What To Know
- The higher resolution of the D850 allows for larger prints and more flexibility in cropping, while the 5D Mark IV offers a balance between detail and manageable file sizes.
- The D850 has a generous buffer capacity, allowing it to capture up to 51 RAW images or 170 JPEG images in a single burst.
- The touchscreen interface on the D850 allows for more intuitive control, while the fixed screen on the 5D Mark IV is more durable.
The Nikon D850 and Canon 5D Mark IV stand as two of the most highly regarded professional digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras on the market. Both cameras offer a formidable array of features, making them ideal for photographers who demand the highest levels of image quality and performance. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve deep into the capabilities of these two powerhouses, examining their strengths and weaknesses to help you determine which camera is the right choice for your photographic needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
Sensor Resolution: The D850 boasts a massive 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor, while the 5D Mark IV features a slightly lower resolution of 30.4 megapixels. The higher resolution of the D850 allows for larger prints and more flexibility in cropping, while the 5D Mark IV offers a balance between detail and manageable file sizes.
Dynamic Range: Both cameras offer excellent dynamic range, capturing a wide range of tones from bright highlights to deep shadows. The D850 has a slight edge in this area, with a slightly wider dynamic range that provides greater flexibility in post-processing.
ISO Performance: Both cameras perform admirably at high ISO settings, producing images with minimal noise. The D850 has a slightly higher native ISO range, extending to ISO 6400, while the 5D Mark IV‘s native ISO range goes up to ISO 3200. In practical terms, the difference in noise performance is negligible at typical ISO settings.
Autofocus and Performance
Autofocus System: The D850 employs a sophisticated 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type sensors. The 5D Mark IV features a 61-point autofocus system with 41 cross-type sensors. Both cameras offer fast and accurate autofocus, but the D850’s more advanced system provides greater precision and reliability, especially in low-light conditions.
Continuous Shooting Speed: The D850 can shoot up to 9 frames per second (fps) with the mirror up and 7 fps with the mirror down. The 5D Mark IV can shoot at a slightly slower 7 fps. For fast-paced action photography, the D850’s higher continuous shooting speed gives it a slight advantage.
Buffer Capacity: The D850 has a generous buffer capacity, allowing it to capture up to 51 RAW images or 170 JPEG images in a single burst. The 5D Mark IV has a more limited buffer capacity, with a maximum of 21 RAW images or 105 JPEG images.
Ergonomics and Handling
Body Design: The D850 and 5D Mark IV are both well-built and weather-sealed cameras, designed to withstand the rigors of professional use. The D850 is slightly larger and heavier than the 5D Mark IV, but both cameras offer comfortable handling and intuitive controls.
Viewfinder: The D850 features a large and bright optical viewfinder with 0.75x magnification. The 5D Mark IV‘s viewfinder is slightly smaller with 0.71x magnification. Both viewfinders provide excellent visibility and image quality.
LCD Screen: The D850 has a 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD screen with a resolution of 2.36 million dots. The 5D Mark IV has a slightly larger 3.2-inch fixed LCD screen with a resolution of 1.62 million dots. The touchscreen interface on the D850 allows for more intuitive control, while the fixed screen on the 5D Mark IV is more durable.
Video Capabilities
Video Resolution: Both cameras can shoot 4K video at 30p and 24p. The D850 has an additional option for 4K video at 60p, while the 5D Mark IV offers slow-motion video recording at 120p in Full HD.
Video Quality: The D850 produces slightly sharper and more detailed 4K video than the 5D Mark IV, thanks to its higher resolution sensor. Both cameras offer excellent video quality, with accurate colors and smooth motion.
Autofocus in Video Mode: The D850’s advanced autofocus system provides excellent performance in video mode, with fast and accurate subject tracking. The 5D Mark IV‘s autofocus system is also capable, but it may struggle with fast-moving subjects or in low-light conditions.
Features and Connectivity
Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for wireless image transfer and remote camera control. The D850 also supports SnapBridge, which enables constant low-power Bluetooth connection for automatic image transfer to your mobile device.
Dual Card Slots: The D850 and 5D Mark IV both have dual card slots, allowing you to backup your images or store different file formats on separate cards. The D850 supports both XQD and CFexpress cards, while the 5D Mark IV supports CF and SD cards.
Battery Life: The D850 has a longer battery life than the 5D Mark IV, with a capacity of 1900mAh compared to 1500mAh. This gives the D850 an advantage for extended shooting sessions.
Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Choice
The Nikon D850 and Canon 5D Mark IV are both exceptional professional DSLR cameras that offer a wide range of features and capabilities. The D850 excels in areas such as image quality, autofocus performance, and video capabilities, while the 5D Mark IV offers a slightly more compact design and a more affordable price point. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific photographic needs and budget.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which camera has the better dynamic range?
A: The Nikon D850 has a slightly wider dynamic range than the Canon 5D Mark IV.
Q: Which camera has the faster continuous shooting speed?
A: The Nikon D850 can shoot at up to 9 fps, while the Canon 5D Mark IV can shoot at up to 7 fps.
Q: Which camera has a touchscreen LCD screen?
A: The Nikon D850 has a 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD screen, while the Canon 5D Mark IV has a fixed 3.2-inch LCD screen.
Q: Which camera has the longer battery life?
A: The Nikon D850 has a longer battery life than the Canon 5D Mark IV, with a capacity of 1900mAh compared to 1500mAh.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Canon 5D Mark IV is generally more affordable than the Nikon D850.
