What To Know
- As a result, the 5D Mark II has an advantage in low-light conditions and for shooting portraits with a blurry background.
- The higher the ISO number, the more sensitive the camera is to light, but it also increases the amount of noise in the image.
- The 5D Mark II has a magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed against dust and moisture, while the D90 has a polycarbonate body that is less durable.
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D90 are two iconic DSLR cameras that have left an enduring mark on the photography industry. Released in 2008 and 2008, respectively, these cameras have been praised for their image quality, versatility, and reliability. But which one is the better choice for photographers today? In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D90 to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Canon 5D Mark II boasts a full-frame CMOS sensor with 21.1 megapixels, while the Nikon D90 features an APS-C CMOS sensor with 12.3 megapixels. Full-frame sensors are generally larger than APS-C sensors, which means they can capture more light and produce images with a shallower depth of field. As a result, the 5D Mark II has an advantage in low-light conditions and for shooting portraits with a blurry background. However, the D90’s smaller sensor gives it a narrower field of view, which can be beneficial for capturing distant subjects.
Autofocus System
Both the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D90 have advanced autofocus systems, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. The 5D Mark II features a 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors, while the D90 has an 11-point autofocus system with 9 cross-type sensors. Cross-type sensors are more sensitive to both horizontal and vertical lines, which makes them more accurate in low-light conditions. The D90’s 11-point autofocus system covers a wider area of the frame, but the 5D Mark II’s 9 cross-type sensors provide greater precision.
Dynamic Range and Color Depth
Dynamic range refers to the camera’s ability to capture details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The Canon 5D Mark II has a wider dynamic range than the Nikon D90, meaning it can preserve more detail in high-contrast scenes. This makes it a better choice for shooting landscapes, architecture, and other scenes with a wide range of tones. The D90 has a narrower dynamic range, but it still produces images with good color depth and accuracy.
ISO Performance
ISO sensitivity measures the camera’s ability to capture images in low-light conditions. The higher the ISO number, the more sensitive the camera is to light, but it also increases the amount of noise in the image. The Canon 5D Mark II has a wider ISO range than the Nikon D90, extending from ISO 100 to ISO 6400 (expandable to ISO 25600). The D90 has a more limited ISO range of ISO 200 to ISO 3200 (expandable to ISO 6400). In general, the 5D Mark II produces cleaner images at higher ISO settings, making it a better choice for shooting in dimly lit environments.
Video Capabilities
Both the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D90 offer video recording capabilities, but the 5D Mark II has a clear advantage. The 5D Mark II can shoot full HD video at 1080p resolution and 30 frames per second, while the D90 can only shoot SD video at 720p resolution and 24 frames per second. The 5D Mark II also has a built-in microphone input, allowing you to connect an external microphone for better audio quality.
Build Quality and Durability
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D90 are both built to withstand the rigors of professional photography. The 5D Mark II has a magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed against dust and moisture, while the D90 has a polycarbonate body that is less durable. Both cameras have a shutter life of approximately 150,000 actuations. However, the 5D Mark II’s weather-sealed construction makes it a better choice for shooting in harsh conditions.
Key Points: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D90 are both excellent DSLR cameras that offer a range of features and capabilities. The 5D Mark II has a full-frame sensor, a wider dynamic range, a better ISO performance, and more advanced video capabilities. It is a better choice for professional photographers who need the best possible image quality and versatility. The D90 has an APS-C sensor, a narrower dynamic range, a more limited ISO performance, and less advanced video capabilities. It is a better choice for amateur photographers who are looking for a more affordable and compact camera. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which camera has a better autofocus system?
A: The Canon 5D Mark II has a 9-point autofocus system with cross-type sensors, while the Nikon D90 has an 11-point autofocus system with 9 cross-type sensors. The D90’s autofocus system covers a wider area of the frame, but the 5D Mark II’s cross-type sensors provide greater precision.
Q: Which camera has a wider dynamic range?
A: The Canon 5D Mark II has a wider dynamic range than the Nikon D90, meaning it can preserve more detail in high-contrast scenes.
Q: Which camera has a better ISO performance?
A: The Canon 5D Mark II has a wider ISO range and produces cleaner images at higher ISO settings than the Nikon D90.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon 5D Mark II has more advanced video capabilities than the Nikon D90, including the ability to shoot full HD video at 1080p resolution and 30 frames per second.
Q: Which camera is more durable?
A: The Canon 5D Mark II has a magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed against dust and moisture, while the Nikon D90 has a polycarbonate body that is less durable.
