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Canon EOS R8 Review

Discover everything you need to know in our Canon EOS R8 Review, which compares the latest full-frame mirrorless body specs with existing EOS R cameras. You can also browse sample images, watch our video review and learn more to help you decide whether the Canon R8 is the best camera for your needs.

We cover everything whether you want to upgrade to the new full-frame hybrid camera from a previous model, or simply to dispel the Canon R8 rumours and learn the R8 price. We’ll also help you decide about joining the amazing EOS R mirrorless camera system for the first time, with the best R8 accessories and how the new model fits into the Canon ecosystem. So enjoy this 5 minute read as we and compare the full-frame hybrid R8, which sits neatly between the RP and R6 II mirrorless cameras.

Canon EOS R8 key specifications

For the R8, Canon has combined features from the entry-level RP camera, with advanced technology found in the R6 II. The result is the smallest and lightest full-frame EOS R body to date, which arrives with the following key features:

• 24.2 megapixel sensor
• DIGIC X processor
• Up to 40fps burst mode in electronic shutter
• Oversampled 4K/60p video without 30 minute clip limit
• 180fps Full HD video recording
• Dual Pixel CMOS II AF with subject detection (People, Cats, Dogs, Horses, Birds, Cars, Motorbikes, Trains, Aircraft)
• 3.0" LCD Screen and EVF with 120fps refresh rate
• Plug and play live-streaming with a computer

Canon R8 release date

The Canon R8 was released 08 February 2023, alongside the crop sensor R50 Body, which you can read about here in our R50 review. Two new mirrorless RF lenses were also simultaneously announced, with the full-frame RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Zoom Lens available in a kit, with the R8 with RF 24-50mm Lens.

How much does the Canon R8 cost?

At launch, the Canon EOS R8 costs £1,699.99. This fits with the full-frame line-up, with the R8 sitting between the RP, which costs £1,049.00 and the pro-level R6 II which is priced at £2,779.00.

Canon EOS R8 with Canon RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Zoom Lens @30mm. Camera settings: 1/200 sec. f/6.3. ISO 160

Highlight features

The headline feature of the R8 is the 24.2 megapixel full-frame sensor, which is paired with the DIGIC X processor, both ported over from the more expensive R6 II. The sensor and imaging processor achieve burst rates up to 40fps with the electronic shutter and oversampled 4K video at 60p.

© Alexandra Andreeva Canon EOS R8 with Canon RF 85mm f/2 IS USM Macro Lens @85mm. Camera settings: 1/1000 sec. f/4.0. ISO 1600

Canon R8 Vs RP Vs R6 II Specs comparison

In order for you to learn how this powerful compact full-frame camera can work for you, we’ve included a specs comparison table, which compares the new R8 with the RP and R6 II.

From this comparison we can see the R8 does sit neatly between these two existing full-frame cameras. The R8 offers excellent features, including faster burst shooting, improved AF and better image quality than the RP, albeit without some of the R6 II’s pro-user features. The R6 II records to two SD cards, adds 6K external RAW video over HDMI, as well as featuring in-body stabilisation and fantastic battery performance.

Build quality and ergonomic handling

The R8 has been designed for ease-of-use, as Canon’s lightest full-frame body, which is based on the RP plus some useful additions, including a dedicated red video button and updated mode dial with auto and special scene modes. If you’re completely new to Canon’s mirrorless system a helpful guide is available (GUI), while more advanced users can shoot completely manual-only, if they desire.

The EVF has a fast 120fps refresh rate for smooth images and features OVF Assist, which is a great addition for anyone transitioning from a DSLR, as it simulates an optical viewfinder.

Canon EOS R8 with RF 24-105mm F/4-7.1 IS STM Lens @105mm. Camera settings: 1/5 sec. f/8. ISO 8000

Low light performance

One area where the R8 particularly shines is with its low light capabilities, due to a native ISO of 100-102,400, combined with the -6.5 EV metering brightness. This enables the camera to meter and acquire focus in virtual total darkness, even in situations where the human eye is unable to pick out details.

What types of content can you make with the R8?

The Canon R8 is a hybrid camera with the same imaging sensor and processor as the R6 II, which means you can shoot high-quality 24.2MP stills and up to 4K/60p video with one camera body. Although it’s beginner-friendly, the R8 also comes with advanced features to take your content to the next level. These include video tools such as False Colour, which helps achieve accurate exposure and Canon’s C-Log 3 profile for colour grading in post production.

You can harness a huge variety of tools for photography as well, such as pre-record, focus bracketing and various scene modes to get the best results straight out of camera. These combine to ensure the R8 is a stellar performer across the spectrum, whether shooting fast moving subjects, creating vlogs or live streaming video.

Canon EOS R8 with RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Zoom Lens @30mm. Camera settings: 1/200 sec. f/6.3. ISO 160

Best Canon R8 accessories

A range of accessories are available for the R8, which are designed to help creators get the most out of the camera. The addition of a multi-function shoe, previously reserved for professional models such as the R3 and R5, is a great move, allowing you to add battery and cable-free accessories. Multi-function shoe accessories such as Canon’s Stereo Microphone DM-E100 and the ST-E10 Speedlite Transmitter are powered by the camera’s LP-E17 battery.

As well as these, the R8 is compatible with a host of mirrorless accessories, including lens adapters like the Canon Control Ring Mount Adapter EF-EOS R, which enable you to use EF mount DSLR lenses if required. This is a great solution for established DSLR shooters who have existing lenses, however newer mirrorless RF lenses offer unbeatable advantages, with improved optical performance, built-in image stabilisation and lighter designs.

Canon EOS R8 with RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Zoom Lens @50mm. Camera settings: 1/250 sec. f/6.3. ISO 100

Who is the R8 for?

The Canon R8 is a well-rounded hybrid full-frame mirrorless camera, which integrates advanced features from the R6 II, into an updated RP body design. With an RRP of £1,699.99 the R8 is a great choice for aspiring hybrid creators, advanced enthusiasts and even professionals who need a second full-frame backup body.

More casual photographers may err towards the R50 for its simplicity, whereas professional moviemakers may require the additional features found in the R6 II. Whichever you choose you’ll find a host of lenses, accessories and video tools to support your content creation.

Canon EOS R8 Review | The BEST Entry Point for Full Frame Mirrorless?

Watch our video review where Gareth explores the R8 potential.

Head over to reserve your Canon R8 camera body today, or choose the EOS R8 with RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, for an all-in-one kit and take advantage of powerful hybrid capabilities in Canon’s lightest full-frame mirrorless body to date.

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By Nick Dautlich on 01/02/2023