Canon EOS 60D vs Canon EOS M100: A Deep Dive into Two Generations of Canon APS-C Cameras

When setting out to compare the Canon EOS 60D and the Canon EOS M100, you’re really looking at a tale of two cameras built with very different philosophies - both promising solid image quality and Canon’s hallmark color science, but targeted at different shooters and separated by nearly seven years of technological evolution. Having spent over 15 years evaluating everything from entry-level compacts to top-tier professional rigs, I can say this pairing offers a fascinating glimpse at Canon’s shift from traditional DSLRs to mirrorless, and how that transition impacts everything from handling to performance.

In this exhaustive article, I’ll walk you through hands-on insights, technical evaluations, and real-world usability considerations. Whether you’re an enthusiast seeking your next upgrade, a casual shooter curious about system differences, or even a professional looking for a backup body, this comparison will hopefully sharpen your decision - and maybe even surprise you.

Let’s start by sizing up these Canon APS-C contenders side-by-side and then zoom into the details that shape your photographic experience.

Size and Handling: Classic DSLR Bulk Meets Compact Mirrorless Convenience

One of the first things you notice when placing the Canon 60D next to the Canon M100 is size and weight - a comparison that’s hard to ignore.

At 755 grams and roughly 145x106x79 mm, the 60D is a sturdy mid-size DSLR with a robust grip that feels substantial and balanced, especially paired with Canon’s EF-S lenses. It’s built to last and stay comfortable in your hand for extended shooting sessions - a definite advantage when you’re out in the field or at a photoshoot.

On the other side, the M100 weighs only 302 grams with a compact footprint of 108x67x35 mm. This mirrorless camera is designed with portability in mind, offering a sleek, rangefinder-style body that fits unobtrusively in a jacket pocket or small bag.

From infinite hours of testing, I can confidently say the 60D’s ergonomic design is ideal if you prefer a firm grip and tactile control, especially with larger lenses. The M100 might win for street shooters or travelers prioritizing discretion and lightness - but the tradeoff is a less substantial feel that might tax your hand during lengthy sessions.

Top Control Layout: DSLR Tradition vs Mirrorless Minimalism

Now let’s peek at the top deck of these cameras and reflect on how their designs influence shooting workflow.

The 60D embodies Canon’s classic DSLR design: a dedicated mode dial, ISO button, exposure compensation, and a clear secondary display showing critical settings at a glance. The physical controls are tactile and well-placed, giving photographers immediate access to vital functions without diving into menus. This setup appeals to disciplined shooters who like to keep hands on the camera, making quick adjustments intuitive and natural.

Conversely, the M100 opts for simplicity - a mode dial tucked away and fewer physical buttons. Most operations rely on a touchscreen interface (more on that soon). This reflects its entry-level mirrorless positioning aimed at casual users or vloggers looking for smooth touchscreen navigation rather than manual controls.

If you’ve spent years wielding DSLRs and rely on muscle memory, the 60D feels like home turf. But for newcomers or handheld urban explorers, the M100’s streamlined layout helps reduce intimidation - though with the caveat of more menu diving at times.

Sensor and Image Quality: Vintage 18MP vs New-Age 24MP APS-C CMOS

At the heart of these cameras lies their sensors, and it’s worth drilling down to understand what each delivers.

Both use Canon’s APS-C-sized CMOS sensors (22.3 x 14.9 mm), signaling similar field of view and depth of field characteristics. But the 60D’s sensor sports an 18-megapixel resolution, paired with the DIGIC 4 processor from its era, while the M100 features a 24-megapixel sensor tuned with DIGIC 7 processing power.

That difference in resolution translates to crisper detail capture and more cropping flexibility in the M100, though not dramatically so. The 60D still delivers respectable sharpness, particularly when paired with high-quality EF-S lenses and careful focus.

Where the M100 pulls ahead is its improved dynamic range of 13 EV stops (versus 11.5 for the 60D) and noticeably better high-ISO performance, rated for a DxOMark low-light ISO score of 1272 compared to just 813 for the 60D. Translated into practice, this means the M100 handles shadows and highlights with more grace and produces cleaner images at ISOs beyond 1600 - an important consideration for low-light, night, or indoor shooting.

Both cameras include optical low-pass filters, slightly blunting ultra-fine detail to reduce moiré, which is a sensible compromise for most shooters.

From my extensive testing, the M100's sensor and processor combo deliver more “usable” pixels and better noise control without resorting excessively to noise reduction that sacrifices detail - a critical factor if you plan to print large or crop aggressively.

The Rear Display and Touch Controls: Articulated vs Tilting Touchscreen

User interface is where the ergonomics theme continues - and where mirrorless cameras typically shine.

The 60D comes with a fully articulated 3-inch LCD boasting 1,040k-dot resolution. This clear view TFT color screen offers flexibility for shooting at awkward angles and provides reasonably accurate live view framing. The lack of a touchscreen, however, means relying on buttons and dials to navigate menus and change settings - a solid but time-tested interface.

In contrast, the M100 sports a 3-inch tilting touchscreen with the same resolution. This touchscreen is a game changer for intuitive focus point selection, menu navigation, and even selfie-friendly positioning. The ability to tap to focus, drag focus points across the frame, and pinch to zoom during review adds tangible convenience, especially for video work or casual photography.

However, I experienced occasional interface lag and less tactile reassurance compared to the DSLR’s physical controls, especially when wearing gloves or in cold environments.

For those who swear by “look and shoot” simplicity, the M100’s touchscreen is tough to beat. For seasoned shooters accustomed to button-pressing discipline, the 60D’s approach may feel more direct.

Autofocus Systems: Nine Cross-Type Points vs Forty-Nine Hybrid Focus Points

Autofocus can make or break your shooting experience, whether you’re tracking a runaway toddler or a bird in flight.

The Canon 60D’s autofocus system has nine cross-type points concentrated near the center of the frame, utilizing phase-detection AF - the gold standard for DSLR autofocus of its time. While accurate and reliable in daylight, it’s not particularly fast by modern standards and lacks sophisticated subject-tracking features.

The M100 employs a contrast-detection autofocus system assisted by on-sensor phase detection with 49 focus points (though cross-type specifics are not detailed by Canon). It also integrates face detection and continuous autofocus during video recording.

What I found interesting during side-by-side field testing was that the M100’s AF system, although slower than flagship mirrorless cameras, is surprisingly competent for an entry-level model - especially for stills and casual video. The face detection was particularly robust for portraits and selfies. However, it occasionally struggled with fast-moving wildlife or action, where the 60D still held an edge thanks to dedicated phase detection AF and traditional DSLR mirror mechanism speed.

If your workflow involves sports or wildlife photography requiring rapid-tracking burst shooting, the 60D’s AF - even though not bleeding-edge - is more consistent and trustworthy. For street photography, casual portraits, or travel snapshots, the M100’s AF, combined with touchscreen focus selection, provides a satisfying user experience.

Burst Shooting and Buffer: How Both Perform Under Pressure

Both cameras cater more to enthusiasts than pros pounding out hundreds of frames per shoot, but they differ in continuous shooting capability.

The 60D pushes out a respectable 5 frames per second (fps), ideal for capturing moderate action sequences such as kids playing or small wildlife movements. The buffer can handle a decent series of RAW frames before slowing.

The M100 is rated slightly faster at 6.1 fps, though this comes with a smaller buffer, and performance dips quickly if you shoot high-resolution RAW.

From my testing, the 60D manages burst mode more consistently when paired with fast UHS-I SD cards - it feels more “ready to go” during prolonged shooting. The M100’s speed is impressive for its category, but its mirrorless sensor readout and processing bottlenecks mean it can’t keep up sustained high-speed shooting for long bursts.

So, if you’re shooting sports or wildlife where split seconds matter, the 60D may edge out here. For casual use and street photography, the M100’s burst is fine.

Image Stabilization and Video Capabilities: Neither Camera Has Internal IS

Neither camera features built-in image stabilization - a notable omission in both considering their ages and classes - but Canon often relies on stabilized lenses (IS lenses).

The 60D shoots 1080p video at 30 fps with H.264 compression and provides a microphone input jack (no headphone jack), which is helpful for basic video creators demanding external audio capture.

The M100 upgrades slightly to 1080p at 60 fps and supports timelapse recording. However, it lacks any microphone or headphone ports - limiting audio options for serious videographers.

Both cameras miss internal electronic image stabilization, so handheld video can be shaky unless paired with stabilized lenses or external rigs.

From my video tests, the M100’s smoother autofocus during video and higher frame rates give it an edge for casual shooting and vlogging, assuming you don’t need advanced audio control. The 60D’s video quality remains solid but feels dated compared to mirrorless contemporaries.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: A Tale of Bayonets and Options

Lens choice often defines a system, and here the gap between DSLR and mirrorless is stark.

The 60D uses Canon’s EF/EF-S mount, compatible with over 300 lenses from wide-angle tilt-shifts to heavy telephotos, including Canon’s extensive lineup and third-party manufacture options. This mature ecosystem is a massive advantage if you prioritize lens versatility.

The M100’s EF-M mount offers fewer options - about 23 native lenses - and no built-in compatibility with popular EF lenses without an adapter, which introduces bulk and performance concerns.

For problem-free wide-ranging creativity, the 60D wins hands down. Mirrorless users often live with the EF-M limits or accept adapters with compromises. However, the M100’s sensor and size pair nicely with the smaller range of EF-M primes designed for portability.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: The Ruggedness Factor

63 I’ve tested cameras from the tippy-top prosumer slabs to cheap compacts, and build quality always affects long-term reliability and confidence.

The 60D features partial environmental sealing to resist dust and moisture. Its polycarbonate body feels dense and sturdy, aimed at active shooters who might endure less-than-ideal conditions.

The M100, light and plastic by design, lacks any weather sealing and feels more delicate - appropriate for a casual user’s camera bag, but not something I’d pack for adventure travel prone to rain or dust.

If reliability and protecting your gear mean a lot, especially outdoors, the 60D’s build quality is reassuring.

Battery Life: Marathon DSLR vs Sprinting Mirrorless

The 60D boasts an impressive 1100 shots per charge with the LP-E6 battery, tested under CIPA standards, which matches my personal experience when wandering all day without extra batteries.

The M100’s LP-E12 battery provides about 295 shots per charge, reflecting the shorter endurance typical of mirrorless cameras with constantly active electronic components.

This means that mirrorless users often have to carry spare batteries, charge more frequently, or use power packs on location - important practical considerations when traveling or shooting events.

Wireless Connectivity and Extras: How Modern are These Cameras?

The 60D features Eye-Fi card compatibility for Wi-Fi-like functions but lacks built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC. It feels a bit dated in today’s connectivity-focused environment.

The M100 embraces built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, providing straightforward image sharing, remote camera control via smartphone apps, and faster pairing. For social media enthusiasts or travelers who want instant uploads, this is a big plus.

Price-to-Performance Analysis: Which Camera Gives You More for Your Buck?

The 60D, often found used or as an entry-level prosumer option, retails around $900 new (originally), with second-hand prices considerably lower nowadays. The M100, at $449, targets budget-conscious buyers wanting a good-sensor camera, live view flexibility, and lightweight design.

If you prioritize raw image fidelity, build ruggedness, and lens choices - and are okay with older tech - the 60D offers tremendous value, especially used.

If you want portability, modern autofocus features, touchscreen ease, and wireless convenience at an affordable price, the M100 shines.

How Do They Perform Across Photographic Disciplines?

To make these evaluations more tangible, let’s examine how each camera fares across popular genres. You’ll see how those specs play out in real-world shooting.

Canon 60D screen back Canon M100 front Canon M100 screen back

Portraits: Who Nabs the Skin Tones and Catchlight Crown?

Both cameras deliver Canon’s well-regarded color rendition, but the M100’s higher resolution and face-detect autofocus are helpful for capturing eye detail and subtle skin nuance.

The 60D’s fully articulating screen, though non-touch, allows flexible posing, while its 9-point AF with face detect is competent but less confident.

For bokeh, both cameras rely heavily on lens choice. Canon’s EF lenses paired with the 60D include fast primes capable of creamy background blur. The EF-M lenses are fewer but include some appealing compact fast primes.

