18MP Full frame Canon EOS-1D X DSLR with full HD movie shooting capabilities and 14fps frame rate debuts

Canon has announced a new professional-level digital SLR in the shape of the EOS-1D X. Sporting a brand new 18MP full frame sensor, dual DIGIC 5+ processors and a maximum frame rate of 14fps the Canon EOS-1D X seems to be the natural successor to the Canon EOS-1D Mark IV, which was launched almost 2 years ago to the day. 

As is the current theme with DSLRs, especially those with full frame sensors, the ISO has been increased to impressive levels allowing up to a 204800 rating. This leap, combined with the brand new 18MP sensor, will undoubtedly make low light shooting an enticing prospect. The other benefit to such a large ISO range is the ability to deal with high shutter speeds, which will be one of the main draws of this new model. 

The Canon EOS-1D X sports both 12fps and 14fps maximum continuous burst rates, depending on the settings. 12fps is the maximum for standard usage, whether the Canon EOS 1D-X is in Raw or JPEG quality. To access the 14fps mode the exposure and AF must be locked to the first frame, with the mirror locked up. This means any changes in depth or exposure would not be accounted for by the camera.

Another new creation for the Canon EOS-1D X is the 61-point AF system, with 41 cross-type and five dual cross-type points. This should lead to a more accurate autofocus system and fasting tracking, with less spacing between points. The dual DIGIC 5+ processors should result in a 2-stop improvement in noise, with a separate DIGIC 4 processor tasked with controlling the findings of a 100,000 pixel RGB metering sensor. 

Display and framing is performed via the 100% viewfinder and 3.2inch LCD screen, which offers a 1040k dot resolution. HD video recording on the Canon EOS-1D X is also well catered for, with up to 1920 x 1080 resolution at either 30, 25 or 24 frames per second selectable. Rather curiously an Ethernet port is also present, supporting either a direct wired connection or additional Wi-fi unit, so images can be either streamed or transferred at high speeds. 

The body is a high-grade magnesium alloy, and integrated sensor cleaning is also present. The Canon EOS-1D X is expected to be priced at £5,300 and released in March next year, although both have yet to be confirmed. For more information go to Canon’s website.

 Key Features:

  • 18.1 MP full frame CMOS sensor
  • Up to 12fps and 14fps shooting
  • 100-51200 ISO, up to H:204800
  • 61 point AF system
  • 100,000 pixel RGB AE metering with DIGIC 4
  • Full HD 1080p EOS movie 
  • Dual “DIGIC 5+” processors
  • Clear View II 8.11 cm (3.2″) 1040K-dot LCD
  • Ethernet port