Canon has launched its latest cinema camera, the Canon Cinema EOS C80. It comes with an RF mount and a 6K full-frame sensor.
6K sensor
The new Cinema EOS C80 camera features a 6K full-frame, back-illuminated CMOS sensor. Canon says that the sensor delivers a fast readout speed, as well as amazing 4K image quality from 6K oversampling. The camera also has three base ISOs of 800, 3200 and 12800 which should maximize the full dynamic range of the camera. In addition, the EOS C80 comes with Canon’s latest Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus, Dual Pixel AF II. Canon says that the back-illuminated stacked sensor’s positioning offers superb light-capturing efficiency. As a result, this widens the area of the sensor that can be used for autofocusing.
Cinema RAW Light
The EOS C80 camera can record up to 6K 30p in Canon’s Cinema RAW Light format. You can also shoot in Canon’s standard XF-AVC codec which delivers 10-bit 4:2:2 video with oversampling from the 6K sensor. Canon says that this creates rich detail and smooth imagery without the need for cropping the image from the sensor. Usefully, autofocus is enabled when recording in slow or fast motion at up to 4K 120p. In addition, the EOS C80 can record in the XF-AVC S and XF-HEVC S file formats. Canon first introduced these formats with the EOS C400. They feature an easy-to-manage naming system and folder structure while recording in the familiar MP4 format and preserving metadata.
12G SDI
Another new feature of the EOS C80 is the inclusion of a 12G SDI output. 12G SDI supports 4K 60p video and enables uncompressed transfer of your video signal with a secure cable connection. The EOS C80 also offers a range of other connections including HDMI, mini-XLR audio inputs, time code, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and Ethernet. In addition, internet connectivity means that you can control the camera remotely via Canon’s IP-based XC Protocol using the company’s free Remote Camera Control Application.
Compact design
Canon says that the EOS C80’s compact and lightweight form factor makes it suitable for use on a drone, gimbal or tripod. The company also ergonomically designed the camera with a new, lightweight handle assembly. In addition, the Multi-function Shoe is located just above the LCD screen and the joystick controller provides easy control and menu navigation.
What we think
Canon’s new Cinema EOS C80 camera promises high-resolution video from its full-frame 6K sensor. The inclusion of three base ISO should also deliver great footage in all lighting conditions. Pro video shooters will welcome the inclusion of the 12G SDI output as well. In terms of form factor, the EOS C80 is still styled like a large still photography camera which may put off some users. In addition, for only $500 more you can pick up Sony’s Cinema Line FX6 camera which is much better suited to full-time video production. However, if you are invested in the Canon RF ecosystem, the new Cinema EOS C80 camera has a lot to offer.
Pricing and availability
The Canon Cinema EOS C80 full-frame camera will be available in November 2024. It will retail price at $5,499.