In my tests, the M100 video sample autofocus during interviews felt smoother, while the 60D’s images have a classic DSLR “feel” with slightly punchier contrast.

Verdict: For pure portraits, the M100’s modern AF helps amateurs nail focus quickly; the 60D rewards careful manual operation with classic DSLR control.

Landscapes: Dynamic Range and Resolution in the Great Outdoors

Here, the M100’s advantage in dynamic range (13 EV) and resolution really provides crisp detail and better highlight retention in challenging light.

The 60D’s environmental sealing lends confidence in rough weather, an important edge for nature photographers. However, the slightly lower resolution and dynamic range can demand more careful post-processing.

From my experience hiking and shooting side-by-side, the M100’s files are more forgiving in shadow detail recovery, although its lighter build makes it more susceptible to wind shake without sturdy tripods.

Wildlife and Sports: Firing Off Fast Frames on Rapid Subjects

The 60D’s dedicated phase-detection AF and robust buffer shoots 5 fps, with classic DSLR responsiveness making it better suited for fast-moving wildlife or recreational sports.

The M100’s 6.1 fps might impress on paper, but its contrast-detect AF lags in tracking and locking focus consistently on erratic subjects.

Street Photography: Discretion and Speed in the Urban Jungle

The M100 excels here thanks to size, silence, and touchscreen focused control - allowing quick framing and shooting with minimal fuss.

The 60D’s bulk and shutter sound draw more attention but reward with tactile control that some street shooters love.

Macro and Close-ups

Both cameras lack dedicated macro features, but with appropriate lenses, the 60D’s viewfinder makes manual focus precision easier, while the M100’s touchscreen aids pinpoint AF.

Night and Astro Photography: Who Handles the Dark Better?

The M100’s higher ISO ceiling and lower noise make it the logical pick for longer exposures and night sky shots. Its lighter weight also eases setup on tripods.

Video Production: Beyond Photos

For casual video, the M100 with 1080p60 and easy live view focusing is more practical. The 60D’s mic input helps control sound, but lower frame rates and slower autofocus matter.

Travel Photography: Versatility on the Go

The M100’s portability, wireless features, and selfie-friendly tilting screen suit travel snapshots perfectly. The 60D offers more control and lens choices but at a weight cost.

Professional Use: Workflow and Durability

Neither is a top-level professional camera today, but the 60D’s RAW formats, better ergonomics, and durability make it serviceable as a secondary body.

Overall Performance Ratings: The Numbers Behind the Feel

The M100 scores higher overall due to newer sensor technology and features, but the 60D’s strengths in build and system breadth balance this.

Scores by Photography Genre: Matching Cameras to Needs

The chart lays it out clearly: the 60D beats the M100 at wildlife and sports, the M100 is better at portraits, landscapes, and travel.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations: Who Should Buy Which?

Choose the Canon EOS 60D if you:

• Value solid DSLR ergonomics and build for prolonged or intense shooting.
• Want access to an enormous lens lineup for creative flexibility.
• Shoot action, sports, or wildlife where focused AF speed matters.
• Prefer optical viewfinders to electronic or none.
• Seek the best battery life and weather resistance.

Opt for the Canon EOS M100 if you:

• Prioritize lightweight, pocketable design for travel or street photography.
• Want modern touchscreen controls and wireless connectivity.
• Shoot lots of portraits, video, or selfies with smooth autofocus.
• Desire sharper, high-res images with better ISO capabilities.
• Need an affordable entry into Canon's mirrorless ecosystem.

Both cameras still hold value in their niches, and truth be told, the 60D is a vintage workhorse many pros still tap for specific uses. Meanwhile, the M100 offers a user-friendly bridge to mirrorless photography’s future.

If I had to pick a daily shooter today without considering budget, the M100 would be the lighter travel buddy and casual shooter’s favorite, while the 60D remains a stalwart for disciplined photographers demanding robust control and lens availability.

Hope this hands-on, head-to-head guide gives you a clearer picture of which Canon APS-C companion suits your photographic journey. Happy shooting!