CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon D780 — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
DSLR · 30.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
75
SCORE
$1,399.99
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D780
Nikon
Nikon D780
DSLR · 25 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
81
SCORE
$1,746.95
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS 5D Mark IVD780
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
25/08/201612/02/2020
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 151 x 116 x 76 mm144 x 116 x 76 mm
Camera weight 890 g850 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
30.4 MP05025 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6720 x 44806048 x 4024
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.
7 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
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 6+Expeed 6
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.
320003003280000512003003280000
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.
10240030032800002048003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
304408090044080
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.
610300510300
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.
4K4K
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.
4096 x 21603840 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.
120 fps120 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, MP4MPEG-4, MOV
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 LCDTFT 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.
1620000115000150000023590001150001500000
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 (UHS-I compatible), Compact FlashSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NEN-EL15b
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
900 shots15050002260 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D780 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with a score of 81/100 compared to 75/100. Both DSLR cameras share similarities in size and weight, with the Canon measuring 151 x 116 x 76mm and weighing 890g, while the Nikon is slightly smaller at 144 x 116 x 76mm and lighter at 850g.

The Nikon D780 excels with its lower launch price of $2299 compared to the Canon’s $3500, making it a more cost-effective option. Additionally, the Nikon D780 is a newer model, released in 2020, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV was launched in 2016.

However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV still offers excellent performance and has a loyal user base. While it may not be the winner in this comparison, it remains a solid choice for many photographers.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D780 proves to be a better value option with its lower price and newer technology, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV holds its ground as a reliable and well-loved camera.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon D780 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D780 wins in optics with a score of 77/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV scores 76/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and the lack of image stabilization. They also have proprietary lens mounts, with the Canon using the EF mount and the Nikon using the F mount.

The Nikon D780 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in a few areas. It has a faster shooting speed, offering 12 frames per second compared to the Canon’s 7. Additionally, the D780 has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 97, as opposed to the 5D Mark IV’s score of 91. This higher sensor performance results in better image quality.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a higher megapixel count at 30.4, compared to the Nikon D780’s 25 megapixels. This allows the Canon to capture more details in images. The 5D Mark IV also uses the Digic 6+ processor, which provides fast and efficient processing of images.

Despite the Canon’s higher megapixel count, the Nikon D780 slightly edges it out in overall optics performance due to its faster shooting speed and superior sensor performance. Both cameras are excellent choices for photographers, but the Nikon D780 takes the lead in this comparison.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon D780 Video Performance

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and the Nikon D780 share the same video score of 91/100, indicating a close competition between the two cameras in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras offer 4K video resolution and support a maximum video frame rate of 120fps. Additionally, they both have built-in time-lapse functionality.

However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has an edge over the Nikon D780 in terms of maximum video dimensions, offering 4096 x 2160 pixels compared to the Nikon’s 3840 x 2160 pixels. This difference results in slightly higher video quality for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, making it the winner in this aspect.

On the other hand, the Nikon D780 does not have any specific advantages over the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in the video department. Both cameras have identical video scores and share many of the same features, with the only notable difference being the maximum video dimensions.

In comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and the Nikon D780, it is clear that the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a slight advantage due to its higher maximum video dimensions. This results in better video quality for the Canon camera. However, the Nikon D780 still offers excellent video performance, matching the Canon in most other aspects. Ultimately, both cameras are strong options for those seeking high-quality video capabilities, with the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV holding a minor advantage in video dimensions.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon D780 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D780 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in features, scoring 87/100 compared to the Canon’s 74/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size and touchscreen capabilities. Furthermore, both cameras offer Wi-Fi connectivity, making it easy to transfer images and control the camera remotely.

The Nikon D780 surpasses the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in several aspects. Its screen resolution is higher, with 2,359,000 dots, compared to the Canon’s 1,620,000 dots, providing a sharper and more detailed display. Additionally, the D780 has a flip screen, giving more flexibility in shooting angles and composition. The presence of Bluetooth in the D780 also makes it more convenient to connect and share images with other devices.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a GPS feature, which the Nikon D780 lacks. This allows for geotagging of images and helps photographers track their shooting locations. However, this advantage may not be significant for all users, depending on their needs and preferences.

In terms of features, the Nikon D780 proves to be a better camera than the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, thanks to its higher screen resolution, flip screen, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV does offer GPS functionality, but this may not be a deciding factor for many photographers. Considering these points, the Nikon D780 emerges as the more feature-rich and versatile option of the two.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon D780 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D780 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in storage and battery, scoring 97/100 compared to Canon’s 71/100. Both cameras share the same number of memory card slots, which is two. However, the Nikon D780 accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) memory cards, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible) and Compact Flash cards.

The Nikon D780’s battery life is significantly longer, lasting for 2260 shots compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV’s 900 shots. Additionally, the Nikon D780 uses the EN-EL15b battery type and offers USB charging, making it more convenient for on-the-go users. In contrast, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV uses the LP-E6N battery type and does not support USB charging.

Despite its lower score, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has the advantage of supporting Compact Flash cards, providing an additional storage option for users. However, the Nikon D780’s superior battery life and USB charging capabilities make it the better choice for those prioritizing storage and battery performance.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon D780 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon D780 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 IV or the Nikon D780: