Canon EOS M hands-on preview

July 2012 | By Andy Westlake

Preview based on a pre-production Canon EOS M

It's now almost four years since Panasonic first introduced us to the mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, in the shape of the Micro Four Thirds Lumix DMC-G1. Since then, all of the other major manufacturers have entered the fray, in the process offering cameras in a variety of shapes and sizes - from diminutive beginner-friendly models such as the Olympus PEN E-PM1, to unashamedly high-end models like the Sony NEX-7 and Fujifilm X-Pro1. Nikon, meanwhile, has ploughed its own individual furrow with its family-friendly 1 J1 and 1 V1 models. This simply reflects the fact that different cameras are targeted to different kinds of users - be they serious enthusiasts looking for a small, highly capable camera, or compact-camera upgraders looking for SLR-like image quality in a smaller, easier-to-use package.

Canon is the last big player to show its hand, and its initial entrant - the EOS M - is unashamedly targeted to the latter group of users. To all intents and purposes it's a mirrorless version of the recently-announced EOS 650D, but with a simpler interface that's designed to be more approachable for novice users, and obviously much more compact in size. It's based around a new 'EF-M' lens mount, and two matched lenses will be available at launch: the EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM zoom, and the EF-M 22mm f/2 STM 'pancake' prime. But it's still very much part of the EOS system, and all of the company's existing EF and EF-S SLR lenses can be used via the co-announced 'Mount adapter EF-EOS M'.

The EOS M features a compact, magnesium-alloy body, and will be available in four colours - black, white, silver and red. It has no built-in flash, but instead a hot shoe on the top plate, and in many markets (although not the US) it will come bundled with the new AAA-powered Speedlite 90EX unit. There's neither a built-in viewfinder, nor connector for an external unit - composition is solely using the camera's rear screen (which is fixed, rather than articulated).

Canon EOS M key features

New EF-M lens mount (optimized for APS-C sensor size)
18MP APS-C 'Hybrid CMOS' sensor
Continuous autofocus in movie mode with subject tracking
14-bit DIGIC5 processor
ISO 100-12800 standard, 25600 expanded
4.3 fps continuous shooting, 3 fps with autofocus tracking
1080p30 video recording, stereo sound (with 25p or 24p options)
External microphone socket and adjustable sound recording level
1040k dot 3:2 touch-sensitive ClearView II LCD (capacitative type, multi-touch support)
Standard EOS hot-shoe for external flash (no built-in flash)
'Creative Filters' image-processing controls, previewed live on-screen

The EOS M will be available in four colours - silver, red, black or white - although they may not all be sold in all markets.

The EOS M's commitment to simplicity is reflected by its physical control layout, with buttons and dials kept to a minimum. The exposure mode dial - a staple of Canon's EOS range for over 20 years - has been reduced to just three positions, distinctly reminiscent of the company's Ixus / Elph compacts. The rear of the camera is also rather compact-esque, with a familiar combined 4-way controller / settings dial and just a smattering of buttons.

The lack of physical controls is, however, substantially made up for by the large capacitative touchscreen on the back. This uses much the same interface that Canon introduced on the EOS 650D, and stands out as the most usable, comprehensive and engaging touchscreen that we've yet seen on an interchangeable-lens camera. But whereas on the 650D its use is very much optional, on the EOS M it becomes the preferred method of interaction with the camera.

Because mirrorless cameras have struggled to make headway in the US, Canon is only going to sell one kit option in this market. Targeting an enthusiast buyer, the camera plus 22mm pancake will be available from speciality photo stores only for $799, with the 18-55mm zoom sold separately for $299. The company will also be emphasizing its video capabilities, which are essentially the same as the EOS 650D but in a smaller, cheaper package.

Movies can be recorded in Full HD 1920x1080 resolution at 30, 25 or 24 fps with stereo sound, using the highly-compatible MOV format and H.264 compression, with a time limit of 29 min 59 sec per clip. The EOS M offers a choice of either fully automatic exposure in video mode, or as much manual control as the user wishes to take. The 3-10x electronic zoom first seen on the EOS 600D, but mysteriously missing from the EOS 650D, is also available - with minimal loss of quality at the 3x setting.

New EF-M lens mount

A new mirrorless system needs a new lens mount, which Canon has called EF-M to emphasis its continued compatibility with the company's existing EF mount for autofocus SLRs. It's a fully-electronic bayonet mount, with 9 contacts between the lens and camera. Unusually, the white dot for aligning the lens is at the 11 0'clock position on the mount.

The EF-M mount is 58mm in diameter, with a flange distance of 18mm from the bayonet to the sensor. As the image above clearly shows it's matched specifically to the APS-C sensor size. So don't expect a future full frame EF-M mount camera - it's not going to happen.

Like all other mirrorless cameras, the EOS M's shutter is open by default even when the camera is turned off, exposing the sensor. This may seem disconcerting to SLR owners, but we've never experienced any problem with this approach. Like Canon's live view-capable SLRs the EOS M uses an electronic first curtain to activate the exposure, and the physical shutter is only used to end it. This helps reduces shutter lag and keep shutter noise down - meaning the EOS M is one of the quieter models of its type.

