Canon R50 vs R50V: Don't Buy the Wrong One!
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If you’re deciding between the Canon EOS R50 and the brand-new Canon EOS R50V, you’re probably wondering: what actually makes them different? Both are entry-level mirrorless cameras with strong specs for creators, but Canon made some clear choices that push each one toward either photography or video.
I’ve tested both extensively, so here’s a breakdown of every single difference between the R50 and R50V, and which one might make more sense for you.
Body Design and Handling
The first thing you’ll notice is the shape and style:
- Canon R50 – Traditional DSLR-style body with an EVF hump, built-in flash, and a deeper grip.
- Canon R50V – Rangefinder-style body. No hump, no EVF, and a much shallower grip, making it feel more like a rectangle in the hand.
The R50V is slightly smaller and lighter, now technically the smallest interchangeable lens camera in Canon’s lineup. In practice, though, the weight difference is barely noticeable.
Sensor and Processor
No changes here. Both cameras share the same:
- 24MP APS-C sensor
- Digic X processor
Image quality and base performance are identical. The big differences come in usability and video features.
Viewfinder and Flash
This is where the split starts:
- R50 – 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder and a built-in flash.
- R50V – No EVF, no built-in flash.
If you shoot a lot of photography, especially outdoors, losing the EVF can be a big deal.
LCD Screen
Both cameras feature a 3-inch fully articulating touchscreen, but resolution differs:
- R50 – 1.62M dots
- R50V – 1.04M dots
This downgrade is surprising given the R50V’s video focus, since videographers rely heavily on the rear screen.
Top Dials and Controls
- R50 – Standard Canon mode dial with quick access to photo modes (M, Av, Tv, etc.)
- R50V – Video-centric dial with three custom video modes, standard movie, slow/fast motion, and only one general photo setting.
Other R50V video-oriented touches include:
- Large top record button (instead of shutter)
- Secondary record button on the front
- Tally light on the front (great for self-shooting)
- Zoom rocker for compatible power zoom lenses
Mounting and Storage
Both cameras include a ¼-inch tripod thread, but the R50V adds a second tripod thread on the side, perfect for vertical shooting.
On storage, the R50V gets the edge with a UHS-II SD card slot. Faster cards mean:
- Higher photo buffer
- Faster offloading
- Better support for high-bitrate video
The R50 sticks with UHS-I.
Video Recording Capabilities
This is the biggest difference.
Canon R50:
- Up to 4K 30p (oversampled from 6K)
- 8-bit 4:2:0 color
- 1-hour record limit (but often overheats around 30 minutes)
Canon R50V:
- Up to 4K 60p (with crop, oversampled from 6K)
- 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording
- Canon Log support for higher dynamic range and grading flexibility
- 2-hour continuous record time
- No overheating issues in extended tests
For anyone serious about video, these are major upgrades.
Battery Life
Battery performance is essentially identical, average at best. Plan on carrying spares regardless of which body you choose.
Audio and Monitoring
- R50 – Mic input only
- R50V – Mic input + headphone jack for monitoring
The R50V also offers advanced video assist tools like:
- Zebras
- False color
- Log view assist
- Persistent digital level (finally stays visible while recording)
Pricing
At launch, pricing is surprisingly close:
- Canon R50 – $679 (body only)
- Canon R50V – $649 (body only)
The R50V actually comes in a little cheaper, despite being the more video-focused option.
Which One Should You Buy?
- Choose the Canon R50 if you shoot more than 50% photography. The EVF, higher-res LCD, and built-in flash make it the better all-rounder.
- Choose the Canon R50V if you shoot more than 50% video. Features like 10-bit color, Canon Log, UHS-II support, headphone monitoring, and no overheating make it a much stronger video tool.
At the end of the day, both cameras are excellent entry points into Canon’s RF system; you really can’t go wrong.
Where to Buy
If you’re ready to pick one up, here are direct purchase links (affiliate):