Why the Canon EF M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Wins Over the Nikon AF S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G

Are you a photographer looking for a versatile and reliable camera system, but feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available? The world of photography offers a vast landscape of cameras and lenses, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison between two popular choices: the Canon EOS M50 Mark II paired with the **Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM** lens versus the **Nikon D750** paired with the **Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G** lens.
This battle pits a mirrorless system renowned for its compact size and ease of use against a DSLR known for its full-frame sensor and exceptional image quality. We’ll explore the key features, performance, and overall suitability of each system, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your photographic needs and budget.

The Contenders: A Closer Look

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

• Camera: The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a compact, lightweight mirrorless camera with a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor. It boasts advanced features like 4K video recording, continuous shooting up to 10fps, and a vari-angle touchscreen LCD. The camera’s small size makes it ideal for travel and everyday photography.
• Lens: The Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM is a versatile kit lens offering a wide-angle to portrait focal range. Its image stabilization system and STM autofocus ensure smooth, quiet operation.

• Camera: The Nikon D750 is a full-frame DSLR known for its exceptional image quality and low-light performance. It features a 24.3MP sensor, a powerful autofocus system with 51 points, and a robust build that makes it suitable for both studio and outdoor photography.
• Lens: The Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G is a popular prime lens designed for APS-C format cameras. It offers a classic 35mm field of view, a fast aperture for shallow depth of field, and excellent sharpness.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The Nikon D750 takes the lead in image quality thanks to its full-frame sensor. This larger sensor captures more light, resulting in lower noise levels, wider dynamic range, and overall better detail, especially in low-light situations. The **Canon EOS M50 Mark II** with its APS-C sensor offers respectable image quality, but it falls slightly behind in terms of dynamic range and low-light performance.
However, the Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM lens provides a wider zoom range, allowing you to capture a broader range of subjects without switching lenses. The **Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G**, while offering a faster aperture for shallow depth of field, is limited to a single focal length.

Autofocus: Speed and Accuracy

The Nikon D750 boasts a superior autofocus system with 51 focus points, including 15 cross-type sensors, providing faster and more accurate autofocus in a variety of shooting conditions. The **Canon EOS M50 Mark II** also offers a good autofocus system with 143 autofocus points, but it falls short of the D750 in terms of speed and accuracy, especially in low-light situations.

Video Capabilities: A Mirrorless Advantage

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II shines in video recording with its 4K video capabilities at up to 25fps, making it an excellent choice for videographers and filmmakers. The **Nikon D750**, while capable of capturing Full HD video, lacks the 4K resolution and advanced video features found in the Canon EOS M50 Mark II.

Ergonomics and Handling: Comfort Matters

The Nikon D750 offers a more traditional DSLR design with a deep grip, making it comfortable to hold and handle, especially for extended shooting sessions. The **Canon EOS M50 Mark II**, being a mirrorless camera, is significantly smaller and lighter, making it more portable and easier to carry around. However, its compact size may not be as comfortable for larger hands.

Connectivity and Features: Staying Connected

Both cameras offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing you to easily transfer images to your smartphone or tablet. The Canon EOS M50 Mark II features a touchscreen LCD, providing intuitive control and ease of use, while the **Nikon D750** relies on a traditional optical viewfinder and rear LCD.

Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a more affordable option compared to the **Nikon D750**, making it a great entry-level choice for photographers looking for a versatile camera with good image quality and video capabilities. The **Nikon D750**, while more expensive, offers exceptional image quality, a robust build, and a superior autofocus system, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Choose the Canon EOS M50 Mark II if:

• You prioritize portability and ease of use.
• You need 4K video recording capabilities.
• You’re on a tighter budget.

Choose the Nikon D750 if:

• You demand the best possible image quality.
• You need exceptional low-light performance.
• You prioritize a robust build and professional-grade features.

Moving Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options

While the Canon EOS M50 Mark II and Nikon D750 are excellent choices, the world of photography offers a wide range of other cameras and lenses that cater to different needs and budgets.
If you’re looking for a mirrorless camera with a full-frame sensor, consider the Sony a7 III or the **Canon EOS R6**. For photographers seeking a more affordable DSLR option, the **Nikon D5600** or the **Canon EOS Rebel T8i** might be worth exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is generally considered more user-friendly thanks to its touchscreen interface and intuitive menu system.
2. Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Nikon D750 offers superior low-light performance due to its full-frame sensor and advanced autofocus system.
3. Which camera is better for video recording?
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is the clear winner for video recording with its 4K resolution and advanced video features.
4. Which camera has a better lens selection?
The Nikon D750 benefits from a wider range of lenses, including both full-frame and DX format options.
5. What is the difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?
A DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) uses a mirror to reflect light through the viewfinder, while a mirrorless camera uses an electronic viewfinder (EVF) to display the image. Mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and lighter, while DSLRs often offer a more traditional shooting experience.