PowerShot V1 vs EOS R50 V – Which One Should You Choose?

The new EOS/PowerShot V series marks a new era for Canon. Designed internally and externally for video-first creators in mind, the series offers shared features across the two models, such as professional movie capabilities like Canon Log 3 and 4K 60p shooting that will elevate your content creation from traditional smartphones or entry level cameras. However, there are some key differences within performance and ergonomics, that distinguishes the two models, making each better suited for specific types of creators and use cases.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding which model suits you and your creative needs best, helping you make an informed purchasing decision.

Which camera is right for you?

The PowerShot V1 stands out with its compact, lightweight, and portable design, making it easy for users to take it wherever they go. A built-in cooling fan allows for extended recording times, while the fixed lens, which collapses when turned off, ensures a simple and hassle-free experience.

In contrast, the EOS R50 V offers the flexibility to swap lenses, along with more advanced modes and additional dials, providing users with greater creative freedom. However, this added versatility results in a larger and heavier overall package that requires slightly more knowledge to operate, compared to the compact and user-friendly PowerShot V1.

PowerShot V1 for Documenters

Ideal for those creating long-form content or continuously hitting the record button to capture their life experiences.

• Built-in cooling fan₁ for extended recording times
• 16-50mm wide-angle fixed lens for versatile framing
• Compact and portable camera to take wherever they go
• New 1.4 inch sensor for crystal clear photo and video
• Built-in microphone with windscreen for clear audio even when filming outdoors

EOS R50 V for Creative Storytellers

For the artistic visionaries who are keen on making their content differ by crafting a unique look and feel through distinctive colors, effects, or innovative techniques.

• ASP-C sized sensor for stunning photo and video quality even in low light
• Custom picture₂ – advanced colour adjustments in camera with the option to apply users own LUT’s
• Vertical tripod mount and UI for social first angles (portrait)
• Register people priority function₃ to track the stars of the show, even in large crowds
• Slow & Fast mode₄ – capture at a range of slow or fast motion speeds in camera for dramatic and unique looks

PowerShot V1 and EOS R50 V for Side Hustlers

Creators who produce content alongside their main job, driven by passion or additional opportunities.

• 4K 60p recording for clear and smooth high-resolution video
• Canon Log 3 for professional looking postproduction colour grading
• Movie electronic Image Stabilisation - reduces camera shake even when shooting handheld or walking
• Skin smoothing effect minimizes blemishes after a tough day/night₅
• Close-up demo autofocus for seamless transition between product and face when filming an unboxing video or live-streaming a review

Detailed Feature Breakdown

Sensor size & Image Quality

The larger APS-C sensor on the EOS R50 V, compared to the 1-inch sensor on the PowerShot V1, allows each pixel to capture more light, resulting in superior image quality even in low-light conditions.

For users seeking more creative control in their photos and videos, the EOS R50 V will deliver better results. However, it's important to note that the smaller sensor on the PowerShot V1 enables a smaller compact camera body, making it a more convenient option for those prioritizing portability.

Video Capabilities – Best for Content Creators

When it comes to resolution and colour science, both cameras shoot smooth and crystal-clear footage at 4K 60p and produces highly accurate colour reproduction through its 10-bit video recording capability with Canon Log 3 which is crucial in high-quality video production.

The EOS R50 V however takes colour grading to another level with Custom Picture. A function used in pro-level film production that gives users the ability to use presets straight from the camera and the option to upload their own LUTs (Look Up Table) to achieve their distinct look rather than being limited to only post production editing.

EOS R50 V’s Advanced movie features such as Slow & Fast mode also gives users the creative option to speed up their footage to up to 60x fast and up to 5x slow to easily create emotion and expression to their videos directly in camera.

Continuous recording and heat restrictions

So how long can these cameras continuously record in 4K resolution without overheating? As you’re probably aware, shooting at such high resolution can take a heavy burden from your camera. Here, the PowerShot V1 excels thanks to its built-in cooling fan, which allows for extended recording times of over two hours, even at an ambient temperature of 30°C. Whilst the EOS R50 V offers approximately 1 hour when shooting in 4K as it does not feature a built-in cooling fan like the PowerShot V1.

For those creating long-form content for platforms such as YouTube, or livestreaming on Twitch, the PowerShot V1 may be a better fit, as it allows for extended 4K recording for over 2 hours.

On the other hand, users prioritising shorter to medium-form content would find the EOS R50 V suitable for their needs despite the shorter recording times.

Additional specifications:

₁ Built-in cooling fan for extended recording on the EOS PowerShot V1 has been tested at an ambient temperature of 30°C with auto power off settings turned to high whilst shooting in 4K 60p resolution.

₂ Custom Picture is a feature that allows users to create looks directly from the camera, reducing or eliminating the need for post-production color grading. LUTs (Look-Up Tables) can further enhance colors by applying preset files in-camera, helping to streamline the grading process, and instantly giving users their distinct look when filming.

₃ Register People Priority Function detects the face of a person registered on the camera and prioritises them as the main subject even through large crowds. Commonly used to lock onto the bride or groom at a wedding, or a key player at a sporting event.

₄ Slow and Fast mode offers users of the EOS R50 V slow down fast movements or compress the passage of time. Settings are enabled from 60x fast (NTSC) to 2.5x slow (NTSC)in 4K, and from 60x fast (NTSC) to 5x slow (NTSC) in Full HD

₅ Skin smoothing effect is a natural enhancement that makes blemishes and pores less noticeable, giving skin a more beautiful look. The feature is also available when livestreaming and can be set at five different levels.