The Canon EOS M50 is a popular mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera that strikes a formidable balance between compact size, robust features, and user-friendliness, making it an excellent choice for content creators, vloggers, and enthusiasts seeking an upgrade from a smartphone or a compact point-and-shoot.

It stands out with its 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, DIGIC 8 image processor, and the ability to record 4K UHD video, albeit with a significant crop factor.

Its intuitive Vari-angle touchscreen, built-in electronic viewfinder, and reliable Dual Pixel CMOS AF system further cement its position as a versatile and accessible camera for a wide range of photographic and videographic applications.

Whether you’re just starting your creative journey or looking for a lightweight powerhouse to complement your existing gear, the EOS M50 offers a compelling package.

Its ease of use, coupled with advanced features like Eye Detection AF and seamless connectivity options Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, empowers users to capture stunning images and videos with minimal fuss.

However, it’s crucial to understand its strengths and limitations, especially regarding its autofocus capabilities in 4K and the M-mount lens ecosystem, to ensure it aligns with your specific needs.

This article will dive deep into what makes the M50 a compelling option, what accessories pair best with it, and what alternatives might be worth considering.

Product Name	Category	Key Feature	Best For
Canon EOS M50 Mark II	Mirrorless Camera	Improved autofocus, live streaming capabilities	Vloggers, content creators, casual photographers
Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens	Standard Zoom Lens	Compact, versatile, image stabilization	Everyday shooting, travel photography
Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens	Prime Lens	Wide aperture, excellent low-light performance	Portraits, street photography, artistic shots
Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone	External Microphone	Compact, clear audio, no battery required	Vlogging, interviews, improved audio recording
JOBY GorillaPod 3K Kit	Flexible Tripod	Versatile positioning, compact, lightweight	Vlogging, time-lapses, stable shots on uneven surfaces
SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card	High-Speed SD Card	Fast read/write speeds, reliable performance	4K video recording, burst shooting
Neewer 2-Pack 2.4G LED Video Light with Stand	Portable LED Lighting	Adjustable brightness/color temperature, portable	Interviews, product photography, studio work

Table of Contents

Understanding the Canon EOS M50: A Deep Dive for Creators

The Canon EOS M50 carved out a significant niche in the mirrorless camera market, particularly appealing to a generation of creators and enthusiasts who prioritize portability without sacrificing image quality.

It’s often hailed as a fantastic stepping stone for those moving beyond smartphone photography, offering a rich feature set that encourages growth and experimentation.

Let’s break down what truly makes the M50 tick and why it continues to be a relevant option.

Sensor and Image Processor: The Heart of the M50

At the core of the Canon EOS M50 is its 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, paired with Canon’s powerful DIGIC 8 image processor. This combination is what truly sets the M50 apart, allowing it to produce high-resolution images with excellent detail and vibrant colors, even in challenging lighting conditions.

APS-C Sensor Advantage: The M50’s APS-C sensor is significantly larger than what you’d find in most smartphones or compact cameras. This larger sensor area allows it to gather more light, resulting in:
- Better low-light performance: Reduced noise and cleaner images when shooting in dim environments.
- Shallower depth of field: Easier to achieve that coveted blurry background bokeh for portraits and subject isolation.
DIGIC 8 Processor: This isn’t just a number. it’s the engine that drives the camera’s speed and capabilities. The DIGIC 8 processor enables:
- Fast continuous shooting: Up to 10 frames per second fps with One-Shot AF, or 7.4 fps with continuous autofocus Servo AF. This is crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- Improved noise reduction: Smarter algorithms for cleaner images at higher ISO settings.
- 4K video recording: While it comes with a crop which we’ll discuss, the processor is what makes 4K possible.
- Enhanced image quality: Better color reproduction and overall image fidelity.

Autofocus System: Dual Pixel CMOS AF

Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF DPAF system is a cornerstone feature of many of its cameras, and it shines brightly in the EOS M50. This phase-detection autofocus technology is built directly into the sensor, offering incredibly fast and accurate focusing for both stills and video, particularly when using the LCD screen. Camera Launch

Speed and Accuracy: DPAF utilizes individual pixels on the sensor for both imaging and phase-detection autofocus, leading to:
- Smooth and precise focus transitions during video recording, mimicking a professional camcorder.
- Quick acquisition of subjects for still photography, even in challenging lighting.
Coverage: The M50 boasts up to 143 autofocus points with compatible lenses, covering a significant portion of the frame 88% horizontal and 100% vertical. This wide coverage ensures that your subject can be off-center and still remain sharply in focus.
Eye Detection AF: A feature beloved by portrait photographers and vloggers, Eye Detection AF intelligently locks onto and tracks your subject’s eyes, ensuring critical sharpness where it matters most. This is a huge advantage for creating professional-looking portraits or keeping yourself in focus while talking to the camera.
Limitations in 4K: While DPAF is excellent in Full HD, it’s important to note a significant limitation in 4K video recording: the M50 switches to contrast-detection AF for 4K. This results in slower, less reliable autofocus performance compared to Full HD, often exhibiting more hunting and less smooth transitions. This is a critical consideration for vloggers who primarily shoot in 4K and rely heavily on continuous autofocus.

Practical Takeaway: For most users shooting photos or Full HD video, the M50’s DPAF is incredibly reliable and user-friendly. It makes capturing sharp images effortless, even for beginners. However, if 4K video with seamless continuous autofocus is your primary goal, you might find this aspect a bit frustrating and need to rely more on manual focus or pre-focusing.

Video Capabilities: 4K, Full HD, and the Crop Factor

The Canon EOS M50 was Canon’s first mirrorless camera to offer 4K UHD video recording, a significant selling point at its release. However, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of its video features, especially the notorious crop factor.

4K UHD 3840 x 2160: The M50 can record 4K at up to 24p/25p. While impressive, it comes with a substantial 1.6x crop on top of the existing 1.6x APS-C crop, resulting in a total crop factor of approximately 2.56x.
- What this means: Your wide-angle lenses become much less wide. For example, a 15mm lens on the M50 in 4K would have the effective field of view of a 38.4mm lens on a full-frame camera. This makes it challenging to get wide shots, especially for vlogging where you want to show more of your surroundings or fit more people in the frame.
- Why it matters: This crop limits your ability to capture expansive scenes or shoot in tight spaces. It also exacerbates the aforementioned autofocus limitations in 4K, as DPAF is disabled.
Full HD 1920 x 1080: This is where the M50 truly shines for video. It records Full HD at up to 60p, with no additional crop, and retains the excellent Dual Pixel CMOS AF. This makes it an ideal camera for:
- Vlogging: Smooth autofocus keeps you in focus as you move.
- General video recording: Crisp, clear footage with reliable tracking.
- Slow-motion: The 60p option allows for smooth slow-motion playback when edited down to 30p or 24p.
HD 1280 x 720: Can record at up to 120p, enabling even more dramatic slow-motion effects.
Microphone Input: A critical feature for any serious videographer or vlogger, the M50 includes a 3.5mm microphone input. This allows you to connect an external microphone like the Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone for significantly improved audio quality over the built-in microphone.
No Headphone Jack: A common omission in entry-level cameras, the M50 lacks a headphone jack, meaning you cannot monitor your audio levels in real-time. This requires careful attention to levels during recording and listening back after shooting.

Expert Advice: While 4K is present, the M50 is primarily a Full HD video workhorse. For most content creators, particularly vloggers, shooting in Full HD 60p will yield superior results due to the lack of crop and the presence of DPAF. If uncropped 4K with reliable autofocus is non-negotiable for your workflow, you might need to look at other camera options.

Ergonomics and Usability: Designed for the Creator

The Canon EOS M50’s design philosophy clearly leans towards user-friendliness and portability, making it a joy to handle for both beginners and experienced photographers alike. Ultimate Ears BOOM 4

Its intuitive layout and responsive controls contribute significantly to a seamless shooting experience.

Vari-angle Touchscreen and EVF

Two of the M50’s standout features are its Vari-angle touchscreen LCD and its built-in Electronic Viewfinder EVF. This combination offers unparalleled flexibility for framing and reviewing your shots.

Vari-angle Touchscreen: This 3.0-inch, 1.04-million-dot LCD screen is a must, especially for videographers and those shooting from challenging angles.
- Versatility: It can flip out to the side and rotate 270 degrees, making it perfect for:
  - Vlogging: You can see yourself as you record, ensuring you’re in frame and in focus.
  - High/Low Angle Shots: Easily compose shots from overhead or ground level without contorting yourself.
  - Selfies/Group Shots: Effortlessly frame self-portraits.
- Touch Functionality: The touchscreen is incredibly responsive, allowing you to:
  - Tap to Focus: Simply touch the screen to select your focus point.
  - Touch to Shoot: Tap to focus and immediately capture the image.
  - Navigate Menus: Intuitively browse settings and playback images.
  - Drag AF: When using the EVF, you can drag your thumb across the LCD to move the focus point, a very handy feature.
Built-in EVF: The 2.36-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder provides a clear, bright, and detailed view of your scene.
- Traditional Shooting: Offers a stable shooting experience, especially in bright sunlight where the LCD might be difficult to see.
- Composing Shots: Provides a true “what you see is what you get” preview, showing exposure adjustments, white balance, and effects in real-time.
- Focus Peaking: A helpful feature for manual focus, highlighting in-focus areas in the EVF or on the LCD.

Why it Matters: The combination of a highly flexible touchscreen and a reliable EVF means you’re always ready to capture the moment, regardless of the shooting scenario. This is a significant advantage over cameras that only offer one or the other, or a fixed LCD.

Physical Design and Portability

The M50’s compact and lightweight design is one of its most appealing attributes, making it an ideal companion for travel and everyday shooting.

Dimensions and Weight: Weighing in at approximately 387g 13.65 oz with battery and card, and measuring 116.3 x 88.1 x 58.7mm 4.58 x 3.47 x 2.31 inches, the M50 is noticeably smaller and lighter than traditional DSLR cameras.
Build Quality: While predominantly plastic, the M50 feels solid and well-built in hand. The grip is surprisingly comfortable for its size, providing a secure hold.
Control Layout: Canon has opted for a straightforward and uncluttered control layout, which is excellent for beginners. Most critical functions are easily accessible via physical buttons or the intuitive touchscreen menu.
- Mode Dial: Standard PASM Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual modes, plus scene modes, creative filters, and a dedicated video mode.
- Control Dial: A single control dial allows for quick adjustments to aperture, shutter speed, or ISO, depending on the shooting mode.
- Dedicated Buttons: Buttons for ISO, exposure compensation, menu, playback, and a customizable M-Fn button.

Considerations: While the compact size is a huge plus, it means there are fewer dedicated physical controls compared to larger, more professional cameras. Users accustomed to multiple dials and custom buttons might find themselves relying more on the touchscreen interface. However, for its target audience, the balance struck is highly effective. Sony ULT FIELD 1

Connectivity and Sharing: Staying Connected

The Canon EOS M50 integrates a suite of wireless options that make sharing images and controlling the camera remotely remarkably easy.

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC

The M50 features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy BLE, and NFC Near Field Communication, offering multiple ways to connect with smart devices and other Canon products.

Wi-Fi: The primary method for robust data transfer.
- Image Transfer: Easily send images and videos directly from the camera to your smartphone or tablet using the Canon Camera Connect app. This is ideal for quickly sharing your shots on social media or backing them up on the go.
- Remote Shooting: Control the camera remotely from your smart device. This includes:
  - Live View: See what the camera sees on your phone screen.
  - Adjust Settings: Change aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and more.
  - Trigger the Shutter: Perfect for group photos, long exposures, or situations where you don’t want to touch the camera.
- Wireless Printing: Connect directly to compatible Canon printers.
Bluetooth Low Energy BLE: Provides a constant, low-power connection between the camera and your smart device.
- Automatic Connection: Maintains a persistent link, making it faster to establish a Wi-Fi connection when needed.
- Remote Control Basic: Can be used for basic remote shutter release functionality with minimal battery drain.
- GPS Information: Allows the camera to receive location data from your smartphone for geotagging images, which is great for travel photography.
NFC: Simplifies the pairing process for Wi-Fi.
- Tap to Connect: With compatible Android devices, simply tap the phone to the camera to instantly establish a Wi-Fi connection.

Workflow Enhancement: For content creators, these connectivity features are invaluable. Imagine shooting an event, quickly sending a selection of high-quality photos to your phone, and posting them on Instagram within minutes. Or using your phone as a monitor and remote control for a self-recorded vlog. This significantly streamlines the content creation workflow.

Canon Image Transfer Utility and Cloud Integration

Beyond direct device-to-device transfer, Canon offers tools to further enhance your workflow.

Canon Image Transfer Utility 2: For desktop users, this software allows for automatic transfer of images from your camera to your computer once connected to the same network. It can be set up to transfer new images as soon as they are shot.
image.canon Cloud Service: Canon’s cloud platform allows for automatic transfer of images and videos from your camera to cloud services like Google Photos, Adobe Creative Cloud, or directly to your computer. This provides an additional layer of backup and accessibility.

Key Benefit: The comprehensive connectivity options of the M50 underscore its design for the modern creator. It’s not just about taking great photos and videos. it’s about sharing them seamlessly and efficiently, whether you’re in the field or at home. Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM PLAY

Lens Ecosystem: EF-M and Adapting EF/EF-S Lenses

One of the most crucial aspects of any interchangeable-lens camera is its lens ecosystem. The Canon EOS M50 utilizes the Canon EF-M mount, a mirrorless-specific mount designed for Canon’s APS-C mirrorless cameras. While the native EF-M lens lineup is not as extensive as some other systems, its compatibility with Canon’s vast EF and EF-S lens collection via an adapter significantly expands its versatility.

Native EF-M Lenses

The native EF-M lens lineup is designed to be compact and lightweight, complementing the M50’s small form factor.

While not huge, it covers many essential focal lengths.

Standard Zooms:
- Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens: Often bundled with the camera, this compact and retractable lens is a versatile everyday option. It includes image stabilization IS, which is great for handheld shots and video.
Prime Lenses Fixed Focal Length:
- Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens: A fantastic, fast prime lens equivalent to about 51mm on full-frame. Its wide f/1.4 aperture excels in low light and creates beautiful background blur, making it ideal for portraits, street photography, and artistic shots.
- Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM: A compact, pancake-style prime lens equivalent to about 35mm. It’s great for street photography, discreet shooting, and casual everyday use due to its small size and decent aperture.
Telephoto Zoom:
- Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM: Extends your reach for wildlife, sports, or distant subjects.
Macro Lens:
- Canon EF-M 28mm f/3.5 Macro IS STM: A unique macro lens with a built-in Macro Lite for illuminating close-up subjects.

Consideration: The EF-M mount offers fewer professional-grade, fast aperture zoom lenses compared to larger systems. This means users seeking specialized performance in the native lineup might feel somewhat limited.

Sony SRS-XB43

Adapting EF/EF-S Lenses

This is where the M50’s lens versatility truly expands. Canon offers the Mount Adapter EF-EOS M, which allows you to attach the vast array of Canon EF full-frame DSLR and EF-S APS-C DSLR lenses to your EOS M50.

Full Autofocus and Image Stabilization: When using the official Canon adapter, you retain full autofocus functionality including DPAF and image stabilization IS from your adapted lenses. This is a huge advantage, as it unlocks hundreds of high-quality lenses.
Benefits:
- Access to Professional Glass: Use L-series professional lenses for unparalleled image quality.
- Utilize Existing Lenses: If you’re upgrading from a Canon DSLR, you can continue to use your existing EF/EF-S lenses, saving money and leveraging your investment.
- Wider Selection: Gain access to specialized lenses like tilt-shift, super-telephoto, or ultra-wide angles that may not exist in the native EF-M lineup.
Drawbacks:
- Increased Size and Weight: Adapted lenses will often be significantly larger and heavier than the M50 body, diminishing its compact advantage. This can make the camera feel front-heavy and less balanced.
- Adapter Cost: The official Canon adapter is an additional purchase. Third-party adapters are available, but ensure they offer reliable autofocus and build quality.

Recommendation: For most M50 users, starting with the kit lens and potentially adding a fast prime like the Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens is an excellent starting point. If you have existing EF/EF-S lenses or specific needs that the EF-M lineup doesn’t cover, the adapter is a fantastic solution, but be prepared for a less compact setup.

Accessories and Enhancements: Leveling Up Your M50

While the Canon EOS M50 is a capable camera out of the box, a few key accessories can significantly enhance your shooting experience, improve your content quality, and extend the camera’s capabilities.

Think of these as investments that amplify what the M50 already does well.

Essential Memory Cards

Never underestimate the importance of a fast and reliable SD card. Sony SRS-XE200

For the M50, especially if you’re shooting 4K video or burst photography, a high-speed card is crucial.

Requirements: The M50 uses SD, SDHC, or SDXC memory cards. For 4K video, you’ll want cards rated as UHS-I Speed Class 3 U3 or Video Speed Class 30 V30, which guarantee a minimum sustained write speed of 30 MB/s.
Capacity: For 4K video, higher capacity cards are recommended. A 128GB card provides a good balance of storage and cost.
Recommendation: The SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card is a highly recommended option. It offers fast read/write speeds, excellent reliability, and is widely available.
- Benefits:
  - Smooth 4K Recording: Prevents dropped frames or corrupted files during 4K video capture.
  - Fast Burst Shooting: Ensures the camera’s buffer clears quickly, allowing you to shoot more continuous frames.
  - Quick Data Transfer: Speeds up the process of offloading your photos and videos to your computer.

Audio Solutions: External Microphones

The built-in microphone on any camera, including the M50, is generally adequate for casual use but quickly becomes a limitation for serious video work, especially vlogging or interviews.

An external microphone is arguably the most impactful upgrade for video quality.

Why an External Mic?
- Superior Sound Quality: Captures clearer, richer audio with less ambient noise.
- Directional Pickup: Many external mics are directional e.g., shotgun mics, meaning they primarily pick up sound from in front of the camera, reducing unwanted background noise.
Types of Mics for M50:
- On-Camera Shotgun Mics: Compact microphones that mount directly to the camera’s hot shoe and plug into the 3.5mm mic jack.
  - Recommendation: The Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone is a popular choice for its compact size, excellent sound, and no-battery design.
- Lavalier Lapel Mics: Small clip-on microphones that attach to your subject’s clothing, ideal for interviews or vlogging where you want clear audio regardless of camera distance. Some wired lavs can plug directly into the M50, while wireless systems offer more freedom.
Consideration: Remember, the M50 lacks a headphone jack, so you can’t monitor audio in real-time. It’s crucial to do sound checks before important recordings.

Tripods and Stabilizers

For stable video, sharp long exposures, or self-recording, a good tripod or stabilizer is essential. Sony SRS-XB13

Flexible Tripods:
- Recommendation: The JOBY GorillaPod 3K Kit is incredibly versatile. Its flexible legs can wrap around objects, be used as a handheld grip for vlogging, or stand stably on uneven surfaces. It’s lightweight and perfect for the M50’s size.
Traditional Tripods: For more stable, static shots, a standard photographic tripod with a fluid head for video is a solid investment. Look for lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber options if portability is a concern.
Gimbals: For super smooth, cinematic footage while moving, a small motorized gimbal designed for mirrorless cameras like the DJI Ronin-SC or Zhiyun Crane M2 can be transformative. However, this is a more advanced and significant investment.

Lighting Equipment

Good lighting can elevate your photos and videos dramatically, even more so than a camera upgrade.

LED Panels: Portable LED panels are excellent for adding fill light, eye lights, or illuminating your subject.
- Recommendation: The Neewer 2-Pack 2.4G LED Video Light with Stand offers a versatile and affordable lighting solution. They are dimmable, often have adjustable color temperature, and come with stands for easy setup.
Ring Lights: Popular with vloggers and beauty content creators, ring lights provide soft, even illumination and create appealing catchlights in the eyes.

By thoughtfully adding these accessories, you can unlock the full potential of your Canon EOS M50, producing higher quality content with greater ease and flexibility.

Canon EOS M50 vs. Canon EOS M50 Mark II: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

When considering the Canon EOS M50, its successor, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II, inevitably enters the conversation.

While the Mark II doesn’t represent a revolutionary leap, it introduces several refinements and quality-of-life improvements that can be significant for certain users, particularly content creators and streamers. Sony SRS-XV500

Key Similarities

Before into the differences, it’s important to note how much the Mark II retains from the original M50:

Same Sensor and Processor: Both cameras share the identical 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor. This means image quality and low-light performance for stills are essentially the same.
Same 4K Video Limitations: The 4K video recording 24p/25p still suffers from the same significant 1.6x crop and reliance on contrast-detect autofocus. The Mark II does not address this core limitation.
Identical Body Design: The physical dimensions, weight, button layout, and Vari-angle touchscreen are all carried over directly from the M50.
Same Native EF-M Lens Mount: Both use the EF-M mount and are compatible with EF/EF-S lenses via the adapter.
No In-Body Image Stabilization IBIS: Neither camera features IBIS, relying on lens-based optical image stabilization OIS or digital image stabilization DIS for video.

Key Differences and Improvements in the Mark II

The “Mark II” designation typically implies incremental improvements, and that’s precisely what Canon delivered.

The upgrades primarily focus on enhancing the user experience for video creation and streaming.

Improved Autofocus Eye Detection: This is perhaps the most significant upgrade for still photography.
- Enhanced Eye Detection AF for Stills and Video: The Mark II features improved Eye Detection AF that works more reliably and can be used in Servo AF continuous autofocus for still photos. Crucially, it also works during Full HD video recording, which was a key missing feature in the original M50. This means if you’re vlogging in 1080p, the Mark II will do a much better job of keeping your eyes in sharp focus as you move.
Live Streaming Capabilities: A major draw for the Mark II.
- Direct YouTube Live Streaming: The M50 Mark II can stream directly to YouTube Live via Wi-Fi from the camera itself with a registered image.canon account. This is a niche but very convenient feature for creators who want to go live without complex setups.
- Webcam Functionality: It’s easier to use the M50 Mark II as a high-quality webcam via Canon’s EOS Webcam Utility software, offering a cleaner, more professional look for video calls and streaming.
Vertical Video Support: For social media content creators, the Mark II can record vertical video natively, which saves time in post-production by eliminating the need to rotate footage.
Tap to Record Button on LCD: A small but helpful convenience, especially for vlogging. You can now start/stop recording directly from the touchscreen when the camera is facing you.
Self-Timer for Video: Allows you to set a self-timer before recording video, giving you a few seconds to get into position.
Clean HDMI Out for certain modes: While the original M50 had HDMI out, the Mark II ensures a clean HDMI signal without overlaid information, which is important for external recorders or higher-quality streaming setups via capture cards.

Who Should Upgrade or Buy the Mark II?

Vloggers and Live Streamers: The enhanced Eye Detection AF in Full HD, direct YouTube streaming, and improved webcam functionality make the Mark II a much stronger contender for video-centric content creation.
Those Prioritizing Convenience: The subtle refinements like tap-to-record and vertical video support streamline the workflow for casual creators.
First-Time Buyers: If you’re buying new, the Mark II is generally the recommended choice due to its modern enhancements, assuming the price difference is not prohibitive.

Who Should Stick with the Original M50?

Budget-Conscious Photographers: If your primary focus is still photography and you’re not heavily into video or live streaming, the original M50 offers nearly identical still image quality for a potentially lower price on the used market.
Users Who Primarily Shoot 4K Video: Since the Mark II doesn’t improve the 4K crop or autofocus limitations, there’s no real benefit in upgrading if 4K is your main concern. You’d need a different camera system entirely.
Existing M50 Owners: If you already own an M50 and are happy with its performance, particularly if you don’t utilize live streaming or advanced video features, the incremental upgrade to the Mark II might not justify the cost. Consider investing in lenses or other accessories instead.

Bottom Line: The M50 Mark II is an iterative but meaningful update, particularly for the vlogging and streaming community. If those are your priorities, it’s worth the slightly higher cost. For pure still photography, the original M50 remains a very capable and potentially more budget-friendly option.

Comparing the M50 to Other Mirrorless Cameras: Alternatives to Consider

While the Canon EOS M50 is an excellent camera, it’s by no means the only option in the crowded mirrorless market. Sonos Move

Depending on your budget, specific needs, and priorities, several alternatives from Canon and other brands might offer a better fit.

Understanding these alternatives will help you make an informed decision.

Canon EOS M50 vs. Canon EOS M200

The EOS M200 is Canon’s even more compact and simplified mirrorless camera, often seen as an upgrade path from smartphones or point-and-shoots for those who want interchangeable lenses without the bulk.

M200 Advantages:
- Smaller and Lighter: Even more portable than the M50.
- Slightly Improved 4K Autofocus: While it still has the 1.6x crop in 4K, the M200 does retain Dual Pixel CMOS AF in 4K, which is a significant improvement over the M50’s contrast-detect AF in 4K.
- Newer DIGIC 8 Processor: Similar to M50, but perhaps with some minor optimizations.
M50 Advantages:
- Built-in EVF: The M50 has a built-in electronic viewfinder, which the M200 lacks entirely. This is crucial for shooting in bright light or for those who prefer a traditional shooting experience.
- Vari-angle Screen: The M50’s screen can flip out to the side, making it superior for vlogging and odd-angle shots compared to the M200’s tilt-only screen.
- Hot Shoe: The M50 has a standard hot shoe for external flashes or microphones, which the M200 lacks it only has a built-in flash. This is a big deal for video creators.
- More Physical Controls: The M50 has more dedicated buttons and dials, offering a more hands-on shooting experience.

Verdict: The M200 is for ultimate portability and a smartphone-like shooting experience with better image quality. The M50 is for those who want more traditional camera controls, an EVF, and essential features like a hot shoe for serious video work. For most aspiring content creators, the M50 offers a more complete package.

Canon EOS M50 vs. Canon EOS R10/R50

These are Canon’s newer APS-C mirrorless cameras using the RF mount, a different and more future-proof mount than the EF-M. Sony SRS-XB100

R10/R50 Advantages over M50:
- Superior Autofocus: Both feature Canon’s next-generation Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with highly advanced subject tracking, including animals, vehicles, and much improved eye-tracking.
- Uncropped 4K Video: The R10 can shoot uncropped 4K/30p from 6K oversampling and cropped 4K/60p. The R50 offers uncropped 4K/30p. Both retain DPAF in 4K. This is a massive improvement for video.
- Faster Burst Shooting: Significantly faster continuous shooting speeds.
- Newer Sensor Technology: While similar megapixel count, the newer sensors offer better dynamic range and low light performance.
- RF Mount: Access to a growing ecosystem of high-quality RF lenses, including the very promising new APS-C RF-S lenses. RF lenses are generally superior to EF-M lenses, though currently more expensive.
- Future-Proof: The RF mount is Canon’s current and future mirrorless platform.
- Price: The M50 especially used is significantly more affordable.
- Size with EF-M lenses: The M50 with native EF-M lenses is generally more compact and lighter than the R10/R50 with RF-S lenses, which can still be quite bulky.
- EF-M Lens Library: While limited, EF-M lenses are smaller and more affordable than new RF-S lenses. Compatibility with existing EF/EF-S lenses is a plus if you already own them.