Two new EF-M lenses: EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and EF-M 22mm f/2.0 pancake

The EOS M is released with two new lenses for the EF-M mount - an 18-55mm image-stabilized standard zoom and a compact, 'pancake' prime. Both feature Canon's 'STM' stepper motor for autofocus, which allows near-silent refocusing during video recording. This means electronically-coupled 'focus-by-wire' manual focus; thankfully though Canon hasn't been tempted to discard physical focus rings. However there are no switches to set the focus or IS mode - these are controlled from the camera.

Canon EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM and EF-M 22mm f/2.0 STM

The lenses use minimalistically-styled, plain cylindrical barrels that bear more than a passing resemblance to Sony's NEX series optics. In terms of dimensions they're fairly typical for their class, which means they're smaller than corresponding SLR lenses; the zoom is near-identical in size to the Sony E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS, whereas the pancake is very similarly-sized to Panasonic's Lumix G 20mm F1.7 ASPH.

As the only cameras we've seen so far are pre-production, it's premature to say much about focus speed. But while on first impressions the 18-55mm focuses pretty quickly, the 22mm is distinctly slower. This is not totally surprising given that the entire optical unit racks back and forth for focusing; this is not a design approach that's ever been associated with ultra-fast focusing on this type of lens. But we'll wait for production cameras and lenses to make a proper judgement.

Lens specifications

	Canon EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM	Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM
Format	APS-C	APS-C
Focal length	18-55mm	22mm
35mm-equiv focal length	29-88mm	35mm
Diagonal angle of view	74°20' - 25°70'	63°30'
Maximum aperture	1:3.5-5.6	1:2
Lens construction	13 elements / 11 groups	7 elements / 6 groups
Focus motor type	Linear Stepper Motor	Linear Stepper Motor
Focus method	• Internal focus • Focus-by-wire manual focus	• Unit focus • Focus-by-wire manual focus
Zoom method	Rotary, extending barrel	n/a
Minimum focus distance	0.25m / 0.82 ft	0.15m / 0.49 ft
Filter thread	• 52mm • Does not rotate on focusing	• 43mm • Does not rotate on focusing
Dimensions	60.9 x 61mm (2.39 x 2.4 in)	60.9 x 23.7mm (2.38 x 0.93 in)
Weight	210g (7.4oz)	105g (3.7 oz)

Size compared

The EOS M is a small camera - indeed one of the smallest APS-C models around. Here we compare it to the EOS 650D and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3.

Here's the EOS M with the 22mm f/2 next to the camera with which it share its innards - the EOS 650D with EF 40mm f/2 STM lens. As you can see, eliminating the reflex mirror and optical viewfinder has enabled a dramatic reduction in size.


Here's the EOS M side-by-side with the Panasonic Lumix GF3 - a model that's similarly-aimed at compact camera upgraders, and one of the smallest mirrorless cameras around (it's since been replaced by the similar-size GF5). Both cameras use a touchscreen to complement their limited array of physical controls, but the GF5 has a built-in flash rather than a hot shoe. It also uses the slightly smaller Four Thirds sensor.

If you're new to digital photography you may wish to read the Digital Photography Glossary before diving into this article (it may help you understand some of the terms used).

Conclusion / Recommendation / Ratings are based on the opinion of the reviewer, you should read the ENTIRE review before coming to your own conclusions.

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Comments

Total comments: 503

And again, that bloody video button is exactly where the thumb goes and presses on it when not needed or wanted

0 upvotes

But the mode dial has to be set to movie for it to work, so less of an issue than with other cameras...

1 upvote

I'm glad Canon finally put their cards on the table.
I think this camera could appeal to the ever-growing touchpanel-used crowd.
Let Canon add a few nice pancake lenses (a 2.0/35mm!, 2.4/70mm...) and another camera with more manual controls and EVF (or EVF add-on) and the enthusiast users will be happy too.

2 upvotes

I need viewfinder viewfinder viewfinder....

4 upvotes

Why? LCDs work great as viewfinders most of the time, and the holding position is stable if you keep the camera near your face. If you are far-sighted, get glasses.

0 upvotes

You must have viewfinders for outdoor/bright condition unless canon offers a "brighter" LCD screen and some kind of loupe that goes with it. Manual focusing typically with manual lenses in bright conditions will also require viewfinders (good quality ones) especially if you want a precise control.

If you don't care about these, then LCD will be perfect for you.. You will be happier with especially the high res LCD that canon is offering for this model.

4 upvotes

I agree 100%. Never again will I buy a camera without one. Fuji did it, so can Canon. Of course, this is not intended to be a pro camera. Try following gulls on a brightly lit beach! Go on, try it! Trivial with an SLR; nearly impossible using a screen at arms length obliterated by sunlight. You can't even tell if it's focused, let alone see them. The whole idea of these smaller cameras is convenience, less expensive lenses and SLR quality. Being able to follow action and visualize focus is still essential.

