Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
| Brand | Canon | Nikon |
| Model | EOS 80D | D5500 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2016 | 2015 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
18/02/2016 | 06/01/2015 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 139 x 105 x 79 mm | 124 x 97 x 70 mm |
| Camera weight | 730 g | 420 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
24.2 MP050 | 24.2 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
6000 x 4000 | 6000 x 4000 |
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 | 15.6 x 23.5 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | APS-C |
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 fps045 | 5 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 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 6 | 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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
160003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
800080032000 | 400080032000 |
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. |
450300 | 390300 |
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 (pentamirror) |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A | N/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. |
Full HD | Full HD |
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. |
1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
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. |
60 fps | 60 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, MP4 | 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 | 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 dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
10400001150001500000 | 10370001150001500000 |
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) | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✗ |
| Battery type | LP-E6N | EN-EL14 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
960 shots1505000 | 820 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Canon EOS 80D edges out the Nikon D5500 with a score of 64/100 compared to 61/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, released in 2016 and 2015 respectively. They share some common specifications, such as camera type and launch price, with the 80D priced at $1200 and the D5500 at $900.
The Canon EOS 80D has the advantage in size and weight, measuring 139 x 105 x 79mm and weighing 730g (1.61lbs). This larger size may offer better ergonomics and handling for some users. On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 is lighter and more compact, measuring 124 x 97 x 70mm and weighing 420g (0.93lbs), making it easier to carry around.
Considering these specifications, the Canon EOS 80D offers a slightly better overall experience, while the Nikon D5500 may be more suitable for those looking for a lighter and more portable option.
The Nikon D5500 wins the optics comparison with a score of 65/100, while the Canon EOS 80D scores slightly lower at 63/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as having 24.2 megapixels, a CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, and no image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras use different processors, with the Canon 80D using a Digic 6 processor and the Nikon D5500 using an Expeed 4 processor.
The Nikon D5500 is better in terms of its sensor performance, as it has a higher DXOMARK score of 84 compared to the Canon 80D’s score of 79. This advantage enables the Nikon D5500 to produce better image quality. Furthermore, the Nikon D5500 uses a Nikon F DX lens mount, which provides a wide range of compatible lenses for various purposes.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS 80D has a faster shooting speed of 7 frames per second, compared to the Nikon D5500’s 5 frames per second. This feature makes the Canon 80D more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports and wildlife photography. Additionally, the Canon 80D uses a Canon EF-S lens mount, which also offers a broad selection of lenses.
In terms of optics, the Nikon D5500 is a better choice due to its higher sensor performance. However, the Canon EOS 80D’s faster shooting speed may be more appealing to photographers who prioritize capturing fast-moving subjects. Both cameras have a wide range of compatible lenses, making them versatile options for various types of photography.
The Canon EOS 80D and Nikon D5500 both have a video score of 70/100, indicating that their video capabilities are evenly matched. They share some common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution, maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.
However, there are areas where one camera may outperform the other. For the Canon EOS 80D, its advantages lie in its autofocus system, which is known for being fast and accurate. This feature is crucial for capturing high-quality video, as it ensures that the subjects remain in focus throughout the recording. Additionally, the Canon EOS 80D has a slightly larger and more ergonomic body, which can make it more comfortable to hold during extended video shoots.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 has a smaller and lighter body compared to the Canon EOS 80D, making it more portable and easier to carry around during travel or outdoor shoots. Its touchscreen capabilities also make it more user-friendly, allowing for quicker adjustments to settings while recording video. However, it should be noted that the Nikon D5500’s autofocus system may not be as efficient as the Canon EOS 80D’s.
Taking these factors into consideration, it is clear that both cameras offer solid video capabilities with a few advantages unique to each model. The Canon EOS 80D is a better choice for those who prioritize autofocus performance and ergonomics, while the Nikon D5500 is ideal for users who value portability and ease of use with its touchscreen interface. Ultimately, the decision will come down to individual preferences and the specific requirements of the user.
The Canon EOS 80D wins the features comparison with a score of 70/100, while the Nikon D5500 scores 59/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi connectivity, and the lack of GPS and Bluetooth.
The Canon EOS 80D has a slightly higher screen resolution at 1,040,000 dots compared to the Nikon D5500’s resolution of 1,037,000 dots. This difference gives the Canon EOS 80D a marginally better display, providing clearer images and easier navigation through menus. Furthermore, the EOS 80D’s higher feature score indicates its overall superiority in terms of performance and functionality.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5500 has a larger screen size at 3.2 inches, compared to the Canon EOS 80D’s 3-inch screen. This larger screen allows for better framing and easier use of the touchscreen, providing a more enjoyable experience for the user. However, this advantage does not compensate for the overall lower feature score of the Nikon D5500.
In conclusion, the Canon EOS 80D is the better camera in terms of features, as evidenced by its higher score. Its slightly higher screen resolution offers a better viewing experience, and its overall performance and functionality surpass that of the Nikon D5500. While the Nikon D5500 has a larger screen size, which may be preferable for some users, it does not outweigh the advantages offered by the Canon EOS 80D.
The Canon EOS 80D outperforms the Nikon D5500 in storage and battery with a score of 43/100, while the Nikon D5500 scores 35/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Neither camera has USB charging capabilities.
The Canon EOS 80D’s superior score is due to its longer battery life, lasting for 960 shots compared to the Nikon D5500’s 820 shots. The 80D uses an LP-E6N battery, providing more shooting time before needing a recharge.
The Nikon D5500, although scoring lower, still offers a decent battery life of 820 shots using its EN-EL14 battery. This difference in battery life may not be significant for some users, depending on their shooting habits and requirements.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 80D proves to be the better choice in terms of storage and battery life, providing users with a longer-lasting shooting experience.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 80D or the Nikon D5500: