Nikon D3400 Vs Canon 5d Mark Iii: The Battle Of The Resolutions

The Nikon D3400 and Canon 5D Mark III are two popular DSLRs that cater to different segments of the photography market. While the D3400 is an entry-level camera aimed at beginners, the 5D Mark III is a professional-grade camera designed for advanced photographers and enthusiasts. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two cameras, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your needs.

Image Quality

The Nikon D3400 features a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, while the Canon 5D Mark III boasts a 22.3MP full-frame sensor. Full-frame sensors are larger than APS-C sensors, allowing them to capture more light and produce images with better dynamic range, lower noise, and shallower depth of field. In this regard, the 5D Mark III has a clear advantage over the D3400, especially in low-light situations.

Autofocus

The Nikon D3400 employs a 11-point autofocus system, while the Canon 5D Mark III utilizes a 61-point autofocus system. The 5D Mark III’s autofocus system is more advanced, offering faster and more accurate focusing, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the 5D Mark III features a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which allows for smooth and precise focus tracking in Live View mode and when shooting video.

Burst Shooting

The Nikon D3400 can shoot up to 5 frames per second (fps), while the Canon 5D Mark III can shoot up to 6 fps. While the difference in burst shooting speed is not significant, the 5D Mark III has a larger buffer capacity, allowing it to capture more consecutive shots before the buffer fills up. This can be crucial for capturing fast-paced action or sequences of images.

Video Capabilities

Both the Nikon D3400 and Canon 5D Mark III can shoot Full HD video at 1080p resolution. However, the 5D Mark III offers more advanced video features, including the ability to shoot 4K video at 30 fps. The 5D Mark III also has a built-in microphone input, allowing for external audio recording.

Weather Sealing

The Canon 5D Mark III is weather-sealed, meaning that it is resistant to dust and moisture. This makes it a more suitable choice for photographers who shoot in challenging outdoor conditions. The Nikon D3400, on the other hand, is not weather-sealed, so it should be used with caution in wet or dusty environments.

Price

The Nikon D3400 is significantly cheaper than the Canon 5D Mark III. The D3400 can be purchased for around $500, while the 5D Mark III costs around $3,500. The difference in price reflects the differences in their capabilities and target audience.

Wrap-Up: Choosing the Right Camera

The Nikon D3400 and Canon 5D Mark III are both excellent cameras, but they cater to different needs. The D3400 is a great choice for beginners who are looking for an affordable and easy-to-use camera. The 5D Mark III, on the other hand, is a professional-grade camera that offers advanced features and superior image quality. If you are serious about photography and want a camera that can grow with you, the 5D Mark III is the better choice. However, if you are just starting out and want a camera that is easy to use and won’t break the bank, the D3400 is a solid option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Which camera has better low-light performance?
A: The Canon 5D Mark III has better low-light performance due to its full-frame sensor.

Q2: Which camera has more advanced autofocus?
A: The Canon 5D Mark III has a more advanced autofocus system with more focus points and Dual Pixel CMOS AF.

Q3: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon 5D Mark III has more advanced video capabilities, including the ability to shoot 4K video and an external microphone input.

Q4: Which camera is weather-sealed?
A: The Canon 5D Mark III is weather-sealed, while the Nikon D3400 is not.

Q5: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Nikon D3400 is significantly more affordable than the Canon 5D Mark III.