Canon EOS R50 vs Sony A6400 – Which Camera Should You Buy?

The Canon EOS R50 and the Sony A6400 are two highly capable mirrorless cameras in the midrange APS-C segment.

Both are designed for creators who want high-quality photos and videos in a compact, travel-friendly body — but they take very different approaches.

The Canon R50 is Canon’s newer, hybrid-oriented camera built around cutting-edge autofocus and 4K video performance, while the Sony A6400 remains one of the most respected all-rounders in the APS-C world.

Let’s break down how they compare in autofocus, image quality, video features, and real-world usability.

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⚙️ Overview: New Generation vs Proven Performer

• 🎓 Canon EOS R50 → Modern hybrid camera with Canon’s latest DIGIC X processor and AI-driven autofocus system.

• 🎥 Sony A6400 → A proven and reliable model offering professional image quality, fast autofocus, and great lens options through Sony’s E-mount ecosystem.

Both are excellent cameras for content creators, vloggers, and photographers — but they shine in different areas.

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📸 Specifications Comparison

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🧱 Build and Design

The Canon R50 is small, modern, and easy to use — it features a fully articulating touchscreen, perfect for vloggers and YouTubers. The grip is deep, the interface is intuitive, and the menus are beginner-friendly.

The Sony A6400 feels a bit more robust, with a magnesium-alloy body and weather sealing, but its design is more utilitarian. Its tilt-up screen works well for self-recording, but it’s blocked if you attach a microphone on top — something the Canon avoids with its side-flip screen.

👉 Verdict:

• R50 → Better ergonomics for video and vlogging.

• A6400 → More durable and professional build quality.

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🎯 Autofocus and Performance

Both cameras are fast — but Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II is powered by AI-based subject detection, borrowed from Canon’s higher-end models.
It can identify people, animals, and vehicles, and track them across the frame smoothly, even in video.

Sony’s Real-Time Eye AF and Real-Time Tracking remain outstanding, especially for human subjects. It’s highly accurate and consistent, even in challenging light.
However, Canon’s newer algorithm covers a wider range of subjects.

👉 Verdict:

• R50 → Smarter and newer autofocus technology.

• A6400 → Slightly better in low light and for human subject precision.

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🎥 Video Capabilities

Both the Canon R50 and Sony A6400 deliver excellent video performance, but with slightly different strengths:

• Canon R50:

  • 4K 30p (no crop), oversampled from 6K

  • Full HD 120p for slow motion

  • Canon Log 3 option

  • Fully articulating screen for vloggers

• Sony A6400:

  • 4K 30p from full sensor readout (no crop)

  • S-Log2 / S-Log3 and HLG profiles for color grading

  • Unlimited recording time

  • Clean HDMI out

The R50 wins for ease of use and autofocus tracking during video, while the A6400 gives more flexibility for advanced users who color-grade footage.

👉 Verdict:

• R50 → Best for creators who want sharp, color-rich video with little setup.

• A6400 → Best for advanced users who edit their footage and need log profiles.

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📷 Image Quality

Both cameras share a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, producing crisp, detailed images with excellent dynamic range.
The Sony A6400 still offers slightly better low-light performance, thanks to its back-illuminated sensor design.
The Canon R50, however, produces richer color tones and skin tones that often need less editing.

👉 Verdict:

• A6400 → Slightly better for low-light or RAW editing.

• R50 → More natural colors straight out of camera.

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🔋 Battery Life and Connectivity

The Sony A6400 offers a longer battery life (around 410 shots) compared to the R50’s 370 shots.
However, the R50’s USB-C charging and modern connectivity make it more practical for creators on the go.

The Canon Camera Connect app is also simpler to use than Sony’s Imaging Edge, especially for transferring media or remote control.

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💰 Price and Value

The Canon EOS R50 is considerably more affordable while offering newer autofocus and easier usability.
The Sony A6400, although pricier, delivers better build quality, unlimited recording, and log profiles for professionals.

👉 Verdict:

• R50: Better value for beginners and hybrid creators.

• A6400: More complete tool for advanced photographers and filmmakers.

Check availability and price on Amazon 🛒

📷 Canon EOS R50 — Amazon USA / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK / Amazon Australia

📷 Sony A6400 — Amazon USA / Amazon Canada / Amazon UK / Amazon Australia

Note: camerafight.com participates in the Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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🏁 Final Verdict — Canon R50 or Sony A6400?

✅ In short:

Choose the Canon EOS R50 if you want a lightweight, smart, and beginner-friendly hybrid camera with outstanding autofocus and a flip screen.

Choose the Sony A6400 if you want more advanced controls, S-Log options, and longer video recording times.

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🧠 Final Thoughts

The Canon EOS R50 and Sony A6400 are both excellent cameras, but they target different creators.

The R50 is the ideal pick for modern hybrid users who want great colors, reliable autofocus, and simplicity.

The A6400 remains a favorite among enthusiasts and semi-professionals for its durability, advanced video profiles, and consistent performance.

If you value ease of use and smart autofocus, go with Canon.

If you prioritize professional control and post-production flexibility, the Sony A6400 still stands tall.

Whichever you choose, both cameras open the door to vibrant APS-C ecosystems — Canon’s RF mount and Sony’s E-mount — giving you a wealth of lenses and creative options to grow with.

Check also:

• Canon R50 VS Nikon Z50 II
• Canon R50 VS Nikon Z30