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Top 10 New Features Of The Canon EOS-1D X Mark II

The time has finally come for the arrival of the mighty Canon EOS-1D X Mark II - the company’s most advanced camera ever. Its predecessor, the Canon EOS-1D X has been a huge success since its release almost four years ago, but with the Mark II version now available, the question everyone wants to know is how has it been improved?

So, in this article we take a close look at 10 of the most important advances that the Mark II offers.

To go straight to our Canon EOS-1D X vs EOS-1D X Mark II comparison table, please click here.

4K video

For us, one of the most welcome developments of the 1D X Mark II is the addition of 4K video recording. You can capture footage at either 30p or 60p and record it to the new CFast 2.0 storage media. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF provides smooth focus transitions and you can even shoot in slow motion.

8.8MP frame grab capability

Perhaps even more exciting is the inclusion of 8.8 megapixel frame grabs from the 4K video, similar to Panasonic’s brilliant Lumix 4K Photo technology. All we have to say on the matter is, thank you Canon! 

20.2MP sensor and dual DIGIC 6+ processors

With each new flagship digital SLR, Canon improve the sensor, and this time round they have introduced a redesigned 20.2MP CMOS sensor with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, as well as dual DIGIC 6+ processors. Together, they combine to create Canon’s most advanced image processing to date and produce unbelievable images with vast dynamic range, natural colours, smooth tonal gradations, and improved noise reduction at high ISO ratings. In fact, noise is basically non-existent, so shadow detail is more accurately captured than ever before.

Touchscreen LCD monitor

The 3.2” 1,620k-dot Clear View LCD II monitor on the new Canon is made from reinforced glass and is anti-reflection and anti-smudge coated as it was on the 1D X, but crucially, this time round it is also a touchscreen. This can be disabled if necessary, but most users should find it to be an invaluable feature.

Extended battery life

The 1D X Mark II offers enhanced battery performance, with approximately 1,210 shots available per battery charge at 23°C. At 0°C, approximately 1,020 can be taken.

Built-in GPS

It’s simple to catalogue your shots on the Mark II with its new GPS functionality. With built-in GPS logs and IPTC input, you can accurately tag your images with longitude, latitude, elevation, and coordinated universal time. Position accuracy is within 30 metres (98.4 feet) based on good satellite reception on a clear day without obstructions. When you power off the camera, you can choose to allow it to continue to receive signals at regular intervals, or otherwise remain off.

Wi-Fi capability

As well as being able to manage your images via Ethernet and SuperSpeed USB3.0, you can now transfer data via Wi-Fi. While this is a very welcome addition, it should be pointed out that this is only possible with the optional WFT-E8 (5GHz band supported) or WFT-E6 wireless file transmitters.

Up to 16fps continuous shooting

Continuous shooting rates on the 1D X Mark II now go up to 14 frames per second with full AF / AE tracking with an unlimited number of JPEGs or 170 RAW images. In Live View mode this is increased to 16 frames per second with the mirror locked up and exposure and AF locked on the first frame.

Expanded AF with illuminated cross-type points

The 1DX Mark II boasts an expanded 61-point autofocus system that has 41 cross-type autofocus points. These are individually selectable and illuminate red in the EVF. Impressively, all 61 points with 21 cross-type points are selectable. The introduction of autofocus support at f8 allows you to use all the points with a Converter, as opposed to just the centre. You would think it would be hard to improve the focusing of the 1D X, but somehow Canon have outdone themselves again, as the Mark II manages to track subjects even more quickly and accurately.

Greater ISO sensitivity range

ISO sensitivity has increased since the last 1D X and now ranges from 100-51,200 in ? or whole stop increments. This is expandable to L:50, H1: 102,400, H2: 204,800, and H3: 409,600 so shooting in low-light conditions is now much more feasible.

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II review video 

You can watch our hands on video review of the Canon EOS-1D X below:

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II verdict

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By Park Cameras on 02/02/2016