What To Know
- If you’re considering a Canon DSLR but are unsure whether to go with the older EOS 500D or the newer mirrorless EOS M50 Mark II, you’ve come to the right place.
- The EF-M 15-45mm lens offers a wider field of view at the wide end (15mm equivalent to 24mm on a full-frame camera), making it ideal for landscapes and architectural photography.
- The Canon EOS 500D is a traditional DSLR with a larger body and a viewfinder.
Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. If you’re considering a Canon DSLR but are unsure whether to go with the older EOS 500D or the newer mirrorless EOS M50 Mark II, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each camera, along with their respective kit lenses, Canon EOS 500D Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS vs Canon EOS M50 Mark II Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM, to help you make an informed decision.
The Canon EOS 500D: A Classic DSLR
Released in 2009, the Canon EOS 500D was a revolutionary camera for its time. It offered impressive image quality, user-friendly features, and a relatively affordable price point. Let’s explore its key features:
- Sensor: 15.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor.
- Autofocus: 9-point AF system with cross-type sensors in the center.
- Shooting Speed: Up to 3.4 frames per second.
- Video: 720p HD video recording at 20fps.
- Connectivity: SD card slot, USB 2.0, composite video out.
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II: A Modern Mirrorless Marvel
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a much newer camera released in 2020. It boasts significant advancements in technology, offering a more compact and versatile shooting experience. Let’s take a look at its key features:
- Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor.
- Autofocus: 143-point AF system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, covering almost the entire sensor area.
- Shooting Speed: Up to 10 frames per second with continuous autofocus.
- Video: 4K UHD video recording at 24/25/30fps, 1080p Full HD video at 120fps.
- Connectivity: SD card slot, USB-C, HDMI, microphone input, headphone jack.
The Kit Lenses: Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS vs Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM
Both cameras come bundled with a standard zoom lens:
- Canon EOS 500D: Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS.
- Canon EOS M50 Mark II: Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM.
While both lenses provide a versatile focal range for everyday photography, there are some key differences:
- Focal Length: The EF-M 15-45mm lens offers a wider field of view at the wide end (15mm equivalent to 24mm on a full-frame camera), making it ideal for landscapes and architectural photography.
- Image Stabilization: Both lenses feature image stabilization, helping to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images.
- Autofocus: The EF-M 15-45mm lens boasts STM (Stepping Motor) technology, providing quiet and smooth autofocus, especially useful for video recording.
Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors
The Canon EOS 500D’s 15.1MP sensor delivers decent image quality, especially in good lighting conditions. However, its smaller pixel size and older technology can result in more noise at higher ISO settings.
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II’s 24.1MP sensor, on the other hand, offers significantly better image quality with greater detail and lower noise levels across the ISO range. Its larger pixel size also allows for better low-light performance.
Autofocus: A Clear Winner
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II‘s autofocus system is a clear winner. Its 143-point Dual Pixel CMOS AF covers almost the entire sensor area, providing fast, accurate, and reliable autofocus, even in challenging lighting conditions. The EOS 500D’s 9-point AF system, while sufficient for basic photography, struggles in low light and with moving subjects.
Video Capabilities: The Future is Mirrorless
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II offers a significant advantage in video recording capabilities. It can capture 4K UHD video at up to 30fps, while the EOS 500D is limited to 720p HD video at 20fps. The M50 Mark II also boasts 1080p Full HD video recording at 120fps for slow-motion effects.
Ergonomics and Design: A Matter of Preference
The Canon EOS 500D is a traditional DSLR with a larger body and a viewfinder. It might feel more comfortable for users accustomed to DSLRs, but it’s bulkier and heavier than the EOS M50 Mark II.
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II, being a mirrorless camera, is significantly smaller and lighter, making it more portable and convenient for travel photography. It features a tilting touchscreen LCD that can be used for framing shots, menu navigation, and touch-to-focus.
Connectivity: Modern Features in the M50 Mark II
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II offers a wider range of connectivity options, including USB-C for faster data transfer, HDMI for external monitor output, and a microphone input for better audio recording. The EOS 500D is limited to USB 2.0, composite video out, and no microphone input.
The Verdict: Which Camera Should You Choose?
The decision ultimately boils down to your specific needs and budget.
Choose the Canon EOS 500D if:
- You’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability.
- You’re comfortable with the size and weight of a traditional DSLR.
- You don’t need advanced video recording capabilities.
Choose the Canon EOS M50 Mark II if:
- You want a more modern and versatile camera with better image quality and autofocus.
- You prioritize portability and convenience.
- You need advanced video recording capabilities.
The Future is Mirrorless: A Final Thought
While the Canon EOS 500D was a great camera for its time, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II represents the future of photography. Its advanced technology, compact design, and versatile features make it a compelling choice for both amateur and enthusiast photographers.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Is the Canon EOS 500D still a good camera in 2023?
A: While the Canon EOS 500D is a classic camera, it’s significantly outdated compared to newer models. Its image quality and autofocus performance are limited, and it lacks modern features like 4K video recording.
Q: Can I use Canon EF-S lenses on the Canon EOS M50 Mark II?
A: No, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II uses the Canon EF-M lens mount. You’ll need to use Canon EF-M lenses or use an adapter to mount Canon EF-S or EF lenses.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are user-friendly, but the Canon EOS M50 Mark II‘s touchscreen LCD and intuitive menu system make it slightly easier for beginners to learn and use.
Q: Are there any alternatives to these cameras?
A: Yes, there are several other great cameras in the same price range. For DSLRs, consider the Canon EOS Rebel T7i or Nikon D3500. For mirrorless cameras, the Sony a6000 or Fujifilm X-T30 are excellent options.
