Is the Canon EOS M50 Mark II camera still worth it in 2025 or is it DEAD? 

The Bucket List Mermaid contains affiliate links from trusted travel partners. When you purchase through a link on this site, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See  Privacy Policy for more information.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, beginner-friendly, and seriously capable camera that won’t weigh you down on your adventures, let me introduce you to my tried-and-true travel sidekick: the Canon EOS M50 Mark II.

This was my first content creator camera (awwww!) and first semi-professional camera I invested in. 

It’s compact enough to toss in your daypack, but mighty enough to shoot dreamy bokeh portraits, tack-sharp landscapes, and buttery-smooth video for your vlogs or reels.

With a 24.1MP APS-C sensor, Dual Pixel autofocus, and Canon’s legendary color science, the M50 makes your photos look like you totally know what you’re doing—even if you’re just getting started. 

And, since I’ve had this camera for several years now as an adventure creator, I am going to be tearing it apart and giving you an honest and brutal review of my favorite little camera! 

Why Talk About a Discontinued Camera?

I decided to invest in this camera a few years ago. Then, Canon decided to say “sayonara” to it’s EOS M Series. Honestly, kinda rude. 

So, here’s the tea: the Canon EOS M50 Mark II has officially been discontinued… but don’t let that scare you off. 

This little camera still has a cult following, and for good reason. It’s like that scrappy underdog backpacker you meet on the road—it might not be the newest, flashiest thing on the block, but dang, does it get the job done.

I’ve traveled with my EOS M50 Mark II across deserts, mountaintops, and far-flung tropical islands. It’s been strapped to my backpack on 12-hour hikes, and helped me capture some of my all-time favorite bucket list moments. 

From vlogging in busy street markets to snapping crisp photos at golden hour—this camera has seen things.

And even though Canon has moved on, this camera still lives rent-free in the hearts (and camera bags) of beginner creators, travel bloggers, and YouTubers around the world.

And luckily, you can still buy the camera and bundles in all major photography outlets, such as Amazon👇

Quick Specs…and my honest thoughts on all of it! 

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a compact, versatile mirrorless camera that’s made waves with content creators, solo travelers, and digital nomads alike. 

I’m not going to sit here and BS you, though. Here are all of my thoughts on the main features of the Canon EOS M50 Mark II after using this camera for years! 

My Review of the the Canon EOS M50 Mark II FEatures

• 3.5mm external microphone input: Incredible! I never had an issue with external microphones. 
• 24.1 megapixel APS-c sensor: Unbelievable. The image quality and depth of field is incredible for the size of the camera. This sensor is a powerhouse for creating professional-looking content without needing a pro-level setup.
• Full HD 60p Recording: It’s okay…videos were either shaky or lower quality once I exported them. It isn’t terrible, but it isn’t great either.
• 4K & vertical movies: There’s a crop factor and it doesn’t include the awesome Dual Pixel AF in this mode. Maybe I’m an idiot, but I never could get it to actually shoot in 4K. Boo! 
• Live YouTube streaming & webcam: Never had the need! If you have, I would love to chat!
• Wifi & Bluetooth: Great…when it works…which is about 50% of the time. The app could definitely use an update. 
• AF to -4EV and shoot up to ISO 25,6000: Great for what it is! For the price point, it does okay. However, I generally struggled without a tripod in low light. 
• Weighs 387g: It is a tiny powerhouse! No complaints! This thing is light and perfect for adventuring! 
• Flip-out scream: Chef’s kiss! Amazing for taking solo shots and vlogging! 

💡 If you are looking to get the most bang for your bucket list, check out refurbished Canon EOS M50 Mark II bundle deals options on Amazon.

Pros of the Canon EOS M50

Now let’s get into the fun part and talk about why the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is one of my favorite cameras! 

1. Ultra-Portable = Backpack Approved

Weighing in at just around 387g, the M50 Mark II is featherlight without feeling flimsy. 

Whether you’re island-hopping in the Philippines or hiking switchbacks in Zion, this camera won’t weigh you down. 

I can’t even tell you how many times I popped this little guy into a hiking backpack. Did I notice it? Not at all. 

2. Flip Screen = Vlogging Gold

That fully articulating touchscreen? Pure magic.

Perfect for talking to the camera on solo adventures, framing dreamy selfies, or checking your angles when you’re shooting content for reels, TikToks, or YouTube. 

Bonus: Since it is a touchscreen, it is VERY easy to adjust your settings fast! 

3. Image Quality = Surprisingly Incredible

Armed with a 24.1MP APS-C sensor and Canon’s lovely color science, the M50 Mark II delivers sharp, vivid shots that make your photography pop.

I’m always surprised at the kind of shots I get from this camera…even shots that rival my more expensive cameras, such as my Canon 5D Mark IV! 

4. Easy-to-Use Menu = No Headache for Beginners

You don’t need to be a camera tech wizard to use this. 

