Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | D4 | D4s |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2012 | 2014 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
06/01/2012 | 25/02/2014 |
| Camera type | DSLR | DSLR |
| Camera size | 160 x 157 x 91 mm | 160 x 157 x 91 mm |
| Camera weight | 1340 g | 1350 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
16.2 MP050 | 16.2 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
4928 x 3280 | 4928 x 3280 |
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. |
23.9 x 36 | 23.9 x 36 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Full Frame | Full 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. |
11 fps045 | 11 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. |
Nikon F | Nikon F FX |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Expeed 3 | 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. |
128003003280000 | 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. |
5030200 | 5030200 |
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. |
2048003003280000 | 4096003003280000 |
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 | 800080032000 |
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. |
510300 | 510300 |
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 (pentaprism) |
| 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. |
30 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 | 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 | 3.2" | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
9210001150001500000 | 9210001150001500000 |
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 | Compact Flash, XQD | Compact Flash, XQD |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery type | EN-EL18 | EN-EL18a |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
2600 shots1505000 | 3020 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Nikon D4 edges out the Nikon D4s with a score of 63/100 compared to the D4s’s score of 62/100. Both cameras share similarities as they are both DSLR cameras with the same dimensions (160 x 157 x 91mm) and a close camera weight (Nikon D4 at 1340g and Nikon D4s at 1350g).
The Nikon D4 triumphs with a slightly higher score and a more affordable launch price of $5999, in comparison to the Nikon D4s which launched at $6500. However, the Nikon D4s has the advantage of being a newer model, released in 2014, two years after the Nikon D4’s release in 2012.
Taking into account the similarities and differences, the Nikon D4 takes the lead due to its higher score and lower price. The Nikon D4s, although newer, does not offer significant advantages to justify its higher price.
In comparing the optics of the Nikon D4 and Nikon D4s, the Nikon D4 narrowly wins with a score of 63/100, while the Nikon D4s scores 62/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 16.2 megapixels, 11 fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, an 89 DXOMARK score for the sensor, full-frame sensor size, Nikon F lens mount, and lack of image stabilization.
The winning camera, the Nikon D4, benefits from its Expeed 3 processor. This processor contributes to its slightly higher score, as it effectively manages the camera’s performance and image quality. The Nikon D4 delivers sharp and detailed images, aided by its 16.2-megapixel sensor and full-frame sensor size.
On the other hand, the Nikon D4s, despite its lower score, has the advantage of an updated Expeed 4 processor. This newer processor allows for improved overall performance and better noise reduction, resulting in cleaner images at higher ISO settings. Additionally, the Nikon D4s features the Nikon F FX lens mount, which offers a larger selection of compatible lenses compared to the Nikon D4’s Nikon F mount.
Both cameras possess strong optics capabilities, with the Nikon D4 earning a slightly higher score. Its Expeed 3 processor and full-frame sensor size contribute to its impressive image quality. However, the Nikon D4s should not be overlooked, as its Expeed 4 processor and Nikon F FX lens mount provide notable advantages in performance and lens compatibility. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.
The Nikon D4s outperforms the Nikon D4 in video capabilities, with a score of 70 out of 100, compared to the D4’s score of 57. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Additionally, both cameras feature built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Nikon D4s excels over the D4 in its maximum video frame rate, offering 60fps compared to the D4’s 30fps. This higher frame rate provides smoother, more fluid video playback, especially for fast-moving subjects or action scenes. The increased frame rate is a significant advantage for the D4s, making it a more suitable option for those prioritizing video performance.
While the Nikon D4 does not surpass the D4s in any specific video specification, it still maintains a respectable video score of 57. This score indicates that the D4 is capable of producing quality video content, although it may not be as smooth or versatile as the D4s. The D4 remains a viable option for photographers who may not prioritize video performance as heavily but still require a camera with decent video capabilities.
When comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D4 and D4s, the D4s is the clear winner, with its higher video score and superior frame rate. The D4, though not as strong in video performance, still holds its own and can produce satisfactory video content. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras for video purposes will depend on the individual needs and preferences of the user, with the D4s catering to those seeking the best possible video performance, and the D4 remaining a suitable option for those with less demanding video requirements.
The Nikon D4 and Nikon D4s both have a feature score of 57/100, making them evenly matched in terms of camera features. They share several specifications, including a 3.2-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 921,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, or Bluetooth capabilities.
The Nikon D4s outperforms the Nikon D4 in one key aspect: it has built-in WiFi connectivity. This makes it easier for photographers to transfer images and control the camera remotely, which can be a significant advantage in certain shooting situations. The presence of WiFi in the D4s allows for more flexibility and convenience, setting it apart from its counterpart.
On the other hand, the Nikon D4 does not have any features that are better than the D4s, as the two cameras are otherwise identical in specifications. This means that the D4s is a more advanced model in terms of connectivity, while the D4 offers no additional benefits.
Considering the shared specifications and the added advantage of WiFi in the Nikon D4s, it is clear that the D4s is the superior choice between the two cameras. This advantage may be crucial for some photographers, while others may not find it as important. However, it is undeniable that the Nikon D4s presents a more robust feature set than the Nikon D4, making it the better option for those seeking advanced camera features.
The Nikon D4 and Nikon D4s tie in storage and battery with a score of 87/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept Compact Flash and XQD memory cards. Neither of them has USB charging capabilities.
The Nikon D4s has a longer battery life, capable of taking 3020 shots compared to the Nikon D4’s 2600 shots. This is due to the D4s using the EN-EL18a battery type, while the D4 uses the EN-EL18 battery type. The longer battery life of the D4s offers an advantage for extended shooting sessions.
However, the Nikon D4 does not have any specific advantage in storage and battery over the D4s. Both cameras share similar storage features, and the D4’s battery life is shorter than the D4s.
Considering these points, the Nikon D4s is a better choice for photographers who need longer battery life for their shooting sessions. On the other hand, the Nikon D4 is still a solid option for those who do not require the extra battery life provided by the D4s, as both cameras share identical storage features.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D4 or the Nikon D4s: