When you think about cameras, one of the first things that comes to mind is Canon.
Canon is the largest digital camera manufacturer in the world, accounting for nearly half of global sales volume.
From absolute beginners to professionals, everyone and anyone can use a Canon camera. Their range is astounding so you’ll be sure to find something that suits your needs and fits your budget.
Prior to my voiceover extravaganza I dipped my toes into headshots, so I’ve been on a Canon journey with the R5 for a while now. To help you kick start your Canon journey, I’ve compiled a list of the best Canon cameras. So lets dive in, and get exploring!
Why should I choose Canon cameras?
Overall, Canon is an excellent brand, trusted by many photographers and videographers.
Canon cameras offer amazing image quality, beautiful colours and phenomenal dual pixel autofocus.
Canon colour science is something professionals have been raving about for years. Canon cameras seem to be able to represent colours and skin tones in a more natural and accurate way than other cameras.
I won’t sit here and tell you that Canon cameras are the be all and end all. There are great alternatives produced by other brands too, but I’ve personally worked with Canon cameras for years and I’ve always loved the results. That’s why I thought it was about time to compile this list of best Canon cameras to help you narrow down your search.
What are the best Canon cameras?
Top Picks
Best Canon Mirrorless Cameras
- Canon EOS R5
- Canon EOS R7
- Canon EOS M50 Mark II
- Canon EOS RP
- Canon EOS R6
- Canon EOS R3
- Canon EOS M6 Mark II
- Canon EOS R
Best Canon DSLR Cameras
- Canon EOS 90D
- Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
- Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
- Canon Rebel SL3
Best Canon Point-and-Shoot Cameras
- Canon Elph 180 / IXUS 185 HS
- Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
- Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II
#1: Canon EOS R5
If you’re looking for the best Canon camera, look no further than the Canon EOS R5. I threw wads of money at Canon when this came out and have never looked back. It’s a great camera! I’d argue it’s Canon’s finest ever stills camera. Use it for anything from wildlife photography, to sports photography, to commercial campaigns. It’s video capabilities are also insane, however it has a tendency to overheat, so if you’re a videographer, it may not be your go to. I’m definitely biased but the Canon EOS R5 is my pick for the best Canon camera.
Specs
Type: Mirrorless camera
Sensor: Full frame sensor
Lens mount: RF
Megapixels: 45 MP
Max video resolution: 8k 12-bit RAW
Max burst speed: 20 fps
Weight (body only): 650g
Pros
- Superb image quality.
- 8K video.
- Best autofocus on the market. Dual pixel CMOS AF II.
- Lightening fast continuous shooting speed.
Cons
- Standard 4K video isn’t overwhelming.
- Camera will overhead if you’re videoing.
- Huge files so you’ll need a lot of space to store them.
- Will require RF lenses (bye money!) or adapters.
#2: Canon EOS 90D
In a world full of mirrorless cameras, the Canon EOS 90D is treading a path of it’s own as a high-end DSLR. With a solid autofocus system, good ergonomics, great image quality, and 4K video capture, this is a camera that should interest a lot of people. It’s not perfect – the live view AF system could be better, and battery life isn’t amazing – but overall there is a lot to like. Why not add this Canon DSLR to your collection?
Specs
Type: DSLR camera
Sensor: APS-C
Lens mount: EF/EF-S
Megapixels: 32.5 MP
Max video resolution: 4K
Max burst speed: 10 fps
Weight (body only): 701g
Pros
- Uncropped 4K video.
- Optical viewfinder.
- Vari-angled touchscreen.
- EF mount lenses.
- Ergonomic grip.
- Joystick control.
Cons
- 120fps video S-AF only.
- Limited buffer capacity. Slower continuous shooting.
- Highest resolution of any APS-C camera you can buy, but not much gain from 32 MP.
- No image stabilisation.
#3: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
No ‘best Canon camera’ list can be complete without the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. This Canon DSLR is very popular in the photography world. The EOS 5D Mark IV is the powerhouse many professional photographers use as their day to day workhorse.
Specs
Type: DSLR
Sensor: Full frame sensor
Lens mount: EF
Megapixels: 30.4 MP
Max video resolution: 4K
Max burst speed: 7 fps
Weight (body only): 800g
Pros
- Fantastic image quality.
- 30.4 MP sensor. Not the highest but gives a nice balance or resolution and low light performance.
- Lag free optical viewfinder.
- Popular for professional photography.
- Great battery life.
- Sturdy and easy to handle.
- Fast and powerful autofocus system.
- Dual pixel CMOS AF for live view and video.
- Multi shot noise reduction.
Cons
- Big crop factor for 4K video.
- Burst mode for continuous shooting is on the low side.
- Fixed rear screen.
- Digital Lens Optimizer runs very slowly.
#4: Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
The Canon EOS 1D range has been around for decades, so it was only fitting to reserve a spot for it on the Best Canon Cameras list. The EOS 1D X Mark III is the latest in this high-end Canon DSLR range. It’s ultra tough, hyper-fast, and spits out glorious images. You definitely won’t regret adding the EOS 1D X Mark III to your kit.
Specs
Type: DSLR
Sensor: Full frame sensor
Lens mount: EF
Megapixels: 20 MP
Max video resolution: 5.5K raw video, 4K with Canon Log
Max burst speed: 16 fps
Weight (body only): 1250g
Pros
- Sturdy build (seriously this is probably bulletproof).
- Uncropped 4K video.
- Autofocus system is very impressive.
- Very bright rear LCD.
- Almost limitless battery life.
- Good continuous shooting.
- Beautiful full frame image quality.
Cons
- No image stabilisation.
- EOS 1D X Mark III has lower resolution that other comparable Sony cameras.
- Not the most affordable full frame camera.
- It’s quite a chunky, heavy camera.
- Only works with CF express type B cards.
- No swivel screen.
#5: Canon EOS R7
The Canon EOS R7 is a fantastic addition to the EOS range, and a perfect candidate for the ‘Best Canon Cameras’ list. With speed that matches the EOS R3, and resolution only exceeded by the Canon EOS R5, this is the most powerful APS-C camera on the market. As far as mirrorless cameras go, the R7 is a great piece of kit.
Specs
Type: Mirrorless camera
Sensor: APS-C sensor
Lens mount: RF
Megapixels: 32.5 MP
Max video resolution: 4k 60p, Full HD video up to 120p
Max burst speed: 15 fps
Weight (body only): 530g
Pros
- 4K 60p video with 10-bit colour
- Mechanical shutter fires at 15fps for continuous shooting.
- Great value.
- Good in body image stabilization.
- Excellent autofocus.
- Amazing battery life.
Cons
- Electronic shutter isn’t ideal for freezing action. You’ll end up with some rolling-shutter effect.
- Doesn’t shoot 4K 120p video.
- The quick control dial is small and in a different place to most Canon cameras.
#6: Canon EOS M50 Mark II
If you’re looking for an affordable way into the world of photography, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II may be the best camera for you. From pleasing ergonomics, to vertical video shooting, to direct-from-camera live streaming capabilities, the camera bounces from strength to strength.
Specs
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Lens mount: EF-M
Megapixels: 24.1 MP
Max video resolution: 4K, Full HD at 60p
Max burst speed: 10 fps
Weight (body only): 387g
Pros
- Produces beautiful images.
- Compact, yet comfortable to hold.
- Great touchscreen interface.
- Good full auto mode.
- Vertical video recording.
- Solid live streaming capabilities.
Cons
- Autofocus system only works with human subjects and isn’t quite as accurate as some other competing systems.
- 4K footage is heavily cropped.
- Continuous shooting speed is somewhat limited.
- No headphone socket.
- Rear controls are a little cramped.
- Limited native lenses.
#7: Canon EOS RP
Buying a camera can be an expensive task, so it’s always nice to have more affordable options. The Canon EOS RP is just that: small, affordable, and quite a versatile piece of kit. While its competitors are going to great lengths to be ever better and packed with the best features, Canon continues to cater to crop sensor consumers who don’t want to break the bank.
Specs
Type: Mirrorless camera
Sensor: CMOS full-frame sensor
Lens mount: RF
Megapixels: 26.2 MP
Max video resolution: 4K
Max burst speed: 5 fps
Weight (body only): 440g
Pros
- Lightweight.
