Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
We chose two rival cameras for the Nikon D5 to see how it measured up in our lab tests: the Nikon D4S and the Canon EOS-1D X Mk II.
We've carried out lab tests on the Nikon D5 across its full ISO range for resolution, noise (including signal to noise ratio) and dynamic range. We test the JPEGs shot by the camera, but we also check the performance with raw files. Most enthusiasts and pros prefer to shoot raw, and the results can often be quite different.
Nikon D5 resolution charts
We test camera resolution using an industry-standard ISO test chart that allows precise visual comparisons. This gives us numerical values for resolution in line widths/picture height, and you can see how the Nikon D5 compares with its rivals in the charts below.
JPEG resolution analysis: The D5's JPEGs either match or beat comparable files from the D4S and Canon 1DX Mk II for resolution. It particularly impresses at the highest sensitivity values – though it's worth remembering that these measurements are made with a chart that is in good light.
Raw (converted to TIFF) resolution analysis: The D5's raw files (after conversion to TIFF) follow the same pattern as the JPEGs, indicating that it's a step up from the D4S for detail resolution, and able to beat the 1DX Mk II at many sensitivities.
