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Canon M50 Review: The Best Camera for All Occasions
In today's social media-driven world, having a reliable camera is crucial. Whether you're a professional photographer or just starting out, the Canon M50 is a camera worth considering. With its advanced features, lightweight design, and reasonable price point, the Canon M50 is the perfect choice for all types of photographers. In this blog post, we will be discussing the cost, features, use cases, and how it compares to other cameras on the market.
According to a recent survey conducted by Digital Camera World, the Canon M50 ranks in the top 10 most popular cameras used by photographers around the globe. Additionally, CanonUSA reports that, since its release in 2018, the Canon M50 has consistently remained one of their best-selling mirrorless cameras. These statistics not only demonstrate the camera's impressive market performance but also reflect its widespread acceptance among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.
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TL;DR (Too long, didn't read): Who should consider the Canon M50?
The Canon M50 is a top-tier, reasonably priced camera suitable for photographers of all levels. Its popularity is reflected in its high global ranking and consistent sales since its 2018 launch. It boasts advanced features, a lightweight design, and versatility, making it ideal for various use cases.
Although the Canon M50 has been replaced by the newer
Canon M50 Mark II, it is still a great camera for those who can find it on a deal or second hand.
If you're looking for a camera that is budget friendly, but still gives a ton of creative freedom and has excellent features than look no further than the Canon M50.
Source: Mihaela Dragan's photo taken with the Canon M50
Canon M50 cost
The Canon M50 is an affordable option for anyone looking for a high-quality camera that can be used for a variety of different situations like travel photography and content creation.
Starting at around $299, the Canon M50 is packed with features that rival more expensive models. Additionally, the cost of lenses for the M50 is relatively inexpensive compared to other cameras on the market, so you can build your photography kit without breaking the bank.
Where to get the best deal on the Canon M50
- Amazon Price: $599
- Walmart Price: $649
- Canon Price: available refurbished from $399 to $500
- MPB Price: available used from $299 to $400.
Note: These prices are subject to change and prices referenced are at the time of posting.
Canon M50 features
One of the standout features of the Canon M50 is its 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. This sensor allows for exceptional image quality for the price. Additionally, the M50 has a Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system, which provides fast and accurate autofocus. The camera also has a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which makes it easy to shoot from any angle and is perfect for vlogging.
For a full list of features check out Canon's technical specifications.
How do these features help you take better photos and videos?
- 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor: This sensor allows for exceptional image quality, even in low light conditions.
- Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system: Provides fast and accurate autofocus, making it easier to capture the perfect shot.
- Vari-angle touchscreen LCD: This feature makes it easy to shoot from any angle, which is particularly helpful for vlogging.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity: Allows for easy file transfer and remote camera control.
- Continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second: Perfect for capturing action shots without missing a beat.
- In-camera 4K video recording: Lets you capture high-resolution videos without the need for separate equipment.
- Built-in Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) with 2.36 Million Dots: Provides high-definition, accurate view for shooting still images and videos.
- Silent mode: Allows for silent shooting, ideal for situations where noise needs to be kept to a minimum.
- Lightweight body: The camera is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
Canon M50 use cases
Source: Taylor Williams' photo of a dog taken with the Canon M50
The Canon M50 is perfect for anyone looking for a versatile camera. With its lightweight design, it's perfect for travel and capturing everyday moments. Additionally, its advanced features make it a great option for professional photographers. If you're a content creator, the M50's vari-angle touchscreen LCD and Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system make it an excellent choice for vlogging and producing high-quality content for social media.
1. Content creation on platforms like TikTok
Take, for example, a TikTok influencer who regularly creates dance routines or comedic skits. They could greatly benefit from the Canon M50's features. The 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor ensures their videos are always high-quality, even when lighting conditions aren't ideal, making their content more appealing to viewers. The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system offers fast and accurate focusing, ensuring they remain the center of attention even during complex dance moves or high-action skits.
When filming TikTok live, the vari-angle touchscreen LCD comes into play. It allows influencers to adjust the screen for the best view of what they are capturing, even if they are moving around a lot. The in-camera 4K video recording lets them stream high-resolution video directly on TikTok, giving their live content an edge over those using lower-resolution devices.
Furthermore, the lightweight design of the Canon M50 means it's easy to carry around, which is ideal for influencers who often create content in different locations. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allows seamless and immediate transfer of content from the camera to the TikTok app. This way, influencers can quickly upload their content, keep up with trends, and maintain frequent engagement with their followers.
@kdvesth This fog was amazing #photography #iphone #canonm50 #lightroom #fyp #dlaciebie
♬ original sound - ED ★ - ED ★
2. Travel photography
The Canon M50 shines in the realm of travel photography as well. Imagine a travel blogger on a journey through the charming cobblestone streets of old Europe. They would greatly appreciate the Canon M50's compact and lightweight design, as it reduces the burden of carrying heavy equipment and allows for more spontaneous shots.
The 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor combined with the Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system ensures every intricate detail from the rustic architecture to the vibrancy of a bustling marketplace is captured sharply and vividly, even in varying light conditions. The vari-angle touchscreen LCD allows the photographer to capture images from unique and challenging angles, such as an overhead shot in a crowded market or a low-angle shot of towering structures. With the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the blogger can instantly share these high-resolution images on their blog or social media platforms, engaging their audience in real-time with the mesmerizing visuals of their journey.
3. YouTube videos
For creators and entrepreneurs venturing into YouTube, the Canon M50 proves to be a reliable partner in content creation. Its features are tailored to meet the dynamic and demanding needs of YouTube content creation. Consider an entrepreneur hosting a business-centric channel on YouTube, where they share insights about market trends, startup strategies, and product reviews.
The Canon M50's 4K UHD video recording capability allows them to shoot high-quality videos that are visually appealing to the audience. The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system keeps the subject in sharp focus during video recording, dynamically adjusting the focus as the presenter moves, ensuring a professional look in the videos.
The vari-angle touchscreen LCD can be angled, allowing creators to monitor the footage while recording, ensuring optimal framing and preventing unwanted elements from entering the frame. This comes in handy especially whenfilming alone without an additional crew.
The Canon M50 is perfect for YouTube creators who travel a lot. It's lightweight and compact, with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for quick content transfer. They can capture high-quality videos at conferences, meetings, or events and upload them to their channel right away. The on-the-go feature keeps creators relevant and their audience engaged.
4. Family events and activities
The Canon M50 is also the perfect companion for capturing priceless moments at family events and activities. Suppose you're attending a family wedding. The Canon M50's 4K UHD video recording capability lets you shoot crisp, high-quality videos of the ceremony, capturing each detail with stunning clarity. Its Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system ensures that every shot is in sharp focus, whether it's the exchange of rings, the first dance, or a spontaneous family moment. Thanks to its lightweight and compact design, you can easily carry it around throughout the event, capturing candid moments as they unfold. You can immediately share these videos with family members who couldn't attend the event thanks to the camera's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Thus, the Canon M50 allows you to tell the story of your family's special day in a way that's as unique and memorable as the event itself.
Canon M50 photo and video examples
Photo example
The versatility of the Canon M50 doesn't end with its video capabilities. This remarkable camera is equally proficient when it comes to photography. The following photo examples highlight the Canon M50's impressive range, capturing everything from stunning landscapes to intimate family moments with remarkable detail and color accuracy. These examples underscore the camera's ability to deliver professional-quality photos, making it a valuable tool for anyone looking to elevate their photography game.
Source: Maksym Tymchyk's travel photography of a bird sitting on a birdhouse
Video example
Just as the Canon M50 can capture crisp, vibrant photos, it also excels in the realm of videography. The following video example showcases the incredible capabilities of this camera in action.
From the clarity of 4K UHD videos to the smoothness ensured by its Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system, the Canon M50 provides an unparalleled video shooting experience. This example highlights the camera's ability to capture a range of scenarios, from serene landscapes to dynamic action sequences, with astonishing clarity and color precision.
Witnessing these examples firsthand, you'll undoubtedly appreciate the Canon M50's potential to take your videography to the next level, even in 2024.
How the Canon M50 compares to the competition
Compared to other cameras on the market, the Canon M50 stands out for its advanced features and affordability. The Sony a6400 and the Fujifilm X-T30 are also popular options in this price range, but both lack the M50's vari-angle touchscreen.
- Vari-angle Touchscreen: The Canon M50 features a vari-angle touchscreen, allowing the user to adjust the screen for optimal viewing and control during shooting. This feature is not available in the Sony a6400.
- Autofocus System: The Canon M50 boasts a faster and more accurate autofocus system compared to the Sony a6400. This allows for more precise and quick focusing, providing a superior filming experience.
- Size and Weight: The Canon M50 is lighter and more compact than the Sony a6400, making it a more travel-friendly option for vloggers and YouTubers who are often on the move.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity: Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for quick content transfer. However, users have reported a more seamless and intuitive user experience with the Canon M50.
