Compared to its long-in-the-tooth Mark I version, the new 7D offers improvements like a clean HDMI output (with audio), a headphone jack, and full HD in 50p and 60p modes. But the 7D does not look to be a huge leap forward, as it doesn't offer some of the features that even cell phones offer now, like 4K, and it leaves out video-focusing aids like peaking and magnification (more on the specs here). And that makes sense when you think about the dedicated video cameras that Canon is turning out — if you want a dedicated video camera, Canon has plenty of C-series models to direct you toward. So why would you buy a 7D Mark II? Well, stills of course. 20 Megapixels at 10FPS is nothing to sneeze at, and it should make for a heck of an action and wildlife cam (due to the smaller APS-C sensor, lenses have a narrower field-of-view).

On the video side, here's some footage:

Note this Gizmodo preview was shot with everything turned down to the max for a flat look:

If stills are more important to you than video, the 7D Mark II merits serious consideration. If stills are a lower priority, however, you might be better off with a dedicated video camera or a mirrorless alternative — even for dedicated video shooters the still camera form factor can still offer advantages, especially if you don't want to attract attention from certain authority figures. What do you guys think?

The Canon 7D Mark II is now shipping at two price points: $1,800 Body Only, and $2,150 with EF-S 18-135mm Lens.

Canon 7D Mark IIcanoncanon7d
Cinematography & Cameras