Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs Nikon D4s Comparison
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
Nikon D4s
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS 1D X Mark III | D4s | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 07, 2020 | February 25, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Nikon D4s with a score of 75/100 compared to 62/100. Both cameras are DSLR types, launched at the same price of $6500. They share some similarities in their specifications, such as camera type and launch price.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III has the advantage in terms of size and weight, being smaller and lighter at 158 x 168 x 83mm and 738g (1.63lbs) compared to the Nikon D4s at 160 x 157 x 91mm and 1350g (2.98lbs). This makes the Canon model more portable and easier to handle during photography sessions.
The Nikon D4s, being released in 2014, is an older model compared to the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III, which was released in 2020. This age difference may contribute to the lower score of the Nikon D4s. However, the Nikon D4s still maintains its value as a reliable DSLR camera at the same launch price as the Canon model.
Considering the specifications and scores, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III is the superior choice due to its more recent release and lighter, more compact design. The Nikon D4s remains a valid option for those who prioritize other factors or have brand loyalty.
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs Nikon D4s Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III emerges as the winner in the optics comparison, with a score of 74/100, while the Nikon D4s scores 62/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, full frame sensor size, and no image stabilisation. Additionally, they both use their respective brand’s lens mounts – Canon EF for the 1D X Mark III and Nikon F FX for the D4s.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III excels in several aspects. It boasts a higher megapixel count of 20.1, compared to the Nikon D4s’ 16.2 megapixels, allowing for greater detail and image quality. The 1D X Mark III also has a faster shooting speed of 20 frames per second, compared to the D4s’ 11 frames per second, which enables capturing fast-moving subjects more effectively. Furthermore, the 1D X Mark III’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 91, while the D4s’ sensor scores 89, indicating better overall performance.
On the other hand, the Nikon D4s has a few advantages. Its Expeed 4 processor, although not as advanced as the Canon’s Digic X, still delivers reliable performance and image processing capabilities. However, these advantages do not outweigh the benefits offered by the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III stands out as the better camera in terms of optics, with its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, and superior sensor performance. The Nikon D4s, while not a poor performer, falls short in comparison. This analysis highlights the strengths of the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III, making it the preferred choice for photographers seeking exceptional optical performance.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Nikon D4s
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.1 MP | 16.2 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 | 4928 x 3280 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 | 23.9 x 36 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 20 fps | 11 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 FX | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic X | 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. | 102,400 | 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 | 50 | |
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. | 819200 | 409600 | |
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/ 8000 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. | 191 | 51 | |
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 (pentaprism) |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs Nikon D4s Video Performance
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Nikon D4s in video capabilities, scoring 91 out of 100 compared to the Nikon D4s’s score of 70. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having built-in time-lapse functionality, which allows for creating stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III excels with a higher maximum video resolution of 4K (4096 x 2160), while the Nikon D4s only supports Full HD (1920 x 1080). This difference in resolution means that the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III can capture more detailed and sharper videos, providing a significant advantage for filmmakers and videographers who require high-quality footage. Furthermore, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III has a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, twice that of the Nikon D4s’s 60fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother slow-motion effects, offering more creative possibilities for video projects.
Despite the lower score, the Nikon D4s still performs well in video capabilities, especially for photographers who do not require 4K resolution or higher frame rates. The Full HD resolution and 60fps frame rate are sufficient for most casual video shooting and can still produce high-quality footage.
In comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III and the Nikon D4s, the Canon model is the clear winner due to its superior resolution and higher frame rate. However, the Nikon D4s remains a viable option for those who do not require the highest video quality and prefer to prioritize other camera features.
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Video
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Nikon D4s
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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. | 120 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. | MPEG-4, MOV | MOV |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs Nikon D4s Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III outperforms the Nikon D4s with a feature score of 74/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size, no flip screen, WIFI connectivity, and no Bluetooth.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III surpasses the Nikon D4s in several aspects. Firstly, it has a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, providing better image quality on the display. Secondly, it features a touchscreen, which enhances user experience and facilitates menu navigation. Finally, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III has GPS, allowing users to geotag their images and track shooting locations.
On the other hand, the Nikon D4s does not offer any significant advantages over the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III in terms of features. It has a lower screen resolution of 921,000 dots and lacks both a touchscreen and GPS.
Considering these points, the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III emerges as the superior camera in terms of features. Its higher screen resolution, touchscreen, and GPS functionality make it a more versatile and user-friendly option for photographers. In contrast, the Nikon D4s does not provide any notable advantages, making it a less appealing choice in this comparison.
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Features
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Nikon D4s
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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 | TFT 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" | 3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 2,100,000 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 III vs Nikon D4s Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III and Nikon D4s both score 87/100 in storage and battery. They share similarities in having two memory card slots and lacking USB charging capabilities. However, there are differences in memory cards accepted and battery life.
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III accepts CFexpress Type B memory cards. Its battery life is 2850 shots, powered by an LP-E19 battery. In contrast, the Nikon D4s accepts Compact Flash and XQD memory cards. It offers a longer battery life of 3020 shots, using an EN-EL18a battery.
Although the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III has a more advanced memory card format, the Nikon D4s has an advantage in battery life and memory card versatility. Both cameras excel in storage and battery performance, making them strong contenders in the professional photography market.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Nikon D4s
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Memory Card | CFexpress Type B | Compact Flash, XQD | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E19 | EN-EL18a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 2,850 shots | 3,020 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Nikon D4s
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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 | 24.4 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 | 13.3 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 | 3074 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Nikon D4s
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III vs Nikon D4s – 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 III or the Nikon D4s:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
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Nikon D4s
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B&H photo video |
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