The menus are beginner-friendly, the touchscreen makes navigation intuitive, and Canon’s guided mode helps first-timers feel right at home. 

There have been times that I have shot in manual and I can do it all from the touchscreen menu very quickly! 

It’s funny because when I upgraded to a more expensive camera, I was actually quite annoyed at how difficult it was to use. I said “why can’t it just be easy like my Canon EOS M50?!”

It’s truly a “pick-up-and-shoot” kind of camera – even mid-adventure.

5. The Kit lens is Great!

While the EF-M lens lineup is limited, it’s still solid for most creators. 

Here were the ones that stood out to me:

Normally, the kit lenses suck. Surprisingly, it wasn’t the case here.

I started with the 15-45mm kit (silver) lens and then got a 55-200mm telephoto lens (silver).

I would look for refurbished bundle deals to get the most for your money.

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is Perfect For:

• Beginner creators wanting pro-quality without the overwhelm
• Solo travelers needing something light + easy
• Digital nomads who need flexibility and versatility
• RVers & vanlifers where space is a premium but content is queen 

Read More – Top Adventure Photography & Videography for Thrill-Seekers

Cons of the Canon EOS M50

As much as we love the Canon EOS M50 Mark II, no camera is without its quirks. Let’s break down a few things to consider before you hit “buy.”

1. Discontinued (Sort Of)

SO annoying. 

While the Canon EOS M50 Mark II was a favorite for creators, Canon has phased out the entire M series, so there won’t be any more new models hitting the shelves. 

That said, refurbished models and bundles are still very much available, so you can still snag a great deal if you’re quick.

2. 4K Has a Crop + No Dual Pixel AF

Yes, the M50 Mark II does shoot 4K video, but it comes with a crop (about 1.6x) and lacks Dual Pixel AF in 4K mode, which means it’s not quite as smooth as the 1080p footage. 

So, if you’re a vlogger or filmmaker who needs wide, smooth shots with sharp autofocus, the 1080p video is definitely the sweet spot here.

If I am being honest, I had good luck with the vlog style shots.

However, all other video suffered. It was shaky without a tripod (which led to me investing in the DJI Ronin SC), and the quality just wasn’t where I wanted it to be when I exported. 

You can hear my thoughts on using the popular DJI Ronin SC with this camera in the video below👇

3. Limited Lens Options

The EF-M lens lineup is relatively small compared to other systems.

While you can adapt EF and EF-S lenses using the EF-EOS M lens adapter, it does add some extra bulk. 

Plus, some adapters don’t work and it’s confusing to know which one you need. I once really wanted and EF prime lens and went through THREE different adapters before giving up. 

If you’re planning on expanding your lens collection, just know that the options for native lenses are more limited.

4. No Headphone Jack

Like its predecessor, the M50 Mark II lacks a headphone jack.

This means you won’t be able to monitor your audio in real time, which can be a dealbreaker for those recording dialogue-heavy content or high-quality video podcasts. 

If you’re serious about sound quality, you’ll need to invest in external audio gear or use a microphone with a built-in headphone jack for monitoring.

💡 A quality external microphone like the Røde Wireless Go II can drastically improve your audio quality.

5. Wifi and the Camera Connect

One feature I was very excited about as an adventure creator was the wifi capabilities and the Canon Camera Connect. 

Honestly, I was a little disappointed. It was hard to set up, the app only worked about 50% of the time, and when it did work it was slow. 

I once spent 2 hours driving through Yosemite for it to transfer 60 pictures. Granted, I was truly in the middle of nowhere. But still…

My recommendation is doing it the only fashioned way and transferring files from the SD card to your computer or a hard drive later. 

2025 Alternatives: What to Buy If You Want Something Similar

While the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is still a great option, 2025 brings us a few worthy alternatives for those looking to step up their game or find something new.

Here are three top contenders that are similar in form but offer a few unique features depending on what you’re after.

1. Canon EOS R50 – The Most Natural Successor

The Canon EOS R50 is the natural successor to the M50 Mark II. 

This mirrorless beauty uses Canon’s newer RF lens mount, which provides access to a wider range of lenses and better compatibility with newer Canon gear. 

The R50 also features improved autofocus, better 4K video (no crop!), and superior image quality thanks to the newer sensor.

• Key Features:
  • RF lens mount (newer, more versatile)
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF (faster and more accurate)
  • 4K without crop
  • Improved 24.2 MP sensor
  • Better low-light performance

Perfect for: Travelers who love Canon but want the newer tech and lens options without leaving the Canon ecosystem.

2. Sony ZV-E10 – Vlog-Focused with Amazing Autofocus

The Sony ZV-E10 is a vlogger’s dream. With its flip-out screen, real-time eye autofocus, and great 4K video, this camera takes everything that made the M50 Mark II popular and cranks it up for those who prioritize video. 

