Canon EOS 1D X Mark II

The EOS 1D X Mark II is a full-frame DSLR from Canon, released in 2016. It takes Canon EF lenses and offers a 16 frames per second maximum burst for rapid action.

This is a large camera. It measures 158 x 168 x 83 mm and weighs 1530 g, so it rewards a proper strap and bag rather than casual carrying.

Weather sealing helps in harsh conditions, dual card slots add storage flexibility, and built-in GPS can record where each frame was taken.

Scoring a good 72 for Optics, this camera sits in the top 21% of cameras in our database. The full-frame 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor works with Dual Digic 6+ processing, and its resolution supports moderate cropping when a frame needs tightening.

The headline strength is speed. A maximum burst of 16 frames per second and a 1/8000 s shutter serve fast-moving subjects such as sport and wildlife, where a decisive moment passes in a fraction of a second. The burst figure is a peak rate, not a promise of sustained shooting. There are 61 autofocus points for placing focus.

Sensitivity runs from ISO 100 to 51200, which keeps options open as light falls, and the optical pentaprism viewfinder gives a direct view while you track a subject.

There is no in-body stabilisation, so slower handheld exposures may need a stabilised lens, steady technique or a firm support. Those options help manage camera shake without changing the movement of the subject.

The EOS 1D X Mark II records video at resolutions up to 4K and saves files in MOV or MP4, giving a choice between two recording formats.

The maximum video frame rate is 60 fps, a separate limit from the maximum 4K resolution. Footage captured at that rate can be slowed in editing for a gentle slow-motion effect, which suits subjects with plenty of movement.

A good 69 video score reflects capable 4K recording with a 60 fps listed maximum. The body has no in-body stabilisation, so handheld clips may benefit from a stabilised lens or support. Live view on the rear screen handles framing while recording. from changing camera positions.

The rear LCD measures 3.2 inches and contains 1.62 million dots for playback and live view. It responds to touch for supported on-screen controls and image review.

The screen does not flip outward, so some low or overhead compositions require a change in camera or shooting position. Live view still provides a rear-screen alternative to the optical viewfinder.

Built-in GPS records shooting locations, which helps organise travel and documentary photographs by place. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are absent, so the body has no built-in connection through either wireless system.

Flash comes via an external unit, with no built-in flash to fall back on. Weather sealing rounds out the handling, and the features earn a good 74 score.

Two card slots take Compact Flash and CFast 2.0 cards. With both slots filled you can carry more storage for a long shoot, and the two formats give some flexibility in card choice.

The LP-E19 battery is rated at 1210 shots. That figure points to a long working session for many photographers, though real endurance always depends on how much you shoot, review images and use live view.

There is no USB charging for the battery, so spare batteries and planned charging sessions matter on long shooting days. A good 79 score reflects strong storage and endurance, with that one convenience missing.