Canon's new EOS M3 mirrorless camera is ready to make its debut in the U.S. soon, set to hit the market in October.
The compact, yet powerful mirrorless interchangeable camera made its debut back in February, but so far it hit commercial availability only in Japan and Europe. The U.S. is now next on the list, as Canon has officially announced plans to launch its EOS M3 stateside.
While Canon's track record in regards to mirrorless cameras has not been stellar so far, the new EOS M3 could be the device to change that. This new model boasts notable improvements over its predecessor, the EOS M, which didn't see much success. The company skipped the EOS M2 model altogether, prompting some to speculate that it may ditch mirrorless cameras and focus on its strong DSLR lineup, but Canon instead jumped straight to the M3.
"A pleasure to operate, with the sophistication to create stunning still and moving images, the EOS M3 is an ideal EOS for many applications, such as portraiture, landscape, travel and everything in between," touts Canon.
In many aspects, the new Canon EOS M3 is a toned-down variant of the new EOS Rebel T6i and T6s DSLR cameras. More specifically, the EOS M3 sports the same 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, the company's advanced Digic 6 image processor, as well as a 49-point Hybrid CMOS AF III autofocus system. The burst mode shoots 4.2 frames per second (fps), while video recording is in Full HD.
Other specs and features include dedicated EF-M Lenses, compatibility with a range of EF and EF-S Lenses and Speedlites, wireless support, an optional shoe-mounted electronic viewfinder and a slew of other neat features.
This compact mirrorless camera further comes with a 3-inch LCD display with a 180-degree flip for self-shots, albeit it won't flip all the way if you set up an external flash or the optional electronic viewfinder. The fact that it's display supports touch, meanwhile, makes it easier to navigate and select various functions.
"The EOS M3 defies the assumption that compact means compromise, with performance and features photographers and moviemakers can rely on to help bring their creative ideas to life," Canon further boasts.
When it comes to pricing and availability, the new Canon EOS M3 is set to hit U.S. retail in early October, sporting a MRSP of $680 for the body. A one-lens kit with the 18-55 STM lens will cost $800, while a two-lens kit with 18-55 and 55-200 STM lenses will go up to $1,049. Available color options for the camera will include black or white.
