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EOS R vs DSLR vs EOS M: Which Camera System is Right for You?

In this informative comparison review video, photographer Jenn Cooper discusses the key advantages of the EOS R, DSLR and EOS M camera systems. Hit play and find out which camera system is best for you.

“First things first, all of these cameras are going to take great photos.”

Jenn Cooper

EOS M Series

Product image of a Canon EOS M 

“If you’re looking for a camera that has excellent quality photos but in a really small and compact body, then maybe the EOS M range of cameras is right for you.”


Compact Form Factor and Ultimate Portability and Discretion

The EOS M series includes compact and lightweight mirrorless cameras, particularly great for when you want to travel. It fits neatly in even the smallest of bags and I found that I was able to catch those photos that I might have missed otherwise. When we were shooting down at the beach in a really crowded area, I also found I was confident using this camera being that it was so small.


APS-C Sensor

It has an APS-C sized sensor, which means you can get excellent quality images without having to carry a huge camera.


Wide Range of Compact Lenses

This camera uses the EF M lenses, which means you can get a range of lenses from a wide angle through to a telephoto that are available in a very compact size. You can also use your existing EF and EF S Canon lenses using the adaptor.

Find out more about the Canon EOS M range.


EOS R Series

Canon EOS R5 Mirrorless Camera 

“If you’re looking for a camera that is going to give you exceptional picture quality but in a package that’s lighter and smaller than a full-size DSLR, then perhaps the EOS R is the range for you.”

The EOS R System is based around a pioneering lens mount which allows you to explore even greater creative possibilities with both photo and video.


Full Frame Sensor

As we step up to the EOS R range, we move up to a full frame sensor, which means you get even better image quality from your photos. Characteristically, a Full Frame Sensor provides you with wider fields of view, shallower depths of field and faster autofocus than their APS-C equivalents.


Native RF Lens Compatibility

The EOS R uses Canon’s revolutionary RF lenses, although you can still use your Canon EF or EF S lenses with an adaptor. The RF lenses are a growing category that offer higher quality, speed and sharpness optimised for the EOS R system cameras. When using the native RF lenses you can benefit from the fully customisable control ring, which you can program to control ISO, aperture and shutter speed.


Electronic Viewfinder

The EOS R range has an electronic viewfinder. While you aren’t seeing straight out the lens, you get the benefit of being able to overlay extra information such as controlling exposure or depth of field in real time. This allows you to adjust and get a preview of how your final shot will look. You can use it when shooting videos as well as stills.


Silent Shooting

One of the other features that I love about the EOS R is its silent shooting mode. Out in the field, we came across a situation where we needed to get up close to a subject and shoot a macro shot. In the silent shooting mode I was able to get the camera very close to the subject without it flying away.


Powerful Low Light Performance

One of the key benefits of the Canon EOS R range is its ability to focus in low light. This makes it particularly handy when shooting at night, indoors or at events. It’s a key stand-out feature in this particular range.


USB C for On-the-Go Charging

The EOS R also has USB C charging, making it quick and easy to charge the camera when you’re on the go. Charge it in the car or via your USB-powered adaptors.

Find out more about the Canon EOS R range.


DSLR Series

Product image of a Canon DSLR 

“If you shoot a lot of sports action or fast moving subjects, the optical viewfinder and advanced autofocus system in a DSLR camera will be best for you.”


Fast and Functional

DSLR cameras are fantastic if you’re looking to photograph wildlife or any type of fast moving action. Earlier today, we were on a bushwalk and had a DSLR camera handy. When I spotted some wildlife I was able to really quickly change the drive mode into high-speed burst and increase the shutter speed up to 1/2000 sec to capture the action.


Optical Viewfinder

With the optical viewfinder I was able to continue focusing on the wildlife as it flew away, and also track it as it was flying through the sky.


Native EF Lens Compatibility

Canon DSLR cameras are native to the EF range of lenses so you can use your EF or EF S lenses, depending on whether you go with a DSLR with a full frame or APS-C sized sensor.


Uncompromising Durability

DSLRs are known for their durability, ruggedness and ‘go anywhere’ dependability. They also have the longest battery life of all these cameras.

Find out more about Canon DSLR range.

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