Compare canon cameras. Which is better Canon or Nikon: all the facts.

  • Date of: 02.02.2019

In this article we will compare three very popular APS-C DSLR cameras - Nikon D7100, D5200 and Canon EOS 700D. If you are planning to upgrade your photographic equipment in the near future and do not know which of these models to choose, then this article is what you need. We will look at the strengths and weak sides each model, after which it will be much easier to make a choice.

The Nikon D7100 is the most interesting camera of the three, and at the same time the most expensive. The camera costs about $1200 (body only). Canon 700D can be purchased for $750. The Nikon D5200 is an entry-level model that costs $700.

When buying new photographic equipment, there is always a desire to buy something good right away. It's easy to get carried away and buy a more advanced camera, in this case, the D7100. The difference between the D7100 and other models is very significant, approximately $500. For this amount you can buy very good lens, which will replace the Kit lens or buy a second lens for creative shooting. At the same time, there are also those photographers who, by paying extra money, strive to get more opportunities. Everything is very individual!

If you already have Canon or Nikon optics, you should make your choice more carefully. For example, if you already have a Nikon lens, think twice before switching to Canon, as your old optics will not fit on a new camera. As a result, you will have to sell old lenses, and in any case, lose money. If you decide to do this, make sure that the Canon EOS 700D has features that the D5200 or D7100 does not. Also, if you already have lenses and plan to take photography more seriously, you'll be tempted to buy the D7100.

In this comparison, we will make every effort to provide you with all the necessary information to help you make the right decision.

We'll start, as always, with a brief overview of each camera so that you have a better idea of ​​each candidate. We will then compare technical and functional features cameras in the table so you can better appreciate the differences between the D7100, D5200 and 700D.

Nikon D7100


The camera was announced on February 21, 2013. Despite such a short time on sale, it has already won a DPReview gold award. The DSLR provides simple operation and a wide range of customization features that will allow photographers to maximize their potential and create creative photography. Most characteristic feature D7100 is the absence of an optical low-pass filter. This results in increased image resolution, better frame clarity and the risk of moiré effect.

The Nikon D7100 is weather sealed and waterproof. The camera is made of magnesium alloy, therefore it is very durable, relatively light in weight and provides a high degree of protection from moisture and dust. The camera inherits the high-performance 51-point autofocus system from the Nikon D300 line of cameras, and also uses algorithms developed for the D4. All this makes the D7100 focus almost instantly and very accurately. The best performance of the camera will be provided by combination with a powerful fast lens.

Nikon D7100 is a DX format camera. The DSLR is equipped with a 24.1-megapixel DX matrix. The D7100 is capable of operating in crop 1.3x mode, which provides better focus and frame coverage. It is not recommended to use this mode for video recording, as it results in oversampling of the video.

The camera is capable of shooting Full HD video at 60i, 30p or 24p. The most enticing feature for videographers will be the ability to output uncompressed video to an external recording device. This will help professional video enthusiasts gain more control over their workflow during post-production. You can also enjoy high-quality stereo sound thanks to the standard 3.5mm jack. In addition, the camera has a headphone jack.

This is only part of what the D7100 is capable of. Nikon has put a lot of effort into creating an amazing camera for professionals and amateurs alike.

Nikon D5200


The camera was announced on November 6, 2013. Nikon D5200 is an updated version of the D5100. The camera is designed for beginner and amateur photographers. The camera was created to satisfy the needs of consumers who care about photo and video performance. The Nikon D5200 has some additional features over the D3200 and D3100. As a result of this, we can safely call the Nikon D5200 a worthy replacement for the entry-level Nikon D3200 and D3100 DSLRs.

The D5200 is equipped with the latest 24.1-megapixel sensor in DX-format CMOS architecture. This is a very high resolution for an APS-C sensor today, and is most often found in full-frame cameras. The camera is equipped with a 39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX focusing system, as well as a 2016 pixel RGB sensor. This combination provides very accurate and fast object tracking.

The D5200 is capable of recording Full HD video with stereo sound, and is also equipped with a tilting display with a resolution of 921 thousand dots. The camera is designed for beginners and therefore uses features that will appeal to this audience.

The camera has interesting features which will be useful for beginners. These features include special effects for photo and video shooting and image editing. They will help you get the most out of your images without using a photo editing program. The Nikon D5200 has a power-efficient design and can shoot up to 500 shots (CIPA) on a single battery charge.

Canon EOS 700D


The camera was announced on March 21, 2013. The Canon EOS 700D has a stunning design, loads of features and great technical capabilities. Unfortunately, the new model is not very different from its predecessor, the EOS 650D, but it still has interesting innovations. The EOS 700D features an updated Live View mode, a higher digital zoom factor (10 instead of 3), a top dial that rotates 360 degrees and has 8 options instead of 10. The new model comes with an improved 18-55mm STM lens.

As for prices, the latest data shows the 650D costs $800 and the 700D costs $750. The 650D costs about $735 on Amazon, and its updated version$750. Judging by the prices and characteristics of the cameras, it cannot be said that the EOS 700D is capable of replacing the previous model. The camera is rather a good alternative to the EOS 650D. Either way, the Canon EOS 700D is a great entry-level camera designed for beginner enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts.

The 700D features an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and Canon's latest DIGIC 5 image processor. The EOS 700D also features an updated hybrid focusing system.

On the back of the camera is a 3-inch Clear View II vari-angle touchscreen display. Thanks to the combination of stunning hybrid focusing, a tilt-and-tilt display and an advanced STM lens, the EOS 700D is capable of producing stunning photos as well as videos.

The 700D features a 9-point focusing system, an advanced metering system, a high continuous shooting speed of 5 frames per second, original modes including Basic+ mode, Intelligent Auto mode and Full HD 1080p video shooting. It has a built-in Speedlite transmitter that provides external flash control.

According to those who have already used the camera, the 700D is capable of producing stunning photos. The image is clear, with excellent detail and color reproduction. Users appreciate the high continuous shooting speed and noise reduction capabilities, which allow you to get high-quality images even in low light conditions at high ISO values.

So, while the 700D is similar in many ways to its predecessor, this camera will be a boon for videographers and won't disappoint amateur photographers.

Comparison of characteristics of Canon EOS 700D, Nikon D7100 and D5200


At this stage, you have already received enough information about each camera. It’s difficult now to make a choice and give preference to one of them. In this section, we will compare the Canon EOS 700D, Nikon D7100 and D5200, which will give a deeper understanding of the differences between the three DSLRs.

Nikon D7100 Nikon D5200 Canon 700D

Announced February 21, 2013 November 6, 2012 March 21, 2013
Matrix 24.1 MP (effective)
23.5 x 15.6 mm
APS-C CMOS
24.1 MP (effective)
23.5 x 15.6 mm
APS-C CMOS
18.5 MP (effective)
22.3 x 14.9 mm
APS-C CMOS
Low pass filter No Eat Eat
The D7100 and D5200 have the same matrix resolution, but the D7100 does not have a low-pass filter. This is the only camera in the group that does not have this filter. In theory, the D7100 should create clearer and more detailed frames. In practice, it is not very noticeable, except when the image is fully zoomed in. At the same time, pictures taken with the D7100 are more likely to suffer from moire.
ISO ISO 100 - 6400 (expandable to 25600) 100 - 6400 (with 25600 extension) 100 - 12800 (with 25600 extension)
Autofocus sensor

Nikon Multi-CAM 3500DX

51 focus points (15 cross-shaped)

Nikon Multi-CAM 4800DX

39 focus points (9 cross type)

9-point AF system (all 9 cross-type) Hybrid CMOS AF (including phase detection)

Autofocus operating range (ISO 100) -2 Up to 19 EV -1 to +19 EV -0.5 - 18 EV
When creating the D7100 focusing system, the same detection algorithms were used as in the D4. The D7100 has the best focusing module in this group, offering 51 focusing points, of which 15 are cross-type, and the camera also has a very wide operating range. Focusing on the D5200 is just as fast and accurate. The 700D has less impressive specs and only 9 AF points, all of which are cross-type. The D7100's focusing will perform better in difficult situations - in low light conditions and when shooting fast-moving subjects. The EOS 700D is the only camera in the group with which you can use both hybrid autofocus and contrast autofocus. This will be especially useful for videographers.
Metering sensor RGB sensor 2016 pixels RGB sensor 2016 pixels 63-zone dual-layer metering sensor
Electronic sensors are more sensitive to red colors. Canon used a dual-layer sensor with the first layer sensitive to the red and green color spectrum, the second layer sensitive to blue and green. The Nikon D7100 and D5200 exposure metering systems are more advanced. They provide not just analysis of color information, but also fine-tuning for optimal exposure. This also helps the camera set the white balance accurately.
LCD

Diagonal 3.2 inches

1228 thousand points

Rotate 170 degrees

Diagonal 3 inches

921 thousand points
Pan-tilt

Diagonal 3 inches

1040 thousand points

Tilt-rotating display

Sensory

The Canon 700D has the most impressive high-resolution screen that's not just tilt-and-swivel, but also touch-sensitive. The presence of a touch screen will be especially appreciated by novice photographers. Videographers will benefit from not only the 700D's display, but also the D5200's, as they're both tilt-and-swivel, allowing for different shooting angles.
Build quality Magnesium alloy Plastic Plastic
weather seal Eat No No
Viewfinder

Pentaprism

approximation 0.94

Pentamirror

approximation 0.78

Pentamirror

approximation 0.85

The D7100 has the best viewfinder in the group, it is larger in size and has 100% field of view. The D5200 is equipped with the smallest viewfinder. The pentaprism viewfinder is made from a single piece of glass that reflects the light coming from the Mirrors onto the viewfinder on the other side. Light loss will be minimal. A pentamirror is made of several mirrors with an air gap between them. As a result, there may be significant light loss. Images under the same shooting conditions will be slightly darker.
Excerpt 30 - 1/8000 sec 30 - 1/4000 sec 30 - 1/4000 sec
The D7100 offers twice the shutter speed of the 700D or D5200. This gives the photographer more control over exposure, especially useful when using fast lenses. Shutter speed will help you better slow down fast moving objects, useful when photographing sports events, children playing, birds flying, wild animals, etc.
Built-in flash Yes (12 m) Yes (12 m) Yes (13m)
External flash hot shoe hot shoe hot shoe
Wireless flash control Maybe Maybe Maybe
Flash Sync 1/250 sec FP High-speed sync: up to 1/8000 sec 1/200 sec 1/200 sec
Continuous shooting 6 fps 3 or 5 fps 5 frames per second
Exposure compensation ± 5 (in steps of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV) ± 5 (in steps of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV) ± 5 (in steps of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV)
AE bracketing (2, 3, 5 frames in increments of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, +2 EV) ± 2 (3 frames in increments of 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV)
White balance bracketing Eat Eat Eat
Video recording

1920 x 1080 (60i, 50i, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p), 640 x 424 (30, 24 fps)

Stereo sound

1920 x 1080 (60i, 50i, 30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p), 640 x 424 (30, 25 fps)

Stereo sound

1920 x 1080 (30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p), 640 x 480 (30, 25 fps)