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 6 minutes after posting

5 upvotes

I agree. In spite of promises of bigger, more detailed and brighter, rear LCDs so far they all completely suck in bright sunlight. No exceptions. I suppose the challenge for Canon now is that even if they offer a nice EVF it will make this a pretty expensive camera.

I was hoping to see Canon take the Fuji XPro 1 and put their own spin on things.

2 upvotes

I call a camera with no viewfinder a point and Hope!

3 upvotes

This camera is not intended for those kinds of scenes, much like you don't buy an SLR to take pics of license plates after car accidents... Leave that to cell phones.

0 upvotes

I must admit I don't see the appeal - and neither did I with the Nikon entrants. For the moment I'm toying with a Nikon FM body and putting my money into film and development. Otherwise the Fuji models are the most appealing to serious- proffessional models.

Mind you, ebay is packed full of hobbyists selling their D700's because there's no auto mode and the live view is rubbish.....

3 upvotes

I can't help laughing at those Canon fanboys who ridiculed the Olympus E-P1 for having no viewfinder or built-in flash three years ago. This is a point-and-shoot with large sensor and interchangeable lenses. Surely Canon can - and will - do better than this. For now they'te just taking their little fight against Nikon to the mirrorless arena.
This camera has no appeal to me.

5 upvotes

"There's neither a built-in viewfinder, nor connector for an external unit - composition is solely using the camera's rear screen." This is an oddly expensive camera to be aimed at the hold-in-one-hand-while-they-point-and-shoot crowd. $799 without the lens adapter? I personally will never buy another camera without a viewfinder of some sort.

7 upvotes

my thoughts exactly

1 upvote

Me too, I had the choice between the NEX-7 and the OM-D and I aimed at them because of the viewfinder that I use in more than 75% of all my shots. I took NEX for the reason of the sensor size. I do not like the 4/3, and I am not the only one. Give me the OM-D with the NEX-7 sensor and I buy it right away. This Canon might be a nice gear for tourism and some other hidden works, like concerts, but the price is far away from reality. You get the NEX-3F for a lower price with 2 lenses. And, it has atilt screen. That Canon makes this one with a fixed screen is a riddle.

Comment edited 1 minute after posting

1 upvote

The $799 is justified because this allows you to use all your existing Canon lenses with this camera. No other miniature camera allows this. It would be nice to have the adapter included though, or at least very cheap.

If you want a viewfinder, use an SLR. This would be uncomfortable to use up to your face because it is so small.

0 upvotes

I was disappointed that there was no mode dial, as in bright sun that screen will be a pain to use for things like switching modes, but it's the lack of either a built in or optional EVF that will keep me from buying this camera. Too bad, as I've been considering APS-C mirrorless cameras, and the new Canon has got features (plus the size/weight) that would have made it my next camera otherwise.

2 upvotes

It should have the Canon fold out screen

1 upvote

Without a viewfinder, my interest level is zero.

3 upvotes

I agree. In bright light it is almost impossible to compose on a screen held out in front of your face. And it is hard to brace and steady a camera out in front of your body, especially if a big lens is mounted. This $799 Canon is the oddest thing.

5 upvotes

Wait for the review. Perhaps the brightness on the screen overcomes the bright light (unlikely in direct sun, but should be useable in bright areas outside of direct sunlight).

0 upvotes

I think people are being a bit hysterical about the lack of EVF. Before I finally went SLR, I took thousands of great photos with my G10, almost never using its optical viewfinder, and often in bright conditions.

0 upvotes

Does anyone know if this one will have eTTL for the strobe? I was so hopeful with the G1x but it only has minimal controls of the strobe through the camera where you can set it to Low, med, or high on the camera screen.

I'm hoping this one has evaluative TTL like a normal SLR. Anyone know?

1 upvote

Marketing is an art, not a science. We will see how many they sell, although I suspect the Canon name will sell a lot, both to the uninitiated and to brand loyalists who think they will be able to use their existing investment in lenses. This body and the adapter is more expensive than I thought it might be. Personally I prefer M43rds, but to each his or her own. ( I am looking forward to an enthusiast quality Panasonic GX1 -not a Canon G1X!- with a viewfinder in the corner.)

3 upvotes

It will sell. It's a Canon, right?

1 upvote

Snore... Another example that, again, shows Canon is out of touch with what is really trending in mirrorless cameras like the Olympus OMD and other serious cameras that a pro or semi-pro might want to carry in his bag or take instead of a big bag of equipment...out of touch (almost sounds political)

2 upvotes

Recently I decided NOT to wait for a Canon mirrorless and opted for a Lumix GX1.. I am happy now, I think I've made a good desicion. GX1 with its kit zoom is cheaper than this Canon, ultra compact with its new 14-42x lens, conventional/professional controls and the results are stunning. A camera I can carry in my bag.
What I expected from Canon was completely different, innovative and stylish. (Like a T90) A chrome/black classic design which is well suited to the retro fans (i.e.lomotics).

