Canon announces the 1D X

By Molly McHugh October 18, 2011

As predicted, Canon has announced its newest DSLR, the EOS-1D X camera. The latest in Canon’s D-series lineup is a beast, too, combining the high-speed shooting and fast processing features the series is known for as well as bumping up the specs considerably. Take a quick look at what this thing is packing:

61-point AF system
1 GB Ethernet port
Three DIGIC image processors
Up to 12 fps RAW shooting
18-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
ISO 100-51,200 (in standard range)

Clearly, Canon has outfitted the 1D X to continue its lineup of fast-shooting, action-friendly DSLRs, all while seemingly improving on image quality from its predecessors. Images will supposedly be less noisy at extreme ISO settings and the improved processor system will reportedly offer truer colors and more natural contrast, even in low lighting. Which is saying something given how well-received previous models have been.

Video has also been given a makeover in the 1D X. Canon has included continuous Full HD video recording for longer movies sessions (nearly 30 minutes) and new compression files—one in an editing format and another completely compressed file.

Of course, all that will cost you: $6,800 to be exact. Start saving now, it will be available in March of 2012.

Editors' Recommendations

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Before coming to Digital Trends, Molly worked as a freelance writer, occasional photographer, and general technical lackey…

Photography

The best cheap cameras

If you're looking for a camera that's an upgrade over your phone, but also costs less than your phone, the original Sony RX100 is the best cheap camera you can buy. Cheap, of course, is relative, but the first-generation RX100 offers great image quality in a compact size that rivals the best compact cameras of today. Better than buying used, Sony keeps older models around at lower prices, so that you can save a ton of money and still get a new-in-the-box camera with a full warranty.

Buying an older camera isn't the only way to find a good deal, however. The other strategy is to go with newer, but lower-end model. These entry-level cameras often lack the level of control offered by higher-end models, but often have image quality equal to more expensive models. For other choices, check out the best mirrorless cameras, best Black Friday camera deals, and best point-and-shoot cameras.
At a glance

Photography

The best Canon cameras

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Canon has been a respected brand in cameras for decades, and they continue to produce outstanding products for beginner, enthusiast, and professional photographers.

Although most known for its DSLRs, Canon has stormed into mirrorless over the past few years with its EOS M and EOS R lines. These cameras offer the same image quality and many similar features of its DSLR line in smaller, lighter bodies. Canon's mirrorless cameras still have some growing up to do, which is the why the 5D Mark IV, a DSLR with a fast and precise autofocus system, is still our top pick. However, mirrorless is the future, and we doubt it will be long before a Canon EOS R camera supplants the mighty 5D.
At a glance

Photography

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III vs. OM-D E-M1X: High-performance flagships compared

Olympus OM-D E-M1X reviewe-30218

Olympus no longer has a flagship camera -- it has two. The new Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is not designed to succeed the earlier E-M1X, but rather to share the throne. Using the same 20-megapixel sensor, the two cameras deliver identical image quality -- but a very different experience.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is a giant by mirrorless standards. It has a vertical battery grip built-in, a move that the company says is designed for maximum reliability and durability. By contrast, the OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a travel-friendly camera with a much more compact body, but it lacks the battery life and motorsports-specific autofocus mode of the E-M1X.