- 4K footage.
- On the expensive end for what it is.
- Brilliantly sharp viewfinder.
- Excellent autofocus.
Cons
- Aggressive crop factor in 4K.
- Battery life isn’t great.
- Slower continuous shooting speed.
#8: Canon EOS R6
The Canon EOS R6 is a great camera with a lot going for it. With best in class image stabilization and autofocus performance and a burst speed that blitzes most other cameras, it definitely deserves a place on the ‘Best Canon Cameras’ list. To cut a long story short, the Canon EOS R6 one of the best all rounders you can get.
Specs
Type: Mirrorless camera
Sensor: Full frame
Lens mount: RF
Megapixels: 20 MP
Max video resolution: 4K up to 60p
Max burst speed: 20fps
Weight (body only): 598g
Pros
- Amazing continuous shooting speed.
- Very capable video camera.
- Best in class autofocus.
- Excellent in body image stabilisation.
Cons
- Tendency to overheat when videoing.
- Expensive for an enthusiast-level camera.
- Lower resolution that most other cameras in this price range.
#9: Canon EOS R3
The Canon EOS R3 is a popular choice amongst professional photographers. The high burst rate, 6K RAW video, and insanely good autofocus system mean you’ll never miss a moment. It’s lower pixel count means it’s also able to generate significantly less noise than other higher resolution competitors. So whether you shoot weddings, sport, pets, children, or portraits, you can’t go wrong with the Canon EOS R3.
Specs
Type: Mirrorless camera
Sensor: Full frame sensor
Lens mount: RF
Megapixels: 24 MP
Max video resolution: 6K raw, 4K 120p
Max burst speed: 30fps
Weight (body only): 822g
Pros
- Extraordinary autofocus system.
- Lovely viewfinder and screen.
- Excellent build quality.
- 30fps continuous shooting.
- Takes things beyond 4K and films 6K RAW.
- Eye control AF works well.
- Weather sealed.
Cons
- Resolution isn’t huge. Although a great balance for both good video and stills.
- Quite a hefty and large body.
- Lovely low light video.
#10: Canon Elph 180 / IXUS 185 HS
Sometimes, all you need is a pocket sized camera to whip out when with family and friends. If you’re trying to balance budget and the best image quality you can get, look no further than the IXUS 185. Put this digital camera into auto mode, and start cranking out some high quality images.
Specs
Type: Compact camera
Sensor: 1/2.3 type CCD
Lens mount: Built in lens – 5.0 to 40.0 mm
Megapixels: 20 MP
Max video resolution: HD video at 25p
Max burst speed: 0.8 shots/s
Weight (body only): 126g
Pros
- Price.
- So easy to use!
- Lightweight and a true pocket sized camera.
- 8x optical zoom lens.
- Won’t need to worry about compatible lenses as the lens is built in.
Cons
- Essentially featureless. Definitely not for professional photography.
- Lacking in the video quality department. No Full HD or 4K video.
- Photo quality could be better.
- Attaching safety strap is fiddly.
#11: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a compact camera packed with great features for both photography and video. Never failing to disappoint in the specs department, Canon has combined a new Stacked CMOS sensor and Digic 8 processor for stunning image quality, a fast and flexible lens, live streaming options, and 4K video. It really is baffling how much they’ve managed to pack into such a small body. The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III definitely deserves a spot on the list of best Canon cameras.
Specs
Type: Compact camera
Sensor: 1.0 type stacked CMOS
Lens mount: Built in lens (8.8 – 36.8 mm)
Megapixels: 20.9 MP
Max video resolution: 4K, Full HD 120p
Max burst speed: 30 fps
Weight (body only): 304g
Pros
- 4K video.
- Live streaming options.
- Fast focus and burst rate.
- Great images and colours with effective image stabilisation.
- Pleasing handling and build quality.
- 1-inch sensor.
- Truly pocket sized.
Cons
- 4K not available in all modes.
- Face detection doesn’t work with continuous shooting.
- The lens isn’t as crip as some other competitors.
- No hot shoe for external mics.
- No built-in electronic viewfinder.
- Noise reduction can be aggressive.
#12: Canon EOS M6 Mark II
The Canon EOS M6 Mark II has taken the mirrorless camera game up a notch. Perfect for photographers, vloggers and really anyone who wants to pick up a camera, the EOSM6 Mark II is a potent little package. Its 32.5 MP sensor sets a new benchmark for APS-C cameras. Coupled with lightening fast burst speed, uncropped 4K video, and a sturdy build, this is definitely one of the best Canon cameras out there.
Specs
Type: Mirrorless camera
Sensor: APS-C
Lens mount: EF-M
Megapixels: 32.5 MP
Max video resolution: 4K
Max burst speed: 30 fps
Weight (body only): 408g
Pros
- Powerful 32.5MP APS-C sensor.
- Uncropped 4K video with dual pixel CMOS AF.
- A nice small camera.
- Fast max burst rate.
Cons
- No in-body stabilisation.
- Native lenses limited.
- A more affordable camera.
- No built-in viewfinder.
- Screen doesn’t rotate.
#13: Canon EOS R
The Canon EOS R is a pioneering full-frame mirrorless camera that sets some pretty high new standards. The 30.3 MP dual pixel CMOS sensor, modelled off the 5D Mark IV, boasts impressive detail. Essentially, you’re getting Canon EOS 5D mark IV performance, at a much more attractive price.
Specs
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: Full frame
Lens mount: RF
Megapixels: 30.3 MP
Max video resolution: 4K
Max burst speed: 8 fps
Weight (body only): 580g
Pros
- Dual pixel CMOS AF.
- Full articulating screen.
- Impressive autofocus.
- Sharp viewfinder.
- Silent electronic shutter. Even mechanical shutter is quiet.
Cons
- No in-body stabilisation.
- Cropped 4K video.
- Single SD card slot.
- Wakeup isn’t always instantaneous like a DSLR.
#14: Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II
If you’re looking for the best Canon camera, you definitely need to consider the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II. The PowerShot G5 X Mark II is a high end compact beast with a great lens, fast burst shooting and 4K video capabilities.
Specs
Type: Compact
Sensor: 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor
Lens mount: Built in lens
Megapixels: 20.1 MP
Max video resolution: 4K
Max burst speed: 20 fps
Weight (body only): 340g
Pros
- Fast burst speed.
- 4K video.
- Build in flash and electronic viewfinder.
- In-lens ND filter.
- Larger image sensor than phones.
- Very compact.
- Well considered ergonomics.
Cons
- No microphone jack.
- No 24p video recording.
- Limited customisation options.
- Life of the battery could be better.
- Autofocus isn’t as advanced as other competitors.
#15: Canon Rebel SL3
The final contender for best Canon camera is the Canon Rebel SL3. A comparatively compact DSLR camera, the Rebel SL3 is comfortable to use and will keep on shooting for eons with its insane battery life. It takes decently sharp images and keeps noise in images to fairly low levels, even at high ISOs. This would be a great pick for a photographer, however the mediocre image and video stabilisation mean it may not be the go to camera for a videographer.
Specs
Type: DSLR
Sensor: APS-C
Lens mount: EF/EF-S
Megapixels: 24.1 MP
Max video resolution: 4K
Max burst speed: 5 fps
Weight (body only): 402g
Pros
- Dual pixel CMOS AF.
- Vari-angle touchscreen.
- Very light and compact.
- Capable of taking great images in a wide variety of circumstances.
- Comfortable to hold and use.
- Great battery life.
Cons
- Thicker body than most mirrorless competitors.
- Only 9 AF points in viewfinder shooting.
- Mediocre build quality.
- Image and video stabilisation performance isn’t impressive.
What is the best Canon camera for me?
Finding your first or next camera can be a real maze. There are thousands of options out there. You can end up spiralling down a rabbit hole looking at all the options and specs.
As with any other large purchase, what works for one person may not be the best for another. The right Canon camera for me was the EOS R5. That certainly doesn’t mean it will be the best canon camera for you. In fact, the best camera for you may not even be a Canon (gasp!).
There are a few important things you should consider before you begin your search. So hold tight, and I’ll run you through them now, so you start your search from a good place.
Price
The most important thing for you to consider right at the start is price. How much money are you willing and able to spend on your camera? Is the camera the only cost? Will you need to buy lenses, memory cards or external microphones?