Comment edited 47 seconds after posting

1 upvote

Is this the first Canon WITHOUT a direct print button??

10 upvotes

I have an iPhone with only one button. But it can print.

1 upvote

Will it be missed by anyone?

0 upvotes

This is just what we've all been on the edge of our seats for; chomping at the bit; keenly anticipating!

Revolutionary strap lugs! I'm so excited! Way to knock their socks off Canon!

Otherwise, very predictable.

7 upvotes

I really don't understand, Canon comes really late to the party and don't add anything at all to what we already had in the market a few years ago (original Nex-5 for ex). I was really expecting something new/different and I don't see any reason for someone who already owns a mirrorless cam to move to this one.

2 upvotes

what don't you understand? Canon has such a huge user marker with millions of EF and EF-S lenses that they only needed to create a small APS-C with an EF adapter and call it mirrorless. Canon does not need to follow the mirrorless evolution, they just needed to show that they can.

4 upvotes

Stupid talks here. Canon needs to sell, that is the goal, business. You might say that they earn with the big things. But also that is stupid to say. You can sell 10 big trucks a year and earn a million, the Vatican earns that in an hour by collecting pennies. So, where is then the big deal? This Canon is old stuff, nothing innovative except a touch screen one doesn't needs. Beside that, no viewfinder, expensive kit-lens too, an adapter that is far overpriced for a simple tube, here they step together with Sony. All in all. a NEX-5 copy with less good features at double price. Sony will be delighted to see this one. If you want to sell this, drop the price with big lens to 600$. Even then, no viewfinder facility, no flip and tilt screen. This camera is just an item to say, "we have one too".

1 upvote

FTW:

The Vatican has huge, often untaxed, real estate holdings.

As for the silly Sony Nex 5n claim, well yes a similar body, however Sony just can't compete on the lenses--unless you want to spend $1100 for the one good Sony Nex series lens.

0 upvotes

deleted

Comment edited 39 seconds after posting

0 upvotes

More importantly, the lens adapter is $200! WTF?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/883406-REG/Canon_6098b002_EF_M_Lens_Adapter_Kit.html

Sounds like they're trying to extort their power users.

2 upvotes

It's not a high-volume item, yet it takes a decent bit of engineering to produce. It will come down in price over time.

0 upvotes

Canon has a huge following worldwide and an offering for someone who wants more than a mobile phone, but not DSLR, this should sell in reasonable numbers
The photographer in the family will buy DSLR's, but the 'significant other' will want something more suited to their mobile phone style, of which millions if not billions are now using.
Forum followers are already in their zone of interest and therefore not necessarily the target market for this. MOST SMART PHONE USERS DONT WANT A VIEWFINDER......
Same whinging and moaning as we saw about the Pentax K-01, yet real world users are getting stunning results, so its all about perception.
Again, being able to use existing Canon lenses, albeit with an adapter is another bonus. Be interested to see what the full review makes of this, which will be a comparison with other similar offerings, so Nex and K-01.
The onus will be on the reviewer to look at their K-01 review and judge accordingly................

0 upvotes

Strange analysis from dpr on some points.

"So don't expect a future full frame EF-M mount camera - it's not going to happen."
Of course not. EF-M lenses don't cover full frame image area. Still, this says nothing about Canon developing or not-developing a full frame mirrorless camera.

"As you can see, eliminating the reflex mirror and optical viewfinder has enabled a dramatic reduction in size." The "dramatic reduction" in size is most probably also related to the lack of grip, flash, external controls, probably weaker battery...

By the way, I fail to understand why so many mirrorless camera have no built-in flash. Part of their interest lies in convenience. Needing an external flash is all but convenient.

4 upvotes

For your first point, that's exactly what the review was saying. They didn't say anything about Canon not developing a FF, just that it wasn't possible for EF-M.

For your second point, there's not much point in reducing the size of the auxiliary parts of your camera if your mirror, prism, and lenses already are taking up so much space. As long is it's gonna be big already, might as well add some functionality to the brick. With those gone, a lot of the other space-taking parts become superfluous. That's why there are no DSLRs without all the things you mentioned.

0 upvotes

Hmmm .... still disappointed by 5D3 and now this.

I had hoped for a lot more to interest enthusiasts rather than casual shooters.

4 upvotes

The casual shooters represent a far larger market and are still shelling out good money for their toys.

0 upvotes

Hmm, the GF3 never really was pretty, but this new Canon body makes it a bombshell... Yes, it's more about the guts, but what the hell were they thinking in the design dep? OTOH, the lenses look mighty fine, so ugly head, pretty nose(s) :D

Btw. unless the 18-55mm is made out of tissue and inflated membranes, there's no way it weighs only 120g/4.23 oz... Keeping it compact like the Panasonic 14-45mm is quite an achievement, but let's hope Canon didn't do it the way Sony did, simply by butchering the optical performance of the E-18-55..

