Canon EOS 70D vs Nikon D5300 Comparison
Canon EOS 70D
Nikon D5300
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS 70D | D5300 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 | 2013 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 02, 2013 | October 17, 2013 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 70D outperforms the Nikon D5300 with a score of 60/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras are DSLR models released in 2013, with the 70D announced on 07/02/2013 and the D5300 on 10/17/2013. They share similar specifications, but the 70D has advantages that contribute to its higher score.
The Canon EOS 70D is larger (139 x 104 x 79mm) and heavier (755g / 1.66lbs) than the Nikon D5300 (125 x 98 x 76mm and 480g / 1.06lbs). This might make the 70D more robust and better suited for professional use. However, the Nikon D5300’s smaller size and lighter weight could be preferable for casual photography and travel.
The Canon EOS 70D’s launch price was $1,199, while the Nikon D5300 was more affordable at $800. Despite the higher price, the 70D’s superior performance justifies the cost for those seeking a more advanced camera. On the other hand, the Nikon D5300 offers good value for those on a tighter budget.
Considering the specifications and performance, the Canon EOS 70D is the better choice for professional use, while the Nikon D5300 is a more budget-friendly option for casual photography.
Canon EOS 70D vs Nikon D5300 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D5300 takes the lead in optics with a score of 65/100, compared to the Canon EOS 70D’s score of 58/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and the lack of image stabilization. However, there are distinct differences that set them apart in terms of optical performance.
The Nikon D5300 boasts a higher megapixel count at 24.2, compared to the Canon EOS 70D’s 20.2 megapixels. This difference allows the Nikon D5300 to capture more detailed and sharper images. Additionally, the Nikon D5300 has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 83, compared to the Canon EOS 70D’s score of 68. This indicates that the Nikon D5300 has better overall image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 70D has a faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second, compared to the Nikon D5300’s 5 frames per second. This advantage makes the Canon EOS 70D better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. Furthermore, the Canon EOS 70D features a Digic 5+ processor, while the Nikon D5300 has an Expeed 4 processor. However, this difference in processors does not significantly impact the overall optics performance.
Both cameras are equipped with different lens mounts – the Canon EOS 70D uses the Canon EF-S mount, while the Nikon D5300 utilizes the Nikon F DX mount. This difference allows users to choose from a wide range of compatible lenses, depending on their specific needs and preferences.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D5300 emerges as the superior camera in terms of optics, due to its higher megapixel count and better sensor performance. However, the Canon EOS 70D’s faster shooting speed may be an advantage for some users, depending on their photography requirements.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5300
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.2 MP | 24.2 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. | 5472 x 3648 px | 6000 x 4000 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. | 15 x 22.5 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
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 | 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-S | Nikon F DX | |
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 4 | |
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. | 12,800 | 12,800 | |
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. | 100 | 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. | 25600 | 25600 | |
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/ 4000 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. | 19 | 39 | |
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 (pentamirror) |
Canon EOS 70D vs Nikon D5300 Video Performance
The Nikon D5300 outperforms the Canon EOS 70D in the video department, with a video score of 70/100 as opposed to the 70D’s 43/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution and max video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, the differences in their video capabilities become apparent when examining their frame rates and additional features.
The Nikon D5300’s superiority in video performance is evident in its higher max video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Canon EOS 70D’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and improved slow-motion footage. In addition, the D5300 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the 70D lacks. This feature enables users to capture stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional equipment or software.
While the Canon EOS 70D falls short in comparison to the Nikon D5300 in terms of video capabilities, it still offers respectable performance with its Full HD resolution and 1920 x 1080 video dimensions. However, the lower frame rate and lack of time-lapse functionality place it at a disadvantage compared to the D5300.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D5300 stands out as the better choice for video enthusiasts, offering smoother playback, better slow-motion capabilities, and the added bonus of built-in time-lapse functionality. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 70D remains a solid option for those who prioritize other features and are satisfied with its video performance despite its limitations.
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Video
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5300
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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 | Full HD | |
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 | 1920 x 1080 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 | 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 | MOV |
Canon EOS 70D vs Nikon D5300 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 70D outperforms the Nikon D5300 with a feature score of 70 out of 100, compared to the Nikon’s score of 46. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a flip screen, Wi-Fi connectivity, and no Bluetooth support. However, the Canon EOS 70D proves to be the better camera in terms of features.
The Canon EOS 70D boasts a touchscreen, which the Nikon D5300 lacks. This feature allows users to navigate menus and settings more efficiently. Additionally, the Canon’s screen resolution is slightly higher at 1,040,000 dots, compared to the Nikon’s 1,037,000 dots. This difference results in a marginally clearer image display on the Canon EOS 70D.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5300 has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the Canon EOS 70D’s 3-inch screen. This size difference provides a slightly more comfortable viewing experience for the Nikon users. Moreover, the Nikon D5300 features GPS functionality, which the Canon EOS 70D does not have. This feature allows Nikon users to geotag their photos, which can be useful for organizing and documenting travel photography.
Despite these advantages, the Nikon D5300’s feature score remains lower than the Canon EOS 70D. The Canon’s touchscreen and higher screen resolution contribute significantly to its superior feature score. The Nikon D5300’s larger screen and GPS functionality do not outweigh the benefits of the Canon EOS 70D’s features. Therefore, the Canon EOS 70D is the better camera in terms of features.
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Features
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5300
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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 | 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" |  3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,040,000 dots | 1,037,000 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 70D vs Nikon D5300 Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 70D wins in the storage and battery category, scoring 37/100 compared to the Nikon D5300’s 29/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Neither camera supports USB charging.
The EOS 70D has a longer battery life, allowing for 920 shots, while the D5300 can only take 600 shots per charge. This difference makes the 70D a better option for extended shooting sessions. The 70D uses an LP-E6 battery, whereas the D5300 uses an EN-EL14a battery.
Despite the lower score, the Nikon D5300 shares the same storage capabilities as the Canon EOS 70D. The main disadvantage of the D5300 is its shorter battery life. When considering storage and battery, the Canon EOS 70D is the superior choice due to its longer battery life, providing more shots per charge.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5300
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | EN-EL14a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 920 shots | 600 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5300
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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.' | 22.5 bits | 24 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.' | 11.6 EVs | 13.9 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' | 926 | 1338 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5300
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Canon EOS 70D vs Nikon D5300 – 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 70D or the Nikon D5300:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5300
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B&H photo video |
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