Canon EOS R8 review

The Canon EOS R8 is a remarkably light and powerful full-frame camera – with some ergonomic compromises

Canon EOS R8 mirrorless digital camera
(Image: © Gareth Bevan)

Digital Camera World Verdict

The Canon EOS R8 kind of does it all. Whatever your photographic medium, this camera can shoot it. The R8 does not scrimp on the technology, using the same sensor and processor as the R6 Mark II, with the latest subject recognition and tracking, 24.2MP images, ISO all the way up to 102400, and that blistering 40 frames per second shooting speed. So what’s the catch? Well, ergonomic compromises have been made, with no joystick or thumb dial on the back of the camera, no IBIS, smaller LP-E17 batteries that won’t shoot as long, and only one awkwardly placed SD card slot.

Pros

  • +

    Latest AF subject tracking

  • +

    40fps electronic shutter

  • +

    Incredibly light and compact

Cons

  • -

    1 awkwardly placed card slot

  • -

    Smaller capacity batteries

  • -

    No joystick or rear dial

  • -

    No IBIS

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The Canon EOS R8 reminds us just what a long way Canon has come since launching the original EOS R nearly four years ago – and just how many cameras, for many kinds of consumers, the R system now encompasses. 

At the end of 2022, the R series was up to 11 camera bodies and 31 lenses, and after producing some of the best Canon cameras to date, from the flagship Canon EOS R3 to the entry-level Canon EOS R10, as well as some of the best Canon RF lenses, the company has shown no signs of slowing down.

Sony A7 III

Sony A7 III
Quite a bit older than the EOS R8, but still very much competing with the latest models, it shows how much of a headstart Sony got on mirrorless. Also offers 4K video and 24MP, but edges out Canon with 5-axis IBIS.

Nikon Z5

Nikon Z5
Nikon's full frame entry-level model comes at a slightly lower cost than the Canon EOS R8 but doesn't scrimp on the included tech, with a 24.3MP sensor, 4K video, and built-in IBIS, the Nikon Z5 packs a punch.

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Gareth Bevan
Reviews Editor

Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.