Canon has long been one of the most popular and trusted names in cameras. From affordable point-and-shoot models to advanced professional DSLRs, Canon’s lineup has something for everyone. This comprehensive review will examine Canon’s current camera offerings, comparing specs, features, performance and ideal users across their range of models.
Comparison of Canon Camera Lines
Canon divides its cameras into different lines targeting specific users and needs. Here is an overview comparing the various Canon camera lines:
| Camera Line | Key Features | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|
| UILine EOS R | Full frame mirrorless | Advanced amateurs and professionals |
| EOS R7 | APS-C sensor mirrorless | Enthusiasts wanting high-end features |
| EOS R10 | Entry level mirrorless | Beginners and casual photographers |
| PowerShot G | 1″ sensor point & shoot | Enthusiasts wanting portability and performance |
| PowerShot SX | Ultrazoom bridge | All-in-one convenience |
| PowerShot ELPH | Compact point & shoot | Everyday/travel |
| EOS Rebel DSLR | Entry level DSLR | Beginners and hobbyists |
| EOS XXD DSLR | Advanced amateur DSLR | Enthusiasts and semi-pros |
| EOS XD DSLR | Prosumer/professional DSLR | Professionals and specialists |
As you move up each line, the cameras include more advanced features and controls while built to higher performance standards. The PowerShot models offer point-and-shoot simplicity while EOS models allow for interchangeable lenses.
Canon Mirrorless Camera Reviews
Mirrorless cameras offer an innovative new design by eliminating the optical viewfinder and mirror system found in DSLRs. Canon has three main mirrorless lines: the professional full frame EOS R, the enthusiast APS-C EOS R7, and the entry-level EOS R10.
Canon EOS R
The EOS R series represents Canon’s push into full frame mirrorless technology to rival competitors like Sony. The EOS R6 and EOS R5 are the current flagships, offering professional performance on par with Canon’s top-tier DSLRs.
Canon EOS R5
- 45MP full frame sensor
- In-body image stabilization (IBIS)
- 12fps continuous shooting
- Dual card slots
- 8K 30fps and 4K 120fps video
- Fully articulating touchscreen LCD
- 5-stop image stabilization
With excellent image quality, fast performance, and video features like 8K recording, the R5 is ideal for professional photographers and videographers needing top-of-the-line capabilities. The body integrates 5-axis in-body stabilization for sharp images when shooting handheld or with slower shutter speeds.
Canon EOS R6
- 20MP full frame sensor
- In-body image stabilization
- 12fps continuous shooting
- 4K 60fps video recording
- Dual SD card slots
- Fully articulating LCD touchscreen
Sharing many features with the R5, the R6 offers comparable performance and quality in a more affordable package. The lower resolution 20MP sensor supports faster continuous shooting speeds. The R6 matches the video capabilities of far more expensive cinema cameras.
Ideal User
The EOS R system provides a professional-grade mirrorless option for Canon shooters. The R5 and R6 perform on par with Canon’s top pro DSLRs like the 1DX Mark III. Their technical capabilities and handling make the R5 and R6 excellent choices for:
- Professional photographers
- Photojournalists
- Wedding and portrait photographers
- Videographers and filmmakers
- Advanced amateurs needing top-end performance
Canon EOS R7
Slotting below the professional EOS R models, the EOS R7 appeals to enthusiasts with its combination of advanced features and smaller size.
Canon EOS R7 Key Features:
- 32.5MP APS-C sensor
- Up to 30fps continuous shooting
- In-body image stabilization (IBIS)
- Dual SD card slots
- 4K 60fps video
- 1.15m dot fully articulating touchscreen LCD
While physically smaller than the full frame EOS R cameras, the R7 packs in many high-end capabilities like the fast shooting speeds. The use of an APS-C sensor provides reach for sports or wildlife photographers. The R7 offers an affordable step into Canon’s mirrorless system.
Ideal User
Well-suited for:
- Enthusiasts wanting excellent image quality and performance
- Wildlife, bird, and sports photographers needing extended reach
- Photography hobbyists ready to upgrade from entry level cameras
- Videographers wanting flexible 4K video features
- Semi-professionals needing a smaller backup camera
Canon EOS R10
As the entry point to Canon’s mirrorless lineup, the EOS R10 makes the new system accessible to casual shooters and beginners.
Canon EOS R10 Key Specs:
- 24MP APS-C sensor
- Up to 23fps continuous shooting
- Dual Pixel autofocus
- 3.0-inch flip-out touchscreen LCD
- 4K 24fps video
- Weighs just 429g
The R10 provides strong image quality from its 24MP sensor while keeping size and weight very manageable. The vari-angle LCD screen supports selfies and vlogging. While lacking some advanced features, the R10 offers an easy introduction to mirrorless.
Ideal User
Well-matched for:
- Beginners buying their first interchangeable lens camera
- Casual photographers seeking great portability
- Parents looking for a camera to photograph their kids
- Vloggers and content creators on a budget
Canon DSLR Camera Reviews
While mirrorless models now account for many of Canon’s more advanced cameras, the brand still produces entry-level, enthusiast and professional DSLRs. These provide the traditional DSLR benefits of long battery life and optical viewfinders.
Canon EOS Rebel Series
Canon’s EOS Rebel line (also known as EOS XXXD) encompasses their affordable, beginner-friendly entry level DSLRs. Current models include:
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
- 24MP APS-C sensor
- 45 cross-type autofocus points
- 7fps continuous shooting
- Dual Pixel autofocus in Live View
- Full HD video at 60fps
- 3.0″ vari-angle touchscreen LCD
Canon EOS Rebel T7 / 2000D
- 24MP APS-C sensor
- 9 autofocus points
- 3fps continuous shooting
- Full HD 1080p video at 30fps
- 3.0″ fixed LCD screen
Ideal User
Canon’s Rebel DSLRs remain excellent choices for:
- First time DSLR buyers
- Beginner photographers learning the basics
- Parents looking for an affordable family camera
- Casual photographers who enjoy the DSLR shooting style
The T8i offers more advanced features for those wanting to grow into enthusiasts, while the T7 provides a very affordable starting point.
Canon EOS XXD Series
Slotting above the Rebel line, Canon’s EOS XXD series (also called EOS X0D) comprises advanced amateur enthusiast DSLRs with more controls and customization. Current models include:
Canon EOS 90D
- 32MP APS-C sensor
- 45 cross-type autofocus points
- 10fps continuous shooting
- 4K 30fps video
- Fully articulating touchscreen LCD
Canon EOS 80D
- 24MP APS-C sensor
- 45 cross-type autofocus points
- 7fps continuous shooting
- Full HD 60fps video
- 3″ vari-angle touchscreen LCD
Ideal User
With excellent image quality, enhanced speed and faster autofocus, Canon’s XXD series excels for:
- Photography enthusiasts seeking to upgrade
- Semi-professionals needing a high-performance backup camera
- Anyone photographing sports, action or wildlife
- Videographers wanting DSLR-based 4K video options
These APS-C models offer a compelling step up from entry level DSLRs at reasonable prices.
Canon EOS 5D and 6D Series
Occupying the prosumer and professional tiers, the EOS 5D and EOS 6D lines provide Canon’s most advanced DSLR offerings outside the flagship 1D X models.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
- 30MP full frame sensor
- Advanced 61-point autofocus system
- 7fps continuous shooting
- 4K 30fps video
- Touchscreen LCD
- Rugged, weather-sealed body
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
- 26MP full frame sensor
- 45 cross-type autofocus points
- 6.5fps continuous shooting
- Full HD 60fps video
- 3″ vari-angle touchscreen LCD
- Built-in WiFi/NFC/Bluetooth
Ideal User
Canon’s pro-grade full frame DSLRs excel for:
- Professional photographers
- Photojournalists and event photographers
- Portrait photographers
- Landscape and fine art photographers needing high resolution
- Serious hobbyists invested in the Canon system
The 5D and 6D lines offer Canon’s latest full frame image quality and performance, providing minimal compromise for experts.
Canon PowerShot Point-and-Shoot Reviews
While Canon has excellent mirrorless and DSLR options, their PowerShot point-and-shoot cameras continue appealing to casual users with their simplicity and quality. Models range from budget ELPHs to advanced G series cameras with larger sensors.
Canon PowerShot ELPH Series
The tiny ELPH point-and-shoots (known as IXUS outside the US) provide pocket-friendly options perfect for beginners and everyday use. Current models include:
Canon PowerShot ELPH 180
- 20MP 1/2.3″ sensor
- 8x optical zoom
- 720p HD video
- 2.7″ LCD screen
- Simple button control
- Weighs just 126g
Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 IS
- 20MP 1/2.3″ sensor
- 10x optical zoom
- Image stabilization
- WiFi/NFC connectivity
- 720p HD video
- 2.7” LCD
Ideal User
Canon’s affordable ELPH cameras are best for:
- Beginners seeking a simple, intuitive camera
- Parents to photograph their children
- Everyday carry for vacations and parties
- Students needing a camera for class
These models provide great point-and-shoot functionality in a highly compact form. The low prices and small sizes make them easy choices for basic photography.
