Canon unveils EOS R8 Mark II with built-in stabilization
Canon has launched the second generation of its full-frame EOS R8 camera, finally adding in-body image stabilization. The new model arrives in late October starting at $1,899.
Canon has officially introduced the EOS R8 Mark II, the second generation of its popular full-frame camera, featuring a retro-inspired redesign and a feature the original lacked: in-body image stabilization.
The original EOS R8 launched in 2023 as a smaller, more affordable alternative to the Canon R6 Mark II, but the absence of stabilization was one of its most notable shortcomings. The new model addresses this, though it is slightly heavier at 1.2 pounds. Even so, it remains lighter and cheaper than last year's EOS R6 Mark III.
Pricing and availability
The EOS R8 Mark II is expected to arrive in late October. The body alone will cost $1,899, while a bundle with a stabilized 24-50mm lens will run $2,099. That's pricier than the original R8's $1,499 launch price, but still more accessible than the $2,799 EOS R6 Mark III.
Specifications
The camera retains the same 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor used in the R6 Mark II, while the R6 Mark III moved up to a 32.5-megapixel sensor. The R8 Mark II continues to rely solely on an electronic shutter, offering up to 40fps burst shooting, along with a pre-continuous shooting mode that captures an extra 20 frames before the shutter button is pressed.
The new five-axis in-body stabilization provides up to 7.5 stops of shake correction, which can be extended further when paired with a stabilized lens. The autofocus system has also been upgraded, now recognizing animals, vehicles, and people, with the ability to register up to 10 faces and rank their priority.
Video tops out at 4K/60fps, with frame rates boosted up to 180fps when shooting at 1080p. The design draws inspiration from the nearly 40-year-old EOS 650, resulting in a boxier, more angular body. Other updates include a new multi-controller joystick and a relocated SD card slot on the side for easier access on a tripod.
In October, Canon will also release a free Windows application called Dual Pixel 3D Converter, which will let users generate 3D photos and videos from the 2D images captured by the camera.
