Firmware update shows Canon is staying true to its top-end DSLR cameras

Firmware update shows Canon is staying true to full-frame DSLR cameras

(Image credit: Canon)

Firmware updates are now available for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Canon EOS 1D X Mark II, which will improve both DSLRs USB 3.0 connection compatibility. Although the update is a minor one, it underlines Canon's continuing commitment to its professional full-frame DSLRs, including models that are five years old.

Firmware version 1.3.2 is available for Canon EOS-1D X Mark II and version 1.1.8 for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – both updates offering the same improvements to connection compatibility to PCs when using a USB 3.0 or higher compatible cable.

• Read more: Best Canon cameras

Mac and Windows version of the firmware update are available on the product pages on Canon website – download firmware version 1.1.8 for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and for firmware version 1.3.2 for the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II.

USB 3.0 can transfer data at up to 5 Gbit/s (625 MB/s), which is about 10 times faster than the USB 2.0 standard. USB 3.0 connectivity offers fast file transfer to PC and Mac computers, which is ideal for tethered shooting in studio environments – an area in which both the 5D Mark IV and 1D X Mark II excel.

It is good to see that Canon is still committed to its DSLRs, and hasn’t abandoned them despite the pronounced shift that all the big producers are making towards mirrorless. In fact DSLRs like the Canon EOS 90D have adopted mirrorless technology to incorporate the same capabilities. Canon 5D Mark IV owners will be encouraged that there’s still life in the camera, which remains a powerhouse DSLR despite somewhat ageing technology.

Also it is encouraging to see Canon remaining true to its word regarding offering support for professional products like the 1D X Mark II throughout its lifespan, even though it was released in 2016 and was replaced by the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III last year.

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Laurence is an NCTJ-trained journalist with nearly 20 years' editorial experience gained on a wide range of publications, from The Beirut Times in Lebanon to The Sunday Times, and including recent freelance engagements with Future's cycling and automotive portfolios, Outdoor Fitness, and The English Home. He has recently been undertaking a sports broadcast journalism MA at Southampton Solent, gaining valuable TV and radio experience, and am currently videographer for Frome Town FC soccer team. He is the author of Bikepacking (Wild Things Publishing, 2016).