Mirrorless cameras - or Compact System Cameras (CSCs) - have taken a major share of the camera market. Their large sensors and interchangeable lenses generally make them better than traditional compact cameras when it comes to image quality, and their small size makes them more portable than digital SLRs. Panasonic, Olympus, Sony, and Nikon have all produced CSCs, but Canon hasn't yet offered that step between compact and DSLR. That changes with the Canon EOS M, the company's first CSC.

The EOS M uses an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, the same size as the ones used in many of Canon's DSLRs (excluding the 1-series and 5D cameras). It uses Canon's new EF-M lenses, and an optional adapter (pictured beside the 90EX) enables it to work with the company's EF and EF-S SLR lenses.

The sensor's sensitivity can reach ISO 12,800 natively and up to ISO 25,600 with boost. It employs Canon's DIGIC 5 image processor and features a 3in, 1,040,000-pixel touchscreen LCD. On paper, it sounds like a solid digital camera.

Canon is introducing two new STM (AF stepper motor) EF-M lenses for the EOS M - a prime 22mm f2 lens and an 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens with image stabilisation. Certain Canon Speedlites, GPS modules, and other accessories will also be compatible with the EOS M.

The Canon EOS M with 18-55mm lens kit will be available in October with an MSRP of £769.99, and will be available in a selection of colours. A new flashgun - the Speedlite 90EX - was also announced, which will be included with the camera in the UK.

The various MSRPs are listed below:

• EOS M + EF-M 22mm f/2 STM + Lens Adapter - £879.99.
• EOS M + EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM + EF-M 22mm f/2 STM - £949.99.
• EF-M 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM - £269.99
• EF-M 22mm f/2 STM -  £229.99
• Lens Adapter - £129.99 
• Speedlite 90EX - £119.99

Sample images and movies can be downloaded at Canon Japan's EOS M website.

Published under license from Ziff Davis, Inc., New York, All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2012-2013 Ziff Davis, Inc