What Canon Cameras have Clean HDMI Output?

and why does it matter?

Whether you’re a photographer or videographer, having a clean and uncompressed HDMI output from a Canon camera can mean the difference between a successful broadcast, an external recording of high-quality video, or stream if you are using it as a webcam . This article will cover why clean HDMI is so important, how to set up your Canon camera for clean HDMI output, and also provide you an extensive list of Canon mirrorless and DSLR cameras that can provide a clean output. 

Why Clean HDMI is Important

"Clean HDMI" basically means an unencumbered video feed from the HDMI port of your camera that has no overlays on the screen including focus points, battery indicators, exposure, or user interface menus that typically displayed on the camera's LCD or viewfinder. The clean signal has significance in many professional and creative applications:

External Video Recording

Filmmakers and videographers often use external recorders such as Atomos and Blackmagic to capture better-quality video than the internal recording on the camera. A clean HDMI signal enables the recorded footage to be unencumbered with overlays delivering the cleanest and most professional look to the content. This is even more important in 4K or high-bitrate recording applications, since external devices will typically bypass compression limitations of the internal recorders.

Live Streaming and webcamming

With the rise of content creation, many content creators are using Canon cameras as high-quality video sources for their webcams whether it be Twitch, YouTube, or Zoom. When you use a clean HDMI output and a capture card, you will see the quality is much higher than any webcam and also devoid of overlay UI element. This is important if you are wanting to create a professional look during a stream or video call.

Multi-Camera Productions

Clean HDMI provides the ability for cameras to connect into switchers or production systems without any overlays, integrating into your broadcast or recording workflow seamlessly in a live event or studio situation. Without clean HDMI, overlays will "burn" into the video feed, which may require post-production cleanup (if indeed, possible) or make the tape unusable for professional purposes. For these reasons, many creators prioritize selecting a Canon camera with clean HDMI.

Configuring Your Canon Camera for Clean HDMI

To output clean HDMI from your camera, you'll need the options enabled on the camera, and the right accessories. Here is a step-by-step guide to setting up your Canon camera for clean HDMI, either for external recording, live streaming, or using it as a webcam.

Step 1

Make Sure You Can Get Clean HDMI Not all Canon cameras have clean HDMI output, so you need to check make sure your model supports it (see list below). Look through your camera's manual, or in the menu settings for some option like "HDMI info disp" or "HDMI output". This is usually something you can select where you can have a "mirrored display" (with the overlays), or just clean output.

Step 2: Set Up the Camera

To configure the camera so it passes through a clean HDMI output:

Enter Movie Mode: Many Canon cameras will need you to switch the mode dial to movie mode to access HDMI output settings. Movie mode will take priority over still output, which is exactly what you want.

Remove Overlay: Access the camera's menu, usually under the "Shooting" tab or "Display" tab, and find HDMI output video settings. For example, on many Canon cameras, go into the "Shooting" menu, find "HDMI info disp," and select "Clean FHD output" or "Clean 4K output." This will remove any UI elements when passing through the HDMI feed.

Disable Autofocus (if needed): For some older DSLRs, like the EOS 7D Mark II, the autofocus system will sometimes show focus squares on the HDMI output. Switching to manual focus should eliminate this issue, though most of the newer models won't have this problem anyway.

Disable Auto Power-Off: In order for the camera to not shut off during a long shoot, go to the camera's "Power saving" or "System" menu and set the "Auto power off" settings to "Disable".

Step 3: Hook-up an HDMI capture device

To use the clean HDMI signal and stream live, or to use it as a webcam, you'll need an HDMI-to-USB capture device like the Elgato Cam Link 4K, Magewell USB Capture HDMI or Blackmagic ATEM Mini.  Here's how to get it set up:

1. Choosing an HDMI cable: There are different HDMI port types for different Canon cameras. Most mirrorless cameras (EOS R, etc.) will use Micro HDMI (Type D), and most DSLRs will use Mini HDMI (Type C). Check which type your camera has and then get the right (shorter) cable.

