EOS-M vs. 5D2

Preface, I'm not new to cameras, shooting or owning gear. I have had a 5D2 for a while, previously had a 5D and before that a 10D. Several EOS film bodies before that.

My lifestyle has changed, my desire to shoot and the content which I shoot has also changed. I'm now considering picking up one of these bargain basement deals on the EOS-M, probably with the 22mm lens (own a 40mm Pancake but the crop will make it kind of longer), and selling the 5D2.

Has anyone moved or supplemented a full frame body with the M? Thoughts on use, reliability, ergonomics, any issues using bigger & heavier EF lenses, like the 24-70?

Who's using an optical viewfinder, which one and what do you like / don't like about it?

I've been using a 5D since 2007. I bought an M recently just to use as a pocket camera. In terms of ergonomics, speed and ease-of-use the M is a complete joke compared to the 5D. You will most likely not be happy with the M as a replacement.

For what type of shooting?

If you are going to downsize and opt for a smallish camera, at least get a capable one like OM-D/GX7/Nex 7/X-E1 etc...

I'd die in frustration if the M is my only camera...

I have both and as much as I love the M, it cannot replace the 5D ii. If I were to give up my wildlife shooting and just do snap shots, family events and even vacations, I could probably 'get by' with the EOS M.

I think 'dying of frustration' might be over-dramatic I don't think anyone would actually die with only this camera

If you're just looking to downsize but don't want to compromise on quality then go with the Sony A7 FF mirrorless.

davidc502 wrote in post #16517349
If you're just looking to downsize but don't want to compromise on quality then go with the Sony A7 FF mirrorless.

^ This. I have an M and it's less than convenient to use. I carry it when I don't want to carry a camera but think I might want to grab a shot while I'm out. Other than that it replaced our now dead powershot as my wifes P&S. Shooting with it is slow and cumbersome and the files are no where near as nice as the 5DII files. Meanwhile you can get the Sony A7 and have a tiny camera that can still take your Canon lenses if you want and it has a better sensor.

kin2son wrote in post #16517323
If you are going to downsize and opt for a smallish camera, at least get a capable one like OM-D/GX7/Nex 7/X-E1 etc...

I'd die in frustration if the M is my only camera...

This. I thought I'd try an M as an only camera, but lasted about a week It's fantastic for static type subjects, or something that's moving but at a relatively constant distance from you. It's the other stuff that bites you I find it great to use, touch screen is good, not too small, not too heavy, add on flash works well for fill, etc tec. Wouldn't pay $6-800 for it though. It is what it is.

Hi,

I recently bought a M. No regrets. I have a 5D II too. I come to the conclusion that M is convenient and picture quality is acceptable in most situations, but in light of technical accuracy, 5D II is number 1. Comparing AF of M with DSLR equals comparing apple to organge, unfair, but it is rest assured that AF of M is adequate for ordinary environments. It depends on what you need. Travel goes for M. High technical requirements goes for 5D II.

IQ of the EOS M is much better than I thought when I bought it.

The 22mm lens is a great lens and even the 18-55 is sharp as well.

I have both lenses and the EF - M adapter. I've used my 24-70 II on it for fun and the IQ is great. Even my 600EX RT works on it but adding that stuff to the little M makes it all weird for weight balance and portability.

The updated firmware helped the AF a lot but I still consider it slow (think of it about as fast as your 5D2 using Liveview for focus acquisition.

Great camera but definately would not replace your 5D2.

I'm selling mine now since I just picked up a Sony A7.

https://www.youtube.co​m/watch?v=wxfaou8uJfg

I have the M with the 18-55 for about 6 months and I generally regret the purchase. In daylight, its pretty good overall but it fails in low light imo... + it does not have a flash. High ISO performance bothers me compared to other APS-C options like my X100. The EOS M is perfect for my wife however, she can easily pop it in Auto+ and shoot. Menu navigation is a royal pain and no alternatives due to the lack of buttons.

I also have the Meike adapter and tried all my Canon lenses but its not something I would use other than to toy around. Whats the point of putting a giant lens + adapter on a tiny camera when I can just put the lens on my 6D? Focusing seems slower with the adapter as well.

Mashimaro wrote in post #16518127
IQ of the EOS M is much better than I thought when I bought it.

The 22mm lens is a great lens and even the 18-55 is sharp as well.

I have both lenses and the EF - M adapter. I've used my 24-70 II on it for fun and the IQ is great. Even my 600EX RT works on it but adding that stuff to the little M makes it all weird for weight balance and portability.

The updated firmware helped the AF a lot but I still consider it slow (think of it about as fast as your 5D2 using Liveview for focus acquisition.

Great camera but definately would not replace your 5D2.

I'm selling mine now since I just picked up a Sony A7.

Congratualtions on the A7 purchase!

Be sure to post example pix when you get it going.

I would really look into a canon g1x if you want to downsize. I had one and the image quality is outstanding, and you don't have to changes lens.

Thanks for all the input.

I'm not considering moving [down] to a Fuji XE-2. The A7 looks great, but not looking to re-invest that much in a body - full frame doesn't mean all that much since Fuji has some wide, fast & sharp primes, that are actually really affordable.