Canon EOS R50
Entry-level model derived from the EOS M50
CANON’S second newcomer becomes the entry-point to the firm’s RF-mount line-up. Physically, it’s another very familiarlooking design. As implied by its name, the EOS R50 is essentially a re-worked version of the existing EOS M50 Mark II, but now with an RF mount, rather than EF-M. If you needed any confirmation that Canon’s older EOS M-series APS-C mirrorless system has now effectively reached the end of its development, this is probably it.
Internally, the EOS R50 shares its sensor and processor with last year’s EOS R10 and offers a broadly similar specification. However, it’s even smaller and lighter, with a particularly beginner-friendly design. Canon says that it’s aimed at those buying their first standalone camera, having previously used a smartphone for shooting photos and video.
Despite its entry-level positioning, the EOS R50 boasts subject-detection AF, which has previously only been seen on rather more expensive cameras. It’s speedy for its class, too, being capable of shooting at 12fps, rising to 15fps with its electronic shutter. Video can be recorded at 4K and 30fps with digital stabilisation, and unlike on the EOS M50 Mark II, this uses the full sensor width without a crop. Vertical video is supported for social media, the camera can be used as a plug-and-play webcam, and the vari-angle screen can be set facing forwards for self-recording. Smartphone connectivity is supplied by built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Like the EOS R8 and the two coannounced lenses, the EOS R50 is due to go on sale in March 2023. It will come in a choice of black or white finishes and is set to cost £789.99 body-only, or £899.99 with the RF-S 18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS zoom. We’re told that a dual-lens kit adding the new RF-S 55-210mm F5-7.1 IS STM telezoom (see below) will also be available.
At a glance
£789.99 body only
£899.99 with 18-45mm zoom
■ 24.2MP APS-C sensor
■ Up to 15fps shooting
■ 4K 30fps video recording
■ 2.36m-dot EVF
■ 3in vari-angle screen