Canon M50 vs M6: Which Mirrorless Camera Reigns Supreme?
Choosing the right camera can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re wading through a sea of options. If you’re considering a mirrorless camera, the Canon M50 and M6 are popular choices, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This comparison will help you navigate the features and determine which camera best suits your needs.
The Canon EOS M50 is known for its user-friendly interface and impressive video capabilities, making it a favorite for vloggers and beginners. On the other hand, the Canon EOS M6 offers a more compact design and a focus on performance for photographers who prioritize speed and image quality. Both cameras boast excellent image quality and a range of features.
We will delve into their key differences, including image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and overall handling. By the end of this comparison, you’ll have a clear understanding of the Canon M50 vs M6 and be able to make an informed decision for your photography journey.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | M50 | M6 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Resolution | 24.1MP | 24.2MP |
| ISO Range | 100-25600 | 100-25600 |
| Continuous Shooting | 10 fps | 9 fps |
| Video Resolution | 4K | 1080p |
| Viewfinder | EVF | Optional EVF |
| LCD Screen | Fully Articulating | Tilting |
| Autofocus Points | 143 | 49 |
| Built-in Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Body Material | Plastic | Plastic |
| Weight (Body Only) | 387g | 390g |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Image Processor | DIGIC 8 | DIGIC 7 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor
- Canon M50: Features a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor, offering excellent image quality and low-light performance. It excels in capturing detailed photos and videos, but can sometimes suffer from rolling shutter effects in video.
- M6: Also equipped with a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, delivering comparable image quality and resolution to the M50. Its sensor performance is reliable, but it may not offer significant advantages over the M50 in this area.
- Winner: Tie
Autofocus
- Canon M50: Boasts Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF, providing fast and accurate autofocus for both photos and videos. It offers reliable subject tracking and performs well in various shooting situations, but can sometimes struggle in very low light.
- M6: Also incorporates Dual Pixel CMOS AF, delivering similar autofocus performance to the M50. It provides quick and precise focusing, but may not be as advanced as newer systems.
- Winner: Tie
Video Capabilities
- Canon M50: Offers 4K video recording, although with a significant crop factor. It also provides 1080p at higher frame rates. Its video quality is good, but the crop can limit wide-angle shooting.
- M6: Records 1080p video, lacking 4K capabilities. While it can produce good quality Full HD footage, it’s a disadvantage compared to the M50 in terms of resolution and future-proofing.
- Winner: M50
Viewfinder
- Canon M50: Includes a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is useful for composing shots in bright sunlight and provides a more traditional shooting experience.
- M6: Lacks a built-in viewfinder; it requires an optional external EVF, which adds to the cost and bulk.
- Winner: M50
Body Design and Ergonomics
- Canon M50: Has a more DSLR-like design with a prominent grip, making it comfortable to hold and handle. It’s relatively compact but might be slightly bulkier than the M6.
- M6: Features a smaller, more compact design, making it more pocketable and discreet. However, the lack of a substantial grip can make it less comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
- Winner: Tie
Screen
- Canon M50: Has a fully articulating touchscreen LCD, allowing for versatile shooting angles, including selfies and vlogging.
- M6: Has a tilting touchscreen LCD, which offers good flexibility but is less versatile than the M50’s fully articulating screen.
- Winner: M50
Continuous Shooting
- Canon M50: Can shoot at up to 10 frames per second (fps) with AF locked. This is good for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- M6: Shoots at up to 9 fps, which is still quite fast but slightly slower than the M50.
- Winner: M50
Price and Availability
- Canon M50: Generally more readily available and often offered at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- M6: Can be more difficult to find new, and its price may vary depending on availability and condition.
- Winner: M50
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Video Features | canon m50 |
| Viewfinder | canon m50 |
| Ergonomics | Tie |
| Compactness | m6 |
| Image Processor | canon m50 |
What They Have in Common
- Sensor Size: Both cameras feature an APS-C sensor, offering a good balance between image quality and camera size.
- Image Quality: Both cameras deliver excellent image quality, with sharp details and accurate color reproduction in good lighting conditions.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy image transfer and remote control via a smartphone app.
- Touchscreen Lcd: Both cameras include a touchscreen LCD for intuitive navigation and control of camera settings.
- Video Recording: Both cameras are capable of recording Full HD video, suitable for everyday use.
- Interchangeable Lenses: Both cameras use interchangeable lenses, allowing users to expand their creative options.
Canon M50 Vs M6 Buying Guide
Image Quality and Sensor Performance
Both the Canon M50 and M6 share the same 24.1MP APS-C sensor, leading to comparable image quality in most scenarios. They both deliver excellent detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance. However, the M6 might have a slight edge in some situations due to its more advanced image processor, potentially resulting in slightly improved noise reduction and color accuracy. The difference is often negligible for the average user, and both cameras produce stunning results. Consider your shooting style, not just the technical specs, when deciding.
