worth Knowing
Poor battery life
Outdated AF system
No environmental sealing
No sensor-shift image stabilization

General 60

Brand
Canon
Model
EOS M5
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2016
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
15/09/2016
Camera type
Mirrorless
Camera size
116 x 89 x 61 mm
Camera weight
427 g

Optics 64

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
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
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-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.
9 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-M
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 7
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
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
10030200
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.
256003003280000
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.
10030200
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.
256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
3044080
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.
400080032000
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.
490300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
No
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
Viewfinder dots
236000009900000
Read our notes on optics

The Canon EOS M5 scores a 60 out of 100 in our camera ranking. This mirrorless camera, launched in 2016 for $980, measures 116 x 89 x 61mm and weighs 427g or 0.94lbs. Considering today’s market, the EOS M5’s specifications are decent but not groundbreaking. While it offers a compact and lightweight design, its performance and features may not be enough to keep up with the rapidly evolving camera industry. The EOS M5 is a solid choice for some, but there are likely more advanced options available for those seeking the latest technology.

Canon EOS M5 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS M5 receives a score of 64/100 for its optics. This camera features a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, paired with a Digic 7 processor, delivering a shooting speed of 9 frames per second. The sensor size is APS-C, with a DXOMARK score of 77, and it uses a Canon EF-M lens mount. However, the EOS M5 does not offer image stabilization, and its aspect ratio is 3:2.

Comparing these specifications to other cameras in today’s market, the Canon EOS M5 holds its own in terms of megapixels, shooting speed, and processor. However, the lack of image stabilization is a notable drawback for photographers who require steady shots. Furthermore, the EF-M lens mount limits the selection of compatible lenses compared to other Canon models with a wider range of lens options.

The Canon EOS M5 offers respectable optics, but falls short in certain areas, such as image stabilization and lens compatibility. While it may not be the top choice for all photographers, its strengths in sensor quality and processor performance make it a solid option for those who value these features.

Canon EOS M5 Video Performance 70

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD
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.
1920 x 1080
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.
60 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.
Yes
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.
MP4
Read our notes on canon eos m5 video performance

The Canon EOS M5 receives a video score of 70/100. This camera offers Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It also supports a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, which is ideal for capturing smooth and sharp footage.

In today’s market, the EOS M5’s video capabilities are decent, but not exceptional. Many modern cameras now offer 4K video resolution, which provides greater detail and image quality. However, Full HD resolution is still suitable for most casual users and can produce high-quality videos for various purposes.

A notable feature of the EOS M5 is its built-in time-lapse functionality, which allows users to easily create stunning time-lapse videos without additional software or equipment. This camera’s video performance may not be cutting-edge, but it is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and user-friendly option for capturing high-quality video content.

Canon EOS M5 Features and Benefits 61

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
Yes
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.
Yes
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
No
Screen type
LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Yes
Screen size
3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
16200001150001500000
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.
Yes
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Yes
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No
Read our notes on canon eos m5 features and benefits

The Canon EOS M5 receives a feature score of 61 out of 100. With a 3.2-inch screen size and a resolution of 1,620,000 dots, the camera offers a high-quality display for viewing and composing images. The touchscreen functionality adds convenience, and the flip screen provides flexibility for shooting from different angles.

However, the camera lacks GPS and Bluetooth capabilities, which are increasingly common in today’s market. The absence of GPS limits the ability to geotag photos, and the lack of Bluetooth restricts seamless connectivity with other devices. Despite these shortcomings, the camera does have WiFi functionality, allowing for wireless image transfer and remote camera control.

The Canon EOS M5 boasts several useful features, but it falls short in certain aspects compared to competitors in the current market. The high-resolution touchscreen and flip screen are noteworthy, but the absence of GPS and Bluetooth may deter some potential buyers.

Canon EOS M5 Storage and Battery 16

Memory card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
No
Battery type
LP-E17
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
295 shots1505000
USB charging
No
Read our notes on canon eos m5 storage and battery

The Canon EOS M5 scores a 16/100 in storage and battery. This camera has one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. The battery life lasts for 295 shots, powered by an LP-E17 battery. However, the camera lacks USB charging capabilities.

Compared to other cameras in today’s market, the EOS M5 falls short in terms of battery life and storage capabilities. Many modern cameras offer longer battery life and multiple memory card slots. The absence of USB charging also limits the convenience of the M5 for users who require on-the-go charging solutions.

Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS M5’s storage and battery specifications may not meet the expectations of some users seeking advanced features in their cameras.