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The Nikon D5 emerges as the winner with a score of 74/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III trails with 65/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2016 and 2012 respectively. They share similarities in launch prices – $6500 for the Nikon D5 and $3499 for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III.
The Nikon D5 outshines the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with its higher score, indicating better overall performance. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has its advantages, such as being lighter in weight (950g) compared to the Nikon D5 (1415g), making it more portable.
Taking all factors into consideration, the Nikon D5 proves to be the superior camera, but the Canon EOS 5D Mark III remains a viable, lightweight option for those seeking a more budget-friendly choice.
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D5 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D5 emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 72/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III scores 67/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, and the absence of image stabilization. They also have their respective lens mounts – Canon EF for the 5D Mark III and Nikon F FX for the D5.
The Nikon D5 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in certain aspects. It has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 88, compared to 81 for the 5D Mark III, indicating better overall image quality. The D5 also boasts a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second (fps), double that of the 5D Mark III’s 6 fps. This makes the Nikon D5 a better choice for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has a slightly higher megapixel count of 22.3, compared to the Nikon D5’s 20.8 megapixels. This advantage allows the 5D Mark III to capture more detailed images, which could be beneficial in certain situations, such as landscape and portrait photography. However, this difference is not significant enough to outweigh the advantages of the Nikon D5.
Considering the aspects discussed, the Nikon D5 proves to be the superior camera in terms of optics. Its higher sensor score and faster shooting speed make it the better option for various photography styles, particularly in action and low-light situations. While the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has a slightly higher megapixel count, it does not offer enough advantage to surpass the Nikon D5’s overall performance.
Optics
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Nikon D5
Megapixels
22.3 MP
20.8 MP
Image Resolution
5760 x 3840 px
5588 x 3712 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 36 mm
23.9 x 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
6 fps
12 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF
Nikon F FX
Image Processor
Digic 5+
Expeed 5
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
102,400
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
102400
3280000
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
61
153
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Optical (pentaprism)
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D5 Video Performance
The Nikon D5 emerges as the superior camera in terms of video capabilities, scoring 70/100, as opposed to the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, which scores 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as having a built-in microphone and HDMI output for external recording options.
The Nikon D5 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in several areas. Its maximum video resolution reaches 4K (3840 x 2160), while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III offers only Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. This difference allows the Nikon D5 to capture videos with higher clarity and detail. Additionally, the Nikon D5 includes built-in time-lapse functionality, enabling users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III, however, has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps compared to the Nikon D5’s 30fps. This advantage allows the Canon EOS 5D Mark III to record smoother slow-motion videos, which may be preferred by some users.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Nikon D5 stands out as the better camera for video with its 4K resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III, while lacking these advanced features, does offer a higher maximum frame rate, which may appeal to those seeking smoother slow-motion footage. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras will depend on the specific video requirements and preferences of the user.
Video
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Nikon D5
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
30 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MOV
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D5 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D5 emerges as the winner in this comparison, scoring 74 out of 100 in features, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III scores 59. Both cameras share similarities in specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size, lack of a flip screen, and absence of GPS and Bluetooth capabilities.
The Nikon D5 surpasses the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in several aspects. Its screen resolution, at 2,359,000 dots, is significantly higher than the Canon’s 1,040,000 dots, offering a clearer and sharper display. Additionally, the Nikon D5 has a touchscreen, making navigation and settings adjustments more convenient. Furthermore, the Nikon D5 includes Wi-Fi, allowing for easy image transfer and remote camera control via compatible devices.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III does not outperform the Nikon D5 in any specific feature. However, it is worth considering that the lower feature score does not necessarily mean the camera is inferior in all aspects, as it may excel in other areas not covered in this comparison, such as general specifications, optics, and video capabilities.
In this comparison of features, the Nikon D5 stands out as the superior camera, offering a higher screen resolution, touchscreen, and Wi-Fi capabilities. While the Canon EOS 5D Mark III does not surpass the Nikon D5 in any specific feature, it may still be a viable option for photographers with different priorities or preferences.
Features
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Nikon D5
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3.2"
Screen Resolution
1,040,000 dots
2,359,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth
Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D5 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D5 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in storage and battery with a score of 87/100 compared to 76/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as having two memory card slots and lacking USB charging capabilities. The Canon 5D Mark III accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC, Compact Flash, and UDMA cards, while the Nikon D5 uses Compact Flash and XQD cards.
The Nikon D5 excels in battery life, providing an impressive 3,780 shots per charge with its EN-EL18a battery. On the other hand, the Canon 5D Mark III offers 950 shots using its LP-E6 battery, significantly less than the D5. This makes the Nikon D5 a clear winner in terms of battery performance.
The Canon 5D Mark III does have an advantage in memory card compatibility, accepting a wider variety of cards compared to the Nikon D5. However, this does not outweigh the substantial difference in battery life. Therefore, the Nikon D5 proves to be the superior option in storage and battery capabilities.
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 5D Mark III or the Nikon D5:
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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
If you buy a product through one of our referral links we will earn a commission (without costing you anything).
Prices last updated on .
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.