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Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D810 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 5D Mark III

canon eos 5d mark iii
65%

Nikon D810

nikon d810
Winner!
72%
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
vs
Nikon D810
Price
Brand
Canon
Nikon
Model
EOS 5D Mark III
D810
Released
2012
2014
Announcement Date
March 02, 2012
June 26, 2014
Camera Type
DSLR
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a score of 72/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2012 and 2014, respectively, and have similar dimensions and weight. They both cater to professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.

The Nikon D810’s edge over the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is partially due to its lower launch price of $3300 compared to the Canon’s $3499. Additionally, the Nikon D810 has a higher overall score, which reflects its better performance and features.

However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III is not without its merits. It is slightly lighter at 950g compared to the Nikon D810’s 980g, which can be an advantage for photographers who prefer a lighter gear.

Taking into account the scores, pricing, and weight differences, the Nikon D810 emerges as the winner in this comparison. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III remains a solid option for those who prioritize a lighter camera.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D810 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in optics with a score of 76/100 compared to the Canon’s 67/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and the absence of image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras have their respective lens mounts, with the Canon utilizing the EF mount and the Nikon using the F FX mount.

The Nikon D810 excels with its 36.3-megapixel sensor, providing higher resolution images than the Canon’s 22.3-megapixel sensor. This higher resolution allows for more detailed images and better image quality. Moreover, the D810’s Expeed 4 processor contributes to better overall performance and faster processing times. The Nikon also boasts a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 97, compared to the Canon’s 81, indicating better overall image quality and sensor performance.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III has a slightly faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second, compared to the Nikon’s 5 frames per second. This could be advantageous for capturing fast-moving subjects or action shots. However, this slight advantage is not enough to outweigh the benefits of the Nikon D810’s superior optics.

Comparing the optics of these two cameras, it is clear that the Nikon D810 provides better image quality and performance due to its higher megapixel count, superior processor, and higher DXOMARK sensor score. While the Canon EOS 5D Mark III offers a marginal advantage in shooting speed, the Nikon D810 is the better choice for photographers seeking top-notch image quality and overall performance.

Optics
Optics
67%
76%
Megapixels
22.3 MP
36.3 MP
Image Resolution
5760 x 3840 px
7360 x 4912 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 36 mm
24 x 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
6 fps
5 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF
Nikon F FX
Image Processor
Digic 5+
Expeed 4
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
64
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
32,000
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
32
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
102400
51200
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
61
51
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Optical (tunnel)

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D810 Video Performance

The Nikon D810 emerges as the winner in the video capabilities comparison, boasting a higher video score of 70/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III secures a score of 56/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as Full HD maximum video resolution, 1920 x 1080 maximum video dimensions, and a 60fps maximum video frame rate. However, the Nikon D810 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in certain aspects.

The winning camera, the Nikon D810, has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Canon EOS 5D Mark III lacks. This feature allows the Nikon D810 users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software. Consequently, the Nikon D810’s higher video score reflects its superior performance in this area.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, despite having a lower video score, could still perform well in certain situations. However, based on the given specifications, there is no clear advantage for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III over the Nikon D810 in terms of video capabilities.

Taking all the points into consideration, the Nikon D810 is the superior camera for video capabilities, primarily due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III, although not as strong in this area, still offers decent video performance for users who may not require advanced features such as time-lapse.

Video
Video
56%
70%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
60 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MOV

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D810 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III and Nikon D810 are both great cameras, but the Nikon D810 comes out ahead with a feature score of 73/100, compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s score of 59/100.

Both cameras have a 3.2-inch screen, but the Nikon D810 offers a higher screen resolution of 1,229,000 dots, compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark III’s 1,040,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen or flip screen, and both lack GPS and Bluetooth capabilities. The only connectivity difference is that the Nikon D810 has Wi-Fi, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark III does not.

The Nikon D810’s higher feature score is due to its better screen resolution and Wi-Fi capabilities, which enhance user experience and make transferring photos more convenient. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III, despite having a lower feature score, is still a reliable camera with a solid screen size and resolution. However, it lacks Wi-Fi, which may be a deal-breaker for some users who prioritize easy photo sharing and transfer.

To sum up, the Nikon D810 offers a better feature set with its higher screen resolution and Wi-Fi capabilities, earning it a higher feature score. The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a strong contender with its similar screen size, but it falls behind due to its lower screen resolution and lack of Wi-Fi. Choosing between these two cameras ultimately depends on the user’s priorities and preferences in features.

Features
Features
59%
59%
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
1,229,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D810 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D810 edges out the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in storage and battery, scoring 79/100 compared to the Canon’s 76/100. Both cameras share similar specifications in this category. Each has two memory card slots, accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC, Compact Flash, and UDMA cards. Additionally, neither camera offers USB charging.

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in battery life, providing 1200 shots per charge, whereas the Canon manages 950 shots. The D810 uses an EN-EL15 battery, while the 5D Mark III relies on an LP-E6 battery.

There are no significant advantages for the Canon EOS 5D Mark III in this comparison. The Nikon D810’s longer battery life makes it the better choice for extended shooting sessions, ensuring photographers can capture more images before needing to replace or recharge the battery.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
76%
79%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E6
EN-EL15
Battery Life
950 shots
1,200 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
81%
97%
Portrait (Color Depth)
24 bits
25.7 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
11.7 EVs
14.8 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2293
2853
Scores

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D810 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark III vs Nikon D810 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 D810:

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