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Canon EOS 50D Specs and Scores

Optics
Features
Storage & Battery
Canon EOS 50D
48%
General
48%
Price
Brand
Canon
Model
EOS 50D
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2008
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 26, 2008
Camera Type
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Canon EOS 50D, a DSLR camera, receives a score of 48 out of 100. Announced on August 26, 2008, and released the same year, this camera was initially priced at $1,300. Measuring 146 x 108 x 74mm and weighing 822g (1.81lbs), the 50D’s specifications are now considered outdated in today’s market.

Despite its age, the EOS 50D remains a solid choice for enthusiasts seeking a reliable and well-built camera. However, newer models with advanced features and improved performance are more suitable for today’s photography standards.

Canon EOS 50D Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 50D receives a score of 47/100 for optics. This camera features a 15.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, which is lower in comparison to current market offerings. Its shooting speed of 6.3 frames per second is decent, but not outstanding when compared to newer models. The camera operates with a Digic 4 processor and has a DXOMARK sensor score of 63.

Equipped with an APS-C sensor size, the EOS 50D is compatible with Canon EF-S lenses. However, it does not have built-in image stabilization, which could result in shaky images without proper technique or equipment. The camera has an aspect ratio of 3:2, which is standard for most DSLRs.

Considering these specifications, the Canon EOS 50D’s optics do not stand out in today’s competitive market. While it may have been a solid choice when released, advancements in technology have led to more powerful options for photographers.

Optics
Optics
47%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
15.1 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4752 x 3168 px
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 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
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.
6.3 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-S
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 4
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
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
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.
3,200
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
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.
12800
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
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/ 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.
9
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.
Optical (pentaprism)

Canon EOS 50D Video Performance

The Canon EOS 50D, despite its impressive specifications and optics, lacks video functionality. This camera only captures still images and does not record videos.

Video
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
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.

Canon EOS 50D Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 50D receives a feature score of 54 out of 100. This score reflects several specifications that, while not on the cutting edge of today’s market, still have value for some photographers. The camera has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 920,000 dots. However, it lacks a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities.

In comparison to modern cameras, the EOS 50D falls short in terms of connectivity and user experience. The absence of a touchscreen and flip screen limits flexibility, while the lack of GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth hinders seamless integration with other devices and location-based services. Despite these drawbacks, the 50D may still appeal to photographers who prefer a more traditional shooting experience and prioritize other aspects of camera performance.

Features
Features
54%
Built-in 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 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"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
920,000 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 50D Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 50D receives a storage and battery score of 35/100. With a single memory card slot, this camera accepts Compact Flash (Type I or II) and UDMA cards. The battery life is 800 shots, utilizing a BP-511A battery type. Unfortunately, USB charging is not available for this model.

In today’s market, the 50D’s storage and battery capabilities fall short compared to competitors. A single memory card slot is less convenient, and the lack of USB charging limits flexibility in power options. While the battery life is adequate, improvements in technology have led to longer-lasting batteries in more recent camera models.

Despite these shortcomings, the Canon EOS 50D remains a solid option for certain users. However, those seeking more advanced storage and battery features may want to consider other options within the market.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
35%
Memory Card
Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
BP-511A
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
800 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
63%
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.'
21.8 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.'
11.4 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'
696
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video

Canon EOS 50D Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Canon EOS 50D compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Canon EOS 50D photographed on a colored background

Canon EOS 50D FAQ

Does the Canon EOS 50D Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

The Canon EOS 50D does not have built-in image stabilization. However, you can use lenses with image stabilization to achieve steadier shots.

Does the Canon EOS 50D Support 4K Video Recording?

The Canon EOS 50D does not support video recording, including 4K video. It is primarily designed for photography purposes.

What Size Sensor Does The Canon EOS 50D Have?

The Canon EOS 50D features an APS-C sized sensor, which is a popular sensor size for many DSLR cameras, providing good image quality and performance.

Does the Canon EOS 50D Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

No, the Canon EOS 50D has only a single memory card slot, which supports CompactFlash cards.

Does the Canon EOS 50D Have a Touch Screen?

The Canon EOS 50D does not have a touch screen. It features a 3-inch LCD screen for image review and menu navigation.

Does the Canon EOS 50D Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

The Canon EOS 50D does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. You will need to use alternative methods for transferring images.

Does the Canon EOS 50D Have GPS?

The Canon EOS 50D does not have built-in GPS functionality. You can use external GPS devices to geotag your images if needed.

Is the Canon EOS 50D Weather Sealed?

Yes, the Canon EOS 50D is weather-sealed, providing protection against dust and moisture, allowing you to shoot in various conditions.

Does the Canon EOS 50D Have a Built-in Flash?

Yes, the Canon EOS 50D has a built-in flash, providing additional lighting in low light situations or for creative purposes.

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