Mirrorless cameras are making their way to the top; each manufacturer has a range of mirrorless devices with a wide array of competitive features to redefine your photography experience. However, Canon wins the race by launching mirrorless cameras that excel in all departments ranging from performance to ergonomics. Whether you are starting on your photography journey or are looking for a complex editing menu for your next gig, Canon has something for everyone. Our list includes the best mirrorless cameras launched by Canon to date that cater to the needs and budget of every photographer.
Best Canon Mirrorless Cameras
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| Canon EOS R6 | Canon EOS R5 | Canon EOS M200 |
Canon Mirrorless Camera Reviews
1. Canon EOS R5 Full-Frame 8K Mirrorless Camera
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- Pixels:1 Megapixel
- Lens mount: Canon RF
- Max Resolution: 8192 x 5464
- Sensor: CMOS 36 x 24 mm
- Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
- ISO Sensitivity: Auto, 100 to 51200
- Recording mode: Raw 12-Bit, H.265 4:2:2 10-Bit and H.264 4:2:0 8-Bit
- Focus type: Auto and Manual Focus
- Weight: 738 g
Canon did their best while producing EOS R5, a technologically advanced mirrorless camera that packs a powerful AF system and delivers stunning results regardless of the shooting conditions. Moreover, it is quite famous among wildlife photographers.
Design
The previous EOS R users might not find any major differences in terms of the overall design as R5 took major inspiration from its predecessor. However, it’s 70g heavier and features a chunky joystick for better control. With a pronounced grip and adequate weather sealing, R5 promises protection against most unfavorable conditions.
Performance
According to the specifications, there is no better hybrid mirrorless camera (high resolution and full-frame) than Canon EOS R5. It delivers highly detailed images and performs at a staggering speed of 1.2 per second at its fastest continuous motor mode. Most of the credit goes to the Digic X processor, or should we call it a nuclear powerhouse?
As we mentioned earlier, R5 boasts an incredible Dual Pixel CMOS AF system. To be honest, we are short of words to describe its performance, but it’s easy to say that wildlife/action photographers might find it impossible to opt for any other device than R5. It focuses on erratically moving subjects with ease and is great at detecting faces. There is an animal detection mode that does a wonderful job at detecting non-human eyes under some questionable shooting conditions too.
Moving on, the burst rate extends to a whopping 20fps and 12fps with an electronic shutter and mechanical shutter, respectively. The battery life is perfect for an intense shooting session, with the camera performing at its full potential for 2000 shots on a single charge. Further on, R5 features 4K video capability and does a pretty great job at producing sharp footage.
Conclusion
We declare Canon EOS R5 as their best stills camera to date. This versatile device allows users to shoot under a wide range of conditions and delivers flawless results every time. As long as you ignore the exorbitant price tag, R5 is a must-have mirrorless camera for every photographer.
What we like:
- Versatile
- Incredible AF system
- Great form factor
- Long battery life
What we don’t:
- It is expensive
- Limited recording options
2. Canon EOS R6 Full-Frame 4K Mirrorless Camera
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- Pixels:4 Megapixel
- Lens mount: Canon RF
- Max Resolution: 5472 x 3648
- Sensor: CMOS 36 x 24 mm
- Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
- ISO Sensitivity: Auto, 100 to 102400
- Recording mode:265 4:2:2 10-Bit and H.264 4:2:0 8-Bit
- Focus type: Auto and Manual Focus
- Weight: 680 g
Canon EOS R6 is an affordable version of EOS R5 with almost the same, if not better, features. The impressive specifications and extensive feature set make it one of the best Canon budget-friendly mirrorless cameras. It has a video-recording capability for enthusiast videographers, while the images boast a fairly decent resolution.
Design
It weighs around 680g and features a pronounced grip which makes the camera quite comfortable to handle- perfect for long shooting hours. There is a textured joystick multi-controller that makes navigating around the menu systems quite easy. On the other hand, there is a Quick Menu button as well as a simple button layout for a user-friendly experience.
Performance
R6 did not receive the response it deserved upon its release as its sister camera, EOS R5, stole the thunder. However, one may realize the worth of R6 after working with its extensive feature set and great specifications.
Firstly, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system is pretty impressive in terms of precision and speed. The face/eye detection mode never failed to track our desired subject, and the performance remained the same while focusing on erratically moving subjects. It provides 90% frame coverage and is great for a camera at this price.
R6 features a Digic X processor that effortlessly produces high-resolution images. It has a remarkable burst rate and buffer capacity, while a good-quality memory card prevents the camera from slowing down even after 1000 stored images. Moving on, the 5-stop image stabilization system is worth mentioning: the images at 24mm looked quite sharp and well-detailed even after shooting at a shutter speed of 2 seconds.
Further on, the 20MP sensor produces vibrant images that are well-saturated and highly detailed. However, images under bright sunlight appeared a bit flat and not per the standards of R6. On the other hand, the sensor is powerful enough to retain the quality of low-ISO images after being cropped out.
Conclusion
Canon EOS 6D Mark II redefined the world of DSLRs, and its mirrorless counterpart, Canon EOS R6, is almost the same. The image stabilization system and AF performance beat most high-class rivals, while the staggering speed is a treat for wildlife photographers. However, we hold a grudge against the limited 4K video capability and less-than-average dynamic range.
What we like:
- Wonderful AF system
- Great image stabilization
- Staggering burst rate
What we don’t:
- Limited 4K recording options
- Poor dynamic range
3. Canon EOS R Mirrorless Full Frame Camera
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- Pixels:7 Megapixel
- Lens mount: Canon RF
- Max Resolution: 6720 x 4480
- Sensor: CMOS 36 x 24 mm
- Image stabilization: Digital, 5-Axis
- Recording mode: MP4/H.264 and 4:2:2 10-Bit
- Focus type: Auto and Manual Focus
- Weight: 660 g
Full-frame mirrorless cameras are the perfect alternative for DSLR cameras: Canon EOS R is a wonderful example. Canon is famous for launching cameras that offer the best of all features, including sharp images, powerful performance, and great ergonomics. Their latest release is nothing different, but for a price this high, we are surely looking forward to more innovative features.
Design
Canon EOS R has a magnesium alloy body with an aesthetic matte exterior for a robust yet stylish design. The pronounced handgrip feels secure, while the control layout is fairly similar to the DSLRs to make users feel at home. Moreover, the top plate LCD screen is ergonomically designed for better accessibility.
Performance
The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system of Canon EOS R is one of the camera’s main highlights. There are a whopping 5655 phase-detection points with 100% frame coverage and excellent low-light performance. Moreover, the system did a great job of tracking eyes, faces, and erratically moving objects- great for action photographers.
Further on, the processor delivers a satisfying burst rate speed of 8fps that drops to 5fps and 3fps when using the focus tracking and ‘tracking priority’ mode, respectively. We found the buffer capacity pretty decent: 47 raw images or 100 JPEGS which is adequate compared to its rivals.
Canon offers users an enhanced touchscreen experience where customers have more control over the features than any other camera at this level. The touchscreen LCD is pretty responsive and allows users to scroll through the extensive menus with ease. There is a large viewfinder that delivers an outstanding view regardless of the lighting condition. With a battery life of 560 shots and an ergonomic control ring, there is hardly any feature to fret about.
Conclusion
Canon EOS R is full of potential and a great device for old DSLR owners to opt for. It offers users more than they pay for, including an ergonomic design and a great AF system. However, EOS R has some minor issues, including a missing joystick and 4K video limitations.
What we like:
- Great AF performance
- Versatile top-plate LCD
- Incredible touchscreen performance
What we don’t:
- Lacks an AF joystick
4. Canon EOS RP Full Frame Mirrorless Portable Vlogging Camera
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- Pixels:1 megapixels
- Lens mount: Canon RF
- Max Resolution: 6240 x 4160
- Sensor: CMOS 35.9 x 24 mm
- Image stabilization: 5-axis Digital
- Recording mode: MP4/H.264
- Focus type: Auto and Manual Focus
- Weight: 485 g
Canon EOS R was a great release but failed to garner the attention it deserved because of its exorbitant price tag. Canon EOS RP, on the other hand, offers a lot more features and a fabulous insight into Canon’s innovations at a much lower price.
