Canon EOS-1D X Mark III announced: “hybrid” DSLR has deep learning AF with “28x more resolution than 1D X Mark II

The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III is a hybrid with AF deep learning, new Digic processor, 4K 60fps, CFexpress, 20fps stills shooting

brand new AF sensor with 28 times the resolution of the Mark II, which featured a ludicrously accurate 360,000-pixel RGB+IR sensor. By our maths, that gives this new sensor over 10 million pixels of resolution – and, combined with the bleeding-edge AF deep learning algorithm, promises truly ferocious performance.

Key Features

• Updated CMOS Sensor and DIGIC Processors
• 16 fps Shooting with Viewfinder
• 20 fps Shooting During Live View
• 4K 10-Bit 4:2:2 Internal Video Recording
• the new AF sensor and algorithm, dual CFExpress slots 

A new era in autofocus speed and accuracy

The EOS-1D X Mark III features a brand-new AF sensor with 28 times more resolution than its predecessor, using advanced AF algorithms with deep learning technology for unparalleled focus tracking in any situation. And in Live View and video there’s the added advantage of Dual Pixel CMOS AF across approximately 90×100 percent of the sensor with 525 AF areas. With AF over a wider EV range focusing truly has never been more accurate and versatile.

Outstanding stills and video

With a new Canon CMOS sensor and powerful new DIGIC processing, image quality even at high ISO is taken to even greater levels of quality along with 4K video at 60p plus the options of capturing RAW video or 10-bit video with Canon Log, both recorded internally to CFexpress cards. A new bright viewfinder ensures you are connected to your subject in real time with zero lag.

High speed camera communications

Delivering captured content quickly is the vital next step for a professional. This is why the EOS-1D X Mark III features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy and GPS for seamless communication. With double the transfer speeds of the EOS-1D X Mark II via the built-in ethernet port or through the optional WFT-E9, and with a revised user interface for simpler and more intuitive operation, the new EOS-1D X Mark III is designed to get the job done faster than ever before.

Always ready to perform, whatever the situation

The EOS-1D X Mark III has been radically upgraded for superb performance, not only offering a blistering 16fps frame rate with the optical viewfinder but also 20fps using either the mechanical or electronic shutter in live view mode with full AE and AF. The camera is engineered to excel in all areas, with dramatically improved battery life using the LP-E19 battery, new illuminating buttons and an all new AF point selection control within the AF-ON button in addition to the multi- controller. All in a magnesium alloy weather-sealed body.

Richard Heathcote, Senior Sports Photographer, Major Events, Getty Image said: “The new autofocus algorithm in the EOS-1D X Mark III takes subject tracking to a new level, with an intuitive controller and accurate results. It delivers as you would expect from the ultimate professional sports photography camera.”

Offering expanded AF brightness range with greater precision, the EOS-1D X Mark III has a range of autofocus capabilities enabling photographers to get ‘the shot’. In Live View users can make use of 525 AF areas using the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system covering approximately 90×100 percent of the image sensor. Using the same AF algorithm as when shooting with the optical viewfinder, it ensures enhanced flexibility when framing subjects, whether it’s a race car on a track or a bird in flight. The EOS-1D X Mark III supports significantly faster frame rates with full AF and AE, using either the optical viewfinder (up to approx. 16fps mechanical shutter) or Live View (up to approx. 20fps mechanical or electronic shutter), in addition to this the camera’s CFexpress card slots enable five times the RAW burst depth of its predecessor.

Challenge creativity – capture everything

A clear example of Canon’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovative imaging with optically excellent technology, the EOS-1D X Mark III supports an all new, Canon-developed, CMOS sensor and DIGIC processor, delivering greater image quality, at even higher ISOs, with the ability to capture stills in 10bit using the HEIF file format. The power of 4K resolution brings stories to life with the capabilities to shoot cinematically with 4K movies including 4K60p with 10bit Canon Log internal recording. Reducing the amount of equipment needed for professionals on any given project, the EOS-1D X Mark III also shoots in RAW for both movie and stills.

Content delivery, quicker than ever before

For professionals, content delivery is just as important as image capture – the EOS-1D X Mark III makes it easy, featuring built-in Wi-Fi and low-energy Bluetooth in addition to GPS. To keep pace with ever-shortening deadlines, the camera transfers data at twiceⁱ the speed of the EOS-1D X Mark II when using the built in ethernet, or the new optional wireless file transmitter – the WFT-E9 – which is also compatible with Canon’s recently launched Cinema EOS C500 Mark II camera. Coupled with simpler network set-up, the EOS-1D X Mark III greatly enhances the professional workflow.

An extension of the professional kit bag

Existing EOS-1D series users will be comfortable handling the EOS-1D X Mark III, allowing seamless navigation with trusted ergonomics – whilst the magnesium alloy body offers the durability expected from Canon’s EOS-1 cameras. Professional photographers can expect the same impressive build-quality as the EOS-1D X Mark II – phenomenal weather-sealing allows the camera to stand up to harsh conditions, including wind, rain and humidity. With incredible low-light shooting capabilities, the EOS-1D X Mark III’s illuminated buttons allow for precision operation in challenging, dark and dimly-lit conditions. The camera also offers a new additional control for selecting AF points, built into the AF-ON button, allowing photographers to change AF points on-the-fly for the best composition – further simplifying their work. Dramatically improved battery life – with the same LP-E19 – also allows professionals to shoot for longer periods of time, without having to change batteries, reducing the chance of missing a shot.