Verdict: If your budget allows and you prioritize cutting-edge autofocus, uncropped 4K video, and a future-proof lens mount, the R10 or R50 are superior choices. They are truly next-generation cameras. The M50 remains a great budget option, especially if you’re primarily shooting stills or 1080p video and already have EF-M or EF/EF-S lenses.

Canon EOS M50 vs. Sony Alpha a6100/a6400

Sony’s a6000 series are strong competitors in the APS-C mirrorless segment, known for their autofocus and video capabilities.

Sony Alpha Advantages:
- Superior Autofocus Speed & Tracking: Sony’s Real-time Tracking AF and Eye AF for humans and animals are often considered class-leading, even more advanced than the M50’s DPAF, especially for fast-moving subjects.
- Uncropped 4K Video: Both the a6100 and a6400 record uncropped 4K video with full autofocus.
- Better Battery Life: Generally longer battery life.
- More Developed Lens Ecosystem: Sony’s E-mount has a much larger and more diverse lens lineup, including many excellent third-party options.
- Vari-angle Touchscreen: Sony’s screens are tilt-only up and down, not fully articulated like the M50’s. This is a big deal for vlogging.
- Color Science: Many prefer Canon’s natural color science, especially for skin tones, straight out of the camera.
- User Interface: Canon’s menu system is often considered more intuitive and user-friendly for beginners.
- Price: The M50 is often more affordable than comparable Sony models, especially the a6400.

Verdict: If you prioritize cutting-edge autofocus performance, uncropped 4K, and a vast lens selection, Sony’s a6000 series are very strong contenders. However, if a fully articulating screen for vlogging and Canon’s renowned color science are higher on your list, the M50 remains a compelling option, particularly at its price point.

Choosing the right camera depends on your specific needs, budget, and whether you prioritize stills, video, portability, or future expandability.

The M50 holds its own as a capable, user-friendly option, especially for beginners and vloggers on a budget. JBL Xtreme 2

FAQs About the Canon EOS M50

General Questions

What is the Canon EOS M50?

The Canon EOS M50 is a popular mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera known for its compact size, user-friendly interface, and strong performance for both still photography and video, particularly for content creators and vloggers.

When was the Canon EOS M50 released?

The Canon EOS M50 was originally released in March 2018.

Is the Canon EOS M50 a good camera for beginners?

Yes, the Canon EOS M50 is an excellent camera for beginners due to its intuitive touchscreen interface, intelligent auto modes, and comfortable grip, making it easy to learn and grow with.

Is the Canon EOS M50 still worth buying in 2024?

Yes, the Canon EOS M50 can still be a worthwhile purchase in 2024, especially for budget-conscious beginners or vloggers primarily shooting in 1080p, as it offers excellent image quality and a strong feature set for its price point on the used market.

What kind of sensor does the EOS M50 have?

The EOS M50 features a 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which is larger than smartphone sensors and capable of producing high-resolution images with good low-light performance and shallow depth of field. Lodge Solar Speaker 4 Series 2

Does the M50 have a touchscreen?

Yes, the Canon EOS M50 has a highly responsive 3.0-inch Vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which can flip out and rotate, making it ideal for vlogging, selfies, and shooting from challenging angles.

Does the M50 have a viewfinder?

Yes, the Canon EOS M50 has a built-in 2.36-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder EVF, which provides a clear view of your scene and aids in composition, especially in bright sunlight.

Photography Questions

What kind of photos can the M50 take?

How is the M50’s low-light performance for photos?

The M50 performs well in low light for its class, thanks to its APS-C sensor and DIGIC 8 processor.

It can comfortably shoot at higher ISOs up to ISO 25600 native with manageable noise levels.

Does the M50 have in-body image stabilization IBIS?

No, the Canon EOS M50 does not have in-body image stabilization IBIS. It relies on lens-based optical image stabilization IS for stills and digital image stabilization DIS for video. Klipsch The Three II

What is the continuous shooting speed of the M50?