Stereo sound

External microphone connector Eat Eat Eat
Headphone jack Eat No No
The D7100 has microphone and headphone jacks that will appeal to more experienced photographers. The 700D and D5200 have tilt-and-tilt displays that are great for video shooting, although they don't have the above connectors. It is unknown how many users will use these connectors, but you are overpaying for them. One of the big drawbacks of the D7100 is that you won't be able to change the aperture value while recording video. The D5200 and D7100 benefit from the ability to record frame-by-frame video using the built-in timer function
Wireless connection additionally (via WU-1a) additionally (via WU-1a) additionally (via Eye-Fi)
Battery life
(CIPA standard)
950 frames 500 frames 440 frames
The most powerful battery is in the D7100, significantly worse in the D5200. You'll get the fewest shots on a single charge with the 700D.
GPS optional (GP-1) optional (GP-1) optional (GP-E2)
Dimensions 136 x 107 x 76 mm 129 x 98 x 78 mm 133 x 100 x 79 mm
Weight 765 g 555 g 580 g

Judging by the comparison results, it is simply impossible not to fall in love with the Nikon D7100. It is made of magnesium alloy, has a weather seal and better ergonomics, equipped with a 51-point focusing system with the same algorithms as the D4. When creating this model, Nikon's advanced exposure metering technologies were used; the camera has a large display with a resolution of 1228 thousand dots, a pentaprism viewfinder, a shutter speed of 1/8000 sec, a burst speed of 6 frames per second and excellent battery life. The D7100 is truly impressive, and despite the high price of the model, there is a lot to pay for. Of course, if some of the above features are not of interest to you, then pay attention to the 700D or D5200, which will not only allow you to save money, but also will not disappoint with the quality of the photographs you create.

Of course, everything additional features, such as - focusing system with big amount dots, 6fps continuous shooting, weather sealing and rugged construction are well worth the extra money. Therefore, think carefully about which of the above you need. You may decide to abandon the idea of ​​purchasing such expensive photographic equipment altogether.

The absence of an optical low-pass filter does not significantly improve image quality. In fact, there is a lot of information on the Internet that the difference is barely noticeable. Check out some sample images and see for yourself! Yes, it is noticeable that the pictures are sharper, especially in RAW format and at 100% zoom, but the difference is small.

The Canon EOS 700D has amazing technical characteristics. The camera is equipped with good hybrid focusing, a tilt-and-rotate touch screen and a microphone. All this contributes to the fact that with the help of this camera you can create beautiful videos. It's no wonder that cameras like the EOS 600D, 650D and 700D are among the most preferred by amateur videographers.

The differences between the 700D and D5200 are not big, but the D5200 lacks a touchscreen display, and this model also has a smaller viewfinder, but best system focusing and a more advanced metering sensor. Other advantages of the D5200 include the ability to record uncompressed 60i video, an HDMI connector, a more powerful battery and smaller dimensions than the 700D.

ISO sensitivity performance

Now that we know the differences between the three cameras, it's time to analyze the camera's performance and see which model performs better at high ISOs. High ISO performance is very important to many photographers because it helps with long shutter speeds and low light shooting. Not everyone can afford a fast lens, and unless your lens has a large aperture, you can increase your ISO and hope for good results.

Sample images from each camera were analyzed.

ISO 100/200 - Photos are clean and sharp. Exceptionally high image quality for all cameras. The D7100 and D5200 have a resolution advantage, so these images appear sharper.
ISO 400 - there is a little noise in photos from Nikon cameras, the 700D photos are very sharp, but this difference is only visible when viewed at 100% zoom and in dark areas. Images from the D7100 and D5200 look similar.
ISO 800 - Noise noticeable in dark areas in photos taken with the D7100 and D5200. Compared to its competitors, the 700D's results are more impressive. All images retain good detail.
ISO 1600 - Noise becomes increasingly noticeable and is not very visible in midtones and highlights. Small details begin to get lost in the pictures. The D7100's photos are sharper and better quality than the D5200's. The advantage of the 700D becomes more obvious.
ISO 3200/6400 - very noisy images on all cameras. With the 700D the loss of detail is more noticeable.

It is difficult to come to a clear conclusion and decide who the winner is. The D7100 and D5200 have high ISO performance. The 700D's results are impressive, with less noise in these images. On the other hand, the lack of a low-pass filter on the Nikon D7100 helped in maintaining detail. Canon has a slight edge in terms of ISO performance, but the difference isn't huge. All cameras cope with shooting in conditions poor lighting good enough.

Let's look at some sample videos before moving on to the final section.

Example video created with Nikon D7100 and 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens by Paul Van Allen

Example video created using Nikon D5200 and Nikkor 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR lens

Example video created using a Canon EOS 700D and an 18-55mm STM lens

Conclusion

Today we took a closer look at the capabilities of three great SLR cameras. The Nikon D7100 is definitely worth considering for enthusiasts who would like to take advantage of all the extra features. The main advantages of the model include a magnesium alloy body, a weather seal, improved ergonomics (especially when using large and heavy lenses), a shutter speed of 1/8000 sec, an improved focusing system, an improved exposure metering system, continuous shooting at 6 frames per second, large pentaprism viewfinder and much more.

As you can see, the list of features is quite long, and the D7100 the best option for amateur photographers, and the model can also serve as an excellent additional camera for professional photographers. Don't forget that the D7100 costs significantly more than the other two cameras. If the additional features of this model do not interest you, then feel free to choose between the D5200 and EOS D700. It may be more profitable for you to pay the difference in price to purchase a good lens.

The Canon EOS D700 and D5200 are excellent cameras. The 700D performs better at high ISOs than the D5200, but some artists may appreciate the additional resolution benefits of the D5200. Both of these cameras are better suited for beginner photographers. Many may be attracted by the presence of a touch display on the D700. The D5200 has its advantages, the main one being the presence of a 39-point focusing system.

If you can't afford the D7100, or you're just taking your first steps into the world of DSLR photography, opt for the EOS D700 or D5200. It's worth noting that the D5200 does not have a built-in AF motor. This means that autofocus will not work when paired with older lenses. When purchasing a lens for this camera, make sure that autofocus will be available.

There are a number of activities that you can do endlessly: look at fire, at water, crack seeds and... compare Canon DSLRs and Nikon. For all their differences between companies and branded lines of cameras, they have a lot in common (tens of years of competition have not been in vain). In our previous research, we carried out a general comparison of companies and their potential in terms of camera production. Today we will focus on specific models released at the beginning of the second decade of the 21st century. So, the ice has broken...

Comparison of Canon 600D and Nikon D5100

With a small gap from each other, the giant companies released budget-class DSLRs in 2011, which became incredibly popular among beginners and experienced photographers. The price of the devices is approximately the same.

Before moving on to the comparison, we can give you advice: go to the store right now and just try to figure it out, hold it in your hands for a little while, and minimally “use” both models. It may happen that on an intuitive level you will like some of them and the problem will disappear by itself.

The fact is that the models are competitors so similar that you are simply amazed, and in order to feel this difference between them, you need to work hard. The second question is whether the difference will be an advantage or just a feature of one or another model. So, as we see, you continue to read the article. This means that the question remains relevant.

A question of price and taste

Canon, although not as striking, is cheaper. And not least of all, this is due to the price of components. Nikon optics have always been more expensive than Canon's. The same Canon 50mm 1.8 lens costs half as much as Nikon's. Some people prefer Nikon optics because they are believed to give a clearer picture (however, is it always so necessary, this clear picture?! artistic photography, requiring a smoother pattern, has not been canceled). Dynamic range and the ISO of the Nikon D5100 is also ahead of the Canon 600D.

But the Canon 600D is equipped with built-in autofocus (“screwdriver”), which only more expensive Nikon models have. The Canon D600 also has an EF-S mount, which makes it easy to choose the right optics for it.

Performance

One of the determining factors is speed: taking photographs and saving photographs. To be fast, efficient and reliable. The Canon 600D's processor works without problems and saves photos in both JPEG and RAW, works in Live View mode, it processes video material quite quickly, at maximum settings and even when using special effects. There are disadvantages that appear during continuous shooting (Nikon, in turn, does not have them) - it happens that the device freezes a little for a couple of seconds. Consequences of this kind can be prevented by slightly reducing the resolution of the final images. Pro tip: set it to 6 megapixels, not 18, as is the default.

By the way, if we take megapixels into account, the Nikon D5100 has the maximum possible number of 16, and the Canon EOS 600D has 18. Apparently, in terms of performance, Nikon has also thought of everything better. The device has a built-in EXPEED2 processor, which allows you to save pictures immediately. A split second - and you can continue the photo hunt further. And, apparently, there are no problems with serial shooting.

Some users note some slowdown when shooting video, to which professionals respond: “Buy and install high-speed SD (Ultra) memory cards and you will be happy.

Crop factor

For Canon 600D it is 1.5, for Nikon it is 1.6. The difference is completely insignificant. Both cameras have a CMOS type matrix. Within one tenth, the cameras shoot the same.

ISO

According to the stated official characteristics, the ISO range of both Canon and Nikon is the same. But test results show that Nikon is better in terms of noise reduction. When shooting at high ISO values ​​(for example, 6400), the Nikon D5100 performs better than the Canon EOS 600D. If you lower ISO to 3200, the difference decreases significantly, although Nikon still has a slight advantage. If you shoot not in JPEG, but in RAW, then noise can be removed in Photoshop or Lightroom. Looking at the scale we have given, you can understand at what point the useful signal prevails over the noise level. The more harmonious the signal-to-noise ratio, the cleaner the image. The number +6dB means that the noise level is half as much. Discrepancy between measuring points and ISO values They differ somewhat, due to the fact that there is a difference between the sensitivity of the matrix declared by the manufacturer and the real one. Now let's move away from these tedious numbers and simply summarize: the declared parameters of the matrix and the real ones of the Canon 600D and Nikon D5100 are the same, but in practice Nikon is a little in the lead. But this only appears at high ISOs. As we already said in another article, it is better not to shoot at extreme indicators at all, but to look for the necessary balance empirically.

Shutter speed range

The models have no discrepancies with this. Both Canon and Nikon have it in the range from 1/4000 to 30 seconds.

Shooting video

Both Canon 600D and Nikon D5100 have a maximum resolution of 1920/1080. Both cameras allow you to shoot excellent Full HD video with good sound. Only Full HD videos on Nikon are produced with a maximum duration of 20 minutes, while on Canon they are only 12 minutes (since the file cannot “weigh” more than 4000 Mb.
In general, for a decent result, an HD resolution with parameters of 1280x720 will be enough, and this will significantly expand the timing. For Nikon, to start filming, you need to activate Live View, and then press the “Record” button. The position of the mode selection dial does not play a role in this case. Before starting filming, the Canon 600D is switched to the “video recording” position, after which “Record” is pressed.



Also, both models have the ability to make MPEG-4 videos. Both cameras have autofocus. Both the one and the other are not flawless. If you get your hands on it and focus on your eye, you can easily use manual focusing. Also, Canon 600D and Nikon D5100 have the ability to use an external microphone.

Why Canon is still better for video

We continue our comparison of Canon and Nikon DSLRs, extremely popular in 2011, which are still in demand today. And this subsection will turn out to be a little more dramatic than the previous ones, where, despite everything, we reconciled competitors. There is an indisputable fact that Canon, in particular, this model is more suitable for shooting video. In the case of the 600D, there is an option that allows you to manually set the exposure (ask any professional and they will tell you why this is good). The Canon EOS 600D also has a digital zoom.

Don’t rush to spit - in the case of point-and-shoot cameras, “zoom” is considered a bonus, in the case of DSLRs it is an additional arsenal expressive means. You can stretch an image obtained from an 18 MpX matrix to a two-megapixel crop without loss.

There is another unique option for the Canon 600D. It consists of shooting video material at a speed of about 60 frames per second, however, this can be done when shooting regular HD video. So, here are the obvious advantages of the Canon 600D over its equally stellar competitor: the ability to digital zoom, high-speed shooting and manual exposure control.


Comparison of Canon 60D and Nikon D5200

To compare these two equally popular models, we conducted a little research and turned to a popular site where such comparisons are honored. To begin with, the most basic things. Nikon's autofocus system wins. Now for the rest of the parameters.


Sensor size and more

Canon's sensor size is larger, which means better picture quality. But the Nikon D5200 has more focusing points (more than four times!), which means that the device has more flexible focusing capabilities. In addition, this makes it easier to find a more advantageous angle for focusing in automatic mode. In terms of ISO, the situation is the same as with the Canon 600D and Nikon D5100: with the Nikon D5200 model, you can raise the light sensitivity to more high level than the Canon 60D. But, as we have already said, you can shoot in RAW format and easily edit it in Photoshop or Lightroom.
Another option is fast continuous shooting when working with moving objects. Here Canon is slightly superior to its competitor. The output picture quality (photos and videos) is better from Nikon. Canon This model does not have a stereo microphone, which can allow you to record high-quality sound without using an external device. There is also such an indicator as dynamic indicator. So, it is better than the Nikon D5200. What does it actually give? And it gives the output better detail of objects, even if you shoot in poor light.
Now let's dwell on those points where Nikon and Canon are equal. Both models have tracking focus (it allows you to focus correctly if the object is moving). Also, the Canon 60D and Nikon D5200 are equipped with a two-stage shutter, which allows you to focus when you press the shutter button halfway, and take pictures when you press it fully.

Let's summarize

Do you feel a little clearer after our mini-study? This may well be the case, and yet this is a debate without end and edge. Whoever undertakes to compare Canon and Nikon SLR cameras, he still comes to the conclusion that this is a matter of taste. In certain parameters, this or that model is superior to its analogue produced by another company. But she cannot surpass her in everything, just as in the opposite case.

Technologies are developing rapidly and every year cameras that can take truly high-quality pictures are becoming more accessible. However, along with simple cameras There is a segment of equipment for professionals. These cameras are capable of providing maximum performance, best quality images, advanced manual settings with the most convenient controls and excellent build quality. To analyze the advantages and disadvantages of professional cameras from various manufacturers, it is worth taking a closer look at each model.

The comparison will include:

  • Nikon D610;
  • Nikon DF;
  • Canon EOS 6D;
  • Sony SLT-A99;
  • Canon EOS 5D Mark III;
  • Nikon D800.

All of the cameras listed have a full-frame sensor.

More professional, flagship cameras Nikon D4 and Canon EOS 1D are not included in the review since they are available only to those who really know what they want from a camera, and such people do not need any reviews and comparisons.

Camera dimensions


The most compact camera is Nikon DF. Largest size have Nikon D800 and Canon 5D III. The Nikon D610 and Canon EOS 6D cameras are not very compact. They took an average position in this ranking.

Weight


The manufacturers' Canon 6D and Nikon DF cameras turned out to be the lightest. Their weight is 755 g and 765 grams respectively. This weight takes into account the presence of the battery and memory card. The heaviest carcass was the Nikon D800, weighing 1 kg.

Physical matrix size


All cameras have sensors of the same size 36x24 mm. This size is optimal for photography. Such sensors allow you to get the highest quality picture.

Sensor resolution


It’s worth mentioning here that low resolution is not a negative feature. Lower resolution sensors generate less noise and are more light sensitive due to each pixel being magnified physical size. Higher resolution sensors tend to produce noisier images, but produce higher resolution images. This means. that if you need to print huge posters from your photos, then you should focus on cameras with high-resolution sensors.

The Nikon DF camera received the smallest resolution - 16.2 megapixels. As stated above, this should not be regarded as negative trait, since exactly the same sensor is installed on the flagship camera Nikon D4.

