Canon has created a brilliant range of mirrorless cameras including the M100, M50, and M6 Mark II. The Canon EOS M5 is a mid-range mirrorless camera that bridges the gap between the M50 and M6.
If you want to purchase a digital camera, but aren’t quite ready to step up to a full-frame DSLR, the Canon EOS M5 could be a perfect choice. This is an affordable option with a great range of EF-M lenses, and a solid, aesthetic design.
Main Features
The Canon EOS M5 has a great array of features, and a solid standard specification. In terms of photo quality, the DIGIC 7 processor, and 24.2MP CMOS sensor ensure clear images with great clarity and sharpness. Moreover, the range of colors and depth is superb. The following are the main specifications of the Canon EOS M5 camera:
- Size: 115.6 x 89.1 x 60.6mm
- Weight: 425g (body only)
- Sensor: 24.2 MP APS-C size CMOS sensor
- Image Processor: DIGIC 7
- Max FPS: 7
- Max Video Resolution: 60p HD
- Connectivity: WiFi / Bluetooth
The video quality is the main let-down of this camera as the other EOS M models do offer 4K UHD recording. The FPS rate, connectivity options, and image quality are fantastic, however. This camera will suit any hobbyist or would-be-professional photographer perfectly.
Design
Canon continually releases well-made and ergonomically designed cameras and the Canon EOS M5 is no exception. The camera looks fantastic. Firstly, the exterior has a textured surface that provides excellent grip when holding the device. Moreover, the right-hand side of the camera has an extruding section that fits the shape of your hand.
To complement this, the viewfinder has a comfortable cover, and the LCD screen can flip out and rotate. It has touchscreen capabilities but is fully controllable by the buttons too. The display looks fantastic, and previews of your images look sharp and bright.
In terms of weight and size, this camera is much smaller than most full-frame EOS DSLR models. Weighing just 425g, even with a sizable lens, the Canon EOS M5 is still lightweight and easy to carry. Moreover, the lens ring allows for the quick attaching and detaching of EF-M lenses.
Usability
The Canon EOS M5 has excellent usability. For those who want to control the camera via touchscreen, the LCD screen is fully functional. Users can change camera settings like aperture and exposure using the screen – to do this, the screen has to be rotated and flipped into reverse position (i.e. fully visible).
Alternatively, for those who prefer the traditional method of using the shutter, the M5 has a digital shutter through which you can see full camera settings. This is controlled using the ergonomic dial button and the other buttons below. These buttons are logically placed and easily accessible with minimal movements from your thumb.
We also like the fact that the M5 is compatible with the EF-M lens adapter – this means that you can connect practically any full-frame Canon lens for greater flexibility in your photography. Aside from that, there is a brilliant choice of EF-M lenses too such as the 75-200mm zoom lens, and the standard 15-45mm mid-range zoom. This flexibility and brilliant design means that the M5 is highly usable and a pleasure to take photos with.
Canon EOS M5 vs. Canon EOS M50
Now that we have discussed the Canon EOS M5 features, we can compare it to similar devices so that you can see other potential options available. One of the main comparable devices is the Canon EOS M50 – this is classed as a lower model, but it does have similar features.
In terms of basic image quality, the effective megapixels are 24.2 and 24.1 respectively – the difference is minimal. There is a larger difference in the image processor – the M50 actually has the newer DIGIC 8 processor which means that the image quality should be slightly better.
One of the main differences between these two models is the video recording capabilities. The M50 is certainly the better choice for video recording as it can capture video at 4K UHD. The M5 still offers quality recording, but the highest capture rate available is 60P.
| EOS M5 | EOS M50 | |
| Megapixel Count | 24.2 | 24.1 |
| Processor | DIGIC 7 | DIGIC 8 |
| Video Quality | 60P HD | 4K UHD |
| Weight | 427g | 390g |
| Dimensions | 115 x 89 x 60mm | 116 x 88 x 58 |
| Max ISO | 25,600 | 25,600 |
As you can see, the M5 is a great choice, but the M50 is the better option for video. If you are concentrating on photo quality and your photography skills, the Canon EOS M5 is a brilliant model to purchase.
Should you purchase the Canon EOS M5?
This mirrorless camera is certainly a great option. It has fantastic image quality with a DIGIC 7 processor and a 24.2mp sensor. Remember, however, that some other EOS M cameras do have the newer DIGIC 8 processor.
Furthermore, the brilliant range of EF-M lenses and the EF-M lens adaptor means that you can kit this camera out for a multitude of different purposes.
For those who want fantastic image quality at affordable prices, the Canon EOS M5 is a solid option. However, if you want a camera with a top-quality video, the EOS M50 could be a better choice due to its 4K UHD recording capabilities.
