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Comparison

Mastering Photography: Canon EOS 90D vs Nikon D4S – A Detailed Comparison

Drew is a passionate photographer and the founder of the popular camera review blog, "DrewCaptures." With over a decade of experience behind the lens, Drew has developed a deep understanding of the latest camera gear and technologies.

What To Know

  • On the other hand, the Nikon D4S is a professional-grade DSLR designed for demanding situations like photojournalism, sports, and wildlife photography.
  • The Canon EOS 90D features a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system, while the Nikon D4S utilizes a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors.
  • The Canon EOS 90D is compatible with Canon’s extensive EF and EF-S lens lineup, offering a wide range of choices for different photographic needs.

This blog post delves into a head-to-head comparison between the Canon EOS 90D with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens versus the Nikon D4S. Both cameras cater to different needs and skill levels, so understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial for making an informed decision.
The Canon EOS 90D paired with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens represents a versatile setup for wildlife, sports, and landscape photography. On the other hand, the Nikon D4S is a professional-grade DSLR designed for demanding situations like photojournalism, sports, and wildlife photography. This comparison will examine their key features, performance, and ultimately help you decide which camera aligns better with your photographic aspirations.

Image Quality and Sensor Performance

The Canon EOS 90D boasts a 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor, offering high resolution and excellent detail. The Nikon D4S, equipped with a 16.2MP full-frame sensor, prioritizes low-light performance and dynamic range over sheer megapixels.
Canon EOS 90D:

  • High Resolution: The 32.5MP sensor delivers exceptional detail, especially when printing large images or cropping.
  • Good Dynamic Range: The sensor captures a wide range of tones, allowing you to recover detail in highlights and shadows.
  • APS-C Format: The smaller sensor size offers a 1.6x crop factor, providing a telephoto effect for wildlife and sports photography.

Nikon D4S:

  • Full-Frame Sensor: The D4S’s full-frame sensor offers superior low-light performance and shallow depth of field compared to the APS-C sensor in the 90D.
  • Excellent Dynamic Range: The D4S excels in capturing detail in both highlights and shadows, especially when shooting high-contrast scenes.
  • Lower Resolution: The 16.2MP sensor provides a balance between resolution and low-light performance.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Both cameras offer impressive autofocus systems, but their strengths differ. The Canon EOS 90D features a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system, while the Nikon D4S utilizes a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors.
Canon EOS 90D:

  • 45-point All Cross-type AF: The 90D’s autofocus system is highly accurate and responsive, especially when tracking fast-moving subjects.
  • Continuous Shooting: The camera can shoot at up to 10 frames per second (fps) with continuous autofocus, making it suitable for capturing action.

Nikon D4S:

  • Advanced 3D Tracking: The D4S’s autofocus system is renowned for its accuracy and ability to track subjects across the frame.
  • High-Speed Continuous Shooting: The D4S can shoot at up to 11 fps with continuous autofocus, making it a top choice for photographers capturing fast-paced events.

Video Capabilities

While both cameras offer video recording capabilities, the Canon EOS 90D excels in this area.
Canon EOS 90D:

  • 4K Video Recording: The 90D can record 4K video at 30 fps, offering high-quality footage for various projects.
  • 1080p Video Recording: The camera can record 1080p video at up to 120 fps, allowing for slow-motion effects.
  • Built-in Microphone: The 90D features a built-in stereo microphone, making it convenient for recording audio.

Nikon D4S:

  • 1080p Video Recording: The D4S can record 1080p video at 30 fps.
  • Limited Video Features: The D4S lacks 4K video recording and other advanced video features found in the 90D.

Ergonomics and Design

Both cameras offer comfortable handling and well-designed controls.
Canon EOS 90D:

  • Compact and Lightweight: The 90D is relatively compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
  • Intuitive Controls: The camera features a well-designed layout with easily accessible buttons and dials.

Nikon D4S:

  • Durable and Weather-Sealed: The D4S is built for professional use, featuring a robust magnesium alloy body and weather sealing.
  • Professional-Grade Ergonomics: The D4S offers a comfortable grip and a deep viewfinder for extended shooting sessions.

Lens Compatibility and Options

The Canon EOS 90D is compatible with Canon’s extensive EF and EF-S lens lineup, offering a wide range of choices for different photographic needs. The Nikon D4S is compatible with Nikon’s F-mount lenses, providing access to a vast selection of lenses.
Canon EOS 90D:

  • EF and EF-S Lens Compatibility: The 90D offers compatibility with a wide range of Canon lenses, including the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens included in this comparison.
  • Versatile Lens Options: Canon offers a diverse range of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, macro, and more.

Nikon D4S:

  • Nikon F-Mount Lens Compatibility: The D4S is compatible with a vast selection of Nikon F-mount lenses, including professional-grade optics.
  • Wide Range of Options: Nikon offers a comprehensive lens lineup, catering to various photographic styles.

Battery Life and Performance

Both cameras offer decent battery life, but the Nikon D4S boasts a longer battery life due to its professional-grade design.
Canon EOS 90D:

  • Battery Life: The 90D offers approximately 1,300 shots per charge, which is sufficient for most shooting sessions.

Nikon D4S:

  • Battery Life: The D4S can capture around 3,600 shots per charge, significantly longer than the 90D.

Verdict: Canon EOS 90D Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III vs Nikon D4S

The choice between the Canon EOS 90D with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens and the Nikon D4S depends on your specific needs and budget.
Canon EOS 90D Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III:

  • Best for: Enthusiast photographers seeking a versatile camera with high resolution, excellent autofocus, and 4K video capabilities.
  • Pros: High resolution, good dynamic range, excellent autofocus, 4K video recording, compact and lightweight design, affordable price.
  • Cons: Lower low-light performance compared to the D4S, shorter battery life.

Nikon D4S:

  • Best for: Professional photographers requiring a durable, weather-sealed camera with exceptional low-light performance, fast continuous shooting, and a long battery life.
  • Pros: Exceptional low-light performance, fast continuous shooting, durable and weather-sealed body, long battery life, professional-grade features.
  • Cons: Higher price, limited video capabilities, lower resolution compared to the 90D.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Camera for You

Choosing between the Canon EOS 90D and the Nikon D4S involves considering your budget, shooting style, and specific needs. The 90D offers a balance of features and affordability, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts and aspiring professionals. The D4S, with its professional-grade features and exceptional low-light performance, is a powerful tool for demanding photographers. Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that best aligns with your photographic goals.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: What is the difference in image quality between the Canon EOS 90D and the Nikon D4S?
A: The Canon EOS 90D offers higher resolution (32.5MP) compared to the Nikon D4S (16.2MP). This means the 90D can capture more detail, especially when printing large images or cropping. However, the D4S’s full-frame sensor provides superior low-light performance and dynamic range.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: Both cameras are capable of wildlife photography, but the Canon EOS 90D, with its 1.6x crop factor, provides a telephoto effect, making it easier to capture distant subjects. The D4S’s superior low-light performance and autofocus system are also advantageous in challenging wildlife photography situations.
Q: Which camera is better for sports photography?
A: Both cameras offer fast continuous shooting rates and advanced autofocus systems suitable for sports photography. The 90D’s 10 fps continuous shooting and 45-point autofocus system are impressive for capturing action, while the D4S’s 11 fps shooting and professional-grade autofocus are designed for demanding sports photography scenarios.
Q: Which camera has better video recording capabilities?
A: The Canon EOS 90D is the clear winner in video recording capabilities, offering 4K video recording at 30 fps and 1080p video at up to 120 fps. The Nikon D4S only records 1080p video at 30 fps, lacking advanced video features.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Canon EOS 90D is significantly more affordable than the Nikon D4S, making it a budget-friendly option for photographers seeking a high-quality camera with advanced features.

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Drew D.

Drew is a passionate photographer and the founder of the popular camera review blog, "DrewCaptures." With over a decade of experience behind the lens, Drew has developed a deep understanding of the latest camera gear and technologies.
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