Canon M100 vs M50: Which Mirrorless Camera Reigns Supreme?
Choosing your first mirrorless camera can feel overwhelming! With so many options, it’s tough to know where to start. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head battle, pitting the Canon EOS M100 against its slightly more advanced sibling, the Canon EOS M50.
Both cameras offer a compelling entry point into the world of interchangeable lens photography, but they cater to different needs and budgets. The Canon M100 is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it ideal for beginners. The Canon M50, on the other hand, boasts a more robust feature set and improved performance.
Whether you’re a casual snapper or an aspiring enthusiast, this comparison will help you determine which camera best fits your photographic journey. We’ll examine key areas like image quality, video capabilities, and overall user experience to provide a comprehensive analysis. Get ready to discover which Canon mirrorless camera comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | M100 | M50 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Size | APS-C | APS-C |
| Megapixels | 24.2 MP | 24.1 MP |
| ISO Range | 100-25600 | 100-25600 |
| Autofocus Points | 49 | 143 |
| Continuous Shooting | 6.1 fps | 10 fps |
| Video Resolution | 1080p | 4K |
| Viewfinder | No | Yes |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| LCD Size | 3.0 inch | 3.0 inch |
| Weight (Body Only) | 299g | 387g |
| Microphone Input | No | Yes |
| Image Processor | DIGIC 7 | DIGIC 8 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor
- Canon M100: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor. Offers good image quality and low-light performance for its class. Lacks some of the advanced features of the M50 sensor, but still delivers excellent results for everyday photography.
- M50: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor. Similar resolution to the M100, but with a newer generation processor (DIGIC 8) that offers better noise reduction and improved autofocus performance. It handles higher ISO settings more effectively.
- Winner: m50
Autofocus System
- Canon M100: 49-point AF system. Provides decent autofocus performance, but can struggle in challenging lighting conditions or with fast-moving subjects. Not as advanced as the M50’s system.
- M50: Dual Pixel CMOS AF with up to 143 AF points (depending on the lens). Offers significantly improved autofocus performance, including faster focusing speeds, better subject tracking, and more reliable performance in low light.
- Winner: m50
Video Recording
- Canon M100: Records 1080p Full HD video at up to 60fps. Lacks 4K video recording capabilities, which limits its appeal for users who prioritize high-resolution video.
- M50: Records 4K video at 24fps and 1080p Full HD video at up to 60fps. The inclusion of 4K video gives it a significant advantage for users who need the highest video resolution and the ability to crop in post-production.
- Winner: m50
Viewfinder
- Canon M100: Does not have a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). This can make it difficult to compose shots in bright sunlight and can limit the shooting experience for some users.
- M50: Features a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). This provides a clear and bright view of the scene, even in bright sunlight, and enhances the overall shooting experience.
- Winner: m50
Processor
- Canon M100: DIGIC 7 processor. Provides good image processing capabilities for its time, but is slower than the processor in the M50.
- M50: DIGIC 8 processor. Offers significant improvements in image processing speed, noise reduction, and autofocus performance compared to the M100’s processor.
- Winner: m50
Continuous Shooting Speed
- Canon M100: Shoots at up to 6.1 frames per second (fps). A respectable speed for its class, suitable for capturing some action.
- M50: Shoots at up to 10 fps (with one-shot AF) and 7.4 fps (with continuous AF). Significantly faster than the M100, making it more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- Winner: m50
Display
- Canon M100: 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen. Provides a user-friendly interface for navigating menus and framing shots.
- M50: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen. Offers similar functionality to the M100’s display, but the vari-angle design allows for more flexible shooting angles, including selfies and vlogging.
- Winner: m50
Connectivity
- Canon M100: Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity. Allows for easy image transfer and remote control via a smartphone or tablet.
- M50: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity. Offers the same connectivity features as the M100, plus Bluetooth, which enables a more persistent and energy-efficient connection for image transfer and remote control.
- Winner: m50
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Image Quality | M50 (Slight Advantage) |
| Video Quality | M50 |
| Autofocus | M50 |
| Ergonomics | M50 |
| Portability | M100 |
| Features | M50 |
What They Have in Common:
- Sensor Size: Both cameras feature an APS-C sensor, providing a good balance between image quality and camera size, resulting in excellent image quality and shallow depth of field capabilities.
- Touchscreen: Both the M100 and M50 are equipped with a touchscreen interface, making navigation and focus selection simple and intuitive.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easy image transfer and remote control via a smartphone or tablet.
- Image Quality: Both cameras produce excellent image quality for their class, with rich colors and good detail, particularly in well-lit conditions.
- Lens Compatibility: Both cameras use the Canon EF-M lens mount, giving users access to a growing range of compact lenses designed specifically for these mirrorless cameras.
- Video Recording: Both cameras offer video recording capabilities, although the M50 offers 4K video, while the M100 records in 1080p.
Canon M100 Vs M50 Buying Guide
Image Quality and Sensor Performance
Both the Canon M100 and M50 share a similar 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, leading to comparable image quality. This means you can expect excellent detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance from both cameras. The M50, however, benefits from the newer DIGIC 8 processor, which allows for slightly better noise reduction and improved image processing, especially at higher ISO settings. The M50 also offers 4K video recording, a feature absent in the M100, impacting overall image processing capabilities.
