Canon EOS M200 Review

It's been said that "Good things come in small packages" and the Canon EOS M-series cameras embody that statement. These cameras, squeezing large APS-C sensors into tiny bodies, represent a maximization of image quality relative to camera size and weight. While initially these models achieved DSLR-grade image quality, they sacrificed performance in some regards. The performance disparities between the EOS DSLRs and the EOS M models have greatly been diminished, notably by featuring Canon's excellent Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and the M models are all now powerful little cameras.

The Canon EOS M200 mirrorless interchangeable lens camera is the successor to and very similar to the EOS M100. While the M200 takes its place at the bottom of Canon's mirrorless lineup in terms of features (and size and weight), it remains a very capable camera with formerly-introduced and now-inherited advanced features that make it a bargain at its also bottom-of-the-line price. One of the reasons for using a large-imaging-sensor camera model is for great image quality and the image quality delivered by this camera is among the best-available in APS-C EOS models. As mentioned, Canon's Dual Pixel AF performs excellently. AF performance is of utmost importance for image quality and this one maximizes the image quality capability of this camera. Saying that this camera has a "large superset of basic camera features" is a succinct understatement that rounds out the description of this model.

Here are Canon USA's selected Canon EOS M200 highlight features:

Summary of Canon EOS M200 Features

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• DIGIC 8 Imaging Processor
• 4K UHD, Full HD up to 60p, Vertical video support
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Eye Detection AF
• Convenient Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Technology
• Capable of Sharing Photos and Videos to Social Media Platforms
• Compact and Lightweight Design
• Compatible with Extensive Line of EF-M and, via an adapter, Canon EF and EF-S lenses
• 24 MP resolution from a large APS-C imaging sensor

OK, I added that last one but this is a HUGE advantage over the smartphone cameras we all have available.

Representing a budget-conscious camera in its mirrorless lineup, it is fair to expect many high-end features to remain absent in the M200's feature list. One such omitted feature – a hot shoe – is a strong indication of this camera's intended market; namely, those with less complicated photography needs who do not anticipate working with advanced lighting setups. While the camera does feature a built-in pop-up flash, the pop-up flash cannot communicate with Canon Speedlite flashes.

I often discuss the product name at the beginning of a camera review, trying to help readers better understand the lineup available to them. I've already given away this model's place in the lineup, but I'll tie the model name into that place for educational purposes.

"EOS" refers to Canon's interchangeable lens camera models and the "M" line refers to the mirrorless APS-C sensor variants. Initially, we had the EOS "M" and incremented model numbers became the naming convention with the "M2" and "M3" coming in succession with each model replacing the prior option.

While that naming convention seemed logical, success brought simultaneously-current M models and Canon had to change directions in this regard. Coming next were the "M5" and "M10", which could still make sense based on the previous naming convention – if the "M5" was not the higher-end camera model. Not long after these two models came the "M6", then the "M100" was unleashed, and the story continues. When viewed as an overall group, the M model numbers have become quite confusing. When only the current models are considered, they become more logical. Basically, a lower number indicates a higher-end camera model, similar to the EOS DSLR models and that is not so difficult to understand. The M6 replacement gained a Mark II in its moniker but the M100 was replaced by the M200, which remains a higher number than 6.

Those familiar with this camera's predecessor, the Canon EOS M100, will likely be wondering what the differences are between the Canon EOS M200 and the Canon EOS M100. Here is a list:

• 4K, 3840 x 2160 (23.98, 25 fps) video, vertical video
• Eye Detection AF, Spot AF
• Up to 149 AF points vs. 49
• AF working range EV -4 - 18 (EV -2 - 18 for movies) vs. EV -1 - 18
• DIGIC 8 vs. DIGIC 7
• Auto (Ambience Priority) and Auto (White Priority) white balance settings available
• Night Portrait special scene mode added
• Digital Lens Optimizer added
• Battery life of approx. 315 shots vs. 295
• LCD brightness adjustment to one of 7 levels vs. 5
• Built-in flash recycle time approx. 4 seconds vs. 5
• 6 custom functions vs. 5
• The video start/stop button is on the back vs. the top
• The M100 has a Wi-Fi button
• Lacks NFC support vs. has it

Very likely, the first few items in that bullet list catch your attention most. While some of the other items on this list may be valuable to you, the 4K video upgrade is a substantial one and Canon's Eye AF technology is awesome, allowing the framing and shot timing to be concentrated on with the camera taking complete care of AF.

Sensor and Image Quality

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Canon has not specified that the M200's imaging sensor is new but they have also not specified it being the same as another model. Based on the 24.1 MP spec, we could guess that the 4k-accomodating imaging sensor in the Rebel SL3 has been utilized for this camera. Following is a chart that shows several sensor specifications for many of Canon's recent DSLR and mirrorless offerings.

Model	FOVCF	Sensor	Pixel Size	Pixels/Megapixels		Viewfinder		DLA*
Canon EOS 90D	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.20µm	6960 x 4640	32.5	.95x	100%	f/5.2
Canon EOS 77D	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.72µm	6000 x 4000	24.2	.82x	95%	f/6.0
Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.72µm	6000 x 4000	24.2	.82x	95%	f/6.0
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.72µm	6000 x 4000	24.1	.87x	95%	f/6.0
Canon EOS R	1.0x	36.0 x 24.0mm	5.36µm	6720 x 4480	30.3	.71x	100%	f/8.6
Canon EOS RP	1.0x	35.9 x 24.0mm	5.75µm	6240 x 4160	26.2	.70x	100%	f/9.3
Canon EOS M5	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.72µm	6000 x 4000	24.2		100%	f/6.0
Canon EOS M6 Mark II	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.20µm	6960 x 4640	32.5	opt	100%	f/5.2
Canon EOS M50	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.72µm	6000 x 4000	24.1		100%	f/6.0
Canon EOS M200	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.72µm	6000 x 4000	24.1	n/a	n/a	f/6.0
Canon EOS M100	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	3.72µm	6000 x 4000	24.2	n/a	n/a	f/6.0
Canon EOS M10	1.6x	22.3 x 14.9mm	4.30µm	5184 x 3456	18.0			f/6.8

From a differentiation perspective, the EOS M200 image quality is essentially the same as the image quality produced by the other 24-point-something megapixel cameras because of their APS-C (1.6x) sized sensor.

Obviously, the APS-C format is huge relative to the size of the imaging sensors in mobile phones and point-and-shoot variety cameras. Image quality, especially in low light, is a huge advantage they bring. The difference is dramatic. Note: you may think that the images from your phone look good ... on your phone. Load them on a computer monitor and, especially at 100% resolution, you will surely be disappointed. If you are fine with your memories looking OK only when viewed on tiny phone-sized media, you may not need the M200.

Note that I usually compare resolution at this point, but without a hot shoe to support an accessory flash, we could not perform our standard enhanced ISO 12233 test. However, the results would be similar to the M6, so use the M6 results for your resolution comparisons.

A nice sharpness-aiding feature of mirrorless cameras is ... the lack of a mirror, eliminating a potential source of vibration. Another consideration for getting the most from a high-resolution camera is the quality of the lens placed in front of it. Increased resolution will magnify any lens aberrations present. As always, the better the lens, the better the image quality. EOS M cameras natively mount EF-M lenses and, with an EF-EOS M Adapter, Canon's vast line-up of EF-S, EF, TS-E, and MP-E series lenses are compatible. Note that, as with all APS-C format cameras, a selected lens' focal length will frame a scene similar to that of a 1.6x longer focal length mounted on a full-frame sensor camera (including when using EF-M and APS-C-only lenses such as the EF-S series).

As pixel density increases, the signal-to-noise ratio per-pixel decreases unless other technological advances are involved. With only a couple of recent exceptions, Canon has been standardized on 24 MP APS-C sensors for years and this sensor has been delivering very nice results in regards to noise.

The Kodak Color Control Patches shown in the standard ISO noise test results are generated from RAW images with (and this is key) no noise reduction (unless specifically indicated by the result set). These evenly-colored patches make any image noise readily apparent. Keep in mind that many real-world subjects are more detailed and better hide noise, meaning these samples represent a worst-case scenario.

The M200's ISO 100 results are very clean – this is normal for EOS cameras. As always, increasing the ISO setting increases the apparent noise. My tolerance for current APS-C sensor noise is about ISO 3200. Results at ISO 6400 are noisy, though they can be usable. More of a last resort is ISO 12800 and a significant percentage of the details get lost in the low signal-to-noise ratio at ISO 25600. The purposes for ISO 25600 seem strongly marketing-related.

Despite its tiny size, the M200 produces very impressive image quality, results dramatically better than a phone camera is capable of.

File Size and Media

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The following table shows comparative RAW file sizes for a photo of a standard in-studio setup with a moderately-high amount of detail taken with the referenced camera.

Model / File Size in MB @ ISO:	(MP)	100	200	400	800	1600	3200	6400	12800	25600	51200	102400	204800	409600
Canon EOS 90D	(32.5	38.6	39.9	40.8	42.5	44.5	46.7	49.1	51.6	54.2	57.4
Canon EOS 77D	(24.0)	30.6	31.2	32.1	33.3	34.9	37.0	39.6	42.4	47.0	51.1
Canon EOS Rebel T7i	(24.0)	30.6	31.2	32.1	33.3	34.9	37.0	39.6	42.4	47.0	51.1
Canon EOS Rebel SL3	(24.1)	29.6	30.5	31.6	32.9	34.4	36.2	38.2	40.0	42.7	45.3
Canon EOS Rebel T7 (est)	(24.0)	30.6	31.2	32.1	33.3	34.9	37.0	39.6	42.4	47.0	51.1
Canon EOS R	(30.4)	35.8	36.6	37.6	38.7	40.0	41.8	43.3	45.7	48.0	49.6*	**	**
Canon EOS RP	(26.2)	30.7	31.3	32.0	32.8	34.0	35.5	37.1	39.0	41.5	43.4	45.8
Canon EOS M5	(24.2)	33.8	34.7	35.7	37.1	39.0	41.3	44.7	46.5	52.8
Canon EOS M6 Mark II	(32.5)	38.6	39.9	40.8	42.5	44.5	46.7	49.1	51.6	54.2	57.4
Canon EOS M6	(24.2)	34.1	34.8	35.9	37.6	39.6	42.0	45.1	46.9	53.0
Canon EOS M50	(24.1)	30.4	31.3	32.4	33.7	35.3	37.0	38.9	40.6	43.2	45.9
Canon EOS M200	(24.1)	29.4	30.2	31.4	32.7	34.2	35.9	37.8	39.5	42.1	44.7
Canon EOS M100	(24.2)	34.0	34.8	35.7	37.2	38.9	40.7	43.5	45.5	50.9

High-resolution images create large files, especially when captured in (strongly recommended) RAW format (vs. JPG). The Canon EOS M200 writes image files to an SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I) memory card. For an ISO 100 image, you can estimate roughly 1.2MB in RAW file size per megapixel of resolution. Fortunately, SD memory cards have become so inexpensive that large file sizes are a minor problem. Buy plenty of capacity and multiple cards. I recommend rotating memory cards to maintain a backup set until, minimally, you are able to get the images safely into your formal backup strategy, one that includes off-site storage.

If your computer storage is lacking hard drive space available, simply add external storage.

Introduced with the Canon EOS M50 was the .CR3 RAW format and the Canon EOS M200 gets this feature. This RAW file format enables new features including C-RAW, compressed RAW with lossy compression vs. the normally compressed RAW with non-lossy compression. Instead of the not-full-featured small and medium RAW formats Canon formerly offered, C-RAW provides full RAW file support along with an estimated 40% file size reduction over Canon's already efficient RAW file format size. The math adds up quickly, significantly impacting both memory card and hard disk storage capacity requirements. With the M50 review, what started as a quick evaluation of this new feature turned into a sizeable project. Check out the article: Should I Use Canon's C-RAW Image File Format? for more information.

Frame Rate, Buffer Depth, Shutter

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With a 4 frames per second drive rate with AF, a feature most often needed when using a fast frame rate, this camera will not be confused with a sports action model. Turn off AF and the 6.1 fps rate that becomes available is not bad.

Model	FPS	Max JPG	Max RAW	Shutter Lag	VF Blackout
Canon EOS 90D	10.0/11.0	57/58	24/25	59ms	96ms
Canon EOS 77D	6.0	190/Full	21/27	70ms
Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D	6.0	190/Full	21/27	70ms
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D	5.0	Full	10	75ms;
Canon EOS R	2.2-8	100	34/47	50ms	n/a
Canon EOS RP	4	Full	50/Full	55ms	n/a
Canon EOS M5	7/9	26	17		n/a
Canon EOS M6 Mark II	14/30	54	23	53ms	n/a
Canon EOS M50	7.4/10	33/47	10		n/a
Canon EOS M200	4/6.1	1120	13		n/a
Canon EOS M100	4/6.1	89/1000	21		n/a
Canon EOS M10	4.6	1000	7		n/a

While the buffer capacity is not huge, the camera's slow frame rate means that a relatively long burst of images can be captured.

To test the Canon EOS M200's continuous drive mode and buffer capabilities, the camera was configured to manual mode (no AE time lag) using ISO 100, a 1/4000 shutter speed (no waiting for the shutter operation), a wide-open aperture (no time lost due to aperture blades closing) and manual focus (no focus lock delay). A freshly-formatted memory card was loaded.

Using a fast ProGrade UHS-II V60 SDXC Memory Card, the M200 captured 17 frames in 2.66 seconds for just over 6 fps performance and handily exceeding the rated buffer depth. After a short pause (less than .3 seconds), 6 additional frames were captured at a slower rate followed by another pause (over a second) and 13 more frames then captured at about rated speed.

Turn on AF and the M200 captured 89 frames at 4 fps for a very long 22.5 seconds.

Canon has not published a shutter lag spec for the M200 but this camera is quite responsive when the shutter release is pressed. The 1/4000 fastest shutter speed, while half as fast as available in many higher-end models, is very sufficient for most uses as is the 1/200 flash X-sync spec (for those times when the little built-in flash is sufficient.

All of the M-series cameras are very quiet to use. The quietness feature is welcomed by photographers who want to avoid attention, such as when they are photographing wildlife or a quiet event. The following are links to MP3 files illustrating the M200's shutter sounds.

Canon EOS M200 One Shot Mode
Canon EOS M200 Servo AF Continuous Mode (slow)
Canon EOS M200 One Shot AF Continuous Mode (fast)

Autofocus

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Canon's excellent, fast Dual Pixel AF system migrated down to the entry-level mirrorless camera model with the M100 and it is back and improved on the M200, now including 143 AF points (all single-line sensitive).

Live View and Movie focusing modes include Face + Tracking (Eye Detection AF available), Zone AF, 1-point AF, Spot AF. The AF zone covers roughly 80% of the frame and AF is possible with max. apertures of f/11 or wider. The Eye Detection AF is new and awesome. Concentrate on framing the subject while the camera tracks the subject's closest eye. Spot AF is also new, allowing a smaller AF point for more precise focus selection.

The M200's capacitive touchscreen allows for Touch Focus during both Live View still photography and before/during video recording. Just tap your finger on the LCD where you want the camera to focus and it happens – smoothly. The Touch & Drag AF feature found on some of Canon's higher-end camera models has been omitted on this model.

Movies

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Movie recording enhancements are at the top of this camera's new and improved list with 4K recording being the highlight.

The M100 offers video recording in .MP4 format using the MPEG-4 AVC / H.264 codec, with audio being recorded in AAC (.MP4, stereo) via its front microphone. Note that a 3.5mm stereo input jack has not been included in this M-series model. Sound recording levels can be set to Auto, Manual or Disabled entirely. Wind Filter and Attenuator options can be set in the sound recording menu.

Available resolution and frame rates are:

4K — 3840 x 2160 (23.98, 25 fps)
Full HD — 1920 x 1080 (59.94, 50, 29.97, 25fps)
HD — 1280 x 720 (119.9, 100, 59.94, 50 fps)

Movie recording modes are fully automatic or manual, giving you full control over the settings used.

Recently introduced video features such as HDR and Creative Filter capture have been omitted from the M200 (their use is limited to Stills mode), but Time-Lapse Movie creation is supported. Sound recording is not available during Time-Lapse Movie capture. Time-lapse movies are recorded in .MP4 format at 1080p, 30 or 25fps.

Especially helpful for selfie movie recording and vlogging is the LCD that flips upward, making it fully visible from the front even when tripod mounted. The EOS M200's small size is highly advantageous for certain video projects and you can expect this camera to deliver excellent video quality while making great videos quite easy to create.

Viewfinder and LCD

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Big on the back is always the LCD and the M200's LCD is a familiar entity and very nice. This is Canon's excellent 3" (7.5cm) Clear View LCD II monitor, featuring capacitive touch and high-resolution with approx. 1,040,000 dots.

As mentioned, this LCD tilts 180° upward. A benefit of this type of tilting LCD (vs. the side-pivoting vari-Angle feature found on many EOS DSLRs) is that it does not interfere with cables attached to the left side. A benefit from tilting 180° up (vs. the M5's tilting 180° down) is that a tripod does not interfere with visibility of the LCD, making this model better-suited for selfies, including both still and video capture.

The LCD's touch capability provides great control over camera settings. Pinch, tap, double-tap, flick, etc. gestures are supported.

Physical Design

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The EOS M line is all about delivering big camera image quality from a tiny package and next we will look closer at the physical attributes of this camera. While the original M (and the M10) had very few controls, many subsequent models have been adding them. The M200, like the M100, stays with the original concept, featuring a minimalist-control layout that is very similar to the EOS M100.

To compare the Canon EOS M200 with many other camera models, use the site's camera product image comparison tool. Opening that link in a separate tab or window will be helpful for following along with the product tour.

Back of the Camera

The back of the M200 is nearly identical to the M100 (and M10). The record movie button has been moved from the top of the camera to the position formerly held by the Wi-Fi settings button that has survived only a single model iteration and gone missing. The buttons on the back of the M200 are conveniently placed (at least convenient relative to the size of this camera), usefully-featured and well-labeled.

The M200's Rear Control looks like a dial but does not turn, functioning like cross-keys. The buttons are all raised just enough to be tactilely findable.

All of Canon's interchangeable lens cameras feature easy-to-use, logically-laid-out menu systems and this one is especially well-suited for the beginner. A series of tabbed menus are especially quickly accessed using the touch screen. The M200 receives a minimalistic set of menu options and, notably, the My Menu option, providing a customizable list of frequently used options, is newly available in this model, offering the ability to store a high percentage of the most-used camera settings in one menu.

While not a button or control, the thumb rest is a back of the camera feature that is worth mentioning. While small, the pad and slight hook in shape aid substantially in the camera's grip-ability.

Top of the Camera

Compared to Canon's higher-end M-series cameras, the top of the M200 could aptly be referred to as "sleek and uncomplicated", like its predecessors. Omitting a significant number of individually listed modes on the mode dial, an exposure compensation dial, and a hot shoe aids in this appearance (at the obvious cost of more easily accessed features).

Similar to the M100, the M200 has a mode dial surrounding the on/off button, an LED indicator, and a front dial that surrounds the shutter button. As mentioned, the movie button has been moved to the back. The few controls provided are conveniently-placed for easy reach.

The M200's microphone ports are located to the left of the mode dial, with the pop-up flash consuming the balance of the camera's top real estate further left.

The M200 has a full set of shooting modes, ranging from the crazy-easy and smart point-and-shoot mode to fully manual mode with most everything in between covered, including a wide range of special effects that can be applied while shooting.

Side of the Camera

On the side of the camera from the top down, we find the small pop-up flash switch, a port cover containing the A/V digital out and mini-HDMI ports, and the memory card slot. A slight cut-out on the left side of the LCD provides fingernail access to these covers. Open the LCD and fingertip access becomes available.

The sole feature found on the right side of the camera (not shown) is a speaker.

Notably absent are mic and headphone jacks and a remote port, although the camera can be wirelessly remotely controlled via a smartphone or mobile device and the Canon BR-E1 Bluetooth Remote is compatible.

Size of the Camera

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Certainly you've been taking notice of how small this camera is relative to the non-M series models being compared. Small size and light weight are hallmarks of the entire EOS M series and this one arrives as the smallest current Canon EOS camera titleholder, equivalent to the M100.

Model	Body Dimensions		CIPA Weight
Canon EOS 90D	5.5 x 4.1 x 3.0"	(140.7 x 104.8 x 76.8mm)	24.7 oz (701g)
Canon EOS 77D	5.2 x 3.9 x 3.0"	(131.0 × 99.9 × 76.2mm)	19.0 oz (540g)
Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D	5.2 x 3.9 x 3.0"	(131.0 × 99.9 × 76.2mm)	18.8 oz (532g)
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D	4.8 x 3.6 x 2.7	(122.4 x 92.6 x 69.8mm)	15.8 oz (449g)
Canon EOS R	5.4 x 3.9 x 3.3"	(135.8 x 98.3 x 84.4mm)	23.4 oz (660g)
Canon EOS RP	5.2 x 3.36 x 2.76"	(132.5 x 85.3 x 70mm)	17.3 oz (485g)
Canon EOS M5	4.6 x 3.5 x 2.4"	(115.6 x 89.2 x 60.6mm)	15.1 oz (427g)
Canon EOS M6 Mark II	4.7 x 2.8 x 1.9"	(119.6 x 70.0 x 49.2mm)	14.4 oz (408g)
Canon EOS M200	4.3 x 2.6 x 1.4"	(108.2 x 67.1 x 35.1mm)	11.3 oz (320g)
Canon EOS M100	4.3 x 2.6 x 1.4"	(108.2 x 67.1 x 35.1mm)	11.3 oz (320g)
Canon EOS M10	4.3 x 2.6 x 1.4"	(108.0 x 66.6 x 35mm)	10.6 oz (301g)

When the absolute smallest camera option is needed, the M200 may be the best choice. However, the increased grip size found on the M6 II and M5 make them easier to hold and, if much time is spent with the camera in hand, those particular models are a likely a better choice for this reason alone. The additional controls found on the slightly larger models are further reason to consider taking the modest size hit.

Ergonomics, Build Quality and Durability

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All models in the entire current Canon EOS line (and most discontinued models as well) feature very nice build quality, including even the least expensive models. Construction is tight with dials and buttons that assuredly click affirmation of use. As usual for EOS models, Canon has ergonomically rounded most of the camera and especially the areas intended to be gripped are void of sharp corners. Unless the retro look is your preference, you will likely find this design aesthetically pleasing and kind to your hands at the same time.

While Canon does not advertise significant weather sealing and robust construction for this model, it is built like the class-similar models and that means it is not fragile in that regard.

Additional Features

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As usual for current EOS models, the M200 has built-in Wi-Fi and low-energy Bluetooth with NFC (Near Field Communications) gone missing.

These technologies provide easy transfer of images and movies to compatible devices. Transfer images and movies to smartphones and tablets, to web services such as Canon's Image Gateway, to media players such as DLNA-compatible TVs, to PictBridge-compatible printers, to the Canon Connect Station CS100 photo and video storage and sharing device, or send them directly to another Canon Wi-Fi-compatible camera.

Smartphones and tablets connect using Canon's free Camera Connect app. In addition to transferring movies and still images, this app provides some remote camera control features and provides a live view display of the scene. Camera Connect has a lot of untapped potential with the current feature set being somewhat basic at review time.

Now common is for Canon's latest EOS DSLRs to feature built-in RAW conversion to JPG, complete with many adjustments available for doing so and the M200 once again supports this feature. While shooting in RAW format ensures the highest image quality, this file format is not so welcomed by many of the wirelessly-connected devices. With the built-in RAW conversion, you can photograph in RAW format, create a JPG file and then wirelessly transfer it to a device such as your phone.

Note that this camera does not feature a built-in GPS. The Canon Connect App can serve as a GPS logger, though the battery drain will be high on the logging device.

The EOS M200 has a self-cleaning sensor system, referred to as the EOS integrated cleaning system. I dislike imaging sensor dust greatly and similarly dislike cleaning imaging sensors. If cleaning is needed, the lens can simply be removed and, without a mirror or shutter in the way and with a shallow lens mount depth, the imaging sensor is right there, easily accessible for cleaning.

Battery

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The M200 utilizes the same battery as the M100 (and many other Canon models), the LP-E12 lithium-ion battery pack.

This battery is quite small, light, and convenient. But, in a mirrorless camera, this battery's approx. 315 shot rating, up from 295, is unlikely to impress you. Many factors affect battery life (including drive mode, flash use, and temperature), but enabling the M200's Eco Mode extends the rating to a healthy 485 shots. The key is to take enough charged batteries with you to satisfy your needs and to keep an eye on the 4-step battery level indicator to make sure the battery change happens at a convenient time.

If an electrical outlet is available, the Canon CA-PS700 AC Adapter will provide continuous power to the M200.

Accessories

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When you buy a Canon EOS camera, you are buying into an incredible family of lenses, flashes and other accessories. The camera body (or multiple bodies) is the base your system is built on and a lens is the next essential piece of kit.

For most, this will be a starter camera and with that mindset, a body-only version of the M200 is not currently available. The Canon EOS M200 is available in a kit in white or black with the very small Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens or in a kit bundled with both the 15-45 and the EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens.

Those opting to purchase the M200 are likely choosing it in part because of its small size, decent feature set, and great image quality. To realize the great image quality requires a high-quality lens. The APS-C image sensor is large and large imaging sensors require a large image circle to cover them. This means that lenses, at least those with wide apertures, may not be able to scale down relative to this camera's size.

Canon's EF-M Lenses are very compact and they are all good choices for this camera. I especially appreciate the Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens' small size. The focal length range of the Canon EF-M 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens is really nice and its image quality is surprisingly good. To remain as similarly compact as the M cameras, the currently available EF-M lenses have narrow max apertures with two exceptions. The first is the Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens pancake-style lens, a tiny and attractive option for this camera. The other is the Canon EF-M 32mm f/1.4 STM Lens, a remarkably-high-performing lens.

Via the EF-EOS M Adapter, all of Canon lenses (EF-S, EF, TS-E, and MP-E) can be mounted on all of the M models. While only a small percentage of these lenses retain the small size and lightweight spirit of the M-series cameras, having them available is a big asset, especially for those already having (or planning to have) a larger EOS model in their kits.

Notably missing on the M200's compatible accessories list is an electronic viewfinder. The lack of a hot shoe is likely the big reason for this omission, but ... I struggle to use the LCD for composition under bright sunlight and would appreciate having an EVF at least optionally available. A third-party LCD loupe is an option.

Price

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The M200 is positioned at the lower end of Canon's lineup and its price reflects this position. It has been designed to fill the needs of novice to mid-level photographers and the M200 will prove more than adequate for most within these designations. This camera is a great value.

Wrap Up

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Reviewing one of the feature-filled EOS cameras currently hitting the streets is a daunting, time-consuming effort. One could write many books about using this camera and getting the most from it. Hopefully I've given you the basics needed for decision making.

To dig deeper into this camera's capabilities, I recommend reading the owner's manual (a link to the owner's manual appears at the beginning of this review). I know, there are a LOT of pages in the manual, but ... the pages are small in size with big print. The manual will tell you all about a huge array of features not mentioned in this review – including lens aberration correction.

Owning a Canon product gives you access to Canon support and the support I have been provided by Canon's USA division is excellent (sorry, I have no experience with the other Canon divisions). When I call for support, I get an intelligent person who sincerely wants to help me with whatever my question or problem is (I do give them challenges sometimes). Canon repair service, though I seldom need it, is very fast and reliable.

The EOS M200 used for this review was retail-acquired.

Alternatives

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While many cameras could be considered alternatives to the M200, the M100 is the first that comes to mind. The Canon EOS M200 compared to the Canon EOS M100 from a specifications perspective turns up most of the differences between these cameras. Here is the list I created, as shared earlier in this review:

• 4K, 3840 x 2160 (23.98, 25 fps) video, vertical video
• Eye Detection AF, Spot AF
• Up to 149 AF points vs. 49
• AF working range EV -4 - 18 (EV -2 - 18 for movies) vs. EV -1 - 18
• DIGIC 8 vs. DIGIC 7
• Auto (Ambience Priority) and Auto (White Priority) white balance settings available
• Night Portrait special scene mode added
• Digital Lens Optimizer added
• Battery life of approx. 315 shots vs. 295
• LCD brightness adjustment to one of 7 levels vs. 5
• Built-in flash recycle time approx. 4 seconds vs. 5
• 6 custom functions vs. 5
• The video start/stop button is on the back vs. the top
• The M100 has a Wi-Fi button
• Lacks NFC support vs. has it

One primary reason to upgrade from the M100 to the M200 is the 4k video feature. Increasing from 1920 x 1080 resolution to 3840 x 2160 is very significant. The other primary reason to make this upgrade is for the new AF system with Eye Detection AF being a big deal.

While the M200 retains the same number of total pixels, it loses .1 MP in its MP spec, suggesting these pixels are taking on a new role, perhaps being reflected in two nice enhancements, the increased AF point count and working range.

Summary

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As with the M100, from an exciting brand-new features perspective, the Canon EOS M200 is going to turn few heads. However, the features packaged into this tiny camera for the very-attractive price will.

Among the most-attracted to the M200 will be those previously misled by promises of great image quality from their phones or simply those growing dissatisfied by the same. Once phone images are viewed on a full-sized monitor or used to create modestly large prints, most will be disappointed, discovering that the purported great image quality doesn't meet their definition. The large, high-resolution APS-C format imaging sensor in the M200 will, especially in low light, far surpass the abilities of mobile phones.

The small size and weight combined with a very adequate feature set make this camera a perfect travel companion. One barely knows the camera is along and the images it captures along the way are great.

The M200 has the same excellent AF system found in the M6 (intelligent, quickly controllable, and with good speed) and the M200 features some nice upgrades from the M100. While a complete beginner can use this camera to capture high-quality images with little effort, the camera's controls provide a solid path for advancement in photography skills. The EOS M200's size, weight and price benefits will surely make it an intriguing option for those seeking impressive results via a minimal kit.

If you have been waiting to jump into a Canon mirrorless interchangeable lens camera and an APS-C sensor format works for you, the EOS M200 could be an ideal choice. "An easy-to-use yet powerful camera, the [EOS M200] is an excellent choice for those looking to step up from smartphone photography, offering the versatility of interchangeable lenses, optical zoom and the latest imaging technology, without sacrificing size, style or the ability to share instantly." [Canon] This is a great camera to simply have along on your daily commute, ready to capture whatever opportunities arise.