Exclusive Hands-On Review: Canon EOS R Canon RF 35mm f 1.8 IS STM Macro vs. Nikon D5100 Nikkor AF S DX 18-55mm f 3.5-5.6G VR – Which One Should You Invest In?
What To Know
- While still capable of producing good images, the smaller sensor size leads to a slightly smaller image area and less dynamic range compared to the full-frame EOS R.
- The Canon EOS R is a sleek and compact mirrorless camera with a well-designed grip and intuitive controls.
- The Nikon D5100, being a DSLR, has a more traditional design with a larger body and a protruding viewfinder.
Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a multitude of options. This is where a detailed comparison comes in handy. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the Canon EOS R Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro vs Nikon D5100 Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR, examining their key features, performance, and suitability for different types of photography.
The Canon EOS R with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens represents the latest in mirrorless technology, while the Nikon D5100 with the Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens is a popular DSLR choice for beginners and enthusiasts. This comparison will help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of each system, ultimately guiding you towards the best fit for your photographic aspirations.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Canon EOS R boasts a full-frame 30.3MP CMOS sensor, offering exceptional image quality with excellent detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens, with its fast aperture, further enhances image sharpness and allows for beautiful bokeh effects.
On the other hand, the Nikon D5100 features a DX-format APS-C sensor with 16.2MP resolution. While still capable of producing good images, the smaller sensor size leads to a slightly smaller image area and less dynamic range compared to the full-frame EOS R. The Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens offers decent image quality, but its slower aperture limits its low-light performance and bokeh capabilities.
Autofocus and Performance
The Canon EOS R utilizes a sophisticated Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which covers almost the entire sensor area. This translates to lightning-fast autofocus, particularly in continuous shooting modes, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects like sports or wildlife. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens further contributes to the impressive autofocus performance.
The Nikon D5100 employs a 39-point autofocus system, which is less advanced than the EOS R’s system. While it performs well for general photography, the D5100 struggles with tracking fast-moving subjects. The Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens, while providing adequate autofocus, doesn’t match the speed and accuracy of the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens.
Video Capabilities
The Canon EOS R excels in video recording, offering 4K resolution at 30fps with 10-bit internal recording. Its advanced video features include log profiles, slow-motion recording, and in-body image stabilization, making it a powerful tool for videographers. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens, with its smooth focusing motor, complements the EOS R’s video capabilities.
The Nikon D5100, while capable of recording 1080p video at 30fps, lacks the advanced video features of the EOS R. Its video capabilities are more basic and fall short in terms of quality and flexibility.
Design and Ergonomics
The Canon EOS R is a sleek and compact mirrorless camera with a well-designed grip and intuitive controls. Its electronic viewfinder offers high resolution and refresh rates, providing a clear and responsive viewing experience. The RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens is lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.
The Nikon D5100, being a DSLR, has a more traditional design with a larger body and a protruding viewfinder. It provides a comfortable grip and easy access to controls. The Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens is also relatively lightweight and compact, making it a good choice for travel photography.
Connectivity and Features
Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easy image transfer and remote control. The Canon EOS R also features a USB-C port for fast data transfer and charging. It boasts a wide range of features, including in-body image stabilization, silent shooting mode, and a variety of shooting modes.
The Nikon D5100 lacks some of the advanced features of the EOS R, such as in-body image stabilization and silent shooting. However, it offers a variety of shooting modes and creative effects.
Price and Value
The Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens is a premium system with a higher price tag. However, its superior performance, advanced features, and image quality make it a worthwhile investment for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts.
The Nikon D5100 with the Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens is significantly more affordable, making it a good entry-level option for beginners or those on a budget. While it may not offer the same level of performance as the EOS R, it provides a solid foundation for learning photography and exploring different genres.
Key Points: The Right Choice for Your Needs
Choosing between the Canon EOS R Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro and the Nikon D5100 Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR depends on your individual needs and priorities.
If you’re a professional photographer or a serious enthusiast seeking the highest image quality, advanced features, and exceptional performance, the Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens is an excellent choice.
However, if you’re a beginner or on a budget, the Nikon D5100 with the Nikkor AF-S DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens offers a solid entry point into the world of photography.
What You Need to Learn
Q1: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Canon EOS R with its full-frame sensor and fast lens provides significantly better low-light performance than the Nikon D5100.
Q2: Which camera is better for video recording?
The Canon EOS R offers superior video capabilities with 4K resolution, log profiles, and in-body image stabilization, making it a better choice for videographers.
Q3: Which camera is more compact and portable?
The Canon EOS R with the RF 35mm f/1.8 IS STM Macro lens is more compact and portable than the Nikon D5100 with its larger DSLR body.
Q4: Which camera is easier to learn and use?
The Nikon D5100, being a more traditional DSLR, may be slightly easier to learn for beginners, while the Canon EOS R offers a more intuitive interface and advanced features that may take some time to master.