Nikon 1 V2 vs Canon PowerShot G5 X
Nikon 1 V2 vs Canon PowerShot G5 X: a Complete Review and Comparison
Are you looking for the best camera to suit your needs? Due to a wide range of options, making a wise and weighted decision can be rather challenging. Which specs to keep in mind? What are the key pros and cons of each model? This comparison should give some helpful hints!
In this review, we are going to make a detailed comparison of two cameras that fall into different categories. While the first model we are looking at, Nikon 1 V2 belongs to a Entry-Level Mirrorless category, the other model, Nikon 1 V2 is a Large Sensor Compact camera. Both models feature different types of sensors. Thus, Nikon 1 V2 comes with CMOS sensor that has a resolution of 14.0 MP resolution, while our second compared model Canon PowerShot G5 X features a 20.0 MP BSI-CMOS sensor.
Both cameras we are going to look at in our overview fall into two different categories - MirrorLess and Compact. Keeping in mind all the distinctive features of each category, it will be hard to make a detailed comparison of these two models. However, we will do our best to make this review as unbiased and detailed as possible.
To get started, let’s take a look at some of the key features of Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X and, after this, we can go on to our detailed comparison of these models.
Nikon 1 V2 Key Features:
- 14.0 MP 1" CMOS sensor
- ISO 160 - 6400
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3″ Fixed Type Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 15.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (60, 30 fps), 1280 x 720 (60 fps), 1072 x 720 (60 fps) 640 x 240 (400), 320 x 120 (1200)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 109 x 82 x 46 mm
- Weight: 278 g
- Environmental Sealing: No
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Replaced Nikon 1 V1. Compare
- Replaced by Nikon 1 V3. Compare
Canon PowerShot G5 X Key Features:
- 20.0 MP 1" BSI-CMOS sensor
- ISO 125 - 12800
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- 3″ Fully Articulated Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 5.9 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (60p, 30p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 112 x 76 x 44 mm
- Weight: 353 g
- Environmental Sealing: No
- Built-in GPS: No
Nikon 1 V2 was substituted by Nikon 1 V3.
Be sure to check out some of our other overviews that may also interest you:
Nikon 1 V2 vs. 1 V3
Nikon 1 V3 vs. Canon PowerShot G5 X
Nikon 1 V2 substituted Nikon 1 V1.
Be sure to check out some of our other overviews that may also interest you:
Nikon 1 V2 vs. 1 V1
Nikon 1 V1 vs. Canon PowerShot G5 X
Why is Nikon 1 V2 a better choice than Canon PowerShot G5 X
| Continuous Shooting | 15 fps vs 5.9 fps | 9.1 fps faster |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/16000 vs 1/2000 | Faster shutter speed |
| Number Of Focus Points | 73 vs 31 | 42 more focus points |
| Battery Life | 310 shots vs 210 shots | 100 more frames with a single charge |
| Weight | 278 g vs 353 g | 75 g lighter |
What are the key reasons to pick Canon PowerShot G5 X over Nikon 1 V2
| NFC | Yes vs No | Easy wireless connectivity with compatible devices |
| Timelapse Recording | Yes vs No | Creative shooting |
| Sensor Resolution | 20.0 MP vs 14.0 MP | 30% more pixels |
| Image Stabilization | Yes vs No | All lenses are stabilized |
| Flash Range | 7 vs No | 7 better flash range |
| Screen Type | Fully Articulated vs Fixed Type | Flexible shooting positions |
| Screen Resolution | 1,040k dots vs 921k dots | 11.4% higher resolution screen |
| Touch Screen | Yes vs No | Easy control of camera functions |
| Viewfinder Resolution | 2,360k dots vs 1,440k dots | 39% higher resolution |
Key PROs of Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3″ | Large display |
| Viewfinder | Electronic | Electronic | Better framing and control |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | Yes | Yes | Very handy for portraits |
| Built-In Flash | Yes | Yes | External flash available |
Key CONs of Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X
| Sensor Resolution | 14.0 MP | 20.0 MP | Small sensor resolution |
| Microphone Port | No | No | No microphone port |
| Headphone Port | No | No | No headphone port |
| Environmental Sealing | No | No | No environmental sealing |
Nikon 1 V2 vs Canon PowerShot G5 X: Comparing Two Models By Physical Characteristics
Before heading straight to the technical characteristics of each model, let’s start with comparing their physical specs. Let’s start with looking at the physical difference of the two products. Below are images that clearly show the sizes of Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X from the front view.
Now, let’s go on and see how the reviewed models are different or similar by the top view.
After looking at these images, you should get a clear idea of each model’s dimensions and how they are different from each other. However, we are not going to stop there. The next characteristic worth looking at is the weight. Of course, not every photographer is concerned about the weight, for example, it wouldn't be a decisive point for those who shoot in a studio. However, it is still an important factor because if you happen to go on a long photo session or just love having the camera with you wherever you go, you want to be sure that the chosen model isn't too heavy.
Speaking of weight, Nikon 1 V2 is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 75g less than the Canon PowerShot G5 X. This difference, in fact, can become a significant disadvantage for the photographers, who prefer to have their cameras with them wherever they go.
Comparing Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X by the type of Sensor and Resolution
Sensor is, without a doubt, the most significant element of every digital camera. Its type, size, and resolution are the factors that define the quality of future shots. Thus, it is barely possible to pick a suitable camera without looking at these specs.
Are Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X any different in terms of sensor type?
In fact, that's exactly what makes these two models really different. Thus, it is a good point to consider if your are choosing between these two cameras. Nikon 1 V2 features a 14.0 MP 1" sized CMOS sensor . Canon PowerShot G5 X, in its turn, comes with a 20.0 MP 1" sized BSI-CMOS sensor , which makes it significantly different from the first model.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X by the size of their sensors.
Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X are identical by this indicator, as each feature a sensor of the same size. Thus, both cameras will provide the same level of control in terms of the depth of field if you use them with the same focal length and aperture.
For Which Fields Of Photography Are Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X Suitable?
If you are interested in photography or has made a career in this field, you should know that different types of shooting actually require different camera characteristics. While one model can produce outstanding portraits, at the same time, it can be terrible for shooting landscapes, and so on. Thus, before you purchase a specific camera, it is vital to decide, which type of shooting you do most often and consider an option that suits it the most.
This section of our comparison is devoted to the performance of Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X in different fields of photography. Here we are going to look at the five main areas and evaluate how well each of the reviewed models performs in them. This will help you choose an option that suits your needs the most depending on your interest in one or several of these fields.
| Photography Type | Nikon 1 V2 | Canon PowerShot G5 X |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
|
| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
Nikon 1 V2 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/16000s)
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- Small 1" (13.2 x 8.8 mm) sensor
- You might not like Nikon skintone
- No Image Stabilization
Canon PowerShot G5 X for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Canon is famous with its skintones
- Image Stabilization
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- Small 1" (13.2 x 8.8 mm) sensor
Nikon 1 V2 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
Disadvantages:
- Big size (109 x 82 x 46 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
- Small 1"(13.2 x 8.8 mm) sensor
Canon PowerShot G5 X for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Fully Articulated Screen
- Image Stabilization
Disadvantages:
- Big size (112 x 76 x 44 mm)
- Small 1"(13.2 x 8.8 mm) sensor
Nikon 1 V2 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Fast Continuous Shooting (15.0 fps)
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/16000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (73)
Disadvantages:
- No Environmental Sealing
- Bad Low Light ISO (403)
- Small battery life (310 shots)
Canon PowerShot G5 X for Sports Photography
Advantages:
No Significant Advantages
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (5.9 fps)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/2000s)
- Smal Number of autofocus Points (31)
- Bad Max Native ISO (12800)
- Small battery life (210 shots)
Nikon 1 V2 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Small weight (278 g)
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Small 1" (13.2 x 8.8 mm) sensor
- Big size (109 x 82 x 46 mm)
Canon PowerShot G5 X for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Small 1" (13.2 x 8.8 mm) sensor
- Big size (112 x 76 x 44 mm)
Nikon 1 V2 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- Small 1" (13.2 x 8.8 mm) sensor
- Low resolution sensor (14 MP)
- Bad Dynamic Range (10.8)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Bad Low Light ISO (403)
Canon PowerShot G5 X for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- Small 1" (13.2 x 8.8 mm) sensor
- Low resolution sensor (20 MP)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Bad Max Native ISO (12800)
Comparison of Nikon 1 V2 vs Canon PowerShot G5 X: Final Verdict
Hopefully, our detailed overview of these models has helped you consider all the main specs, pros and cons of each cameras. Maybe, after reading this comparison, some of you have already decided which option to opt for depending on your needs and preferences. However, if you are still wondering which option is a better choice, Nikon 1 V2 or Canon PowerShot G5 X, below you can see what scores each of them received in five different aspects. To wrap up, we have used our unique Decision Algorithm that assesses different camera models upon 63 different factors including their price, and, if possible, DxO Mark scores. This algorithm allows us to make our verdict more consistent and objective.
What is our final verdict? Based on our comparison and the final scores of Nikon 1 V2 and Canon PowerShot G5 X here is what we can say in conclusion:
According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Canon PowerShot G5 X deserves a higher Total Score than the Nikon 1 V2. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Nikon 1 V2 vs Canon PowerShot G5 X Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Nikon 1 V2 | Canon PowerShot G5 X | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Canon |
| Model | 1 V2 | PowerShot G5 X |
| Announced | Oct 24, 2012 | Sep 11, 2015 |
| Body Type | SLR-style mirrorless | Large sensor compact |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | BSI-CMOS |
| Sensor Size | 1" | 1" |
| Sensor Dimensions | 13.2 x 8.8 mm | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
| Sensor Area | 116.16 mm2 | 116.16 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 14.0 MP | 20.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 4608 x 3072 | 5472 x 3648 |
| Max Native ISO | 6,400 | 12,800 |
| Max Boosted ISO | n/a | n/a |
| Min Native ISO | 160 | 125 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Nikon 1 | Fixed lens |
| Number of Lenses | 13 | n/a |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 2.7x | n/a |
| Macro Focus Range | 5 | |
| AutoFocus | ||
| AF Touch |  |
|
| AF Continuous | |
|
| AF Single | |
|
| AF Tracking | |
|
| AF Selective | |
|
| AF Center | |
|
| AF Multi Area | |
|
| AF Live View | |
|
| AF Face Detection | |
|
| AF Contrast Detection | |
|
| AF Phase Detection | |
|
| Number of Focus Points | 73 | 31 |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | n/a | n/a |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Fixed Type | Fully Articulated |
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3″ |
| Screen Resolution | 921k dots | 1,040k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Electronic | Electronic |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 1,440k dots | 2,360k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | ||
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/16000 s | 1/2000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 15.0 fps | 5.9 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 7 | |
| Flash Modes | Auto, Red-eye, Slow sync, Rear curtain | Auto, slow synchro |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
|
| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (60, 30 fps), 1280 x 720 (60 fps), 1072 x 720 (60 fps) 640 x 240 (400), 320 x 120 (1200) | 1920 x 1080 (60p, 30p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p) |
| Max Video Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Video Formats | MPEG-4, H.264 | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Microphone Port | |
|
| Headphone Port | |
|
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless Connectivity | |
|
| HDMI | |
|
| USB | USB 2.0 | USB 2.0 |
| Physical | ||
| Environmental Sealing | |
|
| Water Proof | |
|
| Dust Proof | |
|
| Shock Proof | |
|
| Crush Proof | |
|
| Freeze Proof | |
|
| Weight | 278 g | 353 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 109 x 82 x 46 mm | 112 x 76 x 44 mm |
| Battery Life | 310 shots | 210 shots |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | Battery Pack |
| Battery Model | EN-EL21 | NB-13L |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | Optional | |
| Storage Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC card | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Storage Slots | 1 | 1 |
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