Design
Canon EOS RP surprises users with its diminutive size despite housing a full-frame sensor. However, the aluminum, polycarbonate resin, and glass fiber build make it robust enough to withstand the worst shooting conditions. Moreover, there is a half-rubberized grip and thumb rest for secure handling.
Performance
Canon EOS RP features a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system with photodiodes that act as phase-detection points and an imaging sensor simultaneously. There is another contrast-detect AF system that takes over whilst capturing 4K videos. The overall performance is incredible, with several focusing modes to choose from, including Zone AF, Spot AF, 1-point AF, and face/eye-tracking modes.
Moreover, it performs reasonably well in fast-paced environments by focusing on erratically moving subjects with utmost speed and accuracy. The system takes no time to lock on to your desired subject and remains in that position throughout the process resulting in minimal hassle.
Moving on, the burst shooting rate is nothing too magnificent at 4fps, but it maintains this speed throughout. The 0.39inch viewfinder offers a 0.7x magnification which doesn’t raise many eyebrows but displays a decent preview. On the other hand, EOS RP features a great LCD screen that responds well to human touch and does an impressive job at highlighting the image details.
We found the metering and auto white balance great contenders: there was hardly any need to dial in exposure compensation while the overall effects were quite pleasing. EOS RP has firm control over image noise with minimal issues up to ISO 3200.
Conclusion
EOS RP offers everything one would expect from a high-end full-frame mirrorless camera, including a solid AF performance, stunning image quality, and robust body. If Canon EOS R did not impress you enough, EOS RP would not fail to fill the gap. Despite the poor battery life and limited silent shooting options, this is our go-to full-frame camera.
What we like:
- Compact and portable
- Budget-friendly
- Great AF performance
What we don’t:
- Poor battery life
5. Canon EOS Ra Astrophotography Mirrorless Camera
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- Pixels:7 Megapixel
- Lens mount: Canon RF
- Max Resolution: 6720 x 4480
- Sensor: CMOS 36 x 24 mm
- Image stabilization: Digital, 5-Axis (Video Only)
- ISO Sensitivity: Auto, 100 to 40000
- Recording mode: MP4/H.264
- Focus type: Auto and Manual Focus
- Weight: 660 g
Canon EOS Ra is a treat for astrophotographers: it offers the premium features of EOS R and custom-built elements to make astrophotography more enjoyable than ever. The infra-red sensitive sensor and 30x magnification factor are exciting enough to cover the minor flaws such as limited SD card slots and cropped 4K video.
Design
Canon EOS Ra features a magnesium alloy build that feels robust to the touch, while the compact size makes it portable. There is a control ring to adjust the aperture, ISO, and white balance settings, as well as a unique function bar to further adjust any settings. Moreover, Ra boasts a huge EVF with a great response rate.
Performance
Canon EOS Ra specializes in astrophotography, and it’s best used for this specific purpose only. Regular photography is not ‘forbidden,’ but the additional infra-red sensitivity results in misrepresented colors (read: queer-looking images).
EOS Ra features a sensor that is extremely sensitive to the hydrogen-alpha wavelengths produced by objects in space resulting in outstanding images with stunning color representation. There are several other features to make your shooting experience a tad bit more exciting, including a 30x optical zoom factor and reduced chromatic noise. This is a perfect combination to get sharp shots of the beautiful Milky Way.
As we mentioned earlier, the OLED viewfinder is an attractive bait to opt for EOS Ra: Focus peaking makes focusing and composition a breeze. Further on, low light performance is pretty impressive, while the solid dynamic range ensures great image results.
Conclusion
Canon EOS Ra bears a close resemblance to EOS R, so the past R users may find this device pretty fun to work with, if not challenging. It is a great device for astrophotography: EOS Ra boasts a sensor with extended infrared sensitivity and a whopping 30x magnification. However, 30MP is not the best resolution for this specialized field; thus, we are hoping for an upgrade real soon.