Comment edited 7 minutes after posting

6 upvotes

LOL I feel the same.. I was like WTF!!! when I first saw the EOS-M pictures on rumors site and said to myself Canon designer can't be that dumb..... and the APS-C sensor all but basically eliminated any hope for light weight small bright primes...

Disappointed

0 upvotes

Minimum and maximum shutters speeds are reversed.

2 upvotes

Depends on how you look at it, but this is correct. Where maximum speed means the least amount of time = 1/4000

0 upvotes

Doesn't look like they have BULB mode. They may not know how to innovate, but they sure know how to cripple a camera.

1 upvote

And the average shooter needs bulb why? The average shooter being defined as the millions of people using cameras that aren't posting rants here.

2 upvotes

M Jesper,

shutter speed is shutter speed.
Is not only "speed" (that is an old word, commonly used, near to a no sense, or if you prefer, with a mystification sense, in other words, a bad technical definition, when used for a lens, but here is for a camera).

Jsabel Cutler, of course is right, and the values are obviously inverted.

Also write "Articulated LCD . . . Fixed" is a really stupid label.

0 upvotes

Wish the PASM modes were available on external dial :( Pricing of this & 650D don't seem too attractive.

1 upvote

+ EOS-Lenses can be attached and used (requires adapter)
+ EOS flashes can be attached
+ Mic connector and volumen control options
- uncompetitive price (5N with kit zoom 630 Euros,
EOSM with 22mm 799.-, kit zoom 300 Euro)
- no EVF
- LCD not tiltable
- User interface probably not faster then 5N

So as summary, IF you already own EOS lenses (which worldwide a lot of people do) you might consider this camera. There are enough people who bought the microbones adoater for 300 $ and it cannot even perform AF.

The question though is why would you buy this camera if you already own an EOS DLSR? Going to another brand would be cheaper. Only the weight reduction could be a point in favor. EOS lenses are big.

0 upvotes

My gut says that those owning many good EOS lenses will want something more than this to attach them to and something Canon is unlikely to give them. Rather, they will sell a boatload of these to those who want a "professional" brand camera and haven't already bought a Nikon 1. Just my opinion, but the EOS adapter is just so they can say "we have lots of compatible lenses." Ala. Sony.

1 upvote

No viewfinder? Too expensive in the UK. No interest.

2 upvotes

If this camera had the option of an external viewfinder, not necessarily an EVF, just a simple optical one even, then I might consider getting this. it might only be a glorified point and shoot but it does offer an alternative to an Ixus or Powershot. If it was between this or the G1X I would probably still get the G1X, but if it was between this and the G12, then it would be this... Thats just my opinion anyway..

1 upvote

See: http://www.ebay.com/itm/170881382441

I still would prefer a real EVF. You can't judge focus on these lenses, since they're fly by wire.

0 upvotes

It does not have flash!! then it is no for me :) hello Pentax / Sony :)

1 upvote

Canon has released a speedlite 90EX for the new eos-m series. Go get it!

0 upvotes

why should i pay external flash for an entry level camera :) if i had plan to buy a ext flash, then i would buy for my 7D :)

1 upvote

I don't think too many people on DPR will be buying this. I know I won't

1 upvote

Agree! People on DPR are informed, and this camera is for non-informed brandlovers with budget :-/

1 upvote

I agree. I think they did do well with the body design and it should appeal to Christmas shoppers at big box stores. The salesmen will talk it up because it's a Canon.

1 upvote

A further thought. they launch this on a bright sunny day when users of their new system may not be able to compase photos due to reflections on the screen.

PMG

1 upvote

As a Canon rebel 350 D then 550D userI had been waiting to see what Canon mirrorless offered before proceeding to micro four thirds as that system now offers quality acceptable to me. The appeal of M4/3rds being the weight of the lenses especially long zooms. Increasingly I have been using a travel compact and leaving the Canon system at home. The use of the APC sensor means no significant weight reduction for longer zoom lenses compatable with this system.

My move from Canon to M4/3 rds proceeds

PMG

10 upvotes

Wow. That describes me exactly.

Once I got my S95/S100 the T2i has been staying at home a lot. Even on trip such as disneyland which is a lot more fun when you are not whacking kids on the head with your DSLR.

I think we all had great hopes that canon would offer a compact innovation but with this.... I may try out the 40mm pancake to see if that makes that lump more palatable but that $200 would go a long way towards financing a M43 body.

Sigh.....

1 upvote

Lenses will always be smaller because of a shorter flange distance, otherwise you're right. This camera is doomed to suffer the 'NEX syndrome'.

3 upvotes

Weight of the long lenses? Long lenses are essentially unaffected by mirrorless. The current Canon EF-S 55-250 f/4-5.6 IS zoom is 390g. The u4/3 equivalent is the Panasonic 45-200mm f/4-5.6 OIS at 380g. Right now you need a 50g adapter tube (not clear if the 50g includes the removable tripod mount or not.)

