Shocking Comparison: Canon EOS M50 Mark II vs Panasonic Lumix GH5 II – Which One Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. The Canon EOS M50 Mark II + Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM and the **Panasonic Lumix GH5 II** are both popular choices for photographers and videographers, offering impressive features and capabilities. But which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, helping you make an informed decision.

Image Quality and Performance

Canon EOS M50 Mark II: The M50 Mark II boasts a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor, known for producing vibrant and detailed images. Its DIGIC 8 image processor provides excellent processing speed and low-light performance, capturing impressive images even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera’s autofocus system is fast and accurate, thanks to its 143-point all-cross-type autofocus system.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: The GH5 II utilizes a 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, offering excellent dynamic range and detail. Its Venus Engine 9 image processor delivers exceptional image quality and processing speed. The camera’s autofocus system is equally impressive, featuring a 225-area contrast-detection autofocus system with face and eye detection.
Verdict: Both cameras deliver excellent image quality, but the Canon M50 Mark II edges out the GH5 II in terms of resolution and detail. However, the GH5 II’s Micro Four Thirds sensor offers a wider dynamic range, which can be beneficial for photographers who prefer a more forgiving shooting experience.

Video Capabilities

Canon EOS M50 Mark II: The M50 Mark II is a capable video camera, recording 4K video at up to 24fps and 1080p video at up to 120fps. It offers features like Canon Log for greater flexibility in post-production and a 3.5mm microphone jack for external audio recording.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: The GH5 II is a video powerhouse, recording 4K video at up to 60fps and 1080p video at up to 180fps. It also offers features like Anamorphic 4K video recording, V-Log L for professional-grade color grading, and a multitude of video recording options.
Verdict: The Panasonic GH5 II is the clear winner in the video department. Its superior video capabilities, including higher frame rates, anamorphic recording, and professional-grade color grading options, make it a compelling choice for videographers.

Design and Ergonomics

Canon EOS M50 Mark II: The M50 Mark II is a compact and lightweight camera, making it easy to carry around. Its design is user-friendly, featuring a well-placed grip, intuitive controls, and a tilting touchscreen LCD.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: The GH5 II is slightly larger and heavier than the M50 Mark II, but it still remains relatively compact. Its design is more professional, with a robust build, a large, articulating LCD screen, and a dedicated EVF.
Verdict: The Canon M50 Mark II excels in portability, while the Panasonic GH5 II offers a more professional design and feel. The choice ultimately depends on your priorities, whether it’s portability or a more robust build.

Lens Selection

Canon EOS M50 Mark II: The Canon EF-M lens system is expanding, but it still lacks the extensive lens selection of other camera systems. However, it offers a good range of lenses, including the Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, a versatile telephoto zoom lens for capturing distant subjects.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: The Micro Four Thirds system boasts an extensive lens selection, offering a wide range of options from various manufacturers. This flexibility allows photographers to choose the perfect lens for their specific needs, from wide-angle to telephoto and everything in between.
Verdict: The Panasonic GH5 II wins in terms of lens selection due to the wider availability of lenses from various manufacturers. However, the Canon M50 Mark II‘s EF-M lens system is still growing, and it offers some excellent lenses, including the EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Canon EOS M50 Mark II: The M50 Mark II offers decent battery life, lasting for approximately 300 shots. It features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy image transfer and remote control.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: The GH5 II boasts impressive battery life, lasting for approximately 400 shots. It also offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as USB-C charging for added convenience.
Verdict: The Panasonic GH5 II offers slightly better battery life and more convenient charging options. However, both cameras offer reliable connectivity for image transfer and remote control.

Price and Value

Canon EOS M50 Mark II: The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a relatively affordable camera, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. Its price point is further enhanced by the inclusion of the Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM, offering a versatile telephoto zoom lens.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II: The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II is a more premium camera, reflecting in its higher price point. However, it offers exceptional features and capabilities that justify its cost, making it a compelling choice for professional and enthusiast photographers.
Verdict: The Canon EOS M50 Mark II offers excellent value for money, especially when combined with the Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM. However, the Panasonic GH5 II is a more expensive option, but its advanced features and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for those who require a professional-grade camera.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for You

Choosing between the Canon EOS M50 Mark II + Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM and the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Canon EOS M50 Mark II is an excellent choice for budget-conscious photographers and videographers who prioritize portability and ease of use. Its compact size, lightweight design, and intuitive controls make it a great option for everyday shooting. The inclusion of the Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM adds versatility, making it a great option for capturing distant subjects.
Panasonic Lumix GH5 II is a powerful camera that excels in video recording and offers a robust build and an extensive lens selection. Its advanced features and capabilities make it a compelling choice for professional and enthusiast photographers and videographers.

Your Photography Journey Starts Here

The camera you choose will be your constant companion on your photographic journey. Carefully consider your needs, priorities, and budget to make an informed decision. Both the Canon EOS M50 Mark II + Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM and the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II offer unique strengths and weaknesses, and the right camera for you will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Popular Questions

Q: What is the difference between the Canon EOS M50 Mark II and the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II?
A: The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a more affordable, compact, and lightweight camera with a 24.1MP APS-C sensor, while the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II is a more professional, feature-rich camera with a 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor. The GH5 II excels in video recording, offering higher frame rates and professional-grade features, while the M50 Mark II is a great option for everyday photography and videography.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a great choice for beginners due to its user-friendly design, intuitive controls, and affordable price point. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around and learn with.
Q: Which camera is better for professional photography and videography?
A: The Panasonic Lumix GH5 II is a more professional camera, offering advanced features and capabilities that cater to the needs of professional photographers and videographers. Its higher resolution, superior video recording capabilities, and extensive lens selection make it a compelling choice for professionals.
Q: What is the best lens for the Canon EOS M50 Mark II?
A: The Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM is a great all-around lens for the M50 Mark II, offering a versatile telephoto zoom range. Other popular choices include the Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM for a wider range of focal lengths and the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM for a fast aperture lens ideal for low-light photography.
Q: What is the best lens for the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II?
A: The Panasonic Lumix G 100-300mm f/4-5.6 is a popular choice for the GH5 II, offering a versatile telephoto zoom range. Other popular options include the Panasonic Lumix G 25mm f/1.7 for a fast aperture lens ideal for low-light photography and the Panasonic Lumix G 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 for a wide-ranging zoom lens.