Canon's new EOS R8 II borrows its look from a classic film camera

Canon has introduced the EOS R8 II, a 24-megapixel full-frame camera aimed at entry-level users, bringing significant upgrades over the original R8 model. The most noticeable change is its design: the body is now more squared-off and angular, drawing inspiration from Canon's classic EOS 650 film SLR. With the optional battery grip attached, the camera gains an angled right corner reminiscent of that vintage model, though it remains considerably larger and more modern overall.

The new camera adds a joystick for moving the autofocus point, a feature missing from the original R8. It can now shoot at up to 40 frames per second in electronic shutter mode with continuous autofocus and exposure, and it captures larger bursts — 58 percent more JPEG images and 30 percent more RAW images than before.

Stabilization and autofocus improvements

Unlike the R8, the new model includes 5-axis in-body image stabilization, reducing shake by up to 7.5 stops with compatible lenses. At 546 grams, it's now the lightest full-frame camera on the market to offer this feature. Autofocus has also been overhauled with Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system, providing full-frame coverage and tracking for people, animals and vehicles. The camera also gains the ability to register specific individuals for tracking, a feature previously limited to higher-end Canon models.

Video capabilities remain largely unchanged from the R8, still offering oversampled 4K video at 60p and uncropped 1080p at 180 fps, though video autofocus performance has improved significantly.

The Canon EOS R8 II is available for pre-order at $1,899, with shipping expected to begin in late October. A kit version bundled with a lens is priced at $2,099.