0 upvotes

Manuel, the u4/3 flange distance is 19.25mm while the Canon and NEX are 18mm, so your logic here is backwards!

Comment edited 27 seconds after posting

0 upvotes

Hmmm... in what sense, Erik? I don't see your point. You should go back and read what I wrote again, because your reply makes no sense.

0 upvotes

Let's give Canon some credit. This attempt to stop its DSLR owners switching to M43 is much better than Pentax's brick joke - the K-01. This camera and its lenses are smaller. But is it worth spending $800 for a camera with no viewfinder and limited features to get a smaller size (camera) when the EF lens and adapter will still make the whole thing big? Is it worth spending even more to buy the new lenses for use on such a basic camera? Assuming that Canon will eventually release a high-end mirrorless, how much would that cost? and how long will the wait be, knowing Canon does not want a high-end mirrorless to affect its dominant DSLR business? How long will it take Canon to release more lenses?

In the meantime, you can get the Olympus E-M5 for not much more and it has everything you want, and there are all those lenses, small and quality lenses.

I am afraid that this camera is confirming everything we suspected about Canon and that it is for those who want to use big DSLRs.

Comment edited 1 minute after posting

1 upvote

And soon there will be the Panasonic GH3. There are also choices if you prefer a pocketable GF5, or other small M43 cameras.

I cannot see any reason not to go M43, if people want a mirrorless system now. In another year, or two, and assuming the other makers release enough lenses, then it may be worthwhile considering others. Even then, in terms of value, lens line-up, size, weight and balance (huge lens and small body), M43 is unbeatable. The only reservation is its slightly smaller than APS-C sensor and hence IQ. But DPReview in its review said you have to go FF to get any significant improvement in IQ!

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

1 upvote

Loving all the no idea commenter's on here. It wouldn't matter if they brought out a full fame 11fps with 61 focus points that have full manual video control and Hollywood would buy into. You just like to have a good old moan like the grumpy old men/ and women you are.
Next you'll be saying that a £39 Vivitar is the camera of the future.

2 upvotes

I personally am non-plused at this offering. It is a camera aimed at beginners. Basically a P&S camera. Which is fine. It is just not a camera that I would buy. This is a really funny image…am I really going to attach my L glass to that?
http://2.static.img-dpreview.com/files/news/1705465526/canon_EOS-M_with_70-200mm.jpg?v=1546
Doubtful...but to each his own.

1 upvote

sure, why not

0 upvotes

70-200mm is nothing ..

1200mm F5.6L USM or go home ;)

1 upvote

LOL!

0 upvotes

The EOS M is technical similar to the 650D.

That might be, but the Canon 650 D has 9 focus points, the EOS M 31 focus points.

0 upvotes

Maybe that is why it has an AF illuminator, so it can focus in low light?

0 upvotes

Firstly, bit disappointed. No VF and dumbed down controls.

And I'll be the first Brit to moan about the pricing:
$799 with the 22mm in the US
£879 with the 22mm in the UK (Jessops) = well over $1000.

Not for me but I'm sure it'll make a lot of people happy and it will obviously produce nice photos in the right hands

1 upvote

Yep, pricing of this camera seem to be bit off for what it offers, especially when you have a competition like NEX - with adult system, real PDAF adaptor (not poorly performing on-sensor AF) , and a grow path - either for professional photography with NEX7 or professional video with FS700.

3 upvotes

That's not quite a fair comparison:

The UK bundle is Camera, 22mm, Speedlite EX-90, EF-EOS M adapter and includes VAT. The US price doesn't include tax, the adapter or, so far as we can tell, the flash.

That should balance things out a little.

0 upvotes

Well, Mr R Butler...the flash is mandatory since the camera doesn't have one available. And other kits from other manufacturers are priced well below the asked price. Still quite overpriced.

And if you really want to have a fair comparison. The new Sony NEX-F3 with 16mm + 18-55mm is £619 including VAT AND the CDAF adapter is £179 including VAT. That gives it a grand total of £798, for Two lenses, camera and adapter (and the adapter is not included as a bundle). And still, you got some money to get the more powerful HVL-F20S with Bounce for 129 including VAT and not included in a bundle if you want to invest a little bit more.

0 upvotes

What you fail to understand is the deadly competition from mobile phones.
P&S camera are dead, finished.
90% of all pix in he world are taken with excellent 5 or 8MP phones.
No one is going to buy a low end camera any more.
So the photo industry has to move upward, hence those bizarre formats like m4/3 or 1" and others. And those super long "travel zooms"
The industry is only buying time
Because we know the end of the story: for 90% of the users, the camera is in the phone.
Sorry

3 upvotes

P&S goes back alive ever since cameras like RX100 or G1X got released. If it keeps going like that - there wouldn't be much point left in buying crap like Nikon 1 when you can get equally sized P&S with much better sensor or far smaller and actually PORTABLE RX100 that offers identical image quality.
With large sensor compacts a future of low-end expensive mirrorless is endangered.

2 upvotes

You are right that mobile phones have taken over a lot of the P&S market, but 90% of pictures are not taken with excellent 5 or 8mp phones. I'd guess no more than 5% are taken with excellent 5 or 8mp phones, and the rest with rubbish ones that would make any P&S on the market today look like an SLR in comparison.

But your quite valid point is that is what most people need for their snapshopts. The P&S segment is dying and camera makers need to go for what currently bridges the gap between big SLRs and small camera phones. At this point, however, I think Canon might be a bit late entering a game that to some extent Sony, and especially Olympus and Panasonic, have been playing for so long they play it really well. With the OM-D E-M5 and an ever-growing selection of MFT lenses, that system is about to come of age, and it will be a few years yet until Canon even hits puberty.

0 upvotes

Yes mobiles have eaten up the P&S market, the future is smart cameras powered by Android. But this is no P&S substitute! Nor is the NEX or the other mirrorless cameras.

0 upvotes

+1 on the phone cameras. My humble guess on where this camera will fit into the scheme of things is for people unhappy with the quality of a P&S but intimidated by the SLR. The problem is they will still have to know how to use a camera to get good results and of course the price is outrageous. Anyone buying it can't use it off the shelf without buying a flash. That'll definitely turn off anyone coming from the casual user segment by adding even more the the cost. Personally, I think if you're going to spend this kind of dough, you ought to get an SLR (and then you can really have a versatile and capable system) but that's just me. This camera is aimed at someone who wants minimalism I would suppose.

0 upvotes

I have never understood this "intimidated by an SLR" thing. Sure, they have lots of buttons and widgets, but every one I have ever used can be put in program AE, auto ISO, and will spit out pictures just fine.

My first DSLR (an Olympus E-510, which is in Olympus tradition customizable to the Nth degree) was actually easier to use than my Panasonic bridge camera, just because you didn't have to worry about so many things (i.e. EVF lag, it had a proper buffer, the meter was more reliable, etc.)

0 upvotes

Phone cams don't do optical zoom, a big advantage for any zoom camera!

0 upvotes

We are into the "second cycle." There was a time (end of film era) when folks were using camcorders more than traditional cameras. Digital brought folks back to "cameras," especially as they became capable of quality video. The second wave are the camera phone-and, yes, in a public setting, I see more people taking pictures with their phones, then cameras. Will the new compact system cameras (much better name, DPR) bring people back to cameras???

0 upvotes

There are lots of 10 to 15x P&S models that are about an inch thick. Those are selling well and phones won't do that any time soon. Just because 4x P&S cameras are finished doesn't mean the longer zoom ones are too.

0 upvotes

As always, excellent user interface.

0 upvotes

If we forget the lack of a dial mode, that is.

0 upvotes

It's nice to see they supplied this camera with the mic input, but the biggest question for me is: Is there manual control available in video mode ??

Hope that someone can clarify that for me :)

0 upvotes

22mm has 6 lens elements in 7 groups, interesting...

3 upvotes

Does anyone know what the video recording bitrate will be on this thing?

0 upvotes

Exactly the same as the 650D.

0 upvotes

you will get internal flash in 7D (which; mostly won't be used, because more enthusiast photographer, will prefer ext-flash for sure)
but not on EOS-M ?
so, you have to carry ext-flash everywhere ?

0 upvotes

Yeah doesn't make much sense other than to extract yet more money from the consumer. I would recommend the user buy a https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yc3-8ZpBaXg flash with a cheap OC-E3 (TTL) cable Chinese know-off on ebay.

0 upvotes

Just get the NEX already. It got build-in flash and a real system instead of wannabe.

Comment edited 14 seconds after posting

1 upvote

In Europe it seems the kit will ship with flash included.

0 upvotes

IR is reporting extremely slow AF speeds. Basically the EOS M is about as fast as 2009 M43 cameras.

Question: Why was there no mention of AF speed in the dpreview "hands on".

Is it because this was a pre-production model and you are giving canon a chance to get it right before final release.

Or is IR wrong and the AF speed not an issue?

Thanks!

0 upvotes

Agreed. The review is very much incomplete without a summary of the AF speeds. This is a big factor for this class of camera.

0 upvotes

The problem is that all the cameras anyone has seen are pre-production, so no one knows what final AF speed is going to he like.

However, it is a point we're going to cover as we extend the preview over the coming hours (It's the 22mm tgat is slow at the moment, and its unit-focus design may make it difficult to improve).

1 upvote

Thanks!

Can't wait to see your impressions!

0 upvotes

So STM means it focuses smooth and silently (for video), but not necessarily fast.

0 upvotes

Essentially yes. STM can be implemented so it's really fast (eg Olympus 45mm F1.8, which is incredibly quick), but, just as AF-S on Nikon doesn't always promise fast focus, STM only tells you what sort of motor the lens has - not how cleverly it's been designed.

