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Review

After using Canon 700D for way too long, it was time to up the image quality and speed up the autofocus and go for a mirrorless camera which shot incredible footage as well and high-quality stills but also not be so big and bulky it would be impossible to take on a hike. Say hello to the Canon EOS M50

Why the Canon EOS M50?

I managed to get my hands on this camera for about £100 off due to it being a “returned as new” item in the John Lewis Outlet. I’d always have a browse in there and when this camera was sitting there at such a low price I had to take it. I wanted a fully-capable camera with interchangeable lenses and a microphone input so I could use my Rode VideoMicro and get some professional quality sound while filming out on adventures. It also shoots in 4K and in slow motion so I had a really versatile tool in my camera bag.

How well does it work?

This is the best mirrorless camera I’ve ever purchased and I have no plans on replacing it or upgrading it soon. It is that good and for its size and weight, it’s not too bulky in my backpack. Taking it out in the field, VLogging, getting those walk-by shots and honing in on distant subjects with that longer lens, I’ve really enjoyed using this camera, especially when using it on my Joby Gorilla Pod 1K.

Footage quality

The footage in the EOS M50 is superb and the colour, shadows, highlights and skin tones come up very well. It’s amazing how a camera this good is at such a reasonable price. It’s a bit grainy in low light, but during the day it doesn’t overexpose too much. Both my Sony RX100 V and this camera are brilliant, but the M50 takes a much richer, more natural-looking image.

Sound quality

The integrated mics on the M50 are pretty poor, but luckily there’s a mic input on the side of the camera and a hot shoe enabling you to add an external microphone. My Rode VideoMicro is the perfect accompaniment to the camera with its long-range and good quality. But should you wish to save some money and stick to the built-in mics then these windshields work very well at reducing wind disturbance.

Batteries

Because the M50 is a high-power machine it requires larger batteries which can only be charged using a wall charger. They last about an hour when shooting at 1080p and 30fps but switch it up to 4K 60fps and the battery life is reduced to about 20 to 30 minutes.

Durability

This is a robust camera, I’ve had it out in snow, rain, wind, hot and cold conditions and it’s still going strong. It’s worth keeping it in a camera bag to keep it safe while in transit in your backpack though.

Who’s it for?

Because the Canon M50 is quite large and heavy, it’s only worth the weight if you’re interested in filming professional-grade film with superb sound and are interested in making high-quality videos. I’m a YouTuber and enjoy making such films for everyone to enjoy, but I only take the M50 out on trips no longer than 3 days due to its size and weight. When I’m on a longer hike like the Pacific Crest Trail or the Rota Vicentina I leave it at home and take my Sony RX100 V instead.

Value for money

While I purchased the M50 at a discounted price in an outlet, the price is actually quite reasonable for a camera of this quality. I’ve definitely got plenty of use out of it and plenty more to come and it’s truly taken my videos to another level. For someone who’s not a filmmaker though, it’s much better to get a high-end smartphone to take stills and footage with, they’re impressive these days and will save you the weight, bulk and charging challenges.

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