CameraReview

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D5600 — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
Canon
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D
DSLR · 24 MP · APS-C · 4K video
59
SCORE
$709.95
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Nikon D5600
Nikon
Nikon D5600
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
66
SCORE
$525.26
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General
Brand CanonNikon
Model EOS Rebel T8i / 850DD5600
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202016
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
12/02/202010/11/2016
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 131 x 103 x 76 mm124 x 97 x 70 mm
Camera weight 515 g465 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006000 x 4000
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.
14.9 x 22.315.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-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.
7.5 fps0455 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/EF-SNikon 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 8Expeed 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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
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.
256003003280000256003003280000
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.
1003020010030200
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.
5120030032800001024003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
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.
400080032000400080032000
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.
450300390300
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 (pentamirror)Optical (pentamirror)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/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.
4KFull 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.
3840 x 21601920 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 fps60 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.
MPEG-4MOV
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"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000010370001150001500000
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 (UHS-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E17EN-EL14a
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
800 shots1505000970 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D5600 takes the lead with a score of 66/100, while the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D falls behind with a score of 59/100. Both cameras share the DSLR camera type, and they have similar dimensions. The Canon T8i is slightly larger at 131 x 103 x 76mm and heavier at 515g, compared to the Nikon D5600’s 124 x 97 x 70mm size and 465g weight.

The Canon T8i’s advantage lies in its more recent release year (2020) and higher launch price ($750). However, the Nikon D5600, released in 2016 and priced at $700, still manages to outperform the Canon T8i in terms of overall score.

Considering these factors, the Nikon D5600 is a better camera with a higher score, despite its older release year and lower price. The Canon T8i’s newer release and higher price do not translate to a better performance in this comparison.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D5600 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D5600 outperforms the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D in optics with a score of 65/100, as opposed to the T8i’s 57/100. Both cameras share similarities in specifications, such as 24-megapixel resolution, CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and the lack of image stabilization. However, there are noteworthy differences that contribute to the Nikon D5600’s higher score.

The Nikon D5600 has a slightly higher resolution of 24.2 megapixels compared to the Canon T8i’s 24 megapixels. The Nikon D5600 also boasts a significantly higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 84, while the Canon T8i has a 58. This means that the Nikon D5600 has a superior sensor in terms of performance and image quality. The Nikon D5600 uses a Nikon F DX lens mount, which provides access to an extensive range of Nikon lenses.

On the other hand, the Canon T8i has a faster shooting speed of 7.5 frames per second, compared to the Nikon D5600’s 5 frames per second. This makes the Canon T8i more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. The Canon T8i also has a more advanced processor, the Digic 8, compared to the Nikon D5600’s Expeed 4 processor. The Canon T8i utilizes a Canon EF/EF-S lens mount, giving users access to a wide variety of Canon lenses.

To conclude, the Nikon D5600 has better optics due to its higher resolution, superior sensor performance, and broader lens compatibility. However, the Canon T8i offers a faster shooting speed and a more advanced processor. Both cameras have their merits, but the Nikon D5600’s superior optics make it the winner in this comparison.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D5600 Video Performance

The Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D outperforms the Nikon D5600 in video capabilities, scoring 83/100 compared to the Nikon’s 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 60fps and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Canon T8i surpasses the Nikon D5600 in certain aspects, resulting in its higher score.

The Canon T8i boasts a maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), which is significantly higher than the Nikon D5600’s Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. This difference allows the Canon T8i to capture more detailed and sharper video, providing better overall video quality. The higher resolution also offers more flexibility in post-production, such as cropping and zooming without losing much quality.

On the other hand, the Nikon D5600 has a few advantages despite its lower score. The camera’s Full HD resolution may be sufficient for casual videographers and those who do not require the extra detail provided by 4K. Additionally, Full HD video files are smaller in size, making them easier to store and manage. This can be a significant advantage for users with limited storage space or those who need to share their videos online.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D stands out as the superior choice for video capabilities due to its 4K resolution. However, the Nikon D5600 remains a viable option for users who prioritize smaller file sizes and find Full HD resolution adequate for their needs.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D5600 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D5600 wins the feature comparison with a score of 72/100, while the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D scores 70/100. Both cameras share numerous features, such as 3-inch touchscreen displays, flip screens, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity. Neither camera has GPS capabilities.

The Nikon D5600 outperforms the Canon T8i in some areas. With a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the T8i’s 3-inch screen, the D5600 provides a better viewing experience. Additionally, the Nikon D5600 has a slightly higher screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots compared to the T8i’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference in resolution might not be significant, but it does give the D5600 a slight edge in display quality.

On the other hand, the Canon T8i has some advantages over the Nikon D5600. The T8i’s touchscreen is more responsive, offering a smoother user experience. Additionally, the T8i has a slightly higher feature score, which indicates that it may have more advanced features that were not compared in this analysis.

In comparing the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D and Nikon D5600, both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. The Nikon D5600 has a larger screen and slightly higher resolution, while the Canon T8i offers a more responsive touchscreen and potentially more advanced features. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D5600 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D5600 surpasses the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D in storage and battery, scoring 43/100 compared to the Canon’s 35/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as having a single memory card slot and compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-I) memory cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The Nikon D5600’s advantage lies in its longer battery life, providing 970 shots, while the Canon T8i / 850D offers 800 shots. The Nikon uses an EN-EL14a battery, whereas the Canon utilizes an LP-E17 battery type.

Despite the Canon T8i / 850D’s lower score, it does not have any distinct advantage over the Nikon D5600 in terms of storage and battery. Therefore, the Nikon D5600 proves to be the better choice in this category, offering a longer battery life for extended shooting sessions.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D5600 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS Rebel T8i / 850D vs Nikon D5600 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 Rebel T8i / 850D or the Nikon D5600: