Canon EOS 5DS R vs Nikon D850 Comparison
Canon EOS 5DS R
Nikon D850
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS 5DS R | D850 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2015 | 2017 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 06, 2015 | August 23, 2017 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
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Camera Weight |
The Nikon D850 emerges as the winner with a score of 82/100, while the Canon EOS 5DS R trails behind at 68/100. Both cameras are DSLRs and share similar dimensions, with the Nikon D850 measuring 146 x 124 x 79mm and the Canon EOS 5DS R at 152 x 116 x 76mm. The Nikon D850 is heavier, weighing 1005g compared to the Canon’s 930g.
The Nikon D850 boasts a lower launch price of $3300, compared to the Canon EOS 5DS R’s $3900. This price difference, along with the higher score, makes the Nikon D850 a more appealing option. However, the Canon EOS 5DS R has a slight advantage in terms of weight, making it easier to carry around.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D850 proves to be a better camera due to its higher score and more affordable price, while the Canon EOS 5DS R offers a lighter option for those prioritizing portability.
Canon EOS 5DS R vs Nikon D850 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D850 outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS R in optics, with a score of 79/100 compared to the Canon’s 73/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and the absence of image stabilization. They also have different lens mounts, with the Canon using an EF mount and the Nikon using an F FX mount.
The higher score of the Nikon D850 is primarily due to its superior sensor and processor. The D850’s sensor has a DXOMARK score of 100, while the Canon 5DS R’s sensor scores an 86. The Nikon also boasts a more advanced processor, the Expeed 5, compared to the Canon’s Dual Digic 6. These factors contribute to the Nikon’s better image quality and overall performance.
The Canon EOS 5DS R has a higher megapixel count at 50.6, compared to the Nikon D850’s 45.7. However, this advantage is somewhat offset by the Nikon’s faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second (fps), as opposed to the Canon’s 5 fps. This makes the Nikon more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography.
While the Canon 5DS R does have a higher megapixel count, the Nikon D850’s superior sensor and processor, along with its faster shooting speed, make it the more capable camera in terms of optics. The Canon’s only advantage in this comparison is its slightly higher resolution, which may not be significant enough to sway potential buyers in its favor. In comparing the optics of these two cameras, the Nikon D850 emerges as the clear winner.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 5DS R
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Nikon D850
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 50.6 MP | 45.7 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. | 8688 x 5792 px | 8256 x 5504 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. | 5 fps | 7 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 F FX | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Dual Digic 6 | 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. |  3:2 | 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 | 64 | |
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. | 6,400 | 25,600 | |
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 | 32 | |
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. | 12800 | 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 | 153 | |
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) | Optical (pentaprism) |
Canon EOS 5DS R vs Nikon D850 Video Performance
The Nikon D850 outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS R in video capabilities, scoring 70 out of 100 compared to the Canon’s 57. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 30fps and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Nikon D850 surpasses the Canon EOS 5DS R in other areas, making it the superior choice for video recording.
The most significant advantage of the Nikon D850 is its 4K video resolution, with maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. This higher resolution provides more detail and clarity in the recorded video, making it ideal for professional videography and high-quality content creation. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5DS R only offers Full HD video resolution with maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, which is not as impressive as the Nikon’s 4K capability.
Despite its lower video score, the Canon EOS 5DS R still has some strong video features, such as its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature is also present in the Nikon D850, allowing both cameras to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment.
In terms of video capabilities, the Nikon D850 is the clear winner due to its 4K video resolution and higher video score. While the Canon EOS 5DS R has some good video features, it falls short in comparison to the Nikon D850’s superior video quality. For users seeking a camera with exceptional video performance, the Nikon D850 is the better choice.
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Video
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Canon EOS 5DS R
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Nikon D850
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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. |  Full HD |  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. | 1920 x 1080 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. | 30 p | 30 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 | MOV, MP4 |
Canon EOS 5DS R vs Nikon D850 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D850 outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS R in features, scoring 87/100 compared to the Canon’s 59/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size and the absence of a flip screen and GPS. However, the Nikon D850 surpasses the Canon EOS 5DS R in several aspects.
The Nikon D850 has a higher screen resolution of 2,359,000 dots, while the Canon EOS 5DS R has only 1,040,000 dots. This difference results in a sharper and clearer display on the Nikon D850. Additionally, the Nikon D850 has a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and easier to navigate compared to the Canon EOS 5DS R, which lacks this feature.
Connectivity is another area where the Nikon D850 outshines the Canon EOS 5DS R. The Nikon D850 comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for seamless file transfer and remote camera control. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5DS R does not offer either of these features, making it less convenient for modern photographers who value wireless connectivity.
Despite these disparities, the Canon EOS 5DS R does not have any significant advantages over the Nikon D850 in terms of features. The Nikon D850’s superior screen resolution, touchscreen, and connectivity options make it the clear winner in this comparison.
Taking all factors into account, the Nikon D850 is the better camera in terms of features. Its higher score reflects its advanced specifications and user-friendly design, making it a more appealing choice for photographers seeking a versatile and technologically advanced camera.
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Features
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Nikon D850
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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. | 1,040,000 dots | 2,359,000 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 5DS R vs Nikon D850 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D850 triumphs over the Canon EOS 5DS R in storage and battery with a score of 84/100 compared to the Canon’s 65/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots, but the Nikon D850 accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) and XQD cards, while the Canon EOS 5DS R is compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible) and Compact Flash cards.
The Nikon D850’s battery life outperforms the Canon EOS 5DS R, providing 1840 shots with its EN-EL15a battery, while the Canon’s LP-E6 battery allows for 700 shots. Neither camera has USB charging.
Though the Canon EOS 5DS R falls short in battery life and memory card compatibility, it still offers versatility in storage options with its dual card slots.
Considering these factors, the Nikon D850 emerges as the superior choice for storage and battery performance, granting users longer shooting time and more advanced memory card compatibility. The Canon EOS 5DS R, while not as strong in this category, still provides adequate storage options for photographers.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 5DS R
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Nikon D850
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Memory Card | SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Compact Flash | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), XQD | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | EN-EL15a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 700 shots | 1,840 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5DS R
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Nikon D850
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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.' | 24.6 bits | 26.4 bits | |
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.' | 12.4 EVs | 14.8 EVs | |
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' | 2308 | 2660 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 5DS R
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Nikon D850
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Alternatives to the Canon EOS 5DS R and Nikon D850
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 5DS R or the Nikon D850:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 5DS R
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Nikon D850
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B&H photo video |
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