The M50 can shoot continuously at up to 10 frames per second fps with One-Shot AF and up to 7.4 fps with continuous autofocus Servo AF.

Does the M50 have good autofocus for stills?

Yes, the M50 features Canon’s excellent Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which provides fast and accurate autofocus for stills, including reliable Eye Detection AF for portraits.

Video Questions

Can the M50 record 4K video?

Yes, the Canon EOS M50 can record 4K UHD video at 24p/25p.

Does 4K video on the M50 have a crop?

Yes, 4K video on the M50 has a significant 1.6x crop factor on top of the APS-C sensor’s inherent 1.6x crop, resulting in an approximate 2.56x total crop compared to full-frame.

Does Dual Pixel AF work in 4K on the M50?

No, Dual Pixel CMOS AF does not work in 4K on the original M50. it switches to slower contrast-detection autofocus, which can lead to focus hunting. JBL Flip 6

What are the video capabilities of the M50 in 1080p Full HD?

The M50 records Full HD 1080p video at up to 60p with no additional crop and fully utilizes the fast and reliable Dual Pixel CMOS AF, making it excellent for vlogging and general video recording.

Does the M50 have a microphone input?

Yes, the Canon EOS M50 has a 3.5mm microphone input, allowing you to connect an external microphone for superior audio quality.

Does the M50 have a headphone jack?

No, the Canon EOS M50 does not have a headphone jack, so you cannot monitor your audio in real-time during recording.

Can I use the M50 for vlogging?

Yes, the M50 is a very popular camera for vlogging, thanks to its Vari-angle screen, good autofocus in 1080p, and microphone input.

Lens Questions

What lenses are compatible with the Canon EOS M50?

The Canon EOS M50 uses the native Canon EF-M mount lenses. JBL PartyBox 710

Can I use my old Canon DSLR lenses EF/EF-S on the M50?

Yes, you can use Canon EF and EF-S DSLR lenses on the M50 with the Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS M, retaining full autofocus and image stabilization.

Is the EF-M lens system good?

The native EF-M lens system is compact and offers several versatile options, including excellent prime lenses, but it’s not as extensive or diverse as some other mirrorless systems.

What is a good general-purpose lens for the M50?

The Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens is a good compact, versatile standard zoom that often comes as a kit lens.

What is a good lens for portraits on the M50?

The Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens is an excellent prime lens for portraits on the M50, offering a wide aperture for beautiful background blur and great low-light performance.

Connectivity and Battery

Does the M50 have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

Yes, the M50 features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy BLE for easy image transfer and remote control via the Canon Camera Connect app.

How long does the battery last on the M50?

The battery life LP-E12 of the M50 is rated for approximately 235 shots per charge CIPA standard, which is relatively low compared to some DSLRs, so carrying spare batteries is recommended.

Can I charge the M50 via USB?

No, the Canon EOS M50 cannot be charged via USB in-camera. you need an external battery charger.

Is the M50 good for live streaming?

The original M50 can be used for live streaming with a capture card via its HDMI output and Canon’s EOS Webcam Utility.

The M50 Mark II offers direct YouTube Live streaming.

What’s the main difference between the M50 and the M50 Mark II?

The M50 Mark II offers improved Eye Detection AF in Full HD video, direct YouTube live streaming capabilities, and minor quality-of-life enhancements, while largely retaining the same sensor and 4K limitations.

Is the Canon EOS M50 good for product photography?

Yes, the M50 can be a very capable camera for product photography, especially when paired with a good macro lens like the EF-M 28mm Macro and proper lighting e.g., Neewer 2-Pack 2.4G LED Video Light with Stand.

What memory card should I use for the M50?

For optimal performance, especially with 4K video, use a UHS-I Speed Class 3 U3 or Video Speed Class 30 V30 SDXC card, such as the SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card.

Does the M50 have a flash?

Yes, the Canon EOS M50 has a small built-in pop-up flash.

It also has a hot shoe for attaching external flashes or other accessories like microphones.

Can the M50 be controlled remotely?

Yes, the M50 can be controlled remotely via the Canon Camera Connect app on your smartphone or tablet using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Is the M50 weather-sealed?

No, the Canon EOS M50 is not weather-sealed and should not be used in heavy rain or dusty environments without protection.

How much does the Canon EOS M50 cost?

The price of the Canon EOS M50 varies depending on whether you buy it new or used, and what kit lens it comes with.

It is generally more affordable than its successor, the M50 Mark II.

0.0

0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)

Excellent0%

Very good0%

Average0%

Poor0%

Terrible0%

There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Canon EOS M50
Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Canon EOS M50