Canon Camera Ultimate Buying Guide: Which is the Best?

What Camera Lineup Does Canon Have?

Canon offers a variety of camera series to meet different photography needs and skill levels. The main Canon camera lineup can be divided into three: EOS, PowerShot, and IXUS.

EOS cameras are interchangeable lens cameras and include DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. PowerShot and IXUS cameras, on the other hand, are fixed lens cameras, also known as "compact digital cameras" or commonly referred to as "point-and-shoot cameras".

The most commonly seen Canon cameras are EOS and PowerShot cameras, which are considered more professional photography equipment.

If you are interested in learning photography and looking to purchase a Canon camera, you can choose between an EOS camera or a PowerShot camera based on whether you want the flexibility of interchangeable lenses or prefer a fixed lens setup.

On the other hand, IXUS cameras are considered entry-level consumer cameras. They have lower specifications and image quality compared to EOS and PowerShot cameras and can't even compete with the camera capabilities of smartphones right now.

The glory days of the IXUS series are in the past when smartphone cameras were not as advanced as they are today, and many families and individuals needed a simple and user-friendly camera for photography.

However, with the rapid advancements in smartphone imaging technology, the relevance of the IXUS series has diminished.

Currently, the IXUS series has almost been completely discontinued. In this context, we do not recommend purchasing an IXUS camera for learning photography.

However, if you have young children or elderly family members who do not use smartphones, buying an IXUS camera for them to play around with could still be an option (although it may be difficult to find one).

In the following sections, we will mainly focus on introducing Canon's EOS and PowerShot cameras.

Canon camera lineup

Canon EOS Camera Lineup

"EOS" is actually an abbreviation for "Electro Optical System." However, this is not important because "EOS" primarily serves as a brand identifier now.

Canon has a long history of manufacturing cameras, with the first EOS camera dating back to 1987 with the release of the EOS 650, a film SLR camera. Today, EOS cameras have a history of nearly 40 years.

Canon EOS 650 camera

Currently, all Canon EOS cameras are digital cameras with interchangeable lenses, and they are divided into three series: D, M, and R.

EOS cameras with a numeric value followed by the letter "D" are digital SLR cameras, such as the 850D, 90D, 6D Mark II, and 1D X Mark III. Canon DSLRs have had some of the most iconic and successful products in the past, but due to the rise of mirrorless cameras gradually replacing DSLRs, the Canon DSLR series has almost come to an end.
EOS cameras starting with the letter "M" are older mirrorless cameras, such as the M200, M50, and M6 Mark II. The M mirrorless series started in 2012, focusing on compactness, affordability, and ease of use. It had high sales and received positive reviews. However, Canon later introduced the more future-oriented R mirrorless series, causing the M series to fade away.
EOS cameras starting with the letter "R" are the newer mirrorless cameras, such as the R3, R5, and R6 Mark II. The R mirrorless series started in 2018 and is currently the main focus of Canon's imaging development and production. It encompasses Canon's most cutting-edge and powerful products.

If you are unsure about the differences and relationship between DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, feel free to read our article: Mirrorless vs DSLR Cameras.

1. Canon EOS DSLR Camera (Ending With the Letter "D")

Starting from 2003, Canon has adopted a naming convention for its DSLRs by using a combination of numbers and the letter "D". The fewer digits before the "D", the higher-end the model. For example:

Full-frame and flagship APS-C DSLRs: such as the 5D Mark IV
High-end APS-C DSLRs: for example, the 90D
Mid-range APS-C DSLRs: for example, the 850D
Entry-level APS-C DSLRs: for example, the 1500D

In this naming convention, "Mark" followed by a Roman numeral denotes the generation of the camera. So, the 5D Mark IV represents the fourth generation of the 5D series, and the 6D Mark II represents the second generation of the 6D series.

It's important to note that not all series were introduced at the same time, and their update frequencies vary. Therefore, the generation numbers should not be compared directly across different series.

For example, the 5D Mark IV is certainly more updated than the 5D Mark III, but the 6D Mark II may be more recent than the 5D Mark IV.

Here is an introduction to the product lineup of Canon EOS DSLRs:

【EOS 0000D】Entry-level APS-C DSLRs

The four-digit 0000D series started with the 1000D in 2008 and continued until the 1500D was discontinued in 2018. The four-digit series had a very affordable price point, but they used outdated components and technology, resulting in poor performance and a subpar user experience. Currently, this product line has been discontinued.

【EOS 000D】Mid-range APS-C DSLRs

The three-digit 000D series is a bit special because it includes both a mid-range three-digit series and a lower-end three-digit series.

The higher-end three-digit series started with the 300D in 2003 and continued until the 850D in 2020. The lower-end three-digit series started with the 100D in 2013 and developed until the 250D in 2019.

The three-digit series is suitable for amateur photography enthusiasts who want to experience the joy of DSLR photography without spending too much money. Even the lower-end three-digit models have relatively comprehensive features, offering much better usability and value for money compared to the four-digit models.

The higher-end three-digit models further enhance the focusing and continuous shooting experience based on the lower-end three-digit models.

【EOS 00D】High-end APS-C DSLRs

The two-digit 00D series is Canon's high-end APS-C DSLR series, starting with the 10D in 2003 and currently reaching the 90D in 2019. Almost every model in the two-digit series has been highly popular in its respective era and can be considered one of Canon's most renowned and best-selling DSLR series.

In recent years, the two-digit models have been known for their reliable and balanced performance. They may not have any groundbreaking technology, but they also do not have any noticeable weaknesses, which makes them favored by many amateur photography enthusiasts.

The latest generation, the 90D, is the highest effective pixel APS-C DSLR from Canon and delivers excellent image quality. It offers impressive features and performance in autofocus, continuous shooting, and video capabilities. It is considered the most powerful DSLR model from Canon priced below $1500.

【EOS 0D】Full-frame DSLRs & Flagship APS-C DSLRs

1D X series and 7D series

The 1D X series is Canon's highest-end and most expensive DSLR lineup. In the past, there were also the 1D and 1D S series, but they have been discontinued.

The latest model, the 1DX Mark III, is one of the world's most powerful full-frame DSLR cameras. The 7D series, on the other hand, is Canon's highest-end APS-C DSLR series, but the latest model, the 7D Mark II, was released in 2014 and has been discontinued.

The reason we mention the 1D X and 7D series together is because they are both "speed machines," designed for fast capturing in professional settings. These cameras often have insane autofocus performance and burst shooting speeds, making them popular among sports photographers, photojournalists, and some wildlife photographers.

Of course, these professional models come with a hefty price tag. It's important to note that a high price doesn't necessarily mean they excel in every aspect. Due to their intense focus on speed, these cameras may have disadvantages in terms of image quality and pixel count.\

For example, the image quality and pixel count of the 1DX Mark III fall short compared to the 5D Mark IV, and the 7D Mark II's image quality can even be surpassed by the 90D...

So, overall, amateur photographers who mainly capture everyday life or travel scenes don't need to choose cameras from the 1D X or 7D series, and portrait or still life photographers have even less reason to consider them.

5D series and 6D series

The 5D series is Canon's high-end full-frame DSLR lineup, and its second-generation model, the 5D Mark II, is perhaps the most highly acclaimed and legendary camera in Canon's digital camera history. Currently, the 5D Mark IV from 2016 is the latest generation and represents the best image quality in Canon DSLRs.

The 5D series used to have a spin-off line called the 5DS, consisting of two high-resolution cameras, but both models have been discontinued.

The 6D series is a slightly lower-end full-frame DSLR compared to the 5D series. It has decent image quality, but it comes at a cheaper price and is lighter in weight. The latest model in this series is the 6D Mark II, launched in 2017.

Note:

Both the 5D Mark IV and the 6D Mark II were once considered excellent DSLR models. However, as time has passed and mirrorless cameras have gained popularity, their features and prices are no longer as impressive. If you are currently considering these two DSLRs, we suggest taking a look at mirrorless cameras in the same price range.

2. Canon EOS R Mirrorless Cameras (Starting With the Letter R)

In 2018, mirrorless camera technology continued to advance and mature, leading to a booming high-end mirrorless market and further squeezing the space for DSLRs. In response to this trend, Canon decided to introduce a brand new series called the EOS R mirrorless cameras.

