CameraReview

Canon EOS 80D vs Canon EOS M50 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS 80D
Canon
Canon EOS 80D
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
64
SCORE
$529.99
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Canon EOS M50
Canon
Canon EOS M50
Mirrorless · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
59
SCORE
$474.48
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonCanon
Model EOS 80DEOS M50
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162018
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
18/02/201626/02/2018
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 139 x 105 x 79 mm116 x 88 x 59 mm
Camera weight 730 g390 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05024 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
15 x 22.514.9 x 22.3
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
7 fps04510 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EF-SCanon EF-M
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 6Digic 8
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
160003003280000256003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1003020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
256003003280000512003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
4503001430300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Electronic
Viewfinder dots N/A236000009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
1920 x 10803840 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MOV, MP4MPEG-4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDTFT LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000010400001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NLP-E12
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
960 shots1505000235 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS 80D outshines the Canon EOS M50 with a score of 64/100, while the M50 trails behind at 59/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as their release years (2016 and 2018) and their respective announcement dates in February.

The EOS 80D, a DSLR camera, excels with its larger size (139 x 105 x 79mm) and heavier weight (730g), offering a more robust and stable shooting experience. On the other hand, the EOS M50, a mirrorless camera, is more compact (116 x 88 x 59mm) and lightweight (390g), making it easier to carry and handle during travel or casual photography.

Considering the price, the EOS 80D launched at $1200, while the EOS M50 was more affordable at $779. Despite the EOS 80D’s higher score and better performance, the EOS M50’s lower price and portability make it a viable option, depending on individual needs and preferences.

Canon EOS 80D vs EOS M50 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 80D outperforms the Canon EOS M50 in terms of optics, with a score of 63/100 compared to the M50’s 59/100. Both cameras share some common specifications: 24.2 and 24 megapixels respectively, CMOS sensors, APS-C sensor sizes, and no image stabilization. However, there are key differences that set them apart and contribute to the 80D’s higher score.

The 80D’s advantages include its superior DXOMARK sensor score of 79, compared to the M50’s 58. This means the 80D has a better sensor performance, resulting in improved image quality. Additionally, the 80D uses the Canon EF-S lens mount, which offers compatibility with a wider range of lenses than the M50’s Canon EF-M mount. This allows for greater flexibility when selecting lenses for various shooting situations.

On the other hand, the M50 does have a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, compared to the 80D’s 7 frames per second. This could be beneficial for capturing action shots or fast-moving subjects. However, this advantage is offset by the lower sensor score and limited lens compatibility.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS 80D stands as the better choice for those prioritizing optics and image quality. Its higher sensor score and wider lens compatibility make it a more versatile option for photographers. While the M50 does offer a faster shooting speed, the overall difference in optics performance favors the 80D.

Canon EOS 80D vs EOS M50 Video Performance

The Canon EOS M50 outperforms the Canon EOS 80D in video capabilities with a score of 91/100, compared to the 80D’s score of 70/100. Both cameras share some common features in their video specifications, such as built-in time-lapse functionality.

The EOS M50 excels in video quality and performance due to its higher max video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), while the EOS 80D only offers Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. Additionally, the M50 boasts a max video frame rate of 120fps, surpassing the 80D’s 60fps. These features contribute to the M50’s superior video capabilities, providing users with sharper, more detailed footage and smoother slow-motion effects.

However, the EOS 80D still holds some advantages over the M50. For instance, its Full HD resolution is sufficient for most casual users and consumes less storage space compared to 4K videos. This may be beneficial for those who prioritize storage capacity and do not require the highest video resolution available.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS M50 is the better choice for those seeking advanced video capabilities, offering 4K resolution and a higher frame rate for enhanced video quality and performance. Meanwhile, the Canon EOS 80D remains a viable option for users who value storage capacity and find Full HD resolution satisfactory for their needs.

Canon EOS 80D vs EOS M50 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 80D and Canon EOS M50 both have a feature score of 70/100, indicating that they have similar capabilities. They share several specifications such as a 3-inch screen size, 1040000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, Wi-Fi, and lack of GPS.

The Canon EOS 80D stands out with its more advanced autofocus system, which provides faster and more accurate focusing for both photography and video. This makes it a better option for those who need reliable focusing for various types of photography, from portraits to action shots. However, the EOS 80D does not have Bluetooth, which could be a drawback for some users.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS M50 has the advantage of Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless pairing with compatible devices for easy file transfer and remote control. This feature can be particularly useful for those who frequently share photos on social media or want to control their camera remotely. However, the M50’s autofocus system is not as advanced as the EOS 80D’s, which may affect performance in certain situations.

Taking these points into consideration, the Canon EOS 80D is the better choice for users who prioritize autofocus performance and need a versatile camera for various photography situations. Meanwhile, the Canon EOS M50 is more suitable for those who value Bluetooth connectivity and the convenience it offers for file transfer and remote control. Both cameras have their strengths, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Canon EOS 80D vs EOS M50 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 80D emerges as the clear winner in the storage and battery department, scoring 43/100, while the Canon EOS M50 lags behind with a score of 13/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as having one memory card slot and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-I compatible) memory cards. Additionally, neither camera offers USB charging.

The EOS 80D excels with its impressive battery life of 960 shots, using the LP-E6N battery type. This significantly surpasses the EOS M50’s battery life of merely 235 shots with its LP-E12 battery type. Consequently, the EOS 80D allows for extended shooting sessions without frequent battery replacements or recharging.

However, there are no notable advantages for the EOS M50 in this particular category. The EOS 80D’s superior battery life and identical storage options render it the better choice for those prioritizing storage and battery performance.

Canon EOS 80D vs EOS M50 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 80D vs EOS M50 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 80D or the Canon EOS M50: