Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
| Brand | Canon | Sony |
| Model | EOS M5 | a6500 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2016 | 2016 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
15/09/2016 | 06/10/2016 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 116 x 89 x 61 mm | 120 x 67 x 53 mm |
| Camera weight | 427 g | 453 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
24.2 MP050 | 24.2 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
6000 x 4000 | 6000 x 4000 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. |
CMOS | CMOS |
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. |
14.9 x 22.3 | 15.6 x 23.5 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | APS-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. |
9 fps045 | 11 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-M | Sony E |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Digic 7 | Bionz X |
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. |
3:2 | 3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
400080032000 | 400080032000 |
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. |
490300 | 4250300 |
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. |
Electronic | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | 236000009900000 | 235929609900000 |
| 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 HD | 4K |
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 1080 | 3840 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 fps | 30 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. |
MP4 | MPEG-4, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0 |
| 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 | LCD | 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 | 3.2" | 3" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
16200001150001500000 | 9216001150001500000 |
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 | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✗ |
| Battery type | LP-E17 | NP-FW50 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
295 shots1505000 | 350 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Sony a6500 outperforms the Canon EOS M5 with a score of 72/100 compared to the Canon’s 60/100. Both cameras are mirrorless, released in 2016, and have similar sizes and weights. The Canon EOS M5 measures 116 x 89 x 61mm and weighs 427g, while the Sony a6500 is slightly larger at 120 x 67 x 53mm and heavier at 453g.
The Sony a6500 is better in terms of performance, earning a higher score. However, the Canon EOS M5 has a lower launch price of $980 compared to the Sony a6500’s $1400, making it more affordable. Although the Sony a6500 has a higher score, the Canon EOS M5 might be a suitable option if budget is a concern.
The Sony a6500 emerges as the winner in the optics department with a score of 74/100, while the Canon EOS M5 trails behind with a score of 64/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 24.2 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, and an APS-C sensor size. However, the Sony a6500 outshines the Canon EOS M5 in certain aspects, making it the superior choice in terms of optics.
The Sony a6500 boasts a higher shooting speed of 11 compared to the Canon EOS M5’s 9, which allows for better performance in capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the Sony a6500 has a higher DXOMARK score of 85 for its sensor, while the Canon EOS M5 scores 77, signifying better overall image quality. The image stabilization feature in the Sony a6500 is another advantage, as it reduces camera shake for sharper images, a feature the Canon EOS M5 lacks.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS M5 has a different lens mount, the Canon EF-M, compared to the Sony a6500’s Sony E mount. This difference does not necessarily make one camera better than the other, but it may affect the choice of lenses available to the user.
In terms of optics, the Sony a6500 is the clear winner due to its higher shooting speed, better sensor performance, and the presence of image stabilization. The Canon EOS M5, while sharing some common specs, falls short in these crucial areas. The choice of lens mount may be a deciding factor for some users, but the overall optics performance of the Sony a6500 is superior to that of the Canon EOS M5.
The Sony a6500 outperforms the Canon EOS M5 in video capabilities, scoring 77/100 compared to the M5’s 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Sony a6500 surpasses the Canon EOS M5 in various aspects, making it the superior choice for videography.
The Sony a6500 has a higher maximum video resolution, offering 4K (3840 x 2160) compared to the Canon EOS M5’s Full HD (1920 x 1080). This results in crisper, more detailed footage with the a6500. Additionally, the Sony a6500 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, while the Canon EOS M5’s maximum is only 60fps. The a6500’s higher frame rate enables smoother slow-motion footage and better overall video quality.
Despite its lower score, the Canon EOS M5 does have one advantage over the Sony a6500: built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create time-lapse videos directly in-camera, without the need for additional software or accessories. The Sony a6500, on the other hand, lacks this convenient feature.
Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, the Sony a6500 is the superior choice due to its higher video resolution and frame rate. The Canon EOS M5, while not as impressive in terms of video quality, does offer the convenience of built-in time-lapse functionality. Therefore, users who prioritize video quality should opt for the Sony a6500, while those who value ease of use for time-lapse creation may prefer the Canon EOS M5.
The Sony a6500 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 81/100, while the Canon EOS M5 scores 61/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI connectivity, and the absence of GPS.
The Sony a6500 outperforms the Canon EOS M5 in terms of screen size and resolution, boasting a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 921,600 dots. Additionally, the a6500 has Bluetooth connectivity, which the EOS M5 lacks. This advantage allows for seamless connection with other devices and enhances the overall user experience.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS M5 has a slightly larger screen size of 3.2 inches but with a significantly higher resolution of 1,620,000 dots. This results in a sharper and clearer display, making it easier for users to review images and navigate menus. However, this advantage does not compensate for the lower overall feature score and lack of Bluetooth connectivity.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a6500 stands out as the better camera in terms of features. Its higher score reflects its superior specifications, such as the inclusion of Bluetooth and a higher resolution screen. While the Canon EOS M5 has a larger screen size, it falls short in other aspects, making the Sony a6500 the clear choice for those prioritizing advanced features in their camera selection.
The Sony a6500 outperforms the Canon EOS M5 in storage and battery, scoring 21/100 compared to the M5’s 16/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the a6500 also accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo cards, providing more storage flexibility.
The Sony a6500 has a longer battery life, offering 350 shots per charge, while the Canon EOS M5 only delivers 295 shots. Both cameras use different battery types, with the a6500 using an NP-FW50 battery and the M5 using an LP-E17 battery. Neither camera supports USB charging.
Despite the Canon EOS M5’s lower score, it does not have any significant advantages in storage and battery over the Sony a6500. The a6500’s higher score reflects its better battery life and additional memory card compatibility. As a result, the Sony a6500 is the superior choice for storage and battery capabilities.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS M5 or the Sony a6500: