Nikon D780 vs Canon EOS 90D: A Battle of the Best Lenses – Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III vs Nikon Lenses

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re considering two popular contenders like the Canon EOS 90D with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens and the Nikon D780. Both offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will analyze their key strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

A Look at the Contenders

Canon EOS 90D with Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens: This combination is a popular choice for wildlife and sports photographers, offering a versatile zoom lens and a powerful DSLR body. The 90D boasts a 32.5MP APS-C sensor, fast continuous shooting, and excellent autofocus, making it a reliable choice for capturing fast-paced action. The EF 75-300mm lens provides a wide zoom range, ideal for capturing subjects from a distance.
Nikon D780: This full-frame DSLR packs a punch with its 24.5MP sensor, impressive low-light performance, and advanced autofocus system. The D780 is a versatile camera suitable for a wide range of photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, and even video. Its hybrid autofocus system combines phase-detection and contrast-detection technology, ensuring accurate and fast focusing in various situations.

Sensor and Image Quality: A Detailed Breakdown

The Canon EOS 90D and the Nikon D780 boast impressive image quality, but their sensor sizes and resolutions differ significantly. The 90D’s 32.5MP APS-C sensor delivers excellent detail and dynamic range, while the D780’s 24.5MP full-frame sensor excels in low-light performance and shallower depth of field.
Canon EOS 90D:

• Pros: Higher resolution, excellent detail, good dynamic range.
• Cons: Smaller sensor size, slightly less low-light performance compared to the D780.

Nikon D780:

• Pros: Full-frame sensor, exceptional low-light performance, shallower depth of field.
• Cons: Lower resolution compared to the 90D.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities. If you prioritize high resolution and detail, the 90D might be a better choice. If low-light performance and shallower depth of field are more important, the D780 takes the lead.

Autofocus Performance: A Close Race

Both cameras offer advanced autofocus systems designed to track moving subjects accurately. The 90D features a 45-point all-cross-type autofocus system, providing reliable tracking and fast focusing even in challenging lighting conditions. The D780 boasts a 273-point phase-detection autofocus system, covering a wider area of the sensor and offering superior subject tracking capabilities.
Canon EOS 90D:

• Pros: Fast and accurate autofocus, reliable subject tracking.
• Cons: Fewer focus points compared to the D780.

Nikon D780:

• Pros: Extensive autofocus coverage, advanced subject tracking algorithms.
• Cons: While fast, it may not be as consistently accurate as the 90D in all situations.

Both cameras excel in autofocus performance, but the D780’s wider coverage and advanced algorithms give it a slight edge in tracking fast-moving subjects.

Continuous Shooting and Buffer Depth: A Speed Showdown

The Canon EOS 90D and the Nikon D780 are both capable of capturing fast-paced action with their impressive continuous shooting speeds. The 90D can shoot at up to 10 frames per second (fps) with continuous autofocus, while the D780 can achieve up to 7 fps with continuous autofocus. However, the buffer depth, which determines how many images can be captured before the camera slows down, differs significantly.
Canon EOS 90D:

• Pros: Faster continuous shooting speed, larger buffer depth for longer bursts.
• Cons: While faster, it’s still a cropped sensor, limiting low-light performance.

Nikon D780:

• Pros: Full-frame sensor, excellent low-light capabilities.
• Cons: Slower continuous shooting speed, smaller buffer depth.

The 90D’s faster shooting speed and larger buffer are ideal for capturing rapid action sequences, while the D780’s full-frame sensor provides superior low-light performance and a wider dynamic range.

Video Capabilities: A Versatile Offering

Both the Canon EOS 90D and the Nikon D780 offer impressive video capabilities, making them suitable for both amateur and professional videographers. The 90D can record 4K video at 30fps, while the D780 can capture 4K video at up to 60fps. Both cameras feature advanced video features, including internal recording, 4K time-lapse, and slow-motion recording.
Canon EOS 90D:

• Pros: 4K video recording at 30fps, good image quality.
• Cons: Limited 4K frame rate options compared to the D780.

Nikon D780:

• Pros: 4K video recording at up to 60fps, advanced video features.
• Cons: While capable, the D780’s 4K video features are not as advanced as some newer mirrorless cameras.

Both cameras offer excellent video capabilities, but the D780’s higher frame rate and advanced video features give it an edge for professional videographers.

Ergonomics and Design: A Comfortable Grip

Both cameras feature comfortable and ergonomic designs, making them easy to hold and operate for extended periods. The 90D boasts a deep grip and well-placed buttons, while the D780 offers a more refined and sophisticated design. Both cameras feature a tilting LCD screen for easy viewing and composition.
Canon EOS 90D:

• Pros: Comfortable grip, well-placed buttons, intuitive controls.
• Cons: More traditional DSLR design compared to the D780.

Nikon D780:

• Pros: Refined and sophisticated design, weather-sealed body.
• Cons: Slightly heavier compared to the 90D.

The choice between the 90D and the D780 depends on your personal preferences. The 90D’s traditional DSLR design might be more appealing to photographers familiar with Canon cameras, while the D780’s more modern and refined design might be more appealing to those seeking a premium feel.

The Verdict: Choosing Your Perfect Match

The Canon EOS 90D with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens and the Nikon D780 are both exceptional cameras, offering a wide range of features and capabilities. The 90D excels in speed and resolution, making it an ideal choice for wildlife and sports photographers. The D780, with its full-frame sensor and advanced autofocus, is a versatile camera suitable for a wider range of photography genres, including portraits, landscapes, and video.
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed, resolution, and affordability, the Canon EOS 90D with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens is a solid choice. If you value low-light performance, versatility, and a full-frame sensor, the Nikon D780 is a compelling option.

Beyond the Basics: A Deeper Dive

Lens Selection: The Canon EOS 90D offers a wider range of EF lenses, while the Nikon D780 benefits from the extensive Nikon F-mount lens ecosystem. Both systems offer excellent lenses for various photography genres.
Price and Value: The Canon EOS 90D is generally more affordable than the Nikon D780. However, the D780’s full-frame sensor and advanced features justify its higher price tag.
Future-Proofing: The D780’s full-frame sensor offers more room for future upgrades and advancements compared to the 90D’s APS-C sensor.

The Final Word: Your Journey Begins Here

Choosing the right camera is a personal decision. Both the Canon EOS 90D with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens and the Nikon D780 are capable cameras that can deliver stunning results. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and shooting style, you can make an informed decision and embark on your photographic journey with the perfect companion.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: Both cameras are capable of capturing wildlife, but the Canon EOS 90D’s faster continuous shooting speed and larger buffer make it a better choice for capturing fast-moving animals.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Nikon D780’s full-frame sensor offers significantly better low-light performance than the 90D’s APS-C sensor.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Nikon D780 offers more advanced video features, including 4K recording at 60fps, making it a better choice for professional videographers.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Canon EOS 90D is generally more affordable than the Nikon D780.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Canon EOS 90D might be more beginner-friendly due to its intuitive controls and user-friendly interface.