What we like:
- Great spectral sensitivity
- Brisk RF lenses
- 30x magnification
- Has a vari-angle screen
What we don’t:
- 30MP sensor
- Limited SD card slots
6. Canon EOS M6 Mark II Mirrorless Camera for Vlogging
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- Pixels:4 Megapixel
- Lens mount: Canon EF-M
- Max Resolution: 6960 x 4640
- Sensor: CMOS 22.3 x 14.9 mm
- Image stabilization: Digital (Video Only)
- Recording mode: MP4/H.264 and 4:2:2 8-Bit
- Focus type: Auto and Manual Focus
- Weight: 408g
M6 received a lot of praise as well as criticism for offering photographers a wide range of features but lagging behind its rivals in terms of performance and image results. Fortunately, Canon got back in the game by releasing EOS M6 Mark II that boasts some major upgrades.
Design
The reason why Mark received so much praise was because of its compact and portable body. We were surprised to see the number of elements packed in such a small device, including a 1.04 million-dot tilting screen and a wide array of buttons for ease of use. There are three mode dials on the top plate for manual and semi-automatic controls, as well as some scene and custom modes.
Performance
One of the most important features of a camera is the AF system, and Canon does not disappoint us. There are around 5480 points and 143 auto AF areas which means that you can focus practically anywhere on the screen. It is fast, accurate, and performs pretty well under good lighting conditions, but it may falter in dark situations.
Another great specification of Canon is the 14fps shooting rate that is ideal for sports or action photography when coupled with this AF system. Moreover, the burst rate increases to 30fps at 18MP, but you need to compromise on the poor buffer capacity of 54 JPEGs or 23 RAW files.
Further on, the battery lasts for around 305 shots, but careful power management allows users to grab more shots than this. Our expectations in terms of image resolution were pretty high, considering that Canon boasts an incredible APS-C sensor with the highest-ever resolution accolade. Canon lacks an in-built image stabilization system, but the results look stunning at higher ISO’s and fast shutter speeds.
There are several Picture Style options with great color representation and an impressive level of detail. Moreover, there are several modes for Raw files, and due to their extremely malleable nature, post-production exposure compensation is fairly easy.
Conclusion
Canon EOS M6 Mark II is a traveler’s best friend. This compact, hassle-free device makes it easy to record your memories while the high-end specs, e.g., high-resolution APS-C sensor and brisk burst rate, ensure that you get the best results. However, it lacks a built-in viewfinder and an articulating screen.
What we like:
- Travel friendly and compact
- Brisk burst rate of 14fps
- High-resolution sensor
What we don’t:
- No viewfinder
- Limited lens range
7. Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera
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- Pixels:8 Megapixel
- Lens mount: Canon EF-M
- Max Resolution: 6000 x 4000
- Sensor: CMOS 22.3 x 14.9 m
- Image stabilization: 3-axis Digital
- Recording mode: MP4/H.264
- Focus type: Auto and Manual Focus
- Weight: 387 g
Canon EOS M50 is fairly old and is succeeded by several other mirrorless cameras, but it remains one of our favorites. This versatile device is perfect for all those looking for a fun shooting experience, whether it be a casual outdoor shoot or recording videos for your blog. Moreover, it’s pretty easy on the pockets too. What else do we need?
Design
Canon EOS M50 is similar to M5 in terms of design and control layout. It has a strong polycarbonate body and a faux leather handgrip for secure handling. However, there are fewer buttons compared to M5: a great alternative for those who appreciate a clean layout. There is a four-way control pad instead of a rear scroll wheel with the remaining buttons streamlined on the rear.
Performance
Canon underwent a series of advancements to come up with an improved AF system for M50. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system delivers a brisk focusing speed and is precise: the overall performance is impressive as long as you don’t imitate the likes of action photographers.
Canon features a Digic 8 image processor that boosts the burst rate up to 10fps in Single AF mode or a decent 7.4fps in continuous AF mode. The EVF did not disappoint us either: it has a reasonable refresh rate and magnification with an impressive response. Fortunately, M50 offers a built-in image stabilization system that performs better when the camera is set to auto ISO. However, the battery life let us down with only 235 shots per charge.
Moving on, there is a 24.2MP APS-C sensor that delivers images with an exceptional level of detail and sharpness. Images taken under low light conditions show no sign of deterioration, making M50 a great choice for nighttime photography. The camera does a wonderful job of maintaining image noise, and there were no hints of chromatic noise throughout the ISO range. Similarly, the solid dynamic range allows users to recover a great amount of lost detail.
Conclusion
Canon EOS M50 proves a great mirrorless camera that offers photographers an easy-to-use interface, accurate AF system, and spectacular image quality. This well-rounded camera does not disappoint users in any departments except when it comes to battery life: don’t forget your spares to save yourself from any shoot day misery.
What we like:
- Improved AF system
- Great image quality
- Beginner-friendly
What we don’t:
- Limited battery life
- Limited lens range
8. Canon EOS M5 Mirrorless Camera
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- Pixels:2 megapixels
- Lens mount: EF-M
- Max Resolution: 6000 x 4000
- Sensor:3 x 14.9mm
- Image processor: DIGIC 7
- ISO Sensitivity: ISO AUTO (100 – 25600)
- Focus type: Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Weight: 427g
Let’s be honest here: none of us were too fond of EOS M. With a miserable AF system and unsatisfactory results, we expected Canon to do better. Canon EOS M5, on the other hand, ranks well in the high-end mirrorless camera market and gives the other cameras a run for their money.
Design
Canon M5 resembles a DSLR with an EVF above the lens and a hidden flash. The strong polycarbonate body and rubberized grip provide enough protection without adding on extra weight, whilst the exterior looks luxurious with a two-tone finish. There are several buttons to cater to enthusiast photographers with a decent degree of customization for a personalized shooting experience. A dial function button works as a makeshift command dial button: a design inspired by one of Canon’s compact cameras.
Performance
Canon M was roasted left, right, and center for its terrible AF system, but EOS M5 performs better in this department: much better. It utilizes the signature Dual Pixel CMOS AF system with two separate photodiodes for phase detection. The performance is smooth and brisk: all you have to do is drag the AF point on the rear display, and the work is done. With 49 AF points, 80% coverage, and multiple tracking options, the performance is almost unrecognizable when compared to its predecessor.
Moving on, the Digic 7 image processor delivers a burst shooting rate of 7fps and a decent burst capacity of 31 JPEG files, after which it drops down to 4fps. However, it allows users to work with a staggering 9fps rate with a locked focusing and metering system.
The metering system offers several options such as spot-metering, center-weighted, partial modes, etc. We found the overall performance satisfactory with minimal need for post-production exposure compensation. Further on, M5 features an incredible EVF with a 120fps refresh rate and a 0.62x magnification factor to get a great preview of your images. This works pretty well with the rear LCD; it gives easy access to the settings tab, and shifting around the control menus is child’s play.
Despite the presence of an optical low-pass filter, the 24MP sensor delivers highly detailed images with great performance at lower sensitivities. M5 handles noise pretty well up till ISO1600, after which images show minor traces of luminous noise.
Conclusion
We rate Canon EOS M5 as the best mirrorless camera to date, owing to its brilliant performance and mind-blowing image results. The design is impeccable, while the images portray an exceptional level of detail- much better than most high-end DSLRs. However, the price is much higher compared to its rivals.
What we like:
- Several connectivity options
- Highly detailed images
- Great touchscreen control
What we don’t:
- Lacks 4K video capture
- Expensive
- Poor lens range
9. Canon EOS M200 Compact Mirrorless Digital Vlogging Camera
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- Pixels:8 Megapixel
- Lens mount: Canon EF-M
- Max Resolution: 6000 x 4000
- Sensor: CMOS 22.3 x 14.9 mm
- ISO Sensitivity: Auto, 100 to 25600
- Recording mode: MP4/H.264
- Focus type: Auto and Manual Focus
- Weight: 299 g
Canon EOS M200 is an upgraded version of the two-year-old Canon EOS M100 and a pretty great one indeed. It bridges the gap between the ever-changing needs of photographers and innovative features by introducing several new elements, including a higher pixel count, a better sensor, etc. As a beginner, M200 is one of the best mirrorless alternatives to choose from.