If you’re able to determine your budget, you’ve already narrowed down the number of cameras you’ll have to consider. You’d be surprised how many options you still have even if you give yourself a very narrow price window.
Keep in mind that you may not want to blow your whole budget on the camera body itself. Generally the camera body won’t function on its own, so you’ll need lenses and other accessories. Look into what you’ll need and cost it all out. You can never be too prepared with a budget.
Type of camera
Once you’ve got a budget in mind, you’ll need to know what type of camera you need. Generally speaking you have four options:
- Point-and-shoot cameras / compact cameras
- Bridge cameras
- DSLR cameras
- Mirrorless cameras
Point and shoot cameras, also known as compact cameras, are compact (obviously) and convenient. These are what you think of when you hear someone mention a digital camera. You can slip them in a pocket and whip them out at a moments notice. Generally these are for beginners. They’re easy to use, come with a range of automatic modes, and work well even if you don’t read the manual. However, they are less customisable. You have far more control over an image with DSLR and mirrorless models and interchangeable lenses.
Bridge cameras are higher end point and shoot digital cameras. They still don’t offer interchangeable lenses, but they do give you more control over the camera settings. They also tend to have sturdier builds and better ergonomics.
DSLRs are classic cameras. Huge, fancy-looking and with lots of buttons. You can see anyone from beginners to professionals welding DSLRs. They give the user a tonne of control over the images. You can also buy a mind boggling assortment of accessories and lenses. DSLRs are great but be prepared to spend a lot of money because there will always be a great new accessory or lens you want!
Mirrorless cameras are the rising trend these days. They take all the features of DSLRs and pack it into a smaller sensor and more compact body. Mirrorless cameras also allow you higher shooting speeds, image stabilisation, electronic viewfinders and the ability to shoot silently. More and more professionals are switching to mirrorless cameras, but they are also suitable for beginners and enthusiasts.
Sensor
Once you know how much you want to spend and the type of camera you need, you’ll need to dive further into the specs. Firstly, the sensor. Generally, you’ll want to know the size of the sensor, the resolution and the ISO capabilities.
All things being equal, the bigger the sensor, the better the image quality. You’ll find that generally, full frame sensors cost more than their smaller APS-C counterparts. Hence why most professional photographers shoot on full frame cameras. That being said, a bigger sensor may not be your best bet when it comes to video. Often lower resolution sensors can handle low light conditions much better. So it really does come down to how you intend to use the camera.
Lens quality and selection
A big consideration when buying a camera is the quality of the lens it comes with and the selection of lenses available to use with it.
If you’re looking at buying a point and shoot camera, you’ll need to compare the built in lenses of each model. Ask yourself: How much zoom do I need?
If you’re going to be buying a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, investigate what mounting system each camera uses, and what lenses are available for that system. Often you can buy adapters to use different mounts, however these can get expensive.
Autofocus and drive speeds
If you intend to do a lot of action photography (sports, wildlife, cars, etc) then you’ll need a camera with great autofocus and high burst shooting.
If you work with animals, you may want to ensure your camera has animal eye detection capabilities.
Durability and waterproofing
Depending on where you intend to shoot, you may need to factor in the build quality and waterproofing of potential camera candidates.
Some cameras do a great job at handling rain whereas others will bite the dust if a single drop falls.
Other
Obviously this is not an exhaustive list of things to consider when buying a camera. There are so many other things you can consider. Here is a list to give you some ideas of what to look out for:
- Wireless connectivity
- Built in flash
- Eye detection – Both human and animal
- Image stabilisation (both in body image stabilisation and lens image stabilisation)
- Dual memory card slots
- Battery life
- Weight
- Hot shoe (external flashes and microphones)
- Live streaming capabilities
- GPS
- Rotating LCD screen
What should I consider when buying a Canon camera?
Buying a Canon camera is no different to buying any other camera. If you’ve decided that a Canon camera is the way to go, then run through the list we discussed above and nail down exactly what specs you need in a camera.
Canon manufactures cameras for beginners right through to working professionals. There are a huge range of Canon cameras out there so you’ll have no trouble finding one that suits your budget and requirements. Happy shooting!