Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 65
SCORE
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✓ WINNER
 69
SCORE
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|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Canon | Nikon |
| Model | EOS 5D Mark III | D800 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2012 | 2012 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
02/03/2012 | 07/02/2012 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 152 x 116 x 76 mm | 146 x 123 x 82 mm |
| Camera weight | 950 g | 1000 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
22.3 MP050 | 36.3 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
5760 x 3840 | 7360 x 4912 |
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 | 24 x 35.9 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Full Frame | Full 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 fps045 | 4 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 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 5+ | Expeed 3 |
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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 64003003280000 |
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. |
5030200 | 5030200 |
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. |
1024003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
800080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
610300 | 510300 |
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/A | N/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 HD | Full HD |
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 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
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 fps | 30 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. |
MOV | MPEG |
| 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 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 dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
10400001150001500000 | 9210001150001500000 |
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, UDMA | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Compact Flash |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery type | LP-E6 | EN-EL15 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
950 shots1505000 | 900 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Nikon D800 edges out the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a score of 69/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2012, and have similar dimensions and weight. The Canon 5D Mark III is slightly lighter at 950g, while the Nikon D800 weighs 1000g.
The Nikon D800 is superior in terms of launch price, costing $2999 compared to the Canon’s $3499. This makes it a more affordable option with a higher score. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is better in terms of size and weight, making it more portable and easier to handle.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D800 offers better value for money with its lower price and higher score, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III provides the advantage of a lighter and more compact body.
The Nikon D800 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in optics with a score of 74/100, compared to the Canon’s 67/100. Both cameras share some similar specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, and the absence of image stabilization. They also have their respective lens mounts – the Canon EF for the EOS 5D Mark III and the Nikon F FX for the D800.
The D800’s higher score is primarily due to its superior 36.3-megapixel resolution, compared to the 5D Mark III’s 22.3 megapixels. This difference in resolution allows the D800 to capture more detail and produce larger prints. Additionally, the Nikon D800 boasts a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 95, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III scores 81. This indicates that the D800’s sensor performs better in terms of color depth, dynamic range, and low-light capabilities.
However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has its advantages as well. The camera has a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second, compared to the D800’s 4 frames per second. This makes the 5D Mark III more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports and wildlife photography. Furthermore, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is equipped with a more advanced Digic 5+ processor, which contributes to faster image processing and better overall performance.
To conclude, the Nikon D800 excels in resolution and sensor performance, making it ideal for photographers who prioritize image quality and detail. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a better choice for those who require faster shooting speeds and better performance in fast-paced situations. Both cameras offer solid optics, but the choice depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
The Nikon D800 wins the video capabilities comparison with a score of 57/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III scores 56/100. Both cameras share the same maximum video resolution of Full HD and video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, they differ in their maximum video frame rate and time-lapse functionality.
The Nikon D800 has a clear advantage in time-lapse functionality, as it is built into the camera. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional software or equipment. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III does not have built-in time-lapse functionality, which may be a disadvantage for those looking to create time-lapse videos.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III, however, does have a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Nikon D800’s 30fps. This means that the Canon EOS 5D Mark III can capture smoother video, particularly in fast-moving scenes or when slow-motion effects are desired. The Nikon D800’s lower frame rate may result in less smooth video in certain situations.
In conclusion, the Nikon D800 has an edge in video capabilities due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s higher maximum video frame rate provides smoother video capture, making it a strong contender as well. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the individual user’s priorities and preferences in video features.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III wins in the features comparison with a score of 59/100, while the Nikon D800 scores slightly lower at 57/100. Both cameras share several specifications, making them comparable in many aspects. They both have a 3.2-inch screen, lack a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and Bluetooth.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Nikon D800 in screen resolution, providing 1,040,000 dots compared to the Nikon’s 921,000 dots. This higher resolution offers a clearer and sharper display for reviewing images and navigating the camera’s menu. The 5D Mark III’s higher feature score reflects this advantage over the Nikon D800.
On the other hand, the Nikon D800 boasts a feature that the Canon EOS 5D Mark III lacks: WiFi connectivity. This allows users to transfer images wirelessly and control the camera remotely, adding convenience and flexibility to the shooting experience. Despite its slightly lower feature score, the Nikon D800’s WiFi capability makes it a strong contender.
In comparing the Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Nikon D800, each camera has its strengths. The 5D Mark III’s higher screen resolution provides a better viewing experience, while the D800’s WiFi connectivity offers additional convenience. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on the individual photographer’s priorities and preferences.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark III outperforms the Nikon D800 in storage and battery with a score of 76/100 compared to 71/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC and Compact Flash cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The 5D Mark III has a longer battery life of 950 shots, using the LP-E6 battery type, which surpasses the D800’s 900 shots with its EN-EL15 battery. This advantage allows Canon users to capture more images before needing to replace the battery.
Despite its lower score, the Nikon D800 has the edge in memory card compatibility, as it supports UHS-I compatible SD cards, enabling faster data transfer rates. This can be beneficial for photographers who require quick data transfer for their workflow.
In terms of storage and battery, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III proves to be the better choice due to its longer battery life. However, the Nikon D800’s compatibility with UHS-I SD cards may appeal to some users who prioritize data transfer speed.
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 D800:
