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Canon EOS R10 at ISO 12800 with Adobe Denoise AI |
I posted a complete user review of the R10 in December 2023. You can read it here.
In the era of single lens reflex (SLR) and digital SLR cameras, compact cameras with fixed lenses were usually much smaller than most interchangeable lens types.
However, we now have mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras (MILC) which are naturally more compact than their SLR counterparts. These cameras can become so small that the handling, ergonomics, and overall user interface may suffer, negatively impacting the user experience.
For instance, in 2014, Panasonic launched the Lumix GM5, a micro four-thirds interchangeable lens model that was significantly more compact than the fixed lens Fuji X-100T released that same year. I owned a GM5 for a time, but I found the controls to be cramped, which made the operation frustrating.
Camera buyers soon realized their experience was far better with slightly larger models that remained compact yet allowed for a comfortable grip and ergonomically placed controls suitable for photography enthusiasts.
A well-designed MILC in this size category can effectively function as a compact camera.
I’ve used and tested several small mirrorless interchangeable lens models as compact cameras, including the Canon EOS R10 and R50, Panasonic Lumix G100D, Nikon Z50, and Sony a6500, all equipped with their standard kit lens.
Some lens enthusiasts and forum users tend to dismiss these basic zoom lenses as not worthy of serious photographers.
However, through extensive testing and usage, I’ve found the Canon RF-S 18-45mm f4.5-6.7, Nikon DX 16-50mm f3.5-6.3, and Lumix G Vario 12-35mm f3.5-5.6 kit zooms to perform well across all focal lengths and deliver excellent image quality.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the Sony E 16-50mm f3.5-5.6 PZ kit zoom, which debuted in 2012 and gained a reputation for inconsistent quality and variable sharpness. A minor update in 2024 retains the same optical design.
Almost any camera or smartphone today can produce good images, so the one I choose is the one that offers the best experience.
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R10 in hand |
This brings us to the Canon EOS R10, which, as of June 2025, stands out as a “Goldilocks” model—just the right size.
My hands are about average size for an adult male, and the R10 is the only one from the previously mentioned models that I can fully grip with all five fingers. Those with smaller hands will find their little finger comfortably resting at the base of the handle.
The R10 features a well-designed mode dial and dual control dials, alongside a thumb-operated joystick. All controls are positioned effectively and provide satisfying feedback.
While photographing, I can adjust the aperture, shutter speed, ISO, exposure compensation, and autofocus area with just my thumb and index finger, all while keeping my eye on the viewfinder without needing to reposition my other fingers or my left hand.
The camera, along with the lens, spare battery, memory cards, a microfiber cloth, and some lens cleaning tissues, fits perfectly into a Think Tank Mirrorless Mover 10 bag.
Some photographers prefer a traditional control layout that uses separate dials or rings for adjusting aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation, along with a different method to adjust the autofocus area.
While this method works well for those who appreciate a more deliberate approach to photography, it necessitates more complex actions that involve multiple fingers, both hands, and taking the camera away from your eye.
Each to their own.
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Add an accessory handle to one of the X-100 iterations and they are about the same size |
The EOS R10 kit provides several benefits over currently popular fixed-lens compact cameras that are primarily for still photos.
The Fujifilm X100-6 is often customized by owners with extra handles and thumb rests. The lens cannot hold a filter or lens hood directly, requiring an adapter. After adding these accessories, the difference in size between the R10 and X100-6 becomes minimal. Additionally, the R10 kit includes a zoom lens and superior ergonomics.
The Ricoh GR 3/3X models are notably compact and known for excellent image quality. However, the fixed screen and lack of an option for an EVF made this camera difficult to use in bright sunlight.
Specifications-wise, the Leica DL8 looks appealing with its zoom lens and compact size. However, I found its autofocus unreliable at times, and the user experience was not as satisfying as that of the R10 or the Lumix G100D, which share the same sensor, EVF, and screen.
The wider aperture of fixed lenses in compact models isn’t the advantage it used to be. I can utilize ISO 12800 on the R10 and produce low-noise images with Adobe Denoise AI in Photoshop.
While the R10 kit isn’t pocketable, I’ve learned that many pockets are risky for cameras due to dirt, dust, and lint—elements that cameras often do not appreciate.
