Canon EOS R8 Body

While it shouldn’t be mistaken for a premium model – the lack of in-body stabilisation and video clip time limits are notable drawbacks – the Canon EOS R8 is an impressive and dependable all-rounder that puts full-frame photography and videography firmly in the entry-level budget bracket. Pleasingly portable and with strong autofocus performance, it’s a solid first step for both existing Canon users and newcomers looking to seize the advantages of a full-frame sensor.

Recommended - A slick and efficient full frame Hybrid camera that delivers on quality and handling.

The Canon EOS R8 essentially takes the sensor of the higher-end R6 II and packs it into a simpler, lighter body more akin to the entry-level RP. As such it’s perfectly positioned between those two models, delivering the photo, video and autofocus of the R6 II at a much more affordable price. To meet its lower price point, the R8 loses the IBIS and 6k RAW video of the R6 II, has a single card slot, a lower resolution viewfinder, no joystick or rear wheel, a slower mechanical shutter and a smaller battery too. Of these, I’m personally saddest to see the loss of IBIS, but at roughly two thirds the price of the R6 II, those are sacrifices you may be willing or even happy to make. If you’re not wedded to the Canon system, there are decent alternatives. If you’re looking for a full-frame camera with the benefit of IBIS, Sony’s A7 III and the original Lumix S5 are roughly the same price, and it’s not a huge jump to the two grand point of models like the Lumix S5 II or indeed the original EOS R6. But in Canon’s range, I’d say the EOS R8 hits a sweetspot between features and price, and makes a compelling upgrade for owners of the R and RP, not to mention those moving up from an earlier DSLR or APSC model.

An affordable camera that can punch above its weight in stills and 4K video. While its poor battery life keeps it from being a slam-dunk recommendation, you get a lot of camera for your money in the EOS R8. Its simple control scheme is great for beginners, and feature-packed for more advanced users, and its flip-out LCD makes it flexible for off-angle shooting and vlogging.