New York – September 18, 2026 -- Canon has unveiled the EOS R8 Mark II, a full-frame mirrorless camera that keeps the 24.2-megapixel sensor of its predecessor while adding in-body image stabilization, a rear joystick, and a deeper buffer for burst shooting. The camera is available as a body alone or bundled with the RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens.
The body gets a sharper, more angular redesign
Compared to the smooth curves of earlier Canon models, the R8 Mark II features a more angular shell with fewer visible controls on top. The mode dial, power switch, record button, and M-Fn button remain in familiar spots, but the video mode switch beside the viewfinder housing has been removed.
A long-requested joystick finally arrives
Canon has added a multi-controller joystick to the back of the camera, letting users move autofocus points and navigate menus more easily. The AF-on button has also been relocated for a more comfortable grip.
In-body stabilization joins the same 24.2MP sensor
The camera uses the same 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor found in the original R8 and the R6 Mark II. New in-body stabilization delivers up to 7.5 stops of compensation at the center of the frame and 7 stops at the periphery.
Autofocus adds animal and vehicle detection
The upgraded autofocus system now detects animals -- including pets, birds, and horses -- as well as vehicles such as motorsports cars, trains, and airplanes. People detection can prioritize a subject's head, torso, or eyes, with automatic or manual left/right eye selection.
Burst shooting hits 40 fps with bigger buffers
The R8 Mark II shoots continuously at up to 40 fps using its electronic shutter, though the non-stacked sensor can produce rolling shutter distortion during fast panning. JPEG buffer performance rises 58% over the original R8, allowing up to 190 continuous shots, while RAW buffer capacity increases 30% to 73 shots.
Video features return with 4K60p and Canon Log 3
The camera supports 4K60p 10-bit internal recording, Canon Log 3 with up to 14 stops of dynamic range, and HDR options including PQ and HLG. Full HD recording is available at up to 180p for slow motion, alongside vertical movie mode, movie IS, a microphone input, and a headphone jack.
Sixteen color filters mimic classic film looks
Canon has built in 16 creative color filters plus Positive and Negative Filmtone modes designed to replicate analog film aesthetics directly in camera, along with 14 scene presets for night shots and portraits.
An optional grip targets larger hands and lenses
Canon is also releasing the EG-E2 Extension grip, which improves handling for users with bigger hands or heavier lenses and includes a built-in tripod socket. The camera retains built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for pairing with Canon's companion app.