Nikon D5
Nikon · DSLR · 20.8 MP · Full Frame · 4K video

Score Breakdown
Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.
Independent Lab Scores
General | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Nikon |
| Model | D5 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 6, 2016 |
| Camera type | |
| Camera size | 160 x 159 x 92 mm |
| Camera weight | 1415 g |
Optics72/100 | |
About the OpticsThe Nikon D5 scores a solid 74/100, offering impressive specifications for a DSLR introduced in 2016. Although the market has evolved since its release, the Nikon D5 still holds up well with its feature set and build quality. It remains a competitive choice for photographers seeking a reliable and high-performing DSLR. Nikon D5 Overview and OpticsThe optics of the Nikon D5 receive a score of 72/100. With 20.8 megapixels, a shooting speed of 12 frames per second, and a full-frame CMOS sensor, this camera delivers quality images. The Expeed 5 processor ensures efficient performance, while the DXOMARK sensor score of 88 reflects its capability to capture detail and color accurately. The Nikon F FX lens mount offers compatibility with a vast range of lenses, providing versatility for various photography styles. However, the absence of image stabilization may affect the sharpness of handheld shots. The 3:2 aspect ratio is standard for most DSLRs, allowing for easy framing and composition. Considering the specifications, the Nikon D5 remains a competitive option in the market, especially for professional photographers. The combination of a high-quality sensor, fast processor, and versatile lens mount ensures that it can handle diverse shooting situations. However, the lack of image stabilization may require additional support for optimal results. | |
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.8 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5588 x 3712 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | 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 35.9 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 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 FX |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 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. | |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 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. | 1024003003280000 |
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 |
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. | 32800003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 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 |
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. | 1530300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | No |
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) |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A |
Video70/100 | |
About the VideoThe Nikon D5’s video capabilities score is 70 out of 100. The camera has a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160 pixels. It can capture video at a maximum frame rate of 30 frames per second. Additionally, the D5 includes built-in time-lapse functionality. In today’s market, the Nikon D5’s video specifications are competitive, but not groundbreaking. Many cameras offer 4K resolution and 30fps, so the D5 is on par with these standards. However, some newer models have surpassed the D5 in video capabilities, offering higher frame rates or even 6K resolution. The Nikon D5 provides solid video performance, making it a reliable choice for photographers who also need to capture high-quality video. While it may not be the top choice for videographers seeking the latest advancements, the D5 remains a strong contender in the market for its overall performance and capabilities. | |
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. | |
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 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. | 30 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 |
Features74/100 | |
About the FeaturesThe Nikon D5 receives a feature score of 74 out of 100. With a screen size of 3.2 inches and a resolution of 2,359,000 dots, the display provides clear and sharp images. The inclusion of a touchscreen makes for easy navigation, though the absence of a flip screen may be noted by some users. Additionally, the camera possesses WIFI connectivity, allowing for wireless transfer of images and remote control. However, it lacks GPS functionality and Bluetooth capabilities. When comparing the Nikon D5’s features to other cameras on the market, its specifications hold up well. The touchscreen and WIFI are valuable additions, while the lack of GPS and Bluetooth may not be significant drawbacks for most users. The Nikon D5 offers a strong feature set for photographers, ensuring its continued relevance in the market. | |
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. | No |
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. | No |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. | |
| Screen type | 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" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 23590001150001500000 |
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. | No |
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. | No |
Storage & Battery87/100 | |
About the Storage & BatteryThe storage and battery section of the Nikon D5 receives a score of 87/100. This camera features two memory card slots, which accept both Compact Flash and XQD cards. This flexibility gives users more options for storing their photos and videos. The Nikon D5 boasts a battery life of 3780 shots, which is impressive compared to other cameras in the market. The camera uses an EN-EL18a battery type, which contributes to its long-lasting performance. However, the Nikon D5 does not support USB charging, which may be a drawback for some users. Taking into account these specifications, the Nikon D5 showcases a strong performance in terms of storage and battery life, making it a competitive choice for photographers and videographers. | |
| Memory card | Compact Flash, XQD |
| Dual memory card slots | |
| Battery type | EN-EL18a |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 3780 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | No |