Nikon D4 vs Canon EOS-1D X
- Full frame
- 16 megapixels
- Nikon F
-
45
Overall -
23
Imaging -
49
Features -
66
Size -
0
Price
- Full frame
- 18 megapixels
- Canon EF
-
40
Overall -
16
Imaging -
57
Features -
66
Size -
0
Price
Nikon D4 vs Canon EOS-1D 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 provide a detailed evaluation and comparison of two different camera models that fall into the same category - Pro DSLR. Although these cameras are from the same category, they were introduced by different brands - Nikon and Canon. Although Nikon D4 and Canon EOS-1D X are both equipped with the same CMOS sensor, they boast of different resolution. Thus, Nikon D4 has a sensor with a resolution of 16.0 MP, while Canon EOS-1D X has a different resolution of 18.0 MP.
To get started, let’s take a look at some of the key features of Nikon D4 and Canon EOS-1D X and, after this, we can go on to our detailed comparison of these models.
Nikon D4 Key Features:
- 16.0 MP Full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 12800 (Expands to 50 - 204800)
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3.2″ Fixed Type Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 11.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps), 640 x 424 (30, 25 fps)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 160 x 157 x 91 mm
- Weight: 1340 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Replaced Nikon D3S. Compare
- Replaced by Nikon D4s. Compare
Canon EOS-1D X Key Features:
- 18.0 MP Full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 51200 (Expands to 50 - 204800)
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3.2″ Fixed Type Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 14.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps, 1280 x 720 (60, 50 fps), 640 x 480 (60, 50 fps)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 158 x 164 x 83 mm
- Weight: 1340 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Replaced Canon 1Ds MIII.
- Replaced by Canon 1D X II.
Nikon D4 was substituted by Nikon D4s.
Be sure to check out some of our other overviews that may also interest you:
Nikon D4 vs. D4s
Nikon D4s vs. Canon EOS-1D X
Nikon D4 substituted Nikon D3S.
Be sure to check out some of our other overviews that may also interest you:
Nikon D4 vs. D3S
Nikon D3S vs. Canon EOS-1D X
Why is Nikon D4 a better choice than Canon EOS-1D X
| Battery Life | 2600 shots vs 1120 shots | 1480 more frames with a single charge |
| Headphone Port | Yes vs No | Has headphone port |
| Dxo Color Depth | 24.7 vs 23.8 | Better color depth |
| Dxo Dynamic Range | 13.1 vs 11.8 | Better dynamic range |
| Dxo Low Light Iso | 2965 vs 2786 | Better High ISO performance |
What are the key reasons to pick Canon EOS-1D X over Nikon D4
| Sensor Resolution | 18.0 MP vs 16.0 MP | 11.1% more pixels |
| Sensor Area | 864 mm2 vs 860.4 mm2 | 0.4% larger pixel area |
| Continuous Shooting | 14 fps vs 11 fps | 3 fps faster |
| Number Of Focus Points | 61 vs 51 | 10 more focus points |
| Number Of Cross Focus Points | 41 vs 15 | 26 more cross focus points |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | Yes vs No | Very handy for portraits |
| Screen Resolution | 1,040k dots vs 921k dots | 11.4% higher resolution screen |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.76 vs 0.7 | 0.06 better magnification |
Key PROs of Nikon D4 and Canon EOS-1D X
| Screen Size | 3.2″ | 3.2″ | Large display |
| Viewfinder | Optical (pentaprism) | Optical (pentaprism) | Better framing and control |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| Microphone Port | Yes | Yes | High quality audio recording option |
| Timelapse Recording | Yes | Yes | Creative shooting |
| Storage Slots | 2 slots | 2 slots | Extra Storage Slots |
| Bracketing | Yes | Yes | Useful for tough lighting conditions and HDR |
| Continuous Shooting | 11.0 fps | 14.0 fps | Nice continuous shooting |
| Flash Sync Port | Yes | Yes | Port for Flash Sync |
| Environmental Sealing | Yes | Yes | Shoot at tough conditions |
| Battery Life | 2600 shots | 1120 shots | Big number of frames with a single charge |
Key CONs of Nikon D4 and Canon EOS-1D X
| Touch Screen | No | No | No touch screen |
| Screen Type | Fixed Type | Fixed Type | No flexible viewing angles |
| Sensor Resolution | 16.0 MP | 18.0 MP | Small sensor resolution |
| Built-In Flash | No | No | No built-in flash |
| Image Stabilization | No | No | No image stabilization |
Nikon D4 vs Canon EOS-1D 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 D4 and Canon EOS-1D 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, Canon EOS-1D X is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 0g less than the Nikon D4. 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 D4 and Canon EOS-1D 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 D4 and Canon EOS-1D 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 D4 features a 16.0 MP Full frame sized CMOS sensor . Canon EOS-1D X, in its turn, comes with a 18.0 MP Full frame sized CMOS sensor , which makes it significantly different from the first model.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Nikon D4 and Canon EOS-1D X by the size of their sensors.
