What To Know
- Group-Area AF allows you to select a group of autofocus points to track a subject, while Auto-Area AF automatically selects the optimal autofocus point based on the subject’s position and movement.
- However, the D5 offers a more robust autofocus system with a higher number of autofocus points, improved sensitivity, and advanced tracking capabilities, making it the ideal choice for professionals who demand the absolute best autofocus performance in fast-paced and challenging shooting situations.
- The Nikon D5 has a wider sensitivity range of -4 EV to +20 EV, providing better autofocus performance in low-light conditions compared to the D4S, which has a range of -2 EV to +19 EV.
Professional photographers rely on their cameras’ autofocus systems to capture crisp, sharp images, especially in fast-paced and challenging shooting environments. Nikon’s D4S and D5 cameras are renowned for their exceptional autofocus capabilities, but how do they compare against each other? This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of the Nikon D4S vs D5 autofocus, providing an in-depth analysis to help you make an informed decision.
AF System: Multi-CAM 3500FX vs Multi-CAM 20K
The Nikon D4S employs a Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus system, featuring 51 autofocus points, of which 15 are cross-type sensors. On the other hand, the D5 boasts an advanced Multi-CAM 20K autofocus system, equipped with an impressive 153 autofocus points, including 99 cross-type sensors. The sheer number of autofocus points in the D5 provides wider coverage and greater flexibility in framing your shots.
Sensitivity and Accuracy
Both the D4S and D5 offer exceptional autofocus sensitivity, enabling them to lock onto subjects even in low-light conditions. The D4S has a sensitivity range of -2 EV to +19 EV, while the D5 extends this range to an even more impressive -4 EV to +20 EV. This enhanced sensitivity in the D5 allows for reliable autofocus in extremely dimly lit environments.
Tracking Performance
When it comes to tracking moving subjects, the Nikon D5 excels with its advanced 3D tracking system. This system uses a dedicated 91k-pixel RGB sensor to continuously monitor the subject’s position and movement, resulting in highly accurate and responsive tracking. In contrast, the D4S does not have a dedicated 3D tracking sensor, relying solely on its 51 autofocus points for tracking, which may struggle with rapidly moving subjects.
Group-Area AF and Auto-Area AF
The Nikon D4S and D5 both feature Group-Area AF and Auto-Area AF modes. Group-Area AF allows you to select a group of autofocus points to track a subject, while Auto-Area AF automatically selects the optimal autofocus point based on the subject’s position and movement. The D5, however, introduces an additional Dynamic-area AF mode, which dynamically adjusts the size and shape of the autofocus group based on the subject’s movement, providing even greater precision and reliability.
Custom Settings and Fine-Tuning
Both the D4S and D5 offer extensive custom settings for fine-tuning the autofocus system to suit your specific shooting style and requirements. These settings include adjusting the autofocus sensitivity, tracking speed, and the number of autofocus points used. The D5, however, provides more granular control over these settings, allowing you to tailor the autofocus performance to an even greater extent.
Battery Life and Durability
Battery life is a crucial consideration when choosing a professional camera. The Nikon D4S has a slightly longer battery life than the D5, with a CIPA rating of 3020 shots per charge compared to 3780 shots per charge for the D5. However, both cameras are designed to withstand demanding shooting conditions, ensuring reliable operation even in harsh environments.
Final Note: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Nikon D4S and D5 are both exceptional cameras with advanced autofocus capabilities. The D4S is an excellent choice for photographers seeking a versatile and reliable camera with solid autofocus performance. However, the D5 offers a more robust autofocus system with a higher number of autofocus points, improved sensitivity, and advanced tracking capabilities, making it the ideal choice for professionals who demand the absolute best autofocus performance in fast-paced and challenging shooting situations.
Information You Need to Know
Q1: Which camera has a wider autofocus coverage area?
A: The Nikon D5, with its 153 autofocus points, offers a wider coverage area than the D4S, which has 51 autofocus points.
Q2: Which camera is better for low-light autofocus?
A: The Nikon D5 has a wider sensitivity range of -4 EV to +20 EV, providing better autofocus performance in low-light conditions compared to the D4S, which has a range of -2 EV to +19 EV.
Q3: Which camera offers more advanced tracking capabilities?
A: The Nikon D5 features a dedicated 3D tracking system and Dynamic-area AF mode, providing more accurate and responsive tracking of moving subjects than the D4S, which relies on Group-Area AF and Auto-Area AF modes.
