Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs Nikon D3400 Comparison
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
Nikon D3400
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS 1D X Mark II | D3400 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2016 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 02, 2016 | August 17, 2016 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II outperforms the Nikon D3400 with a score of 73/100 versus 61/100. Both cameras are DSLRs released in 2016, with the Canon having a launch price of $6,000 and the Nikon at $650. They share similarities in camera type, but the Canon excels in many aspects.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II has a larger size (158 x 168 x 83mm) and heavier weight (1530g) compared to the Nikon D3400 (124 x 98 x 76mm and 445g). This difference in size and weight contributes to the Canon’s superior performance and durability.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3400’s smaller size and lighter weight make it more portable and easier to handle for beginners. Its lower price point also appeals to those on a budget or just starting in photography.
In essence, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is a better camera for professionals seeking top performance, while the Nikon D3400 is a more accessible option for beginners or those prioritizing portability and budget.
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs Nikon D3400 Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II outperforms the Nikon D3400 in optics, with a score of 72/100 compared to the Nikon’s 65/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, no image stabilization, and similar megapixel counts (20.2 for Canon and 24.2 for Nikon).
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II’s superiority comes from its full-frame sensor, higher DXOMARK score (88), faster shooting speed (16), and dual Digic 6+ processor. The full-frame sensor provides better image quality and low light performance. The higher DXOMARK score represents better overall image quality. The faster shooting speed allows capturing more frames per second, which is beneficial for sports and action photography. The dual Digic 6+ processor ensures faster image processing and better performance.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3400 has a higher megapixel count (24.2), which could result in more detailed images. However, the camera’s APS-C sensor, lower DXOMARK score (86), and slower shooting speed (5) make it less competitive compared to the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II. The Nikon’s Expeed 4 processor is also less advanced than Canon’s dual Digic 6+ processor.
In terms of optics, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is the clear winner due to its full-frame sensor, higher DXOMARK score, faster shooting speed, and advanced processor. The Nikon D3400 may offer slightly more detailed images with its higher megapixel count, but it falls short in other important aspects. Both cameras have no image stabilization, but the Canon’s superior specifications make it a better choice for photographers who prioritize image quality and performance.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
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Nikon D3400
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.2 MP | 24.2 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5472 x 3648 px | 6000 x 4000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 36 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame |  APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 16 fps | 5 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Canon EF | Nikon F DX | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Dual Digic 6+ | Expeed 4 | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 51,200 | 25,600 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 50 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 409600 | 25600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 61 | 11 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (pentaprism) | Optical (pentamirror) |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs Nikon D3400 Video Performance
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II outperforms the Nikon D3400 in video capabilities with a score of 69/100 compared to the D3400’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 60fps and the lack of built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II excels in video quality due to its 4K resolution, which offers four times the detail of Full HD resolution found in the Nikon D3400. This higher resolution results in sharper and more detailed videos, making the EOS 1D X Mark II a superior choice for professional videography. Additionally, the Canon camera provides a maximum video dimension of 4096 x 2160, which is significantly larger than the Nikon D3400’s 1920 x 1080. This larger dimension allows for more flexibility in framing and cropping during post-production.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3400 does not offer any specific advantages in video capabilities compared to the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II. Its Full HD resolution and maximum video dimension of 1920 x 1080 are standard features found in most entry-level DSLRs.
Considering the specifications and performance, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities, making it a better choice for those who prioritize video quality and post-production flexibility. The Nikon D3400, while lacking in video features, may still be suitable for casual videographers who do not require the advanced capabilities of the EOS 1D X Mark II.
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Video
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
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Nikon D3400
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  4K |  Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 4096 x 2160 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 60 p | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MOV, MP4 | MOV |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs Nikon D3400 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II outperforms the Nikon D3400 in features with a score of 74 out of 100, while the Nikon D3400 scores 54 out of 100.
Both cameras share common specifications, such as lacking a flip screen and WIFI capabilities. However, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II excels with a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the Nikon D3400’s 3-inch screen. The Canon also boasts a higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots, whereas the Nikon has a resolution of 921,000 dots. This results in a clearer and sharper image display on the Canon camera. Furthermore, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II features a touchscreen, making navigation and control more user-friendly. The camera also has GPS functionality, allowing for geotagging of photos.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3400 has its own advantage with built-in Bluetooth capabilities. This feature allows for seamless file transfer and remote control of the camera through compatible devices.
In terms of features, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II is superior due to its larger and higher resolution screen, touchscreen functionality, and GPS capabilities. The Nikon D3400, however, offers a unique advantage with its Bluetooth connectivity. Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the individual’s preferences and requirements.
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Features
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
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Nikon D3400
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | LCD | LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3.2" |  3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,620,000 dots | 921,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs Nikon D3400 Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark II triumphs over the Nikon D3400 in storage and battery with a score of 79/100, a 34-point difference from the D3400’s 45/100. Both cameras share the absence of USB charging capabilities. The 1D X Mark II offers better storage options, with two memory card slots accepting Compact Flash and CFast 2.0 cards, while the D3400 only has one slot for SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. Additionally, the 1D X Mark II has a slightly longer battery life at 1210 shots, compared to the D3400’s 1200 shots.
The 1D X Mark II’s dual memory card slots and support for faster CFast 2.0 cards provide more flexibility and improved performance for professional photographers. The D3400, however, may be more accessible for casual users with its compatibility with widely available SD cards.
In terms of storage and battery, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II proves to be the superior option with its higher score, better storage capabilities, and slightly longer battery life. The Nikon D3400, while not as powerful, remains a suitable choice for casual users with its simpler storage system.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
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Nikon D3400
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Memory Card | Compact Flash, CFast 2.0 | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E19 | EN-EL14a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,210 shots | 1,200 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
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Nikon D3400
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 24.1 bits | 24.8 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 13.5 EVs | 13.9 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 3207 | 1192 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
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Nikon D3400
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark II vs Nikon D3400 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 1D X Mark II or the Nikon D3400:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
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Nikon D3400
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B&H photo video |
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