0 upvotes

While many poster lament the lack of built-in flash or EVF or design as the deal-breaker, EOS-M's real downfall will beits AF speed if what IR reported is accurate for the production model.

For now, NEX and m43 are the only mirrorless system worth considering - NEX for higher iso, m43 for higher portability and more interesting lens (e.g. the stunning cheap and shapr and bright Oly 45/1.8)

0 upvotes

This is a solid offering, with a good sensor and a nice overall set of features. It doesn't have a lot of wow factor but it certainly isn't something I'd be embarrassed to carry.

The gearheads here who are disparaging it are the same people who disparaged the Nikon 1 system which is selling like hotcakes. Nikon says "sales have been strong in all regions and at present, our supply cannot keep up with demand". I'd expect this Canon offering to do well in the market.

http://www.nikon.com/about/ir/ir_library/result/qa/2012_2q/index.htm

Comment edited 10 minutes after posting

2 upvotes

That is the problem. The sheeple will buy the unimaginatively designed boring boxes like this whilst creatives will (hopefully) stick to versatile offerings with flip out displays and at least one external exposure control dial. No large sensor, but Samsung EX2 is a lot more exciting!

1 upvote

Selling depends on lots of things like marketing and brand value (and we all know Canon and Nikon has lots). People "disparaging" it seem disappointed with lack of innovation when compared with existing mirrorless offerings from M4/3 and NEX. Since Canon took so long to get into this segment expectation was high.

0 upvotes

This is Canon's V1 equivalent, disappointing in different ways to Nikon's initial offering. However as sensors develop the V1's improved descendants will still have tiny lenses... The V1 already has a viewfinder and terrific af.
Size matters.

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 1 minute after posting

2 upvotes

I'm not sure I believe Nikon's claim about the fabulous sales of the Nikon 1. In Norway it's been offered at reduced prices for months due to slow sales.

0 upvotes

An augmented humongous Ixus, a "decent me-too camera" to hold at arm's length - just what the world needed! Way to go , Canon, way to go! After all the expectation and suspense, such an anticlimax...

4 upvotes

Agreed! (See my comment above.)

1 upvote

No emotions. Explain me - Why? :)

1 upvote

No e-dials...P&S operation?

0 upvotes

The Canon is competing primarily with overcrowded APC-sensor mirrorless crowd, including Samsung NX, Sony NEX, Pentax K, and FujiFilm X/XF. This is good for the customers and tough for the manufactures.
The good news is that the EOS-M would attract more customers to consider a mirrorless as they next camera instead of an DSLR. Therefore, it may bring more interest to the mirrorless ILC system as well. As a micro34 user I am glad that Canon has finally joined the mirrorless system, even though I am quiet happy with the current micro34 cameras and lenses.

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 5 minutes after posting

3 upvotes

What a fantastic preview highlighting all that is special about this camera. This is what makes dpreview my favourite camera site.
The only thing I'm missing is a video and a size comparison with competitors.

3 upvotes

Why do I got the impression when looking at it's 18-55kit looked almost identical with Sony's E 18-55 kit? :)

3 upvotes

Perhaps because they are based on the same sized sensor?

Styling is one thing, but the laws of physics cannot be ignored.

0 upvotes

why the complaints ? this little machine will deliver decent images. as a m43s user I am highly curious how this will be answered by panasonic ad olympus. there is a lot of competition going on now and IQ wise APSC will always have a slight advantage over smaller sensors. Olympus has incredible build quality and get's surprising IQ with even the old 12MP sensor. the m43s lens lineup is phantastic. nevertheless: the EOS M has a lot of potential and canon is a huge company that can easily release more professional versions with better manual controls. Canon DSLR lenses are fabulous so they can easily improve their lineup as desired. competition is heating up and that can only be good for us consumers.

1 upvote

Why would Panasonic or Olympus have to answer to this offering? They already offer many models with more features (like viewfinders to name one)

1 upvote

Exactly! Why would Pana or Oly even need to worry about this offering? The NEX line has equal better products (both body and lens) at its launch.

Both Canon/Nikon are not focused on mirrorless and their design philosophies while extremely different served the same purpose - join the mirrorless frey to please shareholders/analyst whlie stubbornly betting AGAINST professional/serious portable interchangable lens system to portect their bread-and-butter consumer point&shoot and dslr market shares.

Both C and N have the designers and engineers to offer much better MILC systems but the corporate brass and marketeers are the ones calling the shots here

Comment edited 48 seconds after posting

0 upvotes

Dpreview guys

As always I love your work and very much appreciated

But I sure wish you included side by side shots with competitors and even SLRs like you usually do.

Thanks overall though.

1 upvote

I totally agree -- I want to see it next to the S95 series, as well. A lot of consumers will be upgrading from there (probably more than will downgrade from a DSLR) -- just a thought!

1 upvote

These are all Canon provided press shots. Dpreview doesn't have their "production" sample yet.

0 upvotes

Total comments: 503