Canon has unveiled the EOS R8 II, a new entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera that reimagines the company’s affordable lineup with a distinct retro aesthetic. Unveiled recently, the 24-megapixel model features a sharply angled, squared-off body design inspired by the classic EOS 650 SLR film camera, a departure from the rounded contours of its predecessor.
According to Canon, the redesign addresses several criticisms leveled at the original R8. The most significant upgrade is the inclusion of 5-axis in-body image stabilization, which compensates for camera shake by up to 7.5 stops when paired with compatible lenses. Despite this added hardware, the R8 II remains the lightest full-frame camera on the market with this feature, weighing in at just 1.2 pounds (546 grams).
Performance gains are equally substantial. The new camera can capture images at speeds of up to 40 frames per second in electronic shutter mode with continuous autofocus and auto-exposure enabled. This represents a 58 percent increase in JPEG burst capacity and a 30 percent improvement in RAW imaging compared to the previous model.
The autofocus system has been overhauled with Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II technology, offering 100 percent coverage and robust subject tracking for people, animals, and vehicles. Notably, the R8 II borrows a high-end feature from the EOS R6 III, allowing users to register specific individuals for priority tracking. Additionally, a pre-continuous shooting function enables the capture of up to 20 frames—covering half a second of action—before the shutter button is fully depressed.
While the autofocus and stills capabilities see major updates, video performance remains strong based on the prior generation. The camera records 4K video at 60p oversampled from the full 6K sensor width and offers uncropped 1080p slow-motion footage at 180 fps. It supports 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth with Canon Log3 in both HEVC and AVC codecs at bitrates up to 250 Mbps. Video autofocus now mirrors the photo system’s subject detection capabilities.
Additional features include new creative film simulations such as Positive Filmtone, Negative Filmtone, and Night Scene looks, alongside an A+ Automatic Exposure mode with background blur settings for video. The camera retains a single UHS II card slot, a 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.62 million dots, and a 2.36-million-dot electronic viewfinder. Power is supplied by the LP-E17 battery, rated for approximately 340 shots in power-saving mode.
The Canon EOS R8 II is available for pre-order at $1,899, with general availability expected in late October. A kit version bundled with the RF24-50mm F/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens is priced at $2,099. Optional accessories include the EG-E2 Extension Grip for $100 and the new Speedlite EL-5 Ver.2 flash for $379.
Good to see 4K60p oversampled from 6K. But why only one card slot at this price point?
Wait, 40 frames per second with full AF? That is incredibly fast. Perfect for birds and sports!
$1,899 is steep for entry-level. Is 40 fps really necessary for everyday photographers?
Finally, a modern camera that doesn’t look like a sleek robot. The EOS 650 inspiration is brilliant.