The Canon EOS R mirrorless series is mostly identified by the letter R followed by a number. The lower the number, the higher the positioning of the camera:

R3: Flagship full-frame model
R5: High-end full-frame model
R6: Mid-range full-frame model
R7: Flagship APS-C model
R8: Entry-level full-frame model
R10: Mid-range APS-C model
R50: Entry-level APS-C model

【Canon EOS R3】

The Canon EOS R3 was released in April 2021 and boasts Canon's most powerful burst shooting performance. It is highly suitable for professional markets such as sports, wildlife, and news photography, positioning it similarly to Canon's 1D X series and competing with Sony's A9 series.

Moreover, the R3 offers excellent video and image quality, making it Canon's highest-end and most expensive mirrorless camera to date.

【Canon EOS R5】

The Canon EOS R5 was released in July 2020 and is a high-end full-frame model that takes over the position of the 5D series DSLRs. It competes with Sony's A7R series and Nikon's Z7 series.

Similar to the 5D series DSLRs, the Canon EOS R5 prioritizes image quality and pixel count, making it the best in terms of image quality among Canon's mirrorless camera lineup.

The R5 also boasts impressive features such as 8K RAW video capabilities, reliable autofocus, in-body image stabilization, and high-speed burst shooting. However, the R5 has faced controversy due to its tendency to overheat and shut down after prolonged high-spec video recording.

In January 2022, Canon released the R5 C, but it is not an upgraded version of the R5. The R5 C is based on the R5, utilizing the same core components, but it supports the highest video specification of 8K 60P.

Designed as a dedicated video camera, the R5 C incorporates a built-in fan to address the heat dissipation issues during high-spec video recording. It also eliminates in-body image stabilization to maintain a reasonable size and weight.

Additionally, the R5 C supports the XF-AVC professional format and features Cinema EOS video menus, as well as added professional tools like waveform monitors.

In summary, the R5 C is a professional video camera designed for professionals and is not recommended as a primary camera for photography or for beginners entering the field of photography.

【Canon EOS R6】

The first-generation Canon EOS R6 was released in July 2020 and is a mid-range full-frame model that competes with Sony's A7 series and Nikon's Z6 series.

The EOS R6 features the same processor as the EOS R5, offering comparable burst shooting speed, autofocus performance, and image stabilization.

However, it has some slight downgrades in terms of image quality, resolution, video capabilities, and build quality. Nevertheless, it is priced nearly $1500 cheaper than the R5, making it a standout in terms of value for money.

In November 2022, the EOS R6 Mark II was released. The second-generation model didn't undergo significant upgrades and the exterior design remained almost unchanged. Canon made some improvements to make the product more mature and reliable.

While this level of upgrade may not meet the needs of all photography enthusiasts, considering that the EOS R6 Mark II is not significantly more expensive than the EOS R6, it still has good competitiveness.

【Canon EOS R7】

The Canon EOS R7 was released in May 2022 and is currently Canon's highest-end APS-C mirrorless camera. It boasts high resolution, excellent autofocus, strong image stabilization, and long battery life. It excels over Canon's equivalent models like the 90D and M6 Mark II in terms of specifications.

However, the pricing of the R7 is almost on par with full-frame mirrorless cameras.

Therefore, if your primary focus is landscape or portrait photography and you don't have a specific need for professional-grade video, it's better to consider purchasing a full-frame model with superior image quality. The Canon EOS R7 is more suitable for those interested in sports events, wildlife, adorable children, and pets.

【Canon EOS R8】

The Canon EOS R8 was released in February 2023 and is an entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera. It aims to compete with budget-friendly full-frame models like the Panasonic S5 Mark II.

However, the EOS R8 boasts impressive specifications, even closely matching those of the previously mentioned EOS R6 Mark II. The main drawback of the Canon EOS R8 is the absence of in-body image stabilization.

By sacrificing in-body image stabilization, you can save $1000, making it a cost-effective deal for users with limited budgets.

【Canon EOS R10】

The Canon EOS R10 was released in May 2022 and is a mid-range APS-C model positioned slightly lower than the EOS R7.

It sacrifices high-resolution sensors and in-body image stabilization, resulting in lower burst shooting speed, battery life, viewfinder resolution, and weather resistance. However, in return, it offers a lower price and better portability.

While it may seem like it sacrifices a lot, the Canon EOS R10 still offers impressive specifications in the $800 to $1000 price range. It has a clear advantage over competitors like the Sony A6400 and Nikon Z fc, making it one of the highly recommended models in this price range.

