The Canon EOS-1D X Mk II is a replacement not just for the original 1D X, but also for the EOS-1D C pro video camera. And while in some areas the Mk II seems like a modest upgrade of the tech in the 1D X, in others it breaks entirely new ground.

The new Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is an update to the 18 megapixel 1D X and the camera features an all-new 20.2 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor with dual pixel CMOS AF, as well as a built-in analogue to digital converter for improved readout speed, better dynamic range and noise performance.

4K DCI resolution video at 60/50fps; High-speed FullHD video recording; Warm or White AWB options; Better battery life than expected; 14fps continuous shooting with AF/AE; 16fps continuous shooting with mirror up; Headphone / Microphone sockets; Excellent noise performance; Excellent image quality,...

Large; heavy; with a loud shutter; Touch-screen can't be used in playback; Mono microphone recording; Wi-Fi not built-in

The EOS 1DX Mark II is Canon's latest top-of-the-line full-frame professional-level DSLR. It features a 20.2 million pixel sensor, which is an upgrade from the 18 million pixel sensor that the 1DX had.

If getting the shot is of utmost importance to you, a Canon 1-Series body should be a high-ranking option on your very short shopping list. Canon 1-Series bodies have long represented the pinnacle of camera performance and reliability.

Both Nikon and Canon have unleashed top-notch, pro-spec DSLRs for 2016, just as anticipation for the huge sporting events kicking off this summer hit fever pitch.

The big boss is back for round two: the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is the company's top-end full-frame DSLR, which replaces both the original 1D X and video-focused 1D C models. And it really is one serious bit of kit, as we've been finding out during a couple of days' shooting for this review - from...

Super-fast autofocus system is world class in continuous autofocus; great image quality; fastest-on-market 14fps burst with seemingly endless buffer (using CFAST card); decent battery life; solid construction as ever

No vari-angle screen (like Pentax); no clean HDMI output for 4K video; would like broader spread of AF points throughout finder; image quality limitations at super-high ISO

Take each little incremental change by itself, and the 1DX II doesn't really look like a leap forward from the original. Add them all together, though, and you've got a very tempting upgrade, or step up if you're shooting on a 5D.

Outstanding image quality; 4K all the way; Bulging with buttons

Baby battery; Where's the Wi-Fi; Temperamental touchscreen

Outstanding image quality; 4K all the way; Bulging with buttons;

Baby battery; Where’s the Wi-Fi?; Temperamental touchscreen;

The Canon 1D X MkII represents the very pinnacle of how far the industry has pushed action photography cameras. If you make your living in this realm and already shoot with Canon kit, there's nothing better you can buy – it's simply remarkable.

It may surprise some people to realize that the 1D series now dates back 15 years, beginning with the original Canon-1D in 2001. During that time there have been numerous advances in image quality, performance, and even entirely new features, such as video.