Canon EOS 70D vs Nikon D5500 Comparison
Canon EOS 70D
Nikon D5500
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS 70D | D5500 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 02, 2013 | January 06, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D5500 edges out the Canon EOS 70D with a score of 61/100 compared to 60/100. Both DSLR cameras share the same release year – 2013 for the Canon and 2015 for the Nikon. The Canon EOS 70D initially retailed at $1199, while the Nikon D5500’s launch price was $900.
The Canon EOS 70D is larger and heavier, measuring 139 x 104 x 79mm and weighing 1.66lbs. This heft may offer a more solid and stable feel during shooting. On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 is lighter and more compact at 0.93lbs and dimensions of 124 x 97 x 70mm, making it more portable and easier to carry around.
Considering the slight difference in scores, the Nikon D5500 is the winner for its better portability and affordability. However, the Canon EOS 70D still has merit for those who prefer a more substantial camera.
Canon EOS 70D vs Nikon D5500 Overview and Optics
The Nikon D5500 outperforms the Canon EOS 70D in optics, scoring 65/100 compared to the 70D’s 58/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, and a lack of image stabilization. However, the D5500 has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 84, compared to the 70D’s 68, and boasts 24.2 megapixels, while the 70D has 20.2 megapixels.
The Nikon D5500’s higher DXOMARK score and increased megapixels contribute to its superior image quality. Its Expeed 4 processor also provides better performance than the 70D’s Digic 5+ processor. The D5500’s Nikon F DX lens mount offers compatibility with a wide range of lenses, allowing for greater versatility and creative options.
Despite losing in overall optics, the Canon EOS 70D has its advantages, particularly in shooting speed. With a shooting speed of 7 frames per second (fps), it surpasses the D5500’s 5 fps. This makes the 70D more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports and wildlife photography. The 70D’s Canon EF-S lens mount also provides access to Canon’s extensive collection of lenses.
Considering the optics, the Nikon D5500 stands out for its superior image quality and versatile lens options. However, the Canon EOS 70D’s faster shooting speed makes it a strong competitor for specific photography needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and the intended use of the camera.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5500
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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 | 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. | 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 D5500 Video Performance
The Nikon D5500 emerges as the superior camera in terms of video capabilities, outscoring the Canon EOS 70D by 27 points with a video score of 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications such as Full HD max video resolution and max video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, the Nikon D5500 excels in certain aspects, making it the better choice for video recording.
One of the key advantages of the Nikon D5500 is its higher max video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Canon EOS 70D’s 30fps. This allows for smoother and more detailed video footage, particularly in fast-moving scenes. Additionally, the Nikon D5500 comes with built-in time-lapse functionality, which enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for external accessories or software.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 70D does not offer any significant advantages in video capabilities over the Nikon D5500. Its lower video score of 43/100 and the absence of built-in time-lapse functionality make it less appealing for those seeking a camera primarily for video recording.
Taking these factors into consideration, it is clear that the Nikon D5500 outperforms the Canon EOS 70D in the realm of video capabilities. With a higher video score, smoother frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality, the Nikon D5500 is the better choice for videographers and those looking to capture high-quality video footage.
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Video
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5500
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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 D5500 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 70D outperforms the Nikon D5500 with a feature score of 70/100, a difference of 11 points compared to the Nikon’s 59/100. Both cameras share several features, including a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS absence, WIFI connectivity, and lack of Bluetooth. However, there are differences that make the Canon EOS 70D a better choice.
The Canon EOS 70D boasts a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, slightly above the Nikon D5500’s 1,037,000 dots, providing a sharper image display. Additionally, the Canon EOS 70D’s 3-inch screen size is only marginally smaller than the Nikon D5500’s 3.2-inch screen. These factors contribute to the Canon EOS 70D’s higher feature score.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 also has some advantages. Its larger 3.2-inch screen size offers a slightly bigger display for image previews and menu navigation. Despite a marginally lower screen resolution, the difference is minimal, and the Nikon D5500 still delivers excellent image quality on its display.
Taking these factors into account, it is evident that the Canon EOS 70D is a superior camera in terms of features. Its higher screen resolution and overall feature score make it a better choice for photographers seeking a more advanced camera. The Nikon D5500, however, remains a viable option for those who prioritize a larger screen size and are less concerned with the minor difference in screen resolution.
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Features
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5500
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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 D5500 Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS 70D outperforms the Nikon D5500 in storage and battery with a score of 37/100, while the Nikon D5500 scores 35/100. Both cameras share the same storage specifications, having one memory card slot and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, neither camera offers USB charging.
The Canon EOS 70D has a better battery life, providing 920 shots per charge compared to the Nikon D5500’s 820 shots. This longer battery life is due to the Canon’s LP-E6 battery type. On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 uses an EN-EL14 battery, which results in a shorter battery life.
Although the Canon EOS 70D has a slightly higher score and longer battery life, the Nikon D5500 still offers decent battery performance and identical storage options. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s preferences and needs, but the Canon EOS 70D does hold a slight advantage in the storage and battery category.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5500
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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-EL14 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 920 shots | 820 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5500
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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 | 24.1 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 | 14 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 | 1438 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5500
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Alternatives to the Canon EOS 70D and Nikon D5500
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 D5500:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 70D
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Nikon D5500
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B&H photo video |
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