CameraReview

Nikon D4s vs Nikon D5 — Which Is Better?

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

Nikon D4s
Nikon
Nikon D4s
DSLR · 16.2 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
62
SCORE
$2,357.12
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D5
Nikon
Nikon D5
DSLR · 20.8 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
74
SCORE
$2,615.21
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20142016
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
25/02/201406/01/2016
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 160 x 157 x 91 mm160 x 159 x 92 mm
Camera weight 1350 g1415 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
16.2 MP05020.8 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4928 x 32805588 x 3712
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 3623.9 x 35.9
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.
11 fps04512 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 FXNikon 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 4Expeed 5
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.
2560030032800001024003003280000
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.
50302005030200
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.
409600300328000032800003003280000
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.
800080032000800080032000
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.
5103001530300
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/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.
Full HD4K
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 10803840 x 2160
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 fps30 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.
MOVMOV
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.
921000115000150000023590001150001500000
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, XQDCompact Flash, XQD
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL18aEN-EL18a
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
3020 shots15050003780 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D5 outperforms the Nikon D4s with a score of 74/100 compared to 62/100. Both cameras share common features, such as being DSLR cameras, having a launch price of $6500, and similar dimensions, with the D5 being slightly larger and heavier. The D5’s higher score reveals its superiority in performance and overall quality.

The Nikon D5, released in 2016, offers improved specifications and features compared to the D4s, which was released in 2014. Despite being slightly larger and heavier, the D5’s advancements make it a more desirable choice for photographers seeking top-notch performance.

However, the Nikon D4s still has its merits, such as being lighter in weight, which can be an advantage for photographers who prefer a more compact camera. Though the D5 is the clear winner in terms of overall quality and performance, the D4s may still appeal to a specific group of users.

Taking all factors into consideration, the Nikon D5 stands out as the superior camera due to its advancements, while the Nikon D4s remains a viable option for those seeking a lighter and more compact DSLR.

Nikon D4s vs D5 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D5 surpasses the Nikon D4s in optics, scoring 72/100 compared to the D4s’s 62/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, Nikon F FX lens mount, and no image stabilization. Despite these similarities, the Nikon D5 outperforms the D4s in certain aspects.

The D5 boasts a higher megapixel count at 20.8, compared to the D4s’s 16.2, allowing for greater image detail and larger print sizes. Additionally, the D5’s Expeed 5 processor contributes to improved image processing, noise reduction, and overall camera performance. The D5 also edges out the D4s in shooting speed, capturing 12 frames per second compared to the D4s’s 11, making it slightly more suitable for action and sports photography.

However, the D4s has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 89, compared to the D5’s 88. This indicates the D4s may have a slight advantage in dynamic range, color depth, and low-light performance. Nonetheless, the difference in DXOMARK scores is minimal and may not significantly impact real-world performance.

While the Nikon D5 proves to be the superior option in optics, the D4s remains a strong contender, particularly for photographers prioritizing dynamic range and color depth. The D5’s higher megapixel count, advanced processor, and faster shooting speed make it the more versatile choice for a range of photographic applications. Ultimately, photographers should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two capable cameras.

Nikon D4s vs D5 Video Performance

The Nikon D5 emerges as the winner in terms of video capabilities, despite both cameras having the same video score of 70/100. Both the Nikon D4s and D5 have several common features, including time-lapse functionality built in, which allows for creative video techniques.

The Nikon D5 outperforms the D4s in the area of video resolution, boasting 4K capabilities with a maximum video dimension of 3840 x 2160. This higher resolution allows for more detailed and sharper video quality, making it a better choice for professional videographers or those who prioritize high-quality video output.

On the other hand, the Nikon D4s offers a maximum video resolution of Full HD with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. While this resolution is not as impressive as the D5’s 4K capabilities, the D4s compensates with a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps. This higher frame rate provides smoother video playback and is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects or sports events.

Despite the D4s’s advantage in frame rate, the D5’s superior video resolution makes it the better choice for those prioritizing video quality. The 4K resolution offers a significant improvement in detail and clarity compared to the Full HD resolution of the D4s. However, for users who require a higher frame rate for specific shooting scenarios, the D4s may still be a suitable option. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the individual’s video requirements and preferences.

Nikon D4s vs D5 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D5 emerges as the winner in this comparison with a feature score of 74/100, while the Nikon D4s trails behind with a score of 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3.2-inch screen size, the absence of a flip screen and GPS, and the presence of WIFI connectivity. However, the differences in their other features make the Nikon D5 a more superior choice.

The Nikon D5 boasts a significantly higher screen resolution of 2,359,000 dots, compared to the Nikon D4s’ 921,000 dots. This results in a much clearer and sharper display, allowing for better image preview and review. Additionally, the Nikon D5 is equipped with a touchscreen, which the Nikon D4s lacks. This enables easier navigation and quicker adjustments to settings, providing a more user-friendly experience.

The Nikon D4s has only one advantage over the Nikon D5, which is its lower price. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for those who are willing to compromise on certain features for the sake of affordability.

Taking into account the shared specifications and the individual advantages of each camera, it is evident that the Nikon D5 outperforms the Nikon D4s in terms of features. Its higher screen resolution and the presence of a touchscreen make it a more appealing choice for photographers seeking better image quality and convenience. On the other hand, the Nikon D4s may still be a suitable option for those with budget constraints, despite its lower feature score.

Nikon D4s vs D5 Storage and Battery

Both the Nikon D4s and D5 tie in storage and battery with a score of 87/100. They share common specifications, such as two memory card slots, accepting Compact Flash and XQD memory cards, and using the same EN-EL18a battery type. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The Nikon D5 outperforms the D4s in battery life, providing 3780 shots per charge compared to the D4s’s 3020 shots. This longer battery life makes the D5 more suitable for extended shooting sessions or situations where recharging may not be readily available.

On the other hand, the Nikon D4s does not have any distinct advantages over the D5 in terms of storage and battery. Both cameras have identical storage options and battery type.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D5 edges out the D4s in battery life, making it a more appealing choice for photographers who require longer shooting times without the need for frequent battery changes. However, both cameras offer reliable and efficient storage and battery performance that cater to professional photography needs.

Nikon D4s vs D5 – Our Verdict

Nikon D4s vs D5 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D4s or the Nikon D5: