At $1,105 for the standard 18-55mm kit, the
EOS M has a slighty more expensive price than that of the user-orientated Sony
NEX-5R with similar specifications, while it’s about $316 more than the very
powerful Panasonic GF5.
However, the really interesting thing is
that the EOS M is more expensive than the EOS 650D, a camera with which it
shares lots of its technologies, such as the sensor. Choosing the EOS M or its DSLR
sibling will be determined by how you want to shoot images.
Choosing
the EOS M or its DSLR sibling will be determined by how you want to shoot
images.
Comments
Combining the best parts of its compact and
DSLR seires, Canon has offered one of the most powerful and easy-to-use CSCs
today.
While there are some things that disappear
on the EOS M, on the general view it’s a very well specified camera, with lots
of things to make both inexperienced and more experienced users satisfied. To
support this, the EOS M’s big APS-C sized CMOS sensor provides some of the best
results for a camera of this class and it can compete with many other DSLRs.
All is put in a nice, well-made and simple
body, with the magnesium alloy panels giving a firm feel that can defeat some
of the more expensive models.
However, what really makes the EOS M outstanding
is the touchscreen interface. While the Sony NEX-5R’s interface might be bulky
to use and the Panasonic Lumix GF5’s interface can’t hold the same level of
control, the EOS M’s interface is both fast and easy to use.
There’s still a need for improvement. The
important thing is to make further additions to the EF-M lens series, while the
AF speed and burst shooting can be much faster.
For those who are looking to upgrade from a
compact, this is a perfect CSC option, while DSLR owners looking for a
lightweight alternative shouldn’t underestimate it because once you have leave
out the lack of body-mounted controls, you will find a camera which is both
fast and easy to use.
With all other big opponents who are
establishing their place in the CSC market, Canon needs to provide something,
and with the EOS M, it has done a great job.
Opponents
Nikon
1 J2
Nikon
1 J2
Price: $710
Packed with smart features and a fast AF
system, but the small 1-inch sensor can’t beat the EOS M’s one.
Panasonic
GF5
Panasonic
GF5
Price: $757
A great CSC for upgrading users, easy to
use and well made, but its images can’t beat the EOS M’s ones.
Sony
NEX-5R
Sony
NEX-5R
Price: $1,025
With an APS-C sized sensor to rival images
from the EOS M, it has a clumsy user interface.
Advantages
·
Touchscreen interface is one of the best we
have ever seen.
·
Image quality can compete with some DSLRs, providing
excellent results.
·
Magnesium alloy panels provide a high-ranking
surface.
Disadvantages
·
AF and burst shooting could be faster
·
No Wi-Fi support
·
Limited lens support (only two EF-M lenses so
far)
·
Its price puts it in competition with some
high-ranking DSLRs
Verdict
·
Features: 18/20
·
Performance: 19/20
·
Design: 18/20
·
Image quality: 18/20
·
Value: 17/20
·
Test scores: 90%
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