The Ultimate Showdown: Canon EOS 700D vs Canon EOS M50 Mark II – The Battle of the Lenses

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a multitude of options. Two cameras that often come up in discussions are the Canon EOS 700D with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens and the Canon EOS M50 Mark II with the Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens. Both are excellent cameras in their own right, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, enabling you to make an informed decision.

Canon EOS 700D: A Classic DSLR

The Canon EOS 700D, released in 2013, is a classic DSLR that still holds its own in the world of photography. It boasts an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, capable of capturing high-quality images and Full HD videos. The 700D is known for its user-friendly interface, making it ideal for beginners.

Pros of the Canon EOS 700D:

• Affordable: The 700D is a budget-friendly option, making it a great entry point for aspiring photographers.
• Large sensor: The APS-C sensor provides better low-light performance and shallower depth of field compared to smaller sensors.
• Extensive lens system: The Canon EF and EF-S lens system offers a vast array of lenses to choose from, catering to various photographic needs.
• Optical viewfinder: The 700D features a traditional optical viewfinder, offering a direct view of the scene without any lag.
• Built-in flash: The camera comes with a built-in flash, useful for shooting in low-light situations.

Cons of the Canon EOS 700D:

• Older technology: The 700D is a relatively old model, lacking some of the features found in newer cameras.
• Limited autofocus points: The 700D has only 9 autofocus points, which can be limiting for fast-paced action shots.
• No 4K video: The 700D only supports Full HD video recording, which may not be sufficient for professional videographers.
• Limited continuous shooting: The 700D can only shoot up to 4 frames per second, which is slower than newer cameras.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II: A Modern Mirrorless Camera

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II, released in 2020, is a modern mirrorless camera that offers a blend of features and performance. It features a 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and a powerful DIGIC 8 image processor. The M50 Mark II is known for its impressive autofocus system, 4K video capabilities, and user-friendly design.

Pros of the Canon EOS M50 Mark II:

• Compact and lightweight: The M50 Mark II is significantly smaller and lighter than the 700D, making it more portable.
• Advanced autofocus: The M50 Mark II boasts a 143-point autofocus system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, providing fast and accurate focusing.
• 4K video recording: The camera supports 4K video recording at 24, 25, and 30fps, making it suitable for professional videography.
• High continuous shooting rate: The M50 Mark II can shoot up to 10 frames per second, ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
• Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: The camera features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy image transfer and remote control.

Cons of the Canon EOS M50 Mark II:

• Limited lens selection: The Canon EF-M lens system is smaller than the EF system, offering fewer lenses to choose from.
• No optical viewfinder: The M50 Mark II relies on an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which can have some drawbacks in bright sunlight.
• Higher price: The M50 Mark II is more expensive than the 700D, especially when considering the lens.
• No weather sealing: The camera lacks weather sealing, making it less suitable for shooting in harsh conditions.

Comparing the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lenses

The choice of lens plays a crucial role in the overall performance of your camera. The Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM is a versatile lens that offers a good range for everyday photography. The Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM is a compact lens that is ideal for travel and everyday use.

Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM:

• Wider zoom range: Offers a wider zoom range, making it suitable for various shooting situations.
• Better image quality: Generally delivers better image quality compared to the EF-M 15-45mm.
• Larger aperture: Offers a wider maximum aperture, allowing for better low-light performance and shallower depth of field.

Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM:

• Compact and lightweight: Significantly smaller and lighter than the EF-S 18-135mm, making it more portable.
• Affordable: More economical compared to the EF-S 18-135mm.
• Image stabilization: Features image stabilization, helping to reduce camera shake and improve sharpness.

Which Camera is Right for You?

The choice between the Canon EOS 700D and the Canon EOS M50 Mark II ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Canon EOS 700D:

• Ideal for: Budget-conscious photographers, beginners, and those who prefer a traditional DSLR experience.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II:

• Ideal for: Enthusiast photographers, videographers, and those who value portability and advanced features.

Beyond the Camera: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon EOS 700D and Canon EOS M50 Mark II are excellent choices, it’s worth exploring other options based on your specific requirements.

For Budget-Conscious Shooters:

• Canon EOS Rebel T7: A more recent entry-level DSLR with a 24.1-megapixel sensor and 4K video recording.
• Canon EOS M200: A compact and affordable mirrorless camera with a 24.1-megapixel sensor and 4K video recording.

For Enthusiast Photographers:

• Canon EOS 90D: A mid-range DSLR with a 32.5-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording, and advanced autofocus.
• Canon EOS M6 Mark II: A more advanced mirrorless camera with a 32.5-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording, and a built-in EVF.

Final Verdict: A Matter of Choice

Choosing between the Canon EOS 700D Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and the Canon EOS M50 Mark II Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM is not about choosing the “better” camera. Both cameras offer excellent value and performance, but cater to different needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired features, and shooting style to make the best decision for your photographic journey.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS 700D is a great option for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and traditional DSLR design. However, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II offers a more modern and intuitive experience with its touchscreen interface and advanced autofocus system.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is the clear winner for video recording, offering 4K video recording capabilities and advanced features like Dual Pixel CMOS AF.
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: Both cameras offer excellent image quality, but the Canon EOS 700D might have a slight edge due to its larger sensor and slightly higher resolution. However, the M50 Mark II‘s image processor and advanced autofocus system contribute to a more consistent and impressive overall image quality.
Q: Which camera is more portable?
A: The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is significantly more compact and lightweight than the Canon EOS 700D, making it more portable for travel and everyday use.