Top 5: Best Canon hybrid cameras to buy in October 2024

The Canon EOS R system includes high-end mirrorless cameras equipped with full-frame sensors.

Launched in 2018, this series was designed to deliver cutting-edge performance in both photography and video, while being more compact and lightweight than traditional Canon digital DSLR cameras.

In this article, we present the best Canon cameras to buy in September 2024 (R3, R6 Mark II, R8, and the new R1 and R5 Mark II).

We review the technical specifications, strengths, and weaknesses of each Canon body to help you buy the Canon camera that suits you best!

Canon’s EOS R system cameras stand out with their innovative RF mount, advanced autofocus, video capabilities, and vari-angle touchscreens.

With options ranging from entry-level to ultra-professional, the Canon EOS R camera lineup caters to a wide range of demanding photographers and videographers.

If you are already part of the Canon family, you’ll be pleased to know that the new mirrorless cameras can seamlessly work with your existing EF lenses thanks to a relatively inexpensive adapter.

1. Canon R5 Mark II: The brand-new mirrorless camera

The R5 Mark II is Canon’s latest body, launched alongside the highly anticipated R1.

The R5 Mark II features a 45-megapixel full-frame back-illuminated and stacked image sensor. It benefits from the new Accelerated Capture Imaging Platform technology developed by Canon (also available in the R1).

This new technology incorporates a DIGIC Accelerator chip that allows the new R5 II to effortlessly outperform its predecessor, the R5.

It is equipped with a new Dual Pixel Intelligent AF mode. The R5 Mark II also has a new “Action Priority” mode that makes it easier to detect football, basketball, and volleyball players.

The new body features Canon’s Eye Control AF. The photographer can control the autofocus area with their eye when shooting through the electronic viewfinder.

It also offers other interesting photo features such as upscaling and pre-continuous shooting.

2. Canon R1: The camera for sports photography

Another new release from Canon, the R1, is a full-frame body designed for sports photographers and reporters.

This new body features several advanced specifications, including an enhanced autofocus powered by artificial intelligence, a refined viewfinder, and a 40 fps burst mode.

Like the new R5, it incorporates the new DIGIC Accelerator chip to support its DIGIC X image processor and its new 24MP back-illuminated and stacked sensor.

The R1 is equipped with an improved 9.44 million-dot sensor with 0.9x magnification. It also includes the Eye Control AF feature, already present on the R3 but enhanced with its superior electronic viewfinder.

Dedicated to sports photography, it features a “registered person priority” option that allows for the recognition of faces previously registered in the camera.

3. Canon R3: The high-end, fast, and high-performing mirrorless camera

The Canon EOS R3 is a full-frame mirrorless camera designed specifically for professional photographers, known for its exceptional speed, powerful autofocus, and high ISO sensitivity.

The body allows for continuous shooting at a rate of 30 frames per second, making it ideal for photographers specializing in sports and wildlife photography. Additionally, the EOS R3 features a highly responsive autofocus system capable of detecting and tracking subjects accurately, even in low-light conditions.

It is important to note that this camera is larger in design compared to other EOS R system models.

The main drawback of the Canon R3 is its higher price compared to other bodies in the range.

4. Canon R6 Mark II: The versatile camera

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a full-frame mirrorless camera designed for capturing portraits, action scenes, events, and landscapes.

Its high frame rate in electronic mode makes it particularly suited for action photography, with a burst rate of 40 frames per second and Dual Pixel CMOS AF II technology, ensuring precise focus and great sharpness with every shot.

The EOS R6 Mark II improves upon its predecessor, the R6, by offering enhanced image resolution, faster burst rates, and even more effective autofocus tracking.

5. Canon R8: The ideal mirrorless camera for amateur photographers

The Canon R8 is the latest and lightest addition to the Canon mirrorless camera lineup. Priced at just €1819, it is an excellent choice for amateur photographers and beginners.

This camera can capture images at very high speeds thanks to its electronic shutter, capable of taking 40 frames per second, and it also features autofocus for vehicle tracking.

However, note that this model lacks a top LCD screen and a second SD card slot, and its battery life is slightly shorter.

What’s the best Canon hybrid camera in August 2024?

The Canon EOS R range of hybrid cameras offers an impressive variety of options for all types of photographers, from enthusiastic amateurs to seasoned professionals.

Choosing the “best” Canon hybrid camera depends largely on the specific needs of each photographer. Canon offers a wide range of hybrid cameras, each with its own strengths.

We therefore advise you to consider your own requirements in terms of image quality, functionality and budget before making a choice. In-store testing of different Canon bodies can also help you make a better decision.

From the affordable R8 to the new AI-boosted R1 and R5 Mark II and the powerful, specialized R3, each model offers unique features to meet the specific needs of different types of photography and videography.