- Price:
The Canon M50 is generally more affordable than the Sony a6400, making it a more cost-effective choice for the everyday photographer and YouTube creators.
| Feature | Canon EOS M50 | Canon EOS M50 Mark II | Sony a6400 | Fujifilm X-T30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Image Sensor | 24.1MP APS-C CMOS | 24.1MP APS-C CMOS | 24.2MP APS-C CMOS | 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 |
| Processor | DIGIC 8 | DIGIC 8 | BIONZ X | X-Processor 4 |
| ISO Range | 100-25600 (expandable to 51200) | 100-25600 (expandable to 51200) | 100-32000 (expandable to 102400) | 160-12800 (expandable to 80-51200) |
| Autofocus | Dual Pixel CMOS AF | Dual Pixel CMOS AF | Fast Hybrid AF (425 points) | Intelligent Hybrid AF (425 points) |
| Continuous Shooting | 10 fps (single AF), 7.4 fps (continuous AF) | 10 fps (single AF), 7.4 fps (continuous AF) | 11 fps | 8 fps |
| Video Resolution | 4K at 24fps, 1080p at 60fps | 4K at 24fps, 1080p at 60fps | 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 120fps | 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 120fps |
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic (2.36M dots) | Electronic (2.36M dots) | Electronic (2.36M dots) | Electronic (2.36M dots) |
| LCD Screen | 3.0" Vari-Angle Touchscreen (1.04M dots) | 3.0" Vari-Angle Touchscreen (1.04M dots) | 3.0" Tilting Touchscreen (921.6K dots) | 3.0" Tilting Touchscreen (1.04M dots) |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, NFC | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Weight | 387g | 388g | 403g | 383g |
| Dimensions | 116.3 x 88.1 x 58.7mm | 116.3 x 88.1 x 58.7mm | 120.0 x 66.9 x 59.7mm | 118.4 x 82.8 x 46.8mm |
Canon M50 vs Canon M50 Mark II
When comparing the Canon M50 to its successor, the Canon M50 Mark II, it is clear that both cameras share a similar pedigree and core features, however, some key improvements set the Mark II apart.
- Autofocus Upgrade: The Mark II boasts an upgraded Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which improves the autofocus speed and accuracy when compared to the original M50. The newer model also supports Eye Detection AF in all shooting modes, a feature not available in the original M50.
- Video Capabilities: While both cameras offer 4K video recording, the M50 Mark II provides vertical video support, making it a stronger choice for social media content creators.
- Streaming Enhancements: The Mark II has been optimized for live streaming with built-in YouTube live streaming support, offering a significant advantage for vloggers and online content creators.
- Touchscreen Controls: The Mark II has improved touchscreen controls, allowing for more intuitive use during shooting.
Despite these enhancements, the original Canon M50 remains an excellent choice for photographers and videographers. Especially for those who can find it at a discounted price under $500, the M50 provides a robust set of features that meet the requirements of most content creators and hobbyist photographers alike. Its lighter weight and compact size, along with its impressive autofocus system, make it a versatile camera for a variety of uses. If the additional features of the Mark II aren't crucial for your specific needs, the Canon M50 is still a worthy contender in its price category.
Our final thoughts on the Canon m50
Overall, the Canon M50 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a camera that offers advanced features at an affordable price. With its lightweight design, vari-angle touchscreen, fast autofocus system, and exceptional image quality, this camera is perfect for all types of photography.
Whether you're a professional photographer, content creator, or simply looking to capture memories, the Canon M50 is worth considering. So if you're in the market for a new camera, the Canon M50 is definitely a contender and our personal pick as the best camera for all occasions.
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About the author: Brandon Sanders
Tech enthusiast, gamer, and digital wizard.
Brandon Sanders is an ardent technology enthusiast, photographer, gamer, and digital marketing aficionado. With his deep-rooted passion for all things tech, he is always on the lookout for the latest gadgets and software to enrich his digital experience. As a photographer, Brandon finds joy in capturing the intricate beauty of life's fleeting moments, often exploring his environment through the lens of his camera. He thrives on employing innovative digital strategies and exploring emerging trends, always seeking to enhance the visibility and impact of brands in the digital space. More than just hobbies, these facets of Brandon's life reflect his tireless quest for knowledge, creativity, and the drive to stay ahead in the fast-paced digital era.
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