Canon R8 Review, Tests & Comparisons | Best full-frame
- By Sebastiaan van 't Hoog
- Updated 28 november 2023
With the smallest full-frame RF camera, Canon has brought another gem to the market. In this Canon R8 review, I will show you exactly what all the good points are and of course, I will also discuss the disadvantages.
Is the R8 the right camera? Only you can determine that. In any case, it is very useful for action photography and the R8 is also perfect for other types of photography.
It may be that the Canon R8 is not the right choice, in which case I also recommend a number of other cameras. You are guaranteed to find the right camera to take the most beautiful photos!
Canon R8: Everything you have to know
**This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links. You can support me without any additional fees. I used some of the products mentioned, not all.
When the Canon R8 was launched I was amazed, I had a Canon RP for years and now there was a successor with the latest functions.
Canon has packed a 24-megapixel full-frame sensor into the R8 that looks very similar to the Canon R6 II, which is really more than enough pixels for basically all types of photography.
You can crop digitally without any problems and photo prints are also a piece of cake for the R8.
Cinematic quality video
We also have nothing to complain about in the video field, as the specs in this area are exceptional for the price range. You can film 4K60p videos without cropping, which is a feature we almost never see on cameras in this price range.
In addition, you of course have a 4K30p mode and for optimal slow-motion images, the R8 can film FHD180fps. This way you can slow down the image up to 7.5 times.
The more professional videographers among us will really appreciate the C-Log3, with a base ISO of 800 you have a dynamic range of more than 12 stops. This way, the shadows and highlights remain full of details.
Because the Canon R8 is the smallest full-frame RF body, there is little room for cooling. As a result, the R8 will overheat a lot faster than, for example, the Canon R6 II, which has almost the same specifications.
- 4K60p
- Internal 10-bit 4:2:2
- FHD180fps slow motion
- C-Log & C-Log3
- Base ISO of 800 (C-Log3)
- Little noise
- False color, focus peaking, zebras
Focus like never before
What is remarkable about the Canon R8 is the autofocus that Canon has put into it. This system is called Dual Pixel AF II and uses deep learning technology to recognize many subjects.
When you turn on subject detection, you can choose from subjects such as people (eyes, face, head, body), animals (dogs, cats, birds, and horses), and vehicles (racing cars, motorcycles, planes, and trains).
We also see this system on the more expensive and professional Canon R3, EOS R5, and EOS R6 II. In any case, you’ve come to the right place with the R8 for reliability and speed.
There's never too much action for the EOS R8
If you plan to go into nature, photograph events, or simply want to capture a lot of action, the Canon EOS R8 is the right camera for that. With a burst mode of 6fps with the mechanical shutter and up to 40fps with the electronic shutter, you won’t miss any action.
When you use the electronic shutter, you may experience a rolling shutter, which makes the photos look unusual. This mainly applies to nature photography.
The advantage of the electronic shutter is that it shoots silently, so you don’t scare away animals and you don’t attract attention during weddings.
Speed is not the only important thing, the buffer is perhaps even more important.
- 120 JPEG, 56 RAW, or 100 CRAW (40fps)
- 1000+ JPEG, RAW, or CRAW (6fps)
The speed is not the only unique thing about the R8, it also has a pre-burst mode. The camera takes photos for 0.5 seconds before you press the shutter button. So you won’t miss a moment anymore.
using the Canon R8 in dark environments
Events, weddings and the stars all have something in common, in every situation you really have to shoot in the dark. Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about noise at higher ISO settings.
Due to the full-frame sensor, the ISO performance will be even better than the other sensors. The Canon R8 has a DxO score of 3295. This means that you can set the ISO to 3295 without observing disturbing noise. Read more about the calculation of this score.
You can use the autofocus down to an exposure of -6.5 EV. This is on the level of the Canon EOS R3, so very good! Use bright lenses, such as the 50mm F/1.8, and you can shoot well in the dark.
The Canon EOS R8 Provides a lifelike experience
The Canon R8 has a clear, very high quality viewfinder. The viewfinder has 2.36 million pixels and you have virtually no delay. Thanks to the 120 fps OLED screen, you can hardly see that it’s a screen!
You can also set the viewfinder in a 60Hz mode to save battery. You can find a 3″ touchscreen at the back that is fully tiltable. The Canon R8 is the perfect camera for taking photos and videos from below or above.
Holidays: Get $200 off your Canon R8!
Use EF-lenses on the Canon EOS R8
The Canon EOS R8 uses the Canon RF mount. Recently only new, good-quality lenses have been added. Canon is doing very well when it comes to the price-quality ratio. Of course, if you want perfect quality, you can buy the Canon L lenses, which are also expensive. However, you can now also buy professional lenses that are a lot lighter and cheaper.
You can mount the Canon EF-RF adapter on the Canon R8 to have a wide choice of Canon EF mount lenses. This way you have more than a hundred extra lenses from which to choose.
Canon RF-lenses on the Canon EOS R8
If you want quality then you should look at the Canon RF lenses. The range is expanding considerably every year, so there is plenty of choice for every professional and beginner. The lenses are becoming more and more affordable and lighter, which is of course to everyone’s advantage.
If you like shooting portraits with a blurred background, the Canon RF 50mm F/1.8 is perfect. When you prefer to go into nature and want to get close to wildlife, then the Canon RF 100-400mm may be the right choice. If landscapes are more your thing then the Canon RF 15-35mm is fantastic.
Competitors of the Canon EOS R8
The new Canon EOS R8 is a professional high-end camera body, which is just released. There are a number of other cameras that compete with the Canon EOS R8. For example, you have cameras from Sony, Canon and Fujifilm that also have very good specifications and may be worth considering.
The Nikon Z5 resembles the new Canon EOS R8 in many ways. Canon’s EOS R8 has a 24-megapixel sensor, and the Nikon Z5 also has a 24-megapixel sensor. The biggest difference seems to be in the video capabilities. Nikon’s Z5 can shoot 4K 30p videos, while the Canon EOS R8 can shoot 4K 60p.
The Sony A7 III is already a few years old, but it is not inferior to the Canon EOS R8. Sony’s A7 III has a 24-megapixel sensor, while the Canon R8 also has a 24-megapixel sensor. There don’t seem to be any major differences between the cameras, even the price is relatively close.
Panasonic recently unveiled its new camera. The Panasonic S5 Mark II is a fantastic camera. The S5 II is superior when it comes to video, as it was designed for it. This is therefore the biggest difference between the S5 II and the Canon EOS R8. For a little bit of extra money, you might want to consider the Lumix S5 II.
Canon EOS R
The first mirrorless model
That’s right, the first model in the mirrorless line is the Canon EOS R. It’s a few years old, but that doesn’t make it bad. The specs are very good and you can purchase it for a relatively low amount. This makes it worth considering.
Similarities
- Full-frame sensor
- Fast autofocus
Differences
- Crop at 4K video
- 30-megapixel sensor
- No AI focus mechanism
- Bigger and heavier
- Slower burst mode
On Amazon
Canon EOS R8 vs Canon EOS R - Video features
The R’s video capabilities aren’t bad. Capable of recording up to 4K video at 30 frames per second, the R8 has the same capability. Canon’s EOS R8 has the ability to film 4K 60p from oversampled 6K. The entire sensor is used here. The images of this are a lot sharper than those of the Canon EOS R, which does not have this option. Canon’s EOS R8 is unlimited in video length, allowing you to record videos longer than 30 minutes. The EOS R can record up to 30 minutes of video.
Canon’s EOS R can record HD at a maximum of 120 fps, the Canon EOS R8 can record FHD at a maximum of 180 frames per second.
The Canon EOS R8 can record 4K 60p video in C-log. This will give you maximum dynamic range. Canon’s EOS R cannot do this.
In the field of video, the Canon R8 is preferred, including the oversampled 6K video.
Canon EOS R8 VS Canon EOS R - Burst mode
The burst mode of both cameras is good. The EOS R can mechanically shoot up to 8 frames per second, which is faster than the Canon R8. However, Canon’s EOS R8 can reach a very high speed with the electronic shutter. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 40 fps electronically, while the EOS R can shoot up to 8 fps.
Speed is not the only important thing, how long you can use those speeds is perhaps more important. If we look at the buffer of both cameras, there is a big difference. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 56 RAWs, 120 JPEGs or 100 CRAWs in succession at 40 fps. This number goes up at 6 fps mode. Then you can shoot up to 1000+ photos of each type in a row. Canon’s EOS R can shoot up to 100 JPEGs, 47 RAWs or 78 C-RAWs at 8 fps.
It is important to mention that the Canon R8 has a pre-shooting burst mode. The camera takes 15 photos in 30 fps half a second before you take a photo. This will give you even more good photos.
If you like being in wildlife or photographing events, then the Canon EOS R8 is the preferred choice.
Canon EOS R8 VS Canon EOS R - Focus mechanism
The focus of the Canon R8 uses AI software to always focus on the subject. In this way, the camera itself knows which subject you are photographing and adjusts its behavior accordingly. This way the camera sees whether you are photographing an animal, car or human.
This is the same system that we also see on the R5, R6 and the Canon R3. You can also focus on cars and motorcycles, with the Canon EOS R8 focusing on the helmets by itself.
Canon’s EOS R has the Dual-Pixel AF without deep learning.
In terms of focusing, the preference goes to the Canon EOS R8.
Canon EOS R8 VS Canon EOS R - overal use
The Canon EOS R8 is slightly smaller than the EOS R. Canon’s R8 weighs 461 grams, the EOS R weighs 660 grams. This will be to your advantage if you have to shoot for long days. Both cameras have an RF mount. This gives you a very wide variety of lenses that you can use.
If we look at the battery, there is a clear winner. The EOS R can take 370 shots on one battery, while the R8 can only take 290 shots on one battery. If you have to shoot for longer periods and you don’t want to take extra batteries with you? Then the EOS R is perfect for you!
In Conclusion
Both Canon cameras are good for a lot of types of photography and videography. The Canon EOS R8 is slightly better than the Canon EOS R in many areas. For example, the Canon R8 can shoot 4K (oversampled) video with superior sharpness. The battery is on the EOS R is considerably better. If you want a good all-rounder, the Canon R8 is better than the EOS R.
Canon EOS RP
The predecessor
The cheapest full-frame camera and the predecessor of the Canon R8 is the Canon EOS RP. You have a few more megapixels, but that’s about it. The Canon R8 is better in every way, but the price of the Canon RP makes it very attractive.
Similarities
- Full-frame sensor
- High quality video
- Same design
Differences
- 26-megapixel sensor
- Slower burst mode
- 1.6x crop at 4K video
- No slow-motion recordig
- Less good noise performance
Canon EOS R8 vs Canon EOS RP - Video features
The RP’s video capabilities aren’t bad. Capable of recording up to 4K video at 30 frames per second, the R8 has the same capability. Canon’s EOS R8 has the ability to film 4K 60p from oversampled 6K. The entire sensor is used here. The images of this are a lot sharper than those of the Canon EOS RP. It does not have this option. Canon’s EOS R8 is unlimited in video length, allowing you to record videos longer than 30 minutes. The Canon RP can record up to 30 minutes of video.
Canon’s EOS R8 can record FHD at up to 180 frames per second, the EOS RP cannot film slow-motion.
The Canon EOS R8 can record 4K 60p video in C-log. This will give you maximum dynamic range. Canon’s EOS RP cannot do this.
In the field of video, the Canon R8 is preferred, including the oversampled 6K video.
Canon EOS R8 VS Canon EOS RP - Burst mode
The burst mode of both cameras is good. The EOS RP can mechanically shoot up to 5 frames per second, which is faster than the Canon R8. However, Canon’s EOS R8 can reach a very high speed with the electronic shutter. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 40 fps electronically, while the Canon RP can shoot up to 5 fps.
Speed is not the only important thing, how long you can use those speeds is perhaps more important. If we look at the buffer of both cameras, there is a big difference. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 56 RAWs, 120 JPEGs or 100 CRAWs in succession at 40 fps. This number goes up at 6 fps mode. Then you can shoot up to 1000+ photos of each type in a row. Canon’s EOS RP can shoot up to 1000+ JPEGs or 50 RAWs at 5 fps.
It is important to mention that the Canon R8 has a pre-shooting burst mode. The camera takes 15 photos in 30 fps half a second before you take a photo. This will give you even more good photos.
If you like being in wildlife or photographing events, then the Canon EOS R8 is the preferred choice.
Canon EOS R8 VS Canon EOS RP - Focus mechanism
The focus of the Canon R8 uses AI software to always focus on the subject. In this way, the camera itself knows which subject you are photographing and adjusts its behavior accordingly. This way the camera sees whether you are photographing an animal, car or human.
This is the same system that we also see on the R5, R6 and the Canon R3. You can also focus on cars and motorcycles, with the Canon EOS R8 focusing on the helmets by itself.
Canon’s EOS RP has the Dual-Pixel AF without deep learning.
In terms of focusing, the preference goes to the Canon EOS R8.
Canon EOS R8 VS Canon EOS RP - Overal use
The Canon EOS R8 is slightly smaller than the EOS RP. Canon’s EOS R8 weighs 461 grams, the EOS RP weighs 485 grams. This will be to your advantage if you have to shoot for long days. Both cameras have an RF mount. This gives you a very wide variety of lenses that you can use.
If we look at the battery, there is a clear winner. The Canon R8 can take 290 shots on one battery, while the RP can only take 250 shots on one battery. If you have to shoot for longer periods and you don’t want to take extra batteries with you? Then the EOS R is perfect for you!
In Conclusion
Both Canon cameras are good for a lot of types of photography and videography. The Canon EOS R8 is slightly better than the Canon EOS RP in many areas. For example, the Canon R8 can shoot 4K (oversampled) video with superior sharpness. The battery is also considerably better. If you want a good all-rounder, the Canon R8 is better than the Canon RP.
Holidays: Get $100 off your Canon RP!
Want to know more? Read the review! – Canon EOS RP Review & Tests | After 2 years of use
Canon R6
A low-light beast
You can now get the slightly older Canon R6 for slightly more than the Canon R8. You will get better specifications for this. For example, the Canon R6 overheats much less quickly and you have built-in stabilization. Quickly view the differences.
Similarities
- 4K60p video
- Full-frame sensor
Differences
- Overheats less quick
- 20-megapixel sensor
- Better noise performance
- Built-in stabilization
- More professional built quality
Canon R8 vs Canon R6 - Video features
The video capabilities of the R6 aren’t bad. Capable of recording up to 4K video at 60 frames per second, the R8 has the same capability. The Canon EOS R8 has the ability to film 4K 60p from oversampled 6K, the entire sensor is used here. The images of this are a lot sharper than those of the Canon EOS R6. It does not have this option. Canon’s EOS R8 is unlimited in video length, allowing you to record videos longer than 30 minutes. The Canon R6 can record up to 30 minutes of video.
Canon’s EOS R6 can record FHD at a maximum of 120 fps, the Canon EOS R8 can record FHD at a maximum of 180 frames per second.
The Canon EOS R8 can record 4K 60p video in C-log. This will give you maximum dynamic range. Canon’s EOS R6 can do this too.
The Canon EOS R6 has built-in image stabilization that can compensate up to 8 stops. This is superior to the Canon R8’s sensor. It does not have built-in image stabilization.
In the field of video, the Canon R6 is preferred, partly due to the built-in image stabilization.
Canon R8 VS Canon R6 - Burst mode
The burst mode of both cameras is good. The Canon R6 can mechanically shoot up to 12 frames per second, which is faster than the EOS R8. Canon’s EOS R8, however, can reach a very high speed with the electronic shutter. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 40 fps electronically, while the Canon R6 can shoot up to 20 fps.
Speed is not the only important thing, how long you can use those speeds is perhaps more important. If we look at the buffer of both cameras, there is a big difference. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 56 RAWs, 120 JPEGs or 100 CRAWs in succession at 40 fps. This number goes up at 6 fps mode. Then you can shoot up to 1000+ photos of each type in a row.
Canon’s R6 can shoot up to 1000+ JPEGs or 240 RAWs at a speed of 12 fps. This number goes down with the 20 fps mode, then you can shoot 1000+ JPEGs or 120 RAW images.
It is important to mention that the Canon R8 has a pre-shooting burst mode. The camera takes 15 photos in 30 fps half a second before you take a photo. This will give you even more good photos.
Canon R8 VS Canon R6 - Focus mechanism
When focusing on both the Canon R8 and the Canon R6, AI software is used to always focus on the subject. In this way, the camera itself knows which subject you are photographing and adjusts its behavior accordingly. This way the camera sees whether you are photographing an animal, car or human.
This is the same system that we also see on the Canon R5, R6 II, and the Canon R3. For example, the Canon R6 can focus on people, animals (dogs, cats and birds) or vehicles (cars or motorcycles).
The Canon R8 is slightly more comprehensive, which can focus on people (eye, face, head or body), animals (dogs, cats, birds and horses) or vehicles (cars, motorcycles, planes and trains).
When it comes to focusing, the Canon EOS R8 is a better camera. The software is slightly more extensive and can recognize more subjects.
Canon R8 VS Canon R6 - Overal use
The Canon R8 is slightly smaller than the Canon R6. Canon’s EOS R8 weighs 461 grams, the Canon R6 weighs 680 grams. This will be to your advantage if you have to shoot for long days. Both cameras have an RF mount. This gives you a very wide variety of lenses that you can use.
If we look at the battery, there is a clear winner. The EOS R6 can take 380 shots on one battery, while the R8 can only take 290 shots on one battery. If you have to shoot for longer periods and you don’t want to take extra batteries with you? Then the EOS R6 is perfect for you!
In Conclusion
Both Canon cameras are good for a lot of types of photography and videography. The Canon EOS R8 is slightly better than the Canon EOS R6 in many areas. For example, the Canon R8 can shoot 4K (oversampled) video with superior sharpness. However, the R6 is again superior due to the stabilization. The noise performance will be better on the R6, due to the number of pixels. Both cameras are very competent.
Want to know more? Read the review! – Canon R6 II Review & Tests
Nikon Z5
Nikon's competitor
Nikon’s entry-level model is the full-frame Nikon Z5. It is slightly cheaper than the Canon R8, and you also sacrifice on that. For example, it has a 1.7x crop for 4K video, but you do have built-in stabilization.
Similarities
- 24-megapixel sensor
- High quality video
Differences
- Slower burst mode
- 4K30p video
- FHD 120p recording
- Built-in stabilization
Canon EOS R8 vs Nikon Z5 - Video features
The Z5’s video capabilities aren’t bad. Capable of recording up to 4K video at 30 frames per second, the R8 has the same capability. The Canon EOS R8 has the ability to film 4K 60p from oversampled 6K. The entire sensor is used here. Images of this are a lot sharper than those of the Nikon Z5. It does not have this option. Canon’s EOS R8 is unlimited in video length, allowing you to record videos longer than 30 minutes. The Nikon Z5 can record up to 30 minutes of video.
Nikon’s Z5 can record FHD at a maximum of 60 fps, the Canon EOS R8 can record FHD at a maximum of 180 frames per second.
The Canon EOS R8 can record 4K 60p video in C-log. This will give you maximum dynamic range. Nikon’s Z5 can’t do this.
Nikon’s Z5 has built-in image stabilization to reduce unwanted movement. The Canon R8 does not have this option.
In the field of video, the Canon R8 is preferred, including the oversampled 6K video.
Canon EOS R8 VS Nikon Z5 - Burst mode
The burst mode of the Nikon Z5 is a lot less good than that of the Canon R8. The Z5 can mechanically shoot up to 4.5 frames per second, which is less fast than the Canon R8. Canon’s EOS R8 can reach a very high speed with the electronic shutter. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 40 fps electronically, while the Z5 can shoot up to 4.5 fps.
