Canon EOS R8 Mark II

A Retro Shape With a Faster Shutter

Canon has given its small full-frame EOS R8 a striking second act. The EOS R8 Mark II takes visual cues from the EOS 650 film SLR, trading the original camera's rounded look for a squarer body, while adding a joystick for choosing an autofocus point. Inside, the 24.2-megapixel sensor can fire at up to 40 frames per second with the electronic shutter, continuous autofocus, and auto-exposure.

The Stabilization the R8 Was Missing

The big practical addition is five-axis in-body image stabilization, rated for up to 7.5 stops with supported lenses. Canon has fitted it into a body weighing about 1.2 pounds. Autofocus now tracks people, animals, and vehicles across the frame, and pre-continuous shooting can save moments from just before the shutter is fully pressed. Those changes matter more in daily shooting than the vintage styling alone.

Still a Capable Video Camera

The R8 Mark II records 4K at 60 frames per second from the full sensor width and uncropped 1080p at up to 180 frames per second. It also offers 10-bit recording and Canon Log 3 for people who want more room to grade footage. The body costs $1,899, or $2,099 with the RF24-50mm kit lens. It is a meaningful step up for anyone who liked the R8's compact size but wanted steadier handheld work and stronger controls.