Canon PowerShot G Series
More advanced than the ELPHs, the PowerShot G series point-and-shoots feature larger sensors, plus more controls and customization for enthusiasts.
Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II
- 20MP 1″ stacked CMOS sensor
- 5x optical zoom lens
- Pop-up OLED electronic viewfinder
- Touchscreen LCD tilts up 180-degrees
- 30fps continuous shooting
- 4K 30fps video
- WiFi/Bluetooth connectivity
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
- 20MP 1” stacked CMOS sensor
- 4.2x optical zoom lens
- Tilting touchscreen LCD
- 30fps continuous shooting
- 4K 30fps and Full HD 120fps video
- Built-in mic input
- WiFi/Bluetooth/NFC connectivity
Ideal User
Canon’s advanced G series cameras excel for:
- Enthusiasts seeking high image quality in a compact form
- Vloggers and content creators needing portability
- Travel photographers wanting a capable but portable camera
- Hobbyists who enjoy manual controls and customizability
The large 1-inch sensors in the G cameras provide excellent low light performance and depth of field control. The compact bodies retain great portability and convenience.
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Common Questions About Canon Cameras
What are the main differences between Canon DSLR vs mirrorless cameras?
The main differences come down to the camera design and viewing system:
- DSLR: Optical viewfinder with reflex mirror system. Benefits include long battery life and fast autofocus. Larger camera bodies.
- Mirrorless: Electronic viewfinder with no reflex mirror. Benefits include smaller/lighter body design, silent shooting mode. Rely on battery power for viewing/review.
Both types can take interchangeable lenses. Top-end models in both categories offer comparable image quality and performance. Mirrorless models do away with the limitations of the DSLR mirror system.
Which Canon camera is best for beginners?
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i (or EOS 850D outside the US) provides an excellent introductory DSLR for beginners. It combines easy handling with strong core features at reasonable prices. Canon’s EOS R10 mirrorless camera also makes a great first interchangeable lens model with its compact form.
On the point-and-shoot side, Canon’s ELPH line provides simple operation and very affordable pricing for casual photographers. The ELPH 190 IS adds handy optical image stabilization.
What is a good Canon camera for photography enthusiasts?
Canon offers excellent options for enthusiasts seeking to upgrade from entry-level gear:
- DSLR: Canon EOS 90D provides a high-end APS-C sensor model with excellent performance and features.
- Mirrorless: Canon EOS R7 gives smaller size but with pro-level performance and image quality.
- Point & Shoot: PowerShot G5 X Mark II packs DSLR-like controls and a 1” sensor into a compact camera.
These all supply great quality and handling without jumping all the way up to specialized pro models.
Is Canon or Nikon better for professional photography?
For professional use, Canon and Nikon are essentially equals. Both brands offer elite cameras and lenses capable of meeting pro needs. Canon models like the EOS R3, EOS R5 and EOS-1D X Mark III compete directly with top-end Nikons like the Z 9, Z 7II and D6.
It often comes down to existing lens investment and personal preference. Photographers invested in one brand’s lenses tend to prefer staying in that ecosystem. The handling, menus and controls also play a role in which feels better for an individual’s shooting style.
Which Canon camera is best for video?
For dedicated video use, the Canon EOS R5 mirrorless camera stands as their top current performer, with features like:
- 8K 30fps recording
- 4K video at up to 120fps
- No recording limits
- Excellent Dual Pixel AF in video mode
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization
The R5 provides video quality and features competitive with high-end cinema cameras at a much lower price. The R6 model also excels for 4K 60p shooting.
What lenses work with Canon cameras?
Each Canon line uses specific lenses:
- EOS EF mount: Works on Canon DSLRs like EOS Rebel, 6D, 5D, 1D series
- EOS RF mount: For Canon mirrorless cameras – EOS R, R6, R7, R10
- EF-S Mount: For Canon APS-C DSLRs like EOS Rebel, XXD, 7D lines. Not compatible with full frame bodies.
- PowerShot: Proprietary mount lenses designed for each point-and-shoot model. Not interchangeable.
It’s important to match the proper lens mount with your particular Canon camera.
Conclusion
Canon makes excellent cameras spanning from affordable entry-level models to highly advanced professional gear. Their extensive DSLR range continues pleasing traditional shooters while new mirrorless options also provide a competitive system. For everyday use, Canon’s PowerShot point-and-shoots combine simplicity with Canon’s signature quality. This review summarizes Canon’s lineup to help you select your ideal camera based on features, performance and budget.