Nikon D4 and Canon EOS-1D 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 D4 and Canon EOS-1D 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 D4 and Canon EOS-1D 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 D4 | Canon EOS-1D X |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
|
| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
Nikon D4 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
Disadvantages:
- You might not like Nikon skintone
- No Image Stabilization
Canon EOS-1D X for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Canon is famous with its skintones
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon D4 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Large Full frame(36 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- Big battery life (2600 shots)
Disadvantages:
- Big size (160 x 157 x 91 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Canon EOS-1D X for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Large Full frame(36 x 24 mm) sensor
- Big battery life (1120 shots)
Disadvantages:
- Big size (158 x 164 x 83 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon D4 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Fast Continuous Shooting (11.0 fps)
- Environmental Sealing
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (51)
- Nice Low Light ISO (2965)
- Big battery life (2600 shots)
- Big size (160 x 157 x 91 mm)
Disadvantages:
- Small Number of CrossFocus Points (15)
- Bad Max Native ISO (12800)
Canon EOS-1D X for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Fast Continuous Shooting (14.0 fps)
- Environmental Sealing
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (61)
- Big Number of CrossFocus Points (41)
- Nice Low Light ISO (2786)
- Big size (158 x 164 x 83 mm)
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesNikon D4 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (1340 g)
- Big size (160 x 157 x 91 mm)
- No Built-in Flash
Canon EOS-1D X for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (1340 g)
- Big size (158 x 164 x 83 mm)
- No Built-in Flash
Nikon D4 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- Good Dynamic Range (13.1)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
- Nice Low Light ISO (2965)
Disadvantages:
- Low resolution sensor (16 MP)
- Bad Max Native ISO (12800)
Canon EOS-1D X for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor
- Good Dynamic Range (11.8)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
- Nice Low Light ISO (2786)
Disadvantages:
- Low resolution sensor (18 MP)
Comparison of Nikon D4 vs Canon EOS-1D 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 D4 or Canon EOS-1D 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 D4 and Canon EOS-1D X here is what we can say in conclusion:
According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Nikon D4 deserves a higher Total Score than the Canon EOS-1D X. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Nikon D4 vs Canon EOS-1D X Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Nikon D4 | Canon EOS-1D X | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Canon |
| Model | D4 | EOS-1D X |
| Announced | Jan 06, 2012 | Oct 18, 2011 |
| Body Type | Large SLR" | Large SLR |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | Full frame | Full frame |
| Sensor Dimensions | 36 x 23.9 mm | 36 x 24 mm |
| Sensor Area | 860.40 mm2 | 864.00 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 16.0 MP | 18.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 4928 x 3280 | 5184 x 3456 |
| Max Native ISO | 12,800 | 51,200 |
| Max Boosted ISO | 204,800 | 204,800 |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Nikon F | Canon EF |
| Number of Lenses | 287 | 256 |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1x | 1x |
| Macro Focus Range | ||
| 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 | 51 | 61 |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | 15 | 41 |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Fixed Type | Fixed Type |
| Screen Size | 3.2″ | 3.2″ |
| Screen Resolution | 921k dots | 1,040k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Optical (pentaprism) | Optical (pentaprism) |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 0k dots | 0k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | 0.7 | 0.76 |
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 s | 1/8000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 11.0 fps | 14.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 0 | 0 |
| Flash Modes | Auto, Front curtain, Rear curtain, Red-Eye, Slow Sync, High Speed Sync | E-TTL II Auto Flash, Metered Manual |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
|
| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| DxO Sensor Scores | ||
| DxO Sensor Score | 89 | 82 |
| DxO Color Depth | 24.7 | 23.8 |
| DxO Dynamic Range | 13.1 | 11.8 |
| DxO Low Light ISO | 2965 | 2786 |
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps), 640 x 424 (30, 25 fps) | 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps, 1280 x 720 (60, 50 fps), 640 x 480 (60, 50 fps) |
| 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 none |
| Physical | ||
| Environmental Sealing | |
|
| Water Proof | |
|
| Dust Proof | |
|
| Shock Proof | |
|
| Crush Proof | |
|
| Freeze Proof | |
|
| Weight | 1340 g | 1340 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 160 x 157 x 91 mm | 158 x 164 x 83 mm |
| Battery Life | 2600 shots | 1120 shots |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | Battery Pack |
| Battery Model | EN-EL18 | LP-E4N |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | Optional | Optional |
| Storage Type | CompactFlash, XQD | Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA compatible |
| Storage Slots | 2 | 2 |
Most popular cameras
Full frame
Four Thirds
Four Thirds
Full frame
Full frame