Speed is not the only important thing, how long you can use those speeds is perhaps more important. If we look at the buffer of both cameras, there is a big difference. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 56 RAWs, 120 JPEGs or 100 CRAWs in succession at 40 fps. This number goes up at 6 fps mode. Then you can shoot up to 1000+ photos of each type in a row. Nikon’s Z5 can shoot up to 100 images at 4.5 fps, regardless of the size of the images.
It is important to mention that the Canon R8 has a pre-shooting burst mode. The camera takes 15 photos in 30 fps half a second before you take a photo. This will give you even more good photos.
If you like being in nature or photographing events, then the Canon EOS R8 is the preferred choice.
Canon EOS R8 VS Nikon Z5 - focus mechanism
The focus of the Canon R8 uses AI software to always focus on the subject. In this way, the camera itself knows which subject you are photographing and adjusts its behavior accordingly. This way the camera sees whether you are photographing an animal, car or human.
This is the same system that we also see on the R5, R6 and the Canon R3. You can also focus on cars and motorcycles, with the Canon EOS R8 focusing on the helmets by itself.
Nikon’s Z5 can focus on the eyes of people and pets. This is less extensive than the Canon R8.
In terms of focusing, the preference goes to the Canon EOS R8.
Canon EOS R8 VS Nikon Z5 - overal use
The Canon EOS R8 is slightly smaller than the Z5. Canon’s R8 weighs 461 grams, the Z5 weighs 675 grams. This will be to your advantage if you have to shoot for long days.
If we look at the battery, there is a clear winner. The Z5 can take 470 shots on one battery, while the Canon R8 can only take 290 shots on one battery. If you have to shoot for longer periods and you don’t want to take extra batteries with you? Then the Z5 is perfect for you!
In Conclusion
Both entry-level cameras are good for a wide variety of photography and videography. The Canon EOS R8 is slightly better than the Nikon Z5 in many areas. For example, the Canon R8 can shoot 4K (oversampled) video with superior sharpness. The battery of the Z5 is considerably better. If you want a good all-rounder, the Canon R8 is better than the Z5.
Holidays: Get $400 off your Nikon Z5!
Sony A7 III
Old but not worse
Sony released the A7 III in 2018, and after a number of years it is still very good. It also has oversampled 4K video and the A7 III even has built-in stabilization. It’s very affordable, so definitely consider the A7 III.
Similarities
- 24-megapixel sensor
- High quality video
Differences
- Slower burst mode
- 4K30p oversampled 4K
- FHD 120p recording
- Built-in stabilization
Canon EOS R8 vs Sony A7 III - Video features
The video capabilities of the A7 III aren’t bad. Capable of recording up to 4K video at 30 frames per second, the R8 has the same capability. The Canon EOS R8 has the ability to film 4K 60p from oversampled 6K. The entire sensor is used here. Images of this are a lot sharper than those of the Nikon Z5. It does not have this option. Canon’s EOS R8 is unlimited in video length, allowing you to record videos longer than 30 minutes. The Sony A7 III can record up to 30 minutes of video.
Sony’s A7 III can record FHD at a maximum of 120 fps, the Canon EOS R8 can record FHD at up to 180 frames per second.
The Canon EOS R8 can record 4K 60p video in C-log. This will give you maximum dynamic range. Sony’s A7 III cannot do this.
The Sony A7 III has built-in image stabilization to reduce unwanted movements. The Canon R8 does not have this option.
In the field of video, the Canon R8 is preferred, including the oversampled 6K video.
Canon EOS R8 VS Sony A7 III - Burst mode
The burst mode of the Sony A7 III is a lot less good than that of the EOS R8. The A7 III can mechanically shoot up to 10 frames per second, which is more than the Canon R8. Canon’s EOS R8, however, can reach a very high speed with the electronic shutter. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 40 fps electronically, while the A7 III can shoot up to 10 fps.
Speed is not the only important thing, how long you can use those speeds is perhaps more important. If we look at the buffer of both cameras, there is a big difference. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 56 RAWs, 120 JPEGs or 100 CRAWs in succession at 40 fps. This number goes up at 6 fps mode. Then you can shoot up to 1000+ photos of each type in a row. Sony’s A7 III can shoot up to 163 JPEGs or 89 RAWs in succession at 10fps.
It is important to mention that the Canon R8 has a pre-shooting burst mode. The camera takes 15 photos in 30 fps half a second before you take a photo. This will give you even more good photos.
If you like being in wildlife or photographing events, then the Canon EOS R8 is the preferred choice.
Canon EOS R8 VS Sony A7 III - focus mechanism
The focus of the Canon R8 uses AI software to always focus on the subject. In this way, the camera itself knows which subject you are photographing and adjusts its behavior accordingly. This way the camera sees whether you are photographing an animal, car or human.
This is the same system that we also see on the Canon R5, R6 and the R3. You can also focus on cars and motorcycles, with the Canon EOS R8 focusing on the helmets by itself.
Sony’s can focus on people’s eyes and animal eyes. This is less extensive than the Canon EOS R8.
In terms of focusing, the preference goes to the Canon EOS R8.
Canon EOS R8 VS Sony A7 III - overal use
The Canon EOS R8 is slightly smaller than the A7 III. Canon’s EOS R8 weighs 461 grams, the A7 III weighs 650 grams. This will be to your advantage if you have to shoot for long days.
If we look at the battery, there is a clear winner. The A7 III can take 610 shots on one battery, while the Canon R8 can only take 290 shots on one battery. If you have to shoot for longer periods and you don’t want to take extra batteries with you? Then the A7 III is perfect for you!
In Conclusion
Both cameras are good for a lot of types of photography and videography. The Canon EOS R8 is slightly better than the Sony A7 III in many areas. For example, the Canon R8 can shoot 4K (oversampled) video with superior sharpness. The battery of the A7 III is considerably better. If you want a good all-rounder, the Canon R8 is better than the A7 III in many areas.
Holidays: Get $500 off your Sony A7 III!
Panasonic S5 II
The better option
Panasonic released the S5 II almost at the same time as Canon. A camera that is also good in many areas. The big difference seems to be in the video capabilities. Consider it for the price.
Similarities
- Full-frame 24 MP sensor
- High quality video
- Fast burst mode
- FHD 180p video
Differences
- Larger buffer
- No pre-shooting buffer
- 6K30p video
- Built-in stabilization
Canon EOS R8 vs Panasonic S5 II - Video features
The video capabilities of the S5 II are fantastic. It can record up to 6K video at 30 frames per second or 5.9K at 50 fps, which the R8 doesn’t have. The Canon EOS R8 has the ability to film 4K 60p from oversampled 6K. The entire sensor is used here. Both cameras are unlimited in video length, so you can record longer than 30 minutes without a break.
Both cameras have a slow-motion mode that records in FHD at a maximum of 180 frames per second.
The Canon EOS R8 can record 4K 60p video in C-log. This will give you maximum dynamic range. Panasonic’s S5 II can apply Real-Time LUTs without using external editing software. A unique feature that we have not seen before.
The S5 II has built-in image stabilization to reduce unwanted movement. The Canon R8 does not have this option.
In the field of video, the preference is for the Panasonic S5 II, because of the 6K video and Real-Time Luts and in-body stabilization.
Canon EOS R8 VS Panasonic S5 II - Burst mode
The burst mode of the S5 II is slightly less than that of the Canon R8. The S5 II can mechanically shoot up to 9 frames per second, which is more than the Canon R8. Canon’s EOS R8, however, can reach a very high speed with the electronic shutter. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 40 fps electronically, while the S5 II can shoot up to 30 fps.
Speed is not the only important thing, how long you can use those speeds is perhaps more important. If we look at the buffer of both cameras, there is a big difference. The Canon R8 can shoot up to 56 RAWs, 120 JPEGs or 100 CRAWs in succession at 40 fps. This number goes up at 6 fps mode. Then you can shoot up to 1000+ photos of each type in a row. Panasonic’s S5 Mark II can shoot up to 200+ RAWs or 300+ JPEGs in succession at 30 fps.
It is important to mention that the Canon R8 has a pre-shooting burst mode. The camera takes 15 photos in 30 fps half a second before you take a photo. This will give you even more good photos.
If you like being in wildlife or photographing events, then the Canon EOS R8 is the preferred choice, although the Panasonic S5 II is also a fantastic camera in this area.
Canon EOS R8 VS panasonic S5 II - Focus mechanism
The focus of the Canon R8 uses AI software to always focus on the subject. In this way, the camera itself knows which subject you are photographing and adjusts its behavior accordingly. This way the camera sees whether you are photographing an animal, car or human. The S5 II can do this too.
This is the same system that we also see on the Canon R5, R6 and the R3. You can also focus on cars and motorcycles, with the Canon EOS R8 focusing on the helmets by itself.
In terms of focusing, there’s no guessing one preference, both cameras are fantastic.
Canon EOS R8 VS Panasonic S5 II - Overal use
The Canon EOS R8 is slightly smaller than the S5 II. Canon’s EOS R8 weighs 461 grams, the S5 II weighs 740 grams. This will be to your advantage if you have to shoot for long days.
If we look at the battery, there is a clear winner. The S5 II can take 370 shots on one battery, while the R8 can only take 290 shots on one battery. If you have to shoot for longer periods and you don’t want to take extra batteries with you? Then the S5 II is perfect for you!
In Conclusion
Both cameras are good for a lot of types of photography and videography. The Panasonic S5 II is slightly better than the Canon R8 in terms of video. For example, the S5 II can shoot 6K videos with superior sharpness. The battery of the S5 II is considerably better. If you want a good all-rounder, the S5 II is better than the Canon R8 in many areas.
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What professional reviewers say about the Canon EOS R8
DPReview (Richard Butler, Initial Review)
Richard is very positive about the Canon EOS R8, here’s what he has to say:
“When it was announced in 2019, we rather enjoyed the understated nature and low cost of the Canon EOS RP. Our main reservations related to the limited battery life and the rather older sensor, which performed well in many situations, but didn’t have the dynamic range we’ve become accustomed to. That said, it was in many ways a nicer camera than the more ambitious EOS R.
The Canon R8 is a slightly more expensive option, but more than addresses our sensor concerns by bringing the improved image quality, video capabilities and AF performance of the significantly more expensive EOS R6 II. In fact, Canon’s specs on the R8 impress enough to make it worth questioning whether you really need the extras the more expensive camera offers.
The differences add up: the EOS R6 II has built-in image stabilization, a better build quality, a higher resolution viewfinder, an AF joystick and a larger battery. It also shoots twice as fast as the EOS R8 in mechanical shutter mode and gives you two card slots (and those slots are separate from the battery compartment). You certainly get more camera for your money with the EOS R6 II, but it’s worth considering whether you’d rather get the R8 with a 24-105mm F4 for the amount you’d pay for an R6 II body, or maybe pick up an 85mm F2 Macro and have $500 left.
As it is, we were impressed with the EOS R8. As someone who’s been shooting with the EOS R6 II for the past few weeks, it took some time to adjust to the lack of a joystick, but no adjustments needed to be made to image quality. Once I got used to the R8’s handling, it was really the stabilization in the body that feels like it’s been carved out of the R8 to maintain such an attractive price point.
Perhaps it is the APS-C EOS R7 that is most at risk due to the arrival of the R8. Both cameras are the same list price, but while the R7’s 15fps shooting is a significant advantage over the R8, and the smaller sensor makes it easier to get a range with a long lens, the difference between the two models feels smaller than previously existed between the EOS 7D and EOS 6D DSLRs. The full-frame model seems to fit the APS-C camera’s feature set better, and without the price differential that used to exist. Given that Canon’s lens development is likely to weigh heavily on full-frame for the foreseeable future, the EOS R8 looks poised to take an important place in the middle of the company’s line-up.”
Techradar (Timothy Coleman, Review)
Timothy is very enthusiastic about the Canon R8, saying this about the camera: “Logical concessions, given the price and size of the EOS R8, don’t include IBIS, a reduced camera body and battery life that you’d expect from a camera at entry level, and which is not a patch for the EOS R6 II.
Appearances can be deceiving, however, and the EOS R8 delivers. There’s the same 24MP full-frame sensor found in the EOS R6 II, 30fps Raw Burst mode and up to 40fps continuous shooting with the electronic shutter, complemented by fast Dual Pixel CMOS II autofocus.
The video specs are extensive too, with 4K to 60p oversampled from 6K and no capturing limits (although battery has something to say about that).
It’s a very capable performer packed into a beginner-friendly housing and with a respectable price tag – the same price as the more capable but crop-sensor EOS R7. If you add all this together, it is actually not entirely clear for whom the EOS R8 is intended. I’m sure we’ll find out in the coming months as feedback from reviewers and users comes in.”
The-Digital-Picture (Bryan Carnathan, Review)
Bryan, like the other reviewers, is positive about Canon’s new entry-level model: “The Canon EOS R8 arrives positioned as Canon’s entry-level full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. Despite that position in the line-up, the R8 is a powerhouse, with the R6 II’s highly advanced image sensor, fast processor and incredible AF system.Additional attractive features include its compact size, light weight and low price.
This camera is a great choice for enthusiasts, travelers, families and anyone who wants the image quality that only a 36.0 x 24.0mm full-frame image sensor can provide.
In appearance, the Canon EOS R8 resembles the EOS RP with a new name. The insides have been updated massively though, making the R8 a much better camera.
When introducing the R8, Canon stated that the EOS R and RP were not officially discontinued. However, you can expect these cameras to disappear from store shelves soon. For nostalgics, the “R” was Canon’s full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera and the first in the R series. The R (and RP) will rightly be the first R-series camera models to be discontinued.
When these two models are gone, only R<number> R-series cameras remain. At that point, the Canon R-series camera naming scheme falls into order, with the number after the “R” denoting the camera’s position in the lineup. The lower the number, the better the camera, with full-frame and APS-C models mixed in the mid-model positions. For example, the R7 APS-C model is considered a more expensive camera than the full-frame R8 for several reasons.”
DigitalCameraWorld (Dan Mold, Review)
Dan has a few things to say about the Canon R8: “The Canon EOS R8 is a reminder of what a long way Canon has come since launching the original EOS R almost four years ago – and how many cameras, for many types of consumers, are the R system now includes.
The Canon EOS R8 simply does it all. There is no specific target group for which it would be suitable in the first place; the R8 thrives in any situation where ultimate image quality isn’t the end result, but where the benefits of a full-frame sensor, such as shallower depth of field and wider dynamic range, can create better content.
If you like the features of the R6 Mark II but can’t stretch your budget to that higher-end model, then this is the camera to consider. Of course there are a few compromises. You’ll have to make do with just one SD card and with its inconvenient placement under the battery cover. And if you’re currently used to joystick or thumbwheel controls, it may take you a while to get used to their absence. But for the technology this camera can bring to your work, these all seem like fair trade-offs.
For online content creators wanting hybrid cameras for photography and video, enthusiast photographers wanting to try full-frame sensors or students on a budget, the Canon EOS R8 pretty much ticks all the boxes.”
Holidays: Get $200 off your Canon R8!
Canon EOS R8 for car photography
I have photographed a few things myself, from events to birds and portraits. My specialty is car photography, so I can really talk about this for hours.
Canon’s R8 is perfect for car photography, and I’m not saying that so that you will buy it, but that is my honest opinion. The resolution is excellent, with 24 MP you can crop without any problems and prints are also possible.
The most useful thing about the Canon R8 is the autofocus because the Dual Pixel AF II can recognize cars. You might think about what you need that for, and that was my first thought too. Still, it really helps with my workflow now that I use it myself.
The R8 is also not a bad choice for some videos, as long as you don’t shoot hours of cinema films, it works well. The R8 is also perfect on stabilizers such as a DJI RS3, so you can film other cars without any problem.
Canon EOS R8 for wedding photography
When it comes to weddings, reliability is the most important thing, after all, you can’t come home with blurry photos or a crashed card. So I’m going to give my honest opinion about the Canon R8 for wedding photography.
The sensor is in full-frame format, so the quality is very good in any case. You can also take photographs during the party, although a bright lens is useful.
We have absolutely nothing to complain about in terms of autofocus. It is super fast and reliable. I’ve never had any problems with it and I don’t think you will either.
The thing that bothers me about the Canon R8 is that it only has one card slot. This means that the reliability part gets fewer points. Personally, for wedding photography, I would choose a camera that has two.
Overall, the Canon R8 is fantastic for weddings, but the fact that it has one card slot makes me hesitate.
Canon EOS R8 for event photography
We also know that reliability is important in event photography, after all, you cannot just ask if a speech can be redone. Therefore, the autofocus and burst mode must be at the highest level.
We’re in luck because the Canon R8 also has the best autofocus and fastest burst mode. With Dual Pixel AF II you won’t take many blurry photos and the 40fps burst mode should be fast enough.
The pre-burst mode is also optimal for events. Just in case we are half asleep, the R8 already takes photos before you press the shutter button.
All in all, the Canon R8 is the perfect camera for events, and I haven’t even mentioned the weight yet. You can simply take it with you anywhere.
Canon EOS R8 for wildlife photography
If there is one type of photography that is popular, it is wildlife photography. I can sometimes be found in nature and I especially enjoy photographing birds. This used to be difficult, a camera that was not optimal for it and the autofocus was also very slow.
Nowadays I don’t have to worry about that, because the Dual Pixel AF II in the Canon R8 is perfect for nature photography. The R8 recognizes many subjects such as birds. When I used it for the first time I was really amazed.
The autofocus is so good that it can recognize birds from a great distance and even focuses on the eyes of birds. I have about 90% sharp photos since I got a new camera.
The burst mode is also very good, if you don’t want to be bothered by the rolling shutter you can use ECFC, which stands for Electronic Shutter First Curtain. The Canon R8 does not have a fully mechanical shutter.
Do you want to use the electronic shutter? Then the readout speed of the R8 is approximately 16ms. That’s not very slow, but you can notice it with fast-moving birds.
In short, the Canon R8 is a great camera for wildlife photography and you really won’t regret buying it for this purpose.
Youtube review of the Canon EOS R8
Professional reviewer Jordan takes to the road with the brand new Canon EOS R8 and shows real-life examples of the Canon R8 in action. This way you can decide even better whether you want to get this camera. I’ll give you a warning,
Beware: After watching the video you want it!
Most outstanding features of the
Canon EOS R8
- A very high quality sensor: 24 MP full-frame sensor
- Powerful: new DIGIC X processor
- Artificial Intelligence: Focusing on cars, planes and objects
- Professional filming: 4K in 60 fps (no crop) and FHD in 180 fps
- Ultra sharp video: 6K oversampled video, less noise and more sharpness
- Compact: lightweight design
- Super-fast burst: shoot up to 40 fps with full autofocus functionality
- 3" articulating touchscreen
- Wide range of lenses: choice of RF lenses and EF lenses (with adapter)
- Transfer photos using Wi-Fi
- Focus down to -6.5 EV in dark conditions
Conclusion
Canon’s brand new EOS R8 is a very capable camera for almost any photographer. The new features are absolutely fantastic.
You can capture razor-sharp images using the 24-megapixel full-frame sensor. Due to this size sensor in combination with the brand new processor, the DIGIC X, the noise performance is fantastic. This processor allows you to shoot up to 40 images per second, so you will never miss the action, if you pay attention, of course.
Canon seems to have made a replacement for the EOS R/EOS RP. The design of the camera is therefore very similar.
If you want to make videos, the Canon R8 is not wrong either, by means of 6K oversampling you get beautiful, razor-sharp 4K 60p videos. In short, this device is really a powerhouse for a reasonable price.
Holidays: Get $200 off your Canon R8!