【Canon EOS R50】

The Canon EOS R50 was released in February 2023 and is the most affordable product in Canon's R mirrorless lineup. Compared to the EOS R10, the EOS R50 makes slight sacrifices in burst shooting and video capabilities, as well as downgrades in components.

When compared to other brand cameras in the same price range, the overall performance of the Canon EOS R50 justifies its pricing and offers good value for money.

3. Canon EOS M Mirrorless (Starting With the Letter M)

In 2012, four years after the world's first mirrorless camera was introduced, Canon launched the EOS M mirrorless series. This series was designed for amateur photography enthusiasts, featuring compact and affordable camera bodies and lenses.

It was highly suitable for regular individuals and families and gained a great reputation and sales. However, with the introduction of the more powerful, advanced, and professional EOS R mirrorless series, Canon had to make the difficult decision to discontinue the EOS M mirrorless series.

As of now, only the EOS M50 Mark II model remains in production in the EOS M mirrorless lineup, so we won't go into too much detail about it.

Canon PowerShot Camera Lineup

The Canon PowerShot camera lineup consists entirely of fixed-lens cameras. The PowerShot cameras are divided into the relatively high-end G series and the long zoom-focused SX series.

1. Canon PowerShot G Series

The Canon G series is what most casual photography enthusiasts are familiar with when it comes to Canon compact cameras. The model names in this series are easy to understand and follow a specific formula: "PowerShot G Number A X Mark Number B," for example, PowerShot G7 X Mark III.

The Number A is written in Arabic numerals and is always an odd number (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), with lower numbers representing higher-end cameras. The Number B is written in Roman numerals and indicates the generation of the camera, for example, "III" represents the third generation in the series.

The highest-end model in this series is the G1 series, which features an APS-C sensor, the same size as Canon's mid-range DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. In theory, this series offers the best image quality among Canon's compact camera lineup.

Compared to high-end fixed-lens camera series like the Ricoh GR and Fujifilm X100, the standout feature of the Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III is its zoom lens. While it sacrifices the shallow depth of field that a large aperture can provide, it enhances practicality.

However, since the release of the third-generation product in 2017, this series has not been updated, making it less favorable. Considering this "antique" may not be a good choice.

If the Canon G1 series focuses on image quality, the Canon G3 series focuses on long zoom capabilities. Most compact cameras have an equivalent zoom range of around 24-70mm, but the Canon G3 series can reach an impressive 24-600mm!

Keep in mind that even with most DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, it is difficult to achieve such a tremendous focal length.

As for the Canon PowerShot G5, G7, and G9, they are quite conventional compact cameras without any special highlights, so we don't recommend them.

2. Canon PowerShot SX Series

Although the Canon PowerShot SX series offers powerful optical zoom capabilities, it lags behind current smartphones in terms of the core sensor. As a result, its sales performance is as disappointing as the Canon IXUS cameras.

Unless you have a limited budget and an urgent need for long-zoom photography, it is not advisable to consider purchasing a Canon PowerShot SX series camera.

Which Is the Best Canon Camera?

After exploring various aspects of Canon cameras, including the EOS and PowerShot lineup, it's time to address the burning question: which is the best Canon camera?

When it comes to choosing the best Canon camera, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Each series offers unique features and capabilities, catering to different types of photographers.

For professional photographers or enthusiasts seeking top-notch performance and image quality, the Canon EOS R series stands out. With its full-frame sensors, advanced autofocus systems, and robust features, cameras like the EOS R5 and R6 deliver exceptional results for both photography and videography.

If you're an amateur photographer or someone who values portability and affordability, the Canon EOS M series could be a suitable choice. These compact mirrorless cameras offer a balance between performance and convenience, making them ideal for everyday shooting and travel photography.

For those who prefer fixed-lens cameras, the Canon PowerShot G series offers a range of options. If image quality is paramount, the G1 X Mark III with its APS-C sensor is a standout choice. Meanwhile, the G3 series provides impressive zoom capabilities, perfect for capturing distant subjects.

Ultimately, the best Canon camera for you depends on your photography goals, budget, and preferences. Consider your shooting style, desired features, and future growth potential when making a decision. It's also helpful to test cameras hands-on or seek advice from professionals or fellow photographers.

Enhancing Your Photography Experience

In the final section of this Canon camera buying guide, we cannot overlook the importance of post-processing in photography. Editing your images can elevate them to new heights, bringing out the best in your shots.

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