CameraReview
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
73
SCORE
Canon · DSLR · 20.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II

General 73Optics 72Video Performance 69Features and Benefits 74Storage and Battery 79
From $230.80 — 3 offers
KEY FACTS
BrandCanon
ModelEOS 1D X Mark II
Released2016
Announcement date02/02/2016
Camera typeDSLR
What We Like
+Solid and reliable full frame camera
+Quality Dual Pixel CMOS sensor
+Has a touchscreen with focus selection
+Fast USB 3.0 transmission connection
+Very good 4K video quality
Worth Knowing
Limited sensor size not ideal for landscape photography
AF tracking in Live View shows its age
Very heavy camera body
4K video Motion JPEG format limits the size of the video

General 73

Brand
Canon
Model
EOS 1D X Mark II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2016
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
02/02/2016
Camera type
DSLR
Camera size
158 x 168 x 83 mm
Camera weight
1530 g

Optics 72

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5472 x 3648
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
24 x 36
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
16 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon EF
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Dual Digic 6+
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
10030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
512003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
5030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
4096003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
3044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
610300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
No
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder dots
N/A
Read our notes on optics

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II scores a solid 73 out of 100 in our evaluation. This DSLR camera was announced on February 2, 2016, and released the same year with a launch price of $6000. Measuring 158 x 168 x 83mm and weighing 1530g (3.37lbs), this camera has been on the market for a few years now.

Despite its age, the 1D X Mark II still holds its own in today’s competitive market. Its specifications remain relevant and reliable for various photography needs. This camera proves that quality can withstand the test of time.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II receives a score of 72/100 for its optics. With 20.2 megapixels, a shooting speed of 16 frames per second, and a Dual DIGIC 6+ processor, this camera delivers high-quality images. The CMOS sensor has a DXOMARK score of 88, which is a reliable indicator of image quality. The full-frame sensor size allows for better low-light performance and a wider field of view.

The Canon EF lens mount provides compatibility with a vast range of lenses, giving photographers flexibility in their shooting options. However, the camera lacks built-in image stabilization, which may require the use of stabilized lenses for optimal results. The 3:2 aspect ratio is standard for most DSLRs and offers a natural balance between width and height.

Despite some limitations, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II’s optics are competitive in today’s market. This camera is suitable for photographers seeking high-quality images and a wide selection of compatible lenses.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II Video Performance 69

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
4096 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
60 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
No
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MOV, MP4
Read our notes on canon eos 1d x mark ii video performance

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II holds a video score of 69 out of 100. This camera offers 4K video resolution with dimensions of 4096 x 2160 and a maximum frame rate of 60fps. Compared to other cameras in the market, these specifications provide high-quality video recording, ensuring crisp and smooth footage.

However, the lack of built-in time-lapse functionality may be a drawback for those seeking this feature. Despite this, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II still proves to be a strong contender in the realm of video capabilities, with its impressive resolution and frame rate providing users with excellent video performance.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II Features and Benefits 74

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
No
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
Yes
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Yes
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Yes
Screen type
LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Yes
Screen size
3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
16200001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
No
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
No
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No
Read our notes on canon eos 1d x mark ii features and benefits

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II’s features score stands at 74/100. This camera boasts a 3.2-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 1620000 dots. The presence of GPS allows users to geotag their images with ease. However, it lacks modern connectivity options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which might be a drawback for some users.

Comparing its features to other cameras in today’s market, the 1D X Mark II’s touchscreen and GPS are definite advantages. These features make it user-friendly and convenient for photographers who need to track their shooting locations. However, the absence of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity puts it at a disadvantage when it comes to seamless file transfers and remote shooting capabilities.

Considering all these factors, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II offers a mix of useful features and some limitations. While it excels in certain aspects, the lack of modern connectivity options might be a deal-breaker for some potential buyers.

Canon EOS 1D X Mark II Storage and Battery 79

Memory card
Compact Flash, CFast 2.0
Dual memory card slots
Yes
Battery type
LP-E19
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1210 shots1505000
USB charging
No
Read our notes on canon eos 1d x mark ii storage and battery

The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II achieves a storage and battery score of 79/100. This camera offers two memory card slots, accommodating both Compact Flash and CFast 2.0 cards, providing flexibility for users to choose the storage format that best suits their needs. The battery life of this camera allows for 1210 shots, which is adequate for extended shooting sessions. Powered by an LP-E19 battery, it does not support USB charging.

In the current market, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II’s storage and battery specifications fare well, offering users a dependable and versatile storage and power solution. The combination of two memory card slots and decent battery life make it a reliable choice for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.