CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D5 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
DSLR · 22.3 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
65
SCORE
$696.75
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D5
Nikon
Nikon D5
DSLR · 20.8 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
74
SCORE
$2,615.21
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General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS 5D Mark IIID5
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20122016
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
02/03/201206/01/2016
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 152 x 116 x 76 mm160 x 159 x 92 mm
Camera weight 950 g1415 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
22.3 MP05020.8 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5760 x 38405588 x 3712
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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 3623.9 x 35.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6 fps04512 fps045
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 EFNikon 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 5+Expeed 5
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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
2560030032800001024003003280000
Min 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.
50302005030200
Max 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.
102400300328000032800003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
800080032000800080032000
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.
6103001530300
In-body stabilisation
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)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD4K
Max video format
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.
1920 x 10803840 x 2160
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 fps30 fps
Timelapse 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.
MOVMOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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 LCDLCD
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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000023590001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMACompact Flash, XQD
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6EN-EL18a
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
950 shots15050003780 shots1505000
USB charging

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.

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.

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.

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.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D5 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D5 Comparison image.

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: