CameraReview

Canon EOS R5 vs Nikon Z8 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Canon EOS R5
Canon
Canon EOS R5
Mirrorless · 45 MP · Full Frame · 8K video
94
SCORE
$2,599
best of 4 retailers
Best Price →
Nikon Z8
Nikon
Nikon Z8
Mirrorless · 46 MP · Full Frame · 8K video
79
SCORE
$3,696.95
best of 3 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS R5Z8
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202023
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
30/07/202010/05/2023
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 138 x 98 x 88 mm144 x 119 x 83 mm
Camera weight 680 g910 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
45 MP05046 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
8192 x 54648256 x 5504
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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.
23.9 x 35.935.9 x 23.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
20 fps04530 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 RFNikon Z
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic XExpeed 7
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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
100302003230200
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.
5120030032800001024003003280000
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.
100302003230200
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.
10240030032800001024003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
304408090044080
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.
8000800320003200080032000
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.
105303004930300
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 576000009900000368640009900000
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.
8K8K
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.
8192 x 43207680 x 4320
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 fps120 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.
MP4MOV, H.264, H.265
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 LCDLCD
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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2100000115000150000020889601150001500000
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-II compatible), CFexpressSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress, XQD
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NHEN-EL15c
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
320 shots1505000340 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Nikon Z8 with a score of 86/100 compared to 79/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2020 and 2023, respectively. They share similarities in their launch prices, with the R5 at $4499 and the Z8 at $3999.

The EOS R5 excels with its compact size (138 x 98 x 88mm) and lighter weight (680g), making it more convenient for photographers on the go. On the other hand, the Nikon Z8 is slightly larger (144 x 119 x 83mm) and heavier (910g), which may offer better stability during shooting.

Despite the higher score, the Z8 has its advantages, like a lower price, making it a more budget-friendly option. Each camera offers unique benefits, with the R5 providing better portability and the Z8 offering a more affordable choice for photographers.

Canon EOS R5 vs Nikon Z8 Overview and Optics

The Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z8 both have an optics score of 88/100, indicating they are closely matched in terms of optical performance. Both cameras share several key specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full frame sensor size, and built-in image stabilisation. Additionally, both feature their respective lens mounts, with the Canon EOS R5 utilizing the Canon RF mount and the Nikon Z8 using the Nikon Z mount.

Despite their similar scores, the Canon EOS R5 has certain advantages over the Nikon Z8. The R5 features a Digic X processor, which is known for its fast processing speed and excellent image quality. This camera also boasts a respectable 45-megapixel resolution and a shooting speed of 20 frames per second, which is suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z8 outperforms the Canon EOS R5 in some areas. It has a slightly higher resolution with 46 megapixels, and a faster shooting speed of 30 frames per second. The Z8 also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 98, compared to the R5’s score of 95. This suggests that the Nikon Z8 may produce better image quality and dynamic range. Furthermore, the Nikon Z8 features the Expeed 7 processor, which is also known for its fast and efficient performance.

Taking these factors into consideration, it is clear that both the Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z8 offer high-quality optics and performance. The Canon EOS R5 may be more suitable for those who prioritize processor capabilities, while the Nikon Z8 could be a better choice for those seeking higher resolution and faster shooting speeds. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and specific needs.

Canon EOS R5 vs Nikon Z8 Video Performance

Both the Canon EOS R5 and the Nikon Z8 achieve a perfect video score of 100/100, highlighting their impressive video capabilities. The two cameras share many common specifications, including 8K maximum video resolution, 120fps maximum video frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality. These features make them suitable for professional videography and high-quality video production.

The Canon EOS R5 edges ahead with its higher maximum video dimensions of 8192 x 4320 compared to the Nikon Z8’s 7680 x 4320. This difference results in slightly better video quality, providing more detail and clarity in the footage captured by the EOS R5. This advantage makes the Canon EOS R5 the better choice for videographers who prioritize resolution and image quality in their work.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z8 still offers remarkable video performance with its 8K resolution and 120fps frame rate. While it may not surpass the Canon EOS R5 in terms of video dimensions, it remains a strong contender for those who require high-quality video capabilities. The Z8’s performance should not be overlooked and may be more than sufficient for most videographers’ needs.

Taking these points into consideration, the Canon EOS R5 emerges as the superior option for videographers who prioritize maximum video dimensions and overall image quality. However, the Nikon Z8 remains a competitive choice for professionals who require exceptional video capabilities without the need for the highest possible video dimensions. Both cameras are undoubtedly impressive, but the Canon EOS R5’s slight advantage in video dimensions makes it the preferred choice for those focused on video quality.

Canon EOS R5 vs Nikon Z8 Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R5 wins in the features comparison with a score of 87/100, while the Nikon Z8 scores 61/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size, touchscreen capability, absence of GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, there are also notable differences that set them apart.

The Canon EOS R5 outperforms the Nikon Z8 in multiple areas. Firstly, the EOS R5 has a slightly higher screen resolution at 2,100,000 dots, compared to the Z8’s 2,088,960 dots. This difference results in a marginally better display quality for the EOS R5. Secondly, the EOS R5 features a flip screen, enhancing its versatility for various shooting angles and situations. Lastly, the EOS R5 includes Bluetooth connectivity, providing an additional option for users to connect and transfer files with ease.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z8 falls short in a few aspects. It lacks a flip screen, which limits its flexibility in certain shooting scenarios. Additionally, the Z8 does not have Bluetooth connectivity, which may inconvenience some users who prefer this mode of connection.

Despite these differences, both cameras offer impressive specifications and features for photographers. The Canon EOS R5 stands out with its higher feature score, flip screen, and Bluetooth connectivity, making it a more versatile and user-friendly option. Conversely, the Nikon Z8 still provides a solid set of features, though it may not be as well-rounded as the EOS R5. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras will depend on the user’s preferences and priorities in terms of features and functionality.

Canon EOS R5 vs Nikon Z8 Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z8 both score 68/100 in storage and battery, indicating no clear winner. Both cameras feature two memory card slots and accept SD, SDHC, SDXC (UHS-II compatible), and CFexpress cards. USB charging is also available on both models.

The Canon EOS R5 has a battery life of 320 shots and uses an LP-E6NH battery, while the Nikon Z8 has a slightly longer battery life of 340 shots and utilizes an N-EL15c battery. This difference in battery life gives the Nikon Z8 a slight advantage in this category.

However, the Nikon Z8 also accepts XQD memory cards, offering additional flexibility in storage options compared to the Canon EOS R5. This feature makes the Nikon Z8 slightly superior in terms of storage capabilities.

Despite these minor differences, both cameras perform similarly in storage and battery capacities. Users should consider other factors, such as optics, video, and features, when deciding between the two models.

Canon EOS R5 vs Nikon Z8 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R5 vs Nikon Z8 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS R5 or the Nikon Z8: