Spec Difference between Canon EOS M100 vs M50 Mirrorless Cameras

Mirrorless cameras have become quite popular these days. In fact, what would make it one of the prime choices is it retains the interchangeable lenses and bigger sensors available on DSLR cameras while doing away the mirror mechanism. This has a bearing on the fact that the mirrorless camera technology is what would give freedom to the manufacturers in producing the more straightforward and lighter models. Canon, one of the prominent Camera manufacturers, has been actively involved in the technology. Two such mirrorless cameras that Canon has introduced in the market are Canon EOS M100 vs M50. We will compare these two devices in today’s post. We assume this comparison should be helpful for you in making an educated decision.

Canon EOS M100 vs M50

Mirrorless cameras are also known as Compact Cameras. The CSC, or Compact System Cameras have been a trend of late, and there have been models that would suit everyone. There are several options – right from the entry level basic models to the full-fledged devices.

Before listing out the differences between the two devices, we would understand what exactly a mirrorless camera is.

Mirrorless Cameras – What Exactly They Are?

What is a mirrorless camera and how does it differ from the DSLR options? Well, the critical difference is the lack of a reflex mirror which forms part of the requirements that are necessary on a DSLR camera. The mirror in the DSLR reflects the light for the optical viewfinder. A mirrorless camera does not come with a reflex mirror.

The imaging sensor on a mirrorless camera is always exposed to the light, and thus you can still have access to the image preview either on the viewfinder or the LCD. The term Mirrorless camera is used for the cameras that have a digital EVF, or no viewfinder at all – but come with interchangeable lenses.

How Do Canon EOS M100 and M50 differ from each Other?

The Canon EOS M50 is the latest entrant in the arena of the mirrorless cameras from Canon. In fact, it is a slightly advanced version in comparison to the entry level model Canon EOS M100. We will differentiate both the cameras based on different features.

The Sensors

Both the cameras come with the same sensor – APS-C. There are a few inherent differences between the two though. The comparison chart here below should offer you a bright idea of the similarities and differences –

The Video Resolution

This can be a huge differentiator between the two competing cameras. The EOS M50 does come with 4K compatibility. In fact, M50 has been considered to be the first camera from Canon family of mirrorless cameras to feature a 4K video shooting capability.

The video shooting abilities offered by M50 would be 4K at 24p/25p, Full HD at 60p and HD at 120p. The EOS M100 can only shoot up to full HD at 60 fps. The M50 also allows for 4K time lapse and time grab features.

However, the 4K feature available leaves a lot to be desired. The autofocus used may be a little unreliable. Moreover, with the crop feature used in 4K mode, the field of view gets considerably reduced.

Rear Monitor

This is yet another differentiating feature that would keep the two competing cameras apart. However, we would consider it as a mere physical difference.

Both the models offer articulations options, but the EOS M50 provides you a multi-angle screen that you would be able to flip on one side and then rotate as per your needs. The M100 can only be tilted in a two-way mechanism. From that perspective, it may not be entirely ideal for the video shooting.

Auto-Focus Mode

Both EOS M50 and M100 come with the similar Auto Focus systems. You would get the same Dual Pixel CMOS AF system on either of the devices. However, there is a difference in the number of focus points available on the individual cameras.

The M50 is advanced in comparison to the M100 even in this case. The EOS M100 comes with 49 focus points and has a 7 x 7 grid. In fact, it would be hovering around 80 percent of the sensor area. The M50, on the other hand, offers you anywhere between 99 to 143 focus points. The exact number of focus points you would get will depend upon the lens used. The camera would utilize more than 88 percent of the sensor area.

The EVF Option

Under normal circumstances, an entry level camera does not come with an Electronic View Finder. However, Canon has been quite generous with the EOS M50 and has equipped it with 0.39 type EVF on the device. You would find it at the center of the body as in the case of a DSLR.

The M100 does not have a built-in viewfinder. It also does not offer an option for adding an external EVF. It is a hot she model and thus does not support adding an EVF.

Support For RAW Formats

Both M50 and M100 offer you the RAW converter support. However, M50 has also implemented the new CR3 14-bit RAW format as well. This format can reduce the file size by up to around 30 to 40 percent without affecting the original resolution. This will ensure that you would be able to save more files on your SD card.

Battery Consumption

This is an area where the M100 scores over M50. It can shoot up to 295 photos on a single charge. The M50, on the other hand, can come up with only 235 shots per charge. In fact, this has been considered to be the worst result among all the mirrorless cameras from Canon. However, there could be a few variations as it would be dependent on how you use the camera in the real world circumstances. On paper at least, the M100 takes the lead on the M50.

Silent Shutter Mode

Silent Shutter is one of the features that would help you in such situations where you would want to remain discrete while shooting with the camera. The best examples can be lectures, church services or similar other functions where silence or decorum is much needed. In fact, EOS M50 is the only camera in the mirrorless camera range from Canon that features a silent Shutter option. The M100 lacks the silent shutter mode.

A Tabular Comparison Between M100 and M50

A tabulated mode of observation should be helpful in understanding both the models from a closer perspective. It helps in a better comparison and thus enables you to choose the best option among the two.

What inferences can we draw from the tabulated comparison chart as above? Well, we find the EOS M50 a better option. The Canon EOS M50 offers several advantages over the M100 regarding a faster camera performance, a more rapid and accurate autofocus feature and the presence of an optical image stabilizer. The better video recording and a dedicated microphone connector should be the features that would make your videos more lively and realistic.

Our Verdict

Which among them would we suggest our readers? Well, you might already have found through the comparison presented herewith, the Canon EOS M50 scores over the M100 based on several important aspects. In fact, except the digital video stabilization and battery capacity – the M50 offers you additional features and better image quality. The only areas that the M100 can beat the M50 are the compact build that it provides and the value for money feature.

If you are looking for a mirrorless camera that is portable enough, smaller in size and low price, you can go for the EOS M100. However, if you are the one who does not mind trading the price for the better features – then the M50 should be your prime choice – thanks to the unique and advanced features that the camera comes with.

Which among these devices have you chosen? Do share your views and opinions with us. Your feedback will help our readers and us in understanding the concepts and features a tad better.