Canon EOS R7 vs Nikon Z8: Which Camera Reigns Supreme with the Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III and Nikon Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S Lenses?

Choosing the right camera and lens combination can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison of two popular setups: the Canon EOS R7 with the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens and the Nikon Z8 with the Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens. These pairings offer versatility, performance, and value, making them appealing to a wide range of photographers.

The Contenders: A Quick Overview

Canon EOS R7 with EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III: This pairing represents a classic approach to photography, blending a powerful APS-C mirrorless camera with a versatile telephoto zoom lens. The R7 boasts impressive autofocus, high-resolution image capture, and 4K video recording, while the EF 75-300mm lens provides a wide range of focal lengths ideal for wildlife, sports, and portrait photography.
Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S: This duo embodies modern innovation, featuring a full-frame mirrorless camera with a high-performance, all-purpose zoom lens. The Z8 excels in low-light performance, advanced image processing, and 8K video recording, while the Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens delivers exceptional sharpness and versatility, making it suitable for a broad range of subjects.

Image Quality Showdown: Resolution, Detail, and Dynamic Range

Canon EOS R7: The R7’s 32.5MP APS-C sensor produces high-resolution images with excellent detail. Its dynamic range is commendable, allowing for recovery in highlights and shadows. The EF 75-300mm lens, while not the sharpest in the market, provides acceptable image quality, especially at the longer end of the zoom range.
Nikon Z8: The Z8’s 45.7MP full-frame sensor delivers exceptional resolution and detail, capturing even the finest textures. Its dynamic range is outstanding, enabling greater latitude for post-processing. The Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens is renowned for its sharpness and clarity, producing images with exceptional detail across the entire zoom range.
Verdict: While both cameras offer excellent image quality, the Z8’s full-frame sensor and the Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens’s superior sharpness give Nikon the edge in this category.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Tracking

Canon EOS R7: The R7 boasts a sophisticated autofocus system with 693 phase-detection points covering nearly the entire sensor. It excels in tracking moving subjects, including birds in flight, with impressive accuracy and speed.
Nikon Z8: The Z8’s autofocus system is equally impressive, featuring 493 phase-detection points covering the entire sensor. It utilizes advanced algorithms for subject detection and tracking, ensuring precise focus even in challenging conditions.
Verdict: Both cameras demonstrate exceptional autofocus performance, with the Z8’s full-frame sensor and advanced algorithms potentially offering a slight advantage in low-light and complex scenes.

Video Capabilities: Resolution, Frame Rates, and Features

Canon EOS R7: The R7 can record 4K video at up to 60fps, with internal recording up to 4:2:2 10-bit. It offers various video features, including log profiles and in-body image stabilization.
Nikon Z8: The Z8 takes video capabilities to a new level with its ability to record 8K video at up to 30fps and 4K video at up to 120fps. It also offers internal recording up to ProRes RAW, providing maximum flexibility for post-production.
Verdict: The Z8’s 8K video recording capability and ProRes RAW support make it the superior choice for professionals and enthusiasts seeking high-quality video output.

Ergonomics and Design: Handling, Controls, and Build Quality

Canon EOS R7: The R7 features a compact and lightweight design, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. Its controls are well-placed and intuitive, offering a familiar layout for Canon users. The build quality is solid, with weather sealing for protection against the elements.
Nikon Z8: The Z8 boasts a more substantial design, with a deep grip and well-placed controls. Its interface is intuitive and customizable, allowing photographers to tailor the camera to their preferences. The build quality is exceptional, with a robust magnesium alloy body and weather sealing for durability.
Verdict: Both cameras offer comfortable handling and excellent build quality. The Z8’s slightly larger size and more customizable controls might appeal to photographers who prefer a more professional feel.

Lens Selection and Versatility: Options, Performance, and Cost

Canon EOS R7: The R7 offers a wide range of lenses to choose from, including the EF lens system via an adapter, as well as native RF lenses. The EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens provides versatility for various subjects, with a good balance of performance and affordability.
Nikon Z8: The Z8 benefits from Nikon’s growing Z lens system, which offers high-quality lenses for various shooting scenarios. The Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens is a versatile all-rounder, delivering exceptional sharpness and performance across the entire zoom range.
Verdict: Both systems offer a good selection of lenses. Nikon’s Z lens system is rapidly expanding, offering more specialized lenses and higher-end optics.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Vision

The Canon EOS R7 with the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens and the Nikon Z8 with the Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens represent excellent camera and lens combinations for different needs.
The Canon EOS R7 is a great choice for:

• Budget-conscious photographers: The R7 offers excellent value for its price, with impressive features and performance.
• Wildlife and sports photographers: The EF 75-300mm lens provides a good reach for capturing distant subjects.
• Photographers seeking a compact and lightweight setup: The R7’s smaller size and lighter weight make it easy to carry and use for extended periods.

The Nikon Z8 is the ideal choice for:

• Professional photographers: The Z8’s full-frame sensor, advanced features, and 8K video recording make it a powerful tool for demanding professionals.
• Photographers prioritizing image quality: The Z8’s high-resolution sensor and the Nikkor Z 24-120mm f/4 S lens’s exceptional sharpness deliver stunning results.
• Photographers interested in high-quality video: The Z8’s 8K video capabilities and ProRes RAW support make it a top choice for video enthusiasts.

Ultimately, the best camera and lens combination depends on your individual needs, budget, and shooting style. Consider your priorities and choose the setup that best aligns with your vision.

Beyond the Comparison: A Look at the Future

Both Canon and Nikon are continuously innovating and pushing the boundaries of camera technology. The future holds exciting possibilities for both brands, with advancements in autofocus, image processing, and video capabilities likely to shape the landscape of photography and videography.

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. What about the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens?
The RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM lens is a professional-grade lens with exceptional image quality, fast aperture, and excellent autofocus performance. It would be a fantastic addition to the Canon EOS R7 system, offering superior image quality and low-light capabilities compared to the EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III lens. However, it comes at a significantly higher price point.
2. Can the Nikon Z8 shoot RAW video?
Yes, the Nikon Z8 can shoot RAW video in the ProRes RAW format. This provides maximum flexibility for post-production, allowing for greater control over color, exposure, and other aspects of the image.
3. Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Nikon Z8 generally offers better low-light performance due to its larger full-frame sensor, which captures more light and produces less noise. However, the Canon EOS R7’s advanced autofocus system and image processing capabilities can still deliver impressive results in low-light conditions.
4. What about battery life?
Both cameras offer decent battery life, but the Nikon Z8 typically lasts longer on a single charge, especially when shooting video.
5. Are there any other lenses I should consider?
For the Canon EOS R7, the RF 24-105mm f/4-7.1 IS STM lens is a versatile and affordable option for everyday photography. For the Nikon Z8, the Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S lens is a professional-grade lens with excellent image quality and low-light performance.