Sony is renowned for its autofocus system, and this camera offers fast, smooth focus, even in challenging lighting. Plus, it offers a wide selection of lenses with the Sony E-mount, giving you plenty of creative control.

• Key Features:
  • Super-fast autofocus
  • 4K video recording (no crop, full-frame width)
  • Flip-out screen (perfect for self-shooting)
  • Compact, lightweight design
  • Great audio options (with microphone input and a strong onboard mic)

Perfect for: Creators who prioritize seamless video shooting, autofocus, and high-quality content on the go.

3. Fujifilm X-S20 – Pricier, but Killer for Hybrid Shooting

If you’re willing to bump up your budget a bit, the Fujifilm X-S20 is a great option for hybrid shooters. 

This camera is perfect if you want amazing photo quality with video capability that rivals even higher-end models. 

It offers fantastic color reproduction, a larger sensor, and 4K video with no crop, making it ideal for those who need flexibility in both video and stills. 

Plus, Fujifilm’s unique film simulations bring an artistic flair to your photos and videos.

• Key Features:
  • 26.1 MP X-Trans CMOS 4 (larger sensor for better detail and low light)
  • 4K 60fps video (for smooth, high-quality video)
  • Outstanding image quality
  • Great for hybrid shooters (photo + video)
  • Film simulations for creative shots

Perfect for: Creators who want a versatile camera that delivers exceptional photos and videos with a classic, artistic touch.

Feature Comparison Chart

Feature	Canon EOS M50 Mark II	Canon EOS R50	Sony ZV-E10	Fujifilm X-S20
Sensor	24.1 MP APS-C	24.2 MP APS-C	24.2 MP APS-C	26.1 MP APS-C
Autofocus	Dual Pixel AF + Eye Detection	Dual Pixel AF	Real-Time Eye AF	Hybrid AF (PDAF & Contrast)
4K Video	Crop, no Dual Pixel AF	4K without crop	4K / 30p HD / 60p	4K (60fps, no crop)
Screen	Flip-out	Flip-out	Flip-out	Flip-out
Weight	387g	375g	343g	491g
Lens Mount	EF-M	RF	Sony E-mount	Fujifilm X-mount
Price Range	Mid-range	Mid-range	Mid-range	Premium

Bonus Section (Optional): Before You Buy – Quick Checklist

Before you hit that “buy” button, let’s go over a few key questions to make sure you’re getting the right camera for your needs. 

This checklist will help you decide if the Canon EOS M50 Mark II (or its alternatives) is the perfect fit for you.

1. Are You Okay with Buying Used or Refurbished?

Since the Canon EOS M50 Mark II has been discontinued, your options for brand-new units may be limited. 

If you’re open to buying used or refurbished gear, you can still snag this camera for a good price. 

Be sure to check the condition, warranty, and seller reviews when buying secondhand.

Tip: Check out refurbished models directly from Canon or trusted retailers like Amazon to get the best deals with a little added peace of mind.

2. Do You Plan on Shooting in 4K?

While the Canon M50 Mark II does offer 4K video, it comes with a crop and lacks Dual Pixel AF, which can make vlogging and action shots more challenging.

If 4K quality without a crop is crucial for you, you may want to consider alternatives like the Canon EOS R50 or Sony ZV-E10, which offer better 4K performance.

3. Do You Want to Grow into a More Pro Camera Later?

The Canon M50 Mark II is a great beginner-to-intermediate camera, but if you plan on leveling up your photography or videography skills and investing in a more professional system, you might want to look into cameras with a larger sensor (like the Canon EOS R50 or Fujifilm X-S20) or one with a better lens ecosystem.

4. Do You Already Have Canon Lenses?

If you’ve already invested in Canon EF-M lenses, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a great fit for you. 

However, if you’re considering other brands or plan to buy more lenses, it might be worth exploring alternatives with a broader lens selection or more future-proof lens mounts.

Now It’s Time to Share Your Pictures! 

That’s a wrap on our deep dive into the Canon EOS M50 Mark II! Whether you’re a solo traveler, a vlogger, or just someone looking to up your photography game, this little camera still has a lot to offer – especially if you’re ready to snag a great deal on a used or refurbished model.

Got any questions about the M50 Mark II or need help choosing the right camera for your adventures? Drop them in the comments below – I’d love to hear from you!

And hey, if you’re still on the hunt for the perfect travel or vlogging gear, make sure to check out my other gear reviews. (Hint: I’ve got more camera reviews coming soon!)

If you are looking to share your OWN pictures, check out Shutterbugs Gone Wild – my Travel & Adventure Photography Lounge on Facebook!

Ready to level up your travel photos and vlogs – even on a budget? The Canon EOS M50 still slaps 💥. Don’t miss out on this powerhouse camera!

More photography guides for your bucket list

More Travel Resources