Unveiling the Ultimate Showdown: Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM vs Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’ll be comparing two popular choices from Canon: the Canon EOS 90D Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM and the **Canon EOS M50 Mark II Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM**. This head-to-head comparison will delve into their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you decide which camera best suits your photographic needs.

The DSLR Powerhouse: Canon EOS 90D Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM

The Canon EOS 90D is a DSLR powerhouse designed for serious photographers and videographers. Paired with the versatile Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens, this combination offers exceptional image quality and performance.
Key Features:

• 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor: This sensor delivers stunning detail and dynamic range, capturing vibrant images even in challenging lighting conditions.
• 7fps continuous shooting: Capture fast-moving subjects with ease, thanks to the impressive continuous shooting rate.
• 4K video recording at 30fps: Create cinematic footage with the 4K video recording capability, offering flexibility for various projects.
• Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens: This popular lens boasts a fast aperture, allowing for shallow depth of field and beautiful bokeh effects. It’s also incredibly sharp and lightweight, making it a great choice for everyday photography.

Strengths:

• Excellent image quality: The 90D delivers exceptional image quality with high detail and vibrant colors.
• Fast autofocus: The 45-point autofocus system ensures accurate and fast focusing, ideal for capturing action shots.
• Versatile lens: The Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM lens is a great all-around choice, suitable for various genres, from portraits to street photography.
• Durable build: The 90D is built to withstand the rigors of everyday use, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.

Weaknesses:

• Bulkier and heavier: Compared to mirrorless cameras, the 90D is bulkier and heavier, which might be a drawback for some users.
• Limited battery life: The battery life is decent but could be better for heavy users.
• No in-body image stabilization: The lack of in-body image stabilization requires using lenses with optical stabilization for sharper images.

The Mirrorless Marvel: Canon EOS M50 Mark II Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a compact and versatile mirrorless camera that offers a compelling blend of features and affordability. Paired with the Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens, it’s a great choice for those seeking a lightweight and convenient camera for everyday photography and videography.
Key Features:

• 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor: This sensor delivers excellent image quality, capturing vibrant colors and detail.
• 10fps continuous shooting: Capture fast-moving subjects with the 10fps continuous shooting rate.
• 4K video recording at 24/25/30fps: Record cinematic footage with the 4K video recording capability, offering various frame rate options.
• Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens: This versatile kit lens provides a wide-angle to telephoto range, suitable for various subjects. It also features optical image stabilization, ensuring sharper images.

Strengths:

• Compact and lightweight: The M50 Mark II is incredibly compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
• Excellent autofocus: The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system provides fast and accurate autofocus, ideal for capturing moving subjects.
• In-body image stabilization: The in-body image stabilization helps to reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images, especially when shooting handheld.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity: Easily share your photos and videos wirelessly with your smartphone or tablet.

Weaknesses:

• Limited lens selection: The EF-M lens system is smaller than the EF system, which means there are fewer lens options available.
• No external microphone input: The lack of external microphone input might be a limitation for serious videographers.
• Less robust build: Compared to the 90D, the M50 Mark II has a less robust build, making it more susceptible to damage.

Comparing the Cameras: Features and Performance

Now let’s compare the two cameras head-to-head, focusing on their key features and performance aspects.
Image Quality:
Both cameras offer excellent image quality, but the 90D edges out the M50 Mark II with its slightly larger sensor and higher resolution. The 90D delivers more detail and dynamic range, particularly in low-light situations. However, the M50 Mark II still produces impressive images, especially considering its compact size.
Autofocus and Continuous Shooting:
The 90D boasts a more advanced autofocus system with 45 cross-type points, providing faster and more accurate focusing. It also offers a faster continuous shooting rate of 7fps compared to the M50 Mark II‘s 10fps. However, the M50 Mark II’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system offers excellent performance for video recording and stills.
Video Capabilities:
Both cameras offer 4K video recording, but the 90D provides a higher frame rate of 30fps compared to the M50 Mark II’s 24/25/30fps. However, the M50 Mark II’s in-body image stabilization makes it a better choice for handheld video recording.
Ergonomics and Handling:
The 90D’s DSLR design offers a more traditional feel with a deep grip and dedicated buttons for various settings. The M50 Mark II, being a mirrorless camera, is smaller and lighter, making it easier to carry around. However, the smaller size might be less comfortable for users with larger hands.
Lens Selection:
The 90D has access to the extensive Canon EF lens system, offering a vast array of lenses for various needs. The M50 Mark II utilizes the EF-M lens system, which has a smaller selection of lenses. However, the EF-M lenses are designed to be compact and lightweight, ideal for the camera’s size.

Who Should Choose Which Camera?

Canon EOS 90D Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM:

• Serious photographers and videographers: The 90D offers exceptional image quality and performance, making it ideal for professionals and enthusiasts who demand the best.
• Those who prioritize image quality: The 90D’s larger sensor and higher resolution deliver superior image quality compared to the M50 Mark II.
• Users who need a wide lens selection: The EF lens system offers a vast array of lenses to choose from, catering to various photographic needs.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM:

• Everyday photographers and videographers: The M50 Mark II is a great choice for those seeking a compact and versatile camera for everyday use.
• Travel photographers: The M50 Mark II’s compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for travel photography.
• Vloggers and content creators: The M50 Mark II’s in-body image stabilization and 4K video recording capabilities make it suitable for creating high-quality videos.

Choosing the Right Camera: Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, performance, and a wide lens selection, the Canon EOS 90D Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a compact, versatile, and affordable camera for everyday use, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM is a compelling option.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: What is the difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?
A: A DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) camera uses a mirror to reflect the image onto the viewfinder. A mirrorless camera, on the other hand, uses an electronic viewfinder or LCD screen to display the image. Mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and lighter than DSLRs.
Q: Which camera has better battery life?
A: The Canon EOS 90D has a slightly better battery life than the Canon EOS M50 Mark II. However, both cameras offer decent battery life for everyday use.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS 90D has a larger sensor and higher resolution, which gives it an edge in low-light photography. However, the M50 Mark II still produces impressive images in low-light conditions.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: Both cameras offer 4K video recording, but the 90D provides a higher frame rate of 30fps. However, the M50 Mark II‘s in-body image stabilization makes it a better choice for handheld video recording.