Design
Canon EOS M200 is a tiny powerhouse that delivers exceptional performance from a relatively small body. The minimalistic control layout is fairly similar to its predecessor, with a few changes. It has an easy-to-use tabbed menu system that includes a customizable range of your favorite functions. There are a textured thumb grip and an overall rounded appearance for comfortable handling. It lacks proper weather sealing. However, the robust build is capable of protecting it against harsh shooting conditions.
Performance
Canon EOS M200 utilizes an APS-C 4K imaging sensor just like Rebel SL3, assuring users of incredible image quality in terms of color representation and details. Moreover, it performs pretty well under low lighting conditions, and if compared to the low-light image results of your smartphone, one can spot a significant difference. One of the biggest benefits of working with a mirrorless camera is that it produces sharper images because there is one less source of vibration, i.e., the mirror. As a result, users get highly detailed images with accurate yet pleasing colors.
Moving on, the frame rate and buffer capacity are nothing out of the ordinary: users can squeeze out a maximum of 6.1fps by turning off the AF system or 4fps when it’s turned on. However, the slow frame rate ensures a longer burst of images which proves valuable in the long run. On the other hand, the AF system is pretty great; there are 143 single-line sensitive AF points with several focusing modes, including Live View, Face Tracking, Zone AF, etc. The touchscreen lets users utilize Touch Focus during Live View photography throughout the process.
Furthermore, M200 does not create any noise allowing users to shoot images in strict areas such as museums without garnering any negative attention.
Conclusion
Canon M200 is a budge-friendly option for amateur photographers who want a well-performing camera without any complex features. It is certainly not the best camera in this range, and some rivals have outperformed it in terms of sharpness and weather-proofing, but it remains one of our favorites because, hey, it’s Canon.
What we like:
- Compact body
- Pleasing color representation
- Strong build
- Does not produce noise
What we don’t:
- Poor weather sealing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): About Mirrorless Canon Cameras
Q: Are mirrorless cameras better than DSLR?
A: DSLRs have been around for ages, but their popularity seems to be declining with the advancements in mirrorless cameras. Firstly, mirrorless cameras are significantly smaller in size as they don’t need to fit a mirror or an optical viewfinder. As a traveler constantly on the go, this is your best bet. On the other hand, DSLRs perform better in the autofocus speed department as they utilize phase-detection technology. DSLRs have the added advantage of an optical viewfinder that allows users to preview the scene exactly as one would capture. Moreover, DSLR cameras house bigger sensors (read: sharper images), but the mirrorless devices offer incredible APS-C sensors with great performance too.
Q: Are mirrorless cameras good for wildlife photography?
A: DSLRs were the go-to for wildlife photography because of their versatility and powerful performance. However, they are bulky, and no one has enough energy to carry large devices on long expeditions. Mirrorless cameras are portable, lighter with a compact body- a treat to carry around. Wildlife photography is a serious business with strict requirements, especially a brisk and precise AF system with a silent mechanism. If your mirrorless camera has a powerful AF system that works as fast as lightning with impressive accuracy, you are good to go.
Q: Do professionals use mirrorless cameras?
A: Yes, professional photographers use mirrorless cameras, and why shouldn’t they? These cameras are the perfect accessory to carry to all your gigs owing to their lightweight, compact body. Furthermore, they consist of an electronic viewfinder that gives a pretty accurate preview of the final image. They don’t suffer from issues such as light leakages ensuring minimal issues during the shooting session. Moreover, your image results don’t depend on the camera itself, but the credit goes to the sensor and lens. In short, there are no visible barriers for one to hesitate in using their mirrorless friend.
Conclusion
We hope you found our list of the best Canon mirrorless cameras helpful in making the right decision. Canon is a well-reputed brand that takes pride in producing innovative cameras with state-of-the-art ergonomics and premium features. Canon R5 is a great alternative for photographers on the lookout for exorbitant devices, whereas the EOS M200 is a budget-friendly option.