2. Plugging in the camera: Plug the HDMI cable into your camera's HDMI port and next, plug the cable into the HDMI capture device. Finally, plug the HDMI capture device into your computer via USB.

3. Setup software: (Approx. 5 minutes): If you're using streaming software (like OBS Studio, Streamlabs, etc.) or Zoom, begin or open the app and select the capture device as the video source. Make sure to set the resolution that will match the camera when using HDMI (ie. 1080p or 4K).

Step 4: Power

Stream live streaming or external recording may run down a camera’s battery fast, so continuous power is the main thing:

AC Power Adapter: With a Canon AC adapter (for example, the AC-E6N for the EOS R-series or the ACK-E6 for DSLRs), you can power the camera directly from a wall outlet, which is perfect for studio arrangements.

Dummy Battery: Dummy batteries, like the Canon DR-E6 with a DC coupler, go into the camera's battery compartment and allow power from an external power unit (like a USB power bank or AC adapter). This is a good option that works well with mobile with more setups.

USB Power Delivery (PD): Some newer Canon cameras, like the PowerShot G7 X Mark III, support USB PD using adapters, like the Canon PD-E1 to provide power over a USB-C cable. Be sure to look into the USB options, since many older Canon cameras do not support the USB charging when being powered up.

Step 5: Audio Configuration

HDMI does not typically pass audio from Canon Cameras during live output (audio is only passed during recorded playback). For live streaming or web streaming:

External Microphone: You could connect an external microphone (like a Rode VideoMic) into the cameras 3.5mm mic input for audio capture, or use a separate USB microphone connected to your computer.

Sync in Post: If you're using a capture card you might have to sync audio with video in something like OBS due to possible lag.

Step 6: Testing the Setup

Before you go live or start recording, make sure your camera is connected to an monitor or television via HDMI to ensure the feed is clean. You should not see focus squares, overlays, icons, etc. Then, it is best practice to test your capture device and the software you will be using to ensure that it recognizes your feed and the correct resolution and format. 

Necessary and Helpful Tools

Capture Card: For 4K or multi camera setups you can use the Elgato Cam Link 4K or Blackmagic ATEM Mini.
 
HDMI Cable: Using a high-speed Micro or Mini HDMI, depending on your camera 

Dummy Battery: Canon DR-E6 or 3rd party alternative.

AC Adapter: Using the Canon AC-E6N or model specific adapter.

Tripod or mount: Use a tripod for better positioning when streaming.

This will allow your Canon camera to deliver a professional, clean HDMI feed no matter the application you use (live streaming or filming a cinema-like quality video).

Canon Cameras with Clean HDMI Output

Here is an extensive compilation of Canon mirrorless and DSLR cameras that support clean HDMI output, sorted by date of release. The information focuses on models released since clean HDMI became standard, and is based on Canon official information, user forums, and professional reviews. As this list covers many models, please note that some older models may require specific settings (e.g., manual focus) or firmware changes, and not all cameras have 4K clean HDMI output.

Canon DSLRs with Clean HDMI

EOS 7D Mark II (September 2014)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p, but autofocus may display focus squares unless disabled. Use the “HDMI info disp” setting in the Shooting menu to enable clean output. Battery icon may appear unless using a dummy battery.

• Notes: Limited to 29:59 recording time via HDMI. Ideal for budget-conscious streamers.

EOS 5D Mark IV (August 2016)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p (4K with firmware update on some units). Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean FHD output” in the Shooting menu.

• Notes: Popular for professional video and streaming due to its full-frame sensor.

EOS 6D Mark II (June 2017)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p. Configure via “HDMI info disp” in the Shooting menu.

• Notes: Full-frame, budget-friendly option for streaming and external recording.

EOS Rebel T7i / 800D (February 2017)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p, but requires manual focus to avoid focus brackets. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean FHD output.”

• Notes: Entry-level DSLR with limited resolution output (720p or 480p in some setups).

EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D (April 2019)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p. Configure via “HDMI info disp” in the Shooting menu.

• Notes: Compact DSLR, compatible with EOS Webcam Utility for USB streaming as well.

EOS 90D (August 2019)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p, with 4K support in some configurations. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean FHD/4K output.”

• Notes: APS-C sensor, versatile for streaming and video production.

EOS-1D X Mark III (January 2020)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p. Configure via “HDMI output + LCD” in the Shooting menu for clean output.

• Notes: Flagship DSLR, ideal for professional multi-camera setups.

Canon Mirrorless Cameras with Clean HDMI

EOS M (July 2012)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p with Magic Lantern firmware. Standard firmware may not support clean output reliably.

• Notes: Budget option, but requires third-party firmware for full functionality.

EOS M6 Mark II (August 2019)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean FHD/4K output” in the Shooting menu.

• Notes: APS-C sensor, compact, and popular for vlogging and streaming.

EOS M50 Mark II (October 2020)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p (4K with limitations). Configure via “HDMI info disp” in the Shooting menu.

• Notes: Affordable, widely used for streaming with Canon’s HDMI streaming kits.

EOS R (October 2018)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p and 4K. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean FHD/4K output.”

• Notes: Full-frame, requires dummy battery for continuous power (no USB-C charging during use).

EOS RP (February 2019)

• Clean HDMI output at 1080p (4K with limitations). Configure via “HDMI info disp” in the Shooting menu.

• Notes: Budget full-frame mirrorless, but lacks advanced video features.

EOS R5 (July 2020)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean 4K/FHD output.”

• Notes: Professional-grade, supports 8K internal recording, ideal for high-end video.

EOS R6 (July 2020)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p. Configure via “HDMI info disp” in the Shooting menu.

• Notes: Full-frame, balanced for video and stills, but no internal recording with clean HDMI.

EOS R3 (November 2021)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean 4K/FHD output.”

• Notes: Pro mirrorless, designed for speed and reliability in demanding conditions.

EOS R7 (June 2022)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p, but no internal recording with clean HDMI. Configure via “HDMI info disp.”

• Notes: APS-C, versatile for content creators, but HDMI limitations frustrate some users.

EOS R10 (June 2022)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p, with similar limitations as the R7. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean 4K/FHD output.”

• Notes: Entry-level APS-C, budget-friendly for streaming.

EOS R6 Mark II (November 2022)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p, but internal recording not supported with clean HDMI. Configure via “HDMI info disp.”

• Notes: Full-frame, improved over the original R6 for video performance.

EOS R8 (February 2023)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean 4K/FHD output.”

• Notes: Compact full-frame, great for vloggers and streamers.

EOS R5 Mark II (July 2024)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p (8K support for external recorders). Configure via “HDMI info disp.”

• Notes: Flagship mirrorless, ideal for cinematic productions.

EOS R1 (July 2024)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p. Set “HDMI info disp” to “Clean 4K/FHD output.”

• Notes: Top-tier mirrorless, built for professional sports and video.

EOS R50V (April 2025)

• Clean HDMI output at 4K and 1080p. Configure via “HDMI info disp.”

• Compact APS-C camera specialized for video

Screen Menus For Clean HDMI Settings

Over the years, Canon has changed it's menus around clean HDMI. We'll attempt to go through those we could find.

EOS 7D Mark II

EOS R, EOS 5D Mark IV, EOS-1D X Mark III  Clean HDMI Settings

EOS 250D, EOS 850D, EOS M200, EOS M50 Mark II Clean HDMI Settings

Canon EOS R, EOS RP, EOS R5 and EOS R6 Clean HDMI Settings

EOS 90D, EOS M6 Mark II  Clean HDMI Settings

Richard @ CanonNewsRichard @ CanonNews

Richard has been using Canon cameras since the 1990s, with his first being the now legendary EOS-3. Since then, Richard has continued to use Canon cameras and now focuses mostly on infrared photography. Richard is the founder and editor of CanonNews since 2017, and has worked as a writer on CanonRumors and other websites in the past.

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