The Canon EOS 850D (Canon EOS Rebel T8i in the USA) is an upgraded all-round enthusiast DSLR
(Image credit: Canon)
Say hello to the new Canon EOS 850D (worldwide) / Canon EOS Rebel T8i (North America), the manufacturer's new enthusiast DSLR – a lightweight, versatile and connected 24-megapixel machine, powered by Canon’s latest speedy tech and featuring 4K video capability.
The Canon EOS 850D / Canon Rebel T8i is the successor to two separate bodies: the one-off Canon EOS 77D (like a 750D / T6i but with small top LCD plate), and Canon EOS 800D / Canon EOS Rebel T7i, both launched back in early 2017.
Canon sticks with the same 24.1MP APS-C sensor as we’ve seen in the Canon EOS 250D / Canon EOS Rebel SL3, and actually has a few megapixels less than the 24.2MP 800D / T7i that it replaces. It also retains the same 45-point autofocus system, all of which are cross-type points for better and faster accuracy.
The new camera comes with some welcome upgrades, including 7fps (up from 6) for continuous shooting, and gains the newer Digic 8 processor (based around the same tech as seen in the 250D). Both improvements work together for a faster shooting experience when shooting action photography.
Inherited from Canon’s professional range, the 850D / T8i has Intelligent Tracking (iTR) automatic focus, made possible by the same 220,000 Pixel RGB+IR metering sensor found in the Canon EOS 90D. By exchanging high-resolution exposure data with the AF sensor, the iTR provides high-speed accuracy – ideal for capturing fast-moving sport and wildlife subjects.
The Canon EOS 850D / Canon EOS Rebel T8i has a Vari-Angle screen, rear control dial and AF-ON button (Image credit: Canon)
This tech also makes automatic face tracking possible through the optical viewfinder, while the new Eye Detection AF with tracking is available when shooting in Live View – enabling the camera to keep eyes sharp for portraits. Dual Pixel CMOS AF gives pinpoint control over focus points in Live View mode, with 143 in automatic mode or 3,975 in manual selection.
The Canon EOS 850D / Rebel T8i can record in 1080p up to 60fps, and captures stunning 4K up to 25p. It expands on its predecessor’s options for movie capture, with a more detailed set-up for time-lapse movies and automatic scene selection. To counteract the shake associated with handheld movie shooting, it features 5-Axis Movie Digital IS for smooth, controlled footage.
Get the Digital Camera World Newsletter
The best camera deals, reviews, product advice, and unmissable photography news, direct to your inbox!
The body features top and rear dials for dual control of both shutter speed and aperture. To improve handling it also gets a Quick control dial for changing settings faster, plus a new AF-ON button on the rear that we usually only see in larger, higher-spec bodies – which should prove useful for back button focusing.
All in all, the Canon EOS 850D / Rebel T8i is a strong all-rounder for photography enthusiasts looking that punches above its weight. It goes on sale in April with an body price of $749.99 / £819, and in a kit with EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens for $899.99 / £899.
Canon goes 8K! New Canon EOS R5 has 8K video, IBIS, 20fps + dual card slots
The best DSLR in 2020: DSLR cameras for beginners, enthusiasts and pros
The best Canon camera in 2020: Canon's DSLR, mirrorless and compact cameras
Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
The editor of PhotoPlus: The Canon Magazine, Peter 14 years of experience as both a journalist and professional photographer. He is a hands-on photographer with a passion and expertise for sharing his practical shooting skills. Equally adept at turning his hand to portraits, landscape, sports and wildlife, he has a fantastic knowledge of camera technique and principles. As you'd expect of the editor of a Canon publication, Peter is a devout Canon user and can often be found reeling off shots with his EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR.
