Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon Z5 Comparison
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Nikon Z5
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS 5D Mark IV | Z5 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2020 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 25, 2016 | July 21, 2020 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon Z5 wins by a narrow margin, scoring 78/100 compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV‘s 75/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as being released in the 2016-2020 timeframe and having a launch price of over $1000.
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in terms of weight and size, being lighter at 675g and having smaller dimensions (134 x 100.5 x 69.5mm). This makes the Nikon Z5 a more portable option for photographers. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, however, has its advantages, such as being a DSLR, which some photographers prefer over mirrorless cameras like the Nikon Z5.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon Z5 is a better camera for those seeking a lightweight and compact option, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV caters to those who prefer DSLR cameras.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon Z5 Overview and Optics
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in optics, scoring 81/100 compared to the Canon’s 76/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and respective lens mounts (Nikon Z for the Z5 and Canon EF for the 5D Mark IV). However, the Nikon Z5 surpasses the Canon in certain aspects, contributing to its higher score.
The Nikon Z5’s superiority is evident in its DXOMARK sensor score of 97, compared to the Canon’s 91. This difference suggests improved image quality and better low-light performance. Additionally, the Nikon Z5 features image stabilization, providing steadier shots and improved handheld photography. The Canon 5D Mark IV lacks this feature, making it less versatile in challenging shooting conditions.
Despite the lower score, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV excels in other areas. It boasts a higher megapixel count of 30.4, compared to the Nikon Z5’s 24, allowing for more detailed images and better cropping flexibility. Furthermore, the Canon has a faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second, compared to the Z5’s 4.5, making it more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography.
While the Nikon Z5 proves to be the better choice in terms of optics, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has its advantages in resolution and shooting speed. Ultimately, photographers should consider their specific needs and preferences in choosing between these two cameras.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
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Nikon Z5
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 30.4 MP | 24 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6720 x 4480 px | 6016 x 4016 px | |
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 mm | 23.9 x 35.9 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7 fps | 4.5 fps | |
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 Z | |
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. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 32,000 | 51,200 | |
Minimum 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. | 50 | 100 | |
Maximum 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. | 102400 | 102400 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 8000 s | |
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. | 61 | 273 | |
In-body Stabilization 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) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 3,686,400 dots |
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon Z5 Video Performance
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Nikon Z5 in terms of video capabilities, scoring 91 out of 100 compared to the Nikon Z5’s score of 83. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, there are key differences that make the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV a better choice for video recording.
One significant advantage of the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is its higher max video dimensions of 4096 x 2160, compared to the Nikon Z5’s 3840 x 2160. This difference allows the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV to capture more detailed and higher quality videos. Additionally, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a higher max video frame rate of 120fps, which is double the Nikon Z5’s 60fps. This higher frame rate enables the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV to record smoother slow-motion footage and provides more flexibility in post-production.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z5 does not have any significant advantages over the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in the video department. Both cameras have the same 4K max video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality, but the Nikon Z5 falls short in other areas, as mentioned above.
In comparing the two cameras, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the clear winner for video capabilities due to its higher max video dimensions and frame rate. While the Nikon Z5 is still a capable camera, those looking for superior video performance should opt for the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV.
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Video
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Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
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Nikon Z5
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  4K | 4K | |
Max Video Dimensions 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 2160 px | 3840 x 2160 px | |
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 p | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse 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, MP4 | MPEG-4, MOV |
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon Z5 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV wins in the feature comparison with a score of 74/100, while the Nikon Z5 scores 72/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size and touchscreen capability. They also both have WiFi connectivity, allowing for easy transfer of images and remote control of the camera.
The Canon 5D Mark IV outperforms the Nikon Z5 in screen resolution, boasting 1,620,000 dots compared to the Z5’s 1,040,000 dots. This higher resolution results in a clearer and sharper display, making it easier for photographers to review their images and make adjustments. Additionally, the 5D Mark IV has GPS functionality, which the Z5 lacks. This feature enables photographers to geotag their images, providing valuable information about the location where the photos were taken.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z5 offers a flip screen, which the Canon 5D Mark IV does not have. This feature is useful for shooting at different angles and for capturing self-portraits. Furthermore, the Z5 has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless pairing with other devices and additional remote control options.
In terms of features, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV edges out the Nikon Z5 due to its superior screen resolution and the addition of GPS functionality. However, the Nikon Z5 holds its own with the inclusion of a flip screen and Bluetooth connectivity. Photographers should weigh the importance of these features when deciding between the two cameras, considering their specific needs and preferences.
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Features
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Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
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Nikon Z5
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,620,000 dots | 1,040,000 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon Z5 Storage and Battery
The Nikon Z5 wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 73/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV scores 71/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. The Nikon Z5 is compatible with UHS-II cards, offering faster read and write speeds than the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV’s UHS-I compatibility.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, however, has a longer battery life of 900 shots compared to the Nikon Z5’s 470 shots. The Canon also uses an LP-E6N battery, while the Nikon uses an EN-EL15c battery. Despite the shorter battery life, the Nikon Z5 has the advantage of USB charging, which the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV lacks.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon Z5 offers better storage options with its UHS-II compatibility and USB charging, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV provides longer battery life. Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, but the Nikon Z5 edges out the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in this comparison.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
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Nikon Z5
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Compact Flash | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6N | EN-EL15c | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 900 shots | 470 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
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Nikon Z5
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 24.8 bits | N/A | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 13.6 EVs | N/A | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 2995 | N/A |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
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Nikon Z5
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Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Nikon Z5 – Our Verdict
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 Z5:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
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Nikon Z5
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B&H photo video |
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