The highest resolution is the D800 from Nikon. It is 36 megapixels.

Autofocus


The best focusing system is installed on Canon cameras 5D III and Nikon D800. U Canon autofocus operates on the basis of 61 focusing points, with 41 cross-type points. Nikon boasts a 51 point focusing system with 15 cross points. Nikon Df and D610 received 39 dots, 9 of which were cross-shaped. The Sony A99 has 19 dots (11 cross-shaped). For reasons that are not clear, Canon has shortchanged its 6D camera. It has only 11 points and only one cross-type point.

Burst speed


There is no absolute leader in this category. Sony A99, Canon 5D III and Nikon D610 allow you to shoot at 6 fps. The D600 offers 5.5 fps. Nikon D800 is capable of taking only 4 frames per second.

Sensor sensitivity (ISO)


The light sensitivity of Nikon cameras is not very high, while Canon and Sony have achieved this indicator values ​​of 25600 ISO units. This high value Not necessary for the average user, but if you often shoot in low light conditions, then cameras from Canon and Sony will be able to create higher quality and more detailed images.

Viewfinder


The Sony A99 camera has an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 2,359,000 dots. This is very good indicator. All other cameras have an optical viewfinder. The coverage area is 100% for all, except Canon 6D. The viewfinder coverage is 97%. This means. that the frame will turn out a little wider than the photographer sees in the viewfinder.

Display


The Sony A99 has the highest quality display. In addition to high resolution, it was equipped with a high-quality pan-tilt mechanism. This greatly facilitates sighting in various shooting conditions. All other cameras have displays of approximately the same quality: 3" and 3.2" (921,000 or 1,040,000 pixels).

Memory cards


Nikon Df and Canon 6D only have one memory card slot. Canon 5D III and Nikon D800 received additional slots for Compact Flash memory cards. A standard slot for SD cards is also available. Nikon D610 and Sony A99 received two slots for memory cards.

File type


There is nothing to talk about here. All cameras can save pictures in JPEG and RAW formats.

Case quality


All professional-grade cameras must have durable and lightweight bodies, which forces manufacturers to use magnesium alloy. Nikon D800 and Canon 5D III received a body made entirely of magnesium alloy. Nikon Df consists of magnesium alloy on the top, back and bottom panels. Canon 6D and Nikon D610 received partial magnesium alloy inserts. The rest of the body is made of high quality plastic.

Video


Nikon Df can't shoot video at all. Largest quantity Sony A99's video recording functions. This camera can shoot Full HD 1080p video at 60 and 50 fps. Other cameras shoot Full HD at frame rates of 30, 25 and 24.

Audio


If you want to shoot high quality video, then the sound should be appropriate. All cameras that can shoot video have a connector for connecting an external microphone. And also all except the Canon 6D received headphone jacks.

Wireless technologies


Only the Canon EOS 6D has built-in wireless Wi-Fi and GPS modules. For Canon 5D III and Nikon D800 owners, plug-in modules will not be cheap. Nikon Df and D610 cameras are compatible with a large number of common wireless communication modules.

Kit lens


/You can buy cameras without lenses. This is due to the fact that most users of such equipment already have a certain set of optics. When buying a camera with a lens, you can be sure of its quality. It will be an order of magnitude higher than the quality of lenses that are sold with cheaper cameras.

Lens mount


The camera mount is designed for its model or line. This is a common practice of manufacturers who force people to buy lenses from their own production for photographic equipment. Although there are third-party manufacturers that produce optics for various mounts, it is noteworthy that the Nikon Df is compatible with numerous older lenses. At the same time, autofocus remains operational, etc.

Price


The cost of professional full-frame cameras is above $2000. The Canon 5D III and Nikon D800 have a significantly higher price tag. It is very strange that the Nikon Df, with its modest characteristics and lack of video recording capabilities, costs almost $3,000. This is the price for a unique design that will undoubtedly attract attention.