Autofocus Capabilities
The Canon M50 boasts a more advanced autofocus system. It features Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF, providing significantly faster and more reliable autofocus performance, particularly in live view and video modes. This system allows for more accurate subject tracking and smoother focus transitions. The M100 also has autofocus, but it’s not as advanced, leading to occasional hunting in challenging lighting conditions or when tracking moving subjects. The M50’s autofocus is a noticeable upgrade.
Video Recording Features
The M50 takes the lead in video capabilities. It offers 4K video recording at 24fps, while the M100 is limited to Full HD (1080p). The M50 also provides a microphone jack, allowing for the use of external microphones for improved audio quality. The M100 lacks a microphone jack. This makes the M50 a more versatile option for vloggers and videographers seeking higher resolution and better audio options. The addition of 4K and a mic jack significantly boosts the M50’s video prowess.
Design and Ergonomics
The M50 features a more refined design, including an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is absent in the M100. The EVF provides a clear view of the scene, particularly useful in bright sunlight. The M50 has a more substantial grip, making it easier to hold and handle, especially with larger lenses. The M100 is smaller and lighter, appealing to those seeking portability. However, the M50’s added features, like the EVF and improved grip, enhance the overall shooting experience for many.
Lens Compatibility and Ecosystem
Both cameras use the Canon EF-M lens mount, meaning they are compatible with the same set of dedicated mirrorless lenses. However, the EF-M lens selection is more limited compared to Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses for DSLRs. With an adapter, both cameras can use Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses, expanding the lens options considerably. Consider the availability of EF-M lenses if you want a compact setup. Adapters add bulk but open up a wider selection of lenses.
Price and Value
The M100 is generally more affordable than the M50, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, the M50’s added features, such as 4K video, a better autofocus system, and an EVF, justify its higher price for many users. The value proposition depends on your needs. If video features and advanced autofocus are important, the M50 is worth the investment. If you prioritize portability and cost, the M100 is still a capable camera.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy M100 If…
- You prioritize a smaller, more compact camera body.
- You are on a tighter budget.
- You don’t need 4K video recording.
- You’re primarily interested in casual photography and social media sharing.
Buy M50 If…
- You want the best possible image quality, including 4K video.
- You need a built-in electronic viewfinder.
- You want a more advanced autofocus system.
- You plan to do more serious video work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Canon M100 and M50?
The M50 has several advantages, including 4K video recording, a more advanced autofocus system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, an electronic viewfinder, and a microphone jack. The M100 is smaller, lighter, and more affordable. The M50 also features a newer processor. Consider these differences based on your specific shooting needs and budget when deciding between the two cameras. These differences significantly influence user experience.
Which camera has better image quality?
Both cameras share a similar 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, so image quality is very comparable in good lighting conditions. The M50’s newer DIGIC 8 processor provides slight improvements in noise reduction and image processing, especially at higher ISOs. However, the differences in image quality are not drastic. The choice largely depends on other factors like video features and autofocus.
Does the M100 have a viewfinder?
No, the Canon M100 does not have a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). You compose your shots using the rear LCD screen. The M50, on the other hand, includes an EVF, which can be useful in bright sunlight. The absence of a viewfinder makes the M100 more compact, while the M50’s EVF offers a more traditional shooting experience. The lack of an EVF is a significant difference.
Can I use external microphones with either camera?
The M50 has a 3.5mm microphone jack, allowing you to connect an external microphone for improved audio quality during video recording. The M100 does not have a microphone jack, so you’re limited to using the built-in microphone, which might not provide the best audio quality. This is a crucial consideration for video creators seeking professional-sounding audio.
Which camera is better for video recording?
The Canon M50 is significantly better for video recording. It offers 4K video recording at 24fps, whereas the M100 is limited to Full HD (1080p). The M50 also has a microphone jack for external microphones. These features make the M50 a more versatile choice for videographers. The M50’s video capabilities are a clear upgrade.
Are the lenses interchangeable between the M100 and M50?
Yes, both cameras use the Canon EF-M lens mount, so they are fully compatible with the same EF-M lenses. You can easily switch lenses between the two cameras. Both cameras can also use Canon EF and EF-S lenses with an adapter. The shared lens mount simplifies lens selection and future lens upgrades. Lens compatibility is a major advantage.
Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are user-friendly and suitable for beginners. The M100 is slightly simpler and more affordable, making it a good entry point. The M50, while more advanced, still has an intuitive interface and offers more features that beginners can grow into. The M100’s portability can be a benefit for casual shooters. Both offer great starting points.
Final Verdict
The Canon M50 emerges as the superior camera due to its more advanced features, including 4K video recording, a superior autofocus system, and an electronic viewfinder. While the M100 is more affordable and compact, the M50 offers a more comprehensive shooting experience, particularly for video enthusiasts. Its improved performance makes it the better overall choice for most users.
Winner: Canon M50