Autofocus Capabilities
The M50 boasts Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus, known for its fast and accurate performance, especially in live view and video modes. The M6, while also featuring Dual Pixel CMOS AF, might lag slightly behind in terms of the number of selectable focus points and the responsiveness of the autofocus system. For action photography or video recording, the M50 generally offers a more reliable autofocus experience. Both cameras offer face and eye detection, which greatly improve portraits.
Ergonomics and Handling
The M50 features a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is a significant advantage for composing shots in bright sunlight or for a more traditional shooting experience. The M6 lacks a built-in EVF, though you can purchase one separately. The M6 is more compact and streamlined, making it a better choice for travel or everyday carry. Consider which features are important to you. The M50’s EVF is a huge plus for many users.
Video Recording Features
The M50 stands out with its 4K video recording capabilities, albeit with a significant crop factor. The M6, while still capable of excellent 1080p video, lacks 4K. Both cameras offer good video quality, but the M50 is the clear winner if you prioritize 4K recording. Consider the resolution of your projects. Both offer useful features like slow-motion video. The M50’s 4K is useful despite the crop.
Lens Compatibility and Ecosystem
Both cameras use the Canon EF-M lens mount, which has a growing selection of lenses, though it’s still smaller than the offerings for Canon’s DSLR cameras. They can also use EF and EF-S lenses with an adapter. The availability of EF-M lenses is growing. Consider the lenses you need now and anticipate needing in the future. The EF-M system is a capable one, and adapters add versatility.
Price and Value
The price difference between the M50 and M6 can vary depending on the specific kit and current promotions. Generally, the M50 is positioned as the more affordable option. Assess your budget and weigh it against the features you need. Consider what comes included in the kit. The M50 offers incredible value for its feature set, especially with its 4K video and EVF, making it a compelling choice for many users.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy canon m50 If…
- You want 4K video recording.
- You prefer a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF).
- You value a fully articulating LCD screen for versatile shooting angles.
- You want a more modern image processor.
Buy m6 If…
- You want a more compact and streamlined design.
- You prefer a camera with a more traditional control layout.
- You prioritize a camera with a wider range of compatible accessories, including an optional EVF.
- You are looking for a slightly more compact camera body.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are user-friendly, but the M50, with its built-in viewfinder and simpler menu system, might be slightly easier for beginners to pick up and use. The M6, while also easy to use, may require a separate purchase of an EVF and has a slightly more complex layout. Both cameras offer helpful shooting modes and guides.
Does the M50 have a microphone jack?
Yes, the Canon M50 features a 3.5mm microphone jack, allowing you to connect an external microphone for improved audio quality during video recording. This is a significant advantage over the M6. This is a key feature for aspiring videographers. The M6 does not have this feature, which makes the M50 more versatile for video.
What is the battery life like on both cameras?
Battery life is a common concern. Both cameras have relatively short battery life, especially when using the EVF on the M50 or shooting video. It’s recommended to purchase extra batteries. The M50, with its EVF, often drains the battery more quickly. Always have a spare ready! Consider a battery grip for extended shooting.
Can I use my existing Canon DSLR lenses with these cameras?
Yes, both the M50 and M6 can be used with Canon EF and EF-S lenses via a Canon EF-EOS M adapter. This allows you to leverage your existing lens collection. The adapter maintains autofocus functionality. This expands the lens options greatly. This is a cost-effective way to use existing lenses.
Does the M50 have image stabilization?
The M50 does not have in-body image stabilization (IBIS). However, it relies on lens-based image stabilization (IS) if the lens you are using features it. This can still provide effective stabilization for handheld shooting. Make sure your lens has image stabilization. IBIS provides better stabilization, but IS lenses are sufficient for most users.
How do the cameras compare in terms of size and weight?
The M6 is slightly smaller and lighter than the M50, making it a more compact option for travel. The M50’s built-in viewfinder adds some bulk. The difference isn’t huge, but it is noticeable. Consider how important size and weight are to you. Both cameras are quite portable. The M6’s size makes it easier to carry around.
Which camera offers better video quality?
While both cameras offer good video quality, the M50 has the edge with its 4K video recording capability, though it comes with a significant crop. The M6 is limited to 1080p. The M50’s 4K recording is impressive for its price point. Choose the camera that best suits your video needs and preferred resolutions. Both can record excellent video.
Final Verdict
The Canon M50 and M6 both offer excellent performance, but they cater to slightly different needs. The M50, with its built-in viewfinder, 4K video recording, and generally lower price, offers a compelling package for beginners and those prioritizing video. The M6, with its more compact design, might appeal to those seeking portability. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
Winner: Canon M50