With the much-anticipated announcement of the flagship Nikon D6, many sports and wildlife photographers are probably wondering what this camera does differently compared to its predecessor, the Nikon D5. Although the D6 might not be as big of an upgrade as the D5 was over the D4s and D4 cameras, it is Nikon’s most refined DSLR to date, and will continue to be for a while. Let’s take a closer look at both of these cameras and see how the D6 compares to the D5, and what advantages it brings to the table.
Before we get into the camera specifications, let’s take a look at what Nikon has changed on the D6 in terms of camera design and ergonomics.
Nikon D6 vs D5 Camera Design and Ergonomics
As you can see from the above image, both cameras seem to be nearly identical. The D5 is already a very solid camera with exceptionally good ergonomics, so it makes sense for Nikon to reuse the same design. The only difference I see is the change in numbers – the rest is all the same.
What about the top of the camera? Here are the two compared, side by side, with the Nikon D6 on the left:
Aside from very slight differences, the two cameras are again, nearly identical. The button placement is the same, the labels are the same. Nikon did make a subtle change to the left dial – it is now a little taller. Also, the shape of the “MODE”, “BKT” and metering buttons have changed a little, and there is now a little indentation in the center. The middle area where the flash socket is located is shaped slightly differently, and there is now a plastic cover on the top – that’s to house the in-body GPS chip that does not exist on the D5.
Let’s take a look at the back of the two cameras:
Similar to the front, the backs of the D6 and D5 are nearly identical. The only difference I see is in the microphone label that is now inserted right below the Fn3 button, which is not there on the D5.
Overall, aside from very slight differences on the top, there are no differences in design and ergonomics between the two cameras. Where Nikon has done the most changes is in the camera internals.
Nikon D6 vs D5 Specification Comparison
Let’s take a look at what has changed in terms of specifications:
| Camera Feature | Nikon D6 | Nikon D5 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Resolution | 20.8 Million | 20.8 Million |
| Sensor Coating | Anti-reflection coating | Anti-reflection coating |
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | 35.9×23.9mm | 35.9×23.9mm |
| Sensor Pixel Size | 6.45µ | 6.45µ |
| Sensor Dust Reduction | Yes | Yes |
| Image Size | 5,568 x 3,712 | 5,568 x 3,712 |
| Aspect Ratio Options | FX (36×24), 1.2x (30×20), DX (24×16), 5:4 (30×24), 1:1 (24×24), 16:9 (36×20) | FX (36×24), 1.2x (30×20), DX (24×16), 5:4 (30×24) |
| Base ISO | ISO 100 | ISO 100 |
| Native ISO Sensitivity | ISO 100-102,400 | ISO 100-102,400 |
| Boosted ISO Sensitivity | ISO 50, ISO 204,800-3,280,000 | ISO 50, ISO 204,800-3,280,000 |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 6 | EXPEED 5 |
| Viewfinder Type | Pentaprism | Pentaprism |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.72x | 0.72x |
| Detachable Eyepiece | Yes | Yes |
| Focusing Screen | Type B BriteView Clear Matte Mark X | Type B BriteView Clear Matte Mark IX |
| Built-in Flash | No | No |
| Flash Sync Speed | 1/250 | 1/250 |
| Storage Media | 2x CFexpress Type B, XQD | 2x XQD / 2x CF |
| Storage Saving Options | Overflow, Backup, NEF + JPEG, JPEG + JPEG | Overflow, Backup, NEF + JPEG |
| EXIF Version | EXIF 2.31 | EXIF 2.3 |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 14 fps with AF/AE | 12 fps with AF/AE |
| Buffer Size (RAW, Lossless 14-bit) | 200 | 200 |
| Continuous Shooting | 14.3 seconds | 16.7 seconds |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 to 900 sec | 1/8000 to 30 sec |
| Shutter Type | Mechanical Shutter, EFCS in MUP, Electronic Shutter | Mechanical Shutter, EFCS in MUP |
| Shutter Durability | 400,000 cycles | 400,000 cycles |
| Exposure Metering Sensor | 180,000-pixel RGB sensor 3D Color Matrix Metering III | 180,000-pixel RGB sensor 3D Color Matrix Metering III |
| Autofocus System | Nikon Advanced Multi-CAM 37K | Nikon Advanced Multi-CAM 20K |
| Autofocus Points | 105-point, 105 cross-type AF system | 153-point, 99 cross-type AF system |
| Dedicated AF Processor | Yes | Yes |
| AF Area Mode | OVF: Single-point AF; 9, 25, 49, or 105-point dynamic-area AF; 3D-tracking; Group-area AF; Group-area AF (C1); Group-area AF (C2); Auto-area AF; Live View: Face-detection AF, Wide-area AF, Normal area AF, Subject-tracking AF | 25, 72, or 153 point Dynamic-area AF; Auto-area AF; Single-point AF; 3D-tracking; Group-area AF |
| AF Detection Points | 15 Center AF Points, Up to f/8 | 9 Center AF Points, Up to f/8 |
| AF Detection Range | -4.5 to +20 EV | -4 to +20 EV |
| Auto AF Fine-Tune | Yes | Yes |
| Picture Control | Auto, Creative Picture Controls (Dream, Morning, Pop, Sunday, Somber, Dramatic, Silence, Bleached, Melancholic, Pure, Denim, Toy, Sepia, Blue, Red, Pink, Charcoal, Graphite, Binary, Carbon), Flat, Landscape, Monochrome, Neutral, Portrait, Standard, Vivid, Selected Picture Control can be modified, Storage for custom Picture Controls | Flat, Landscape, Monochrome, Neutral, Portrait, Standard, Vivid, User-customizable Settings |
| Natural Light WB Preset | Yes | No |
| Video File Format | MOV / MP4 | MOV |
| Video Compression | MPEG-4 / H.264 | MPEG-4 / H.264 |
| Video Maximum Resolution | 3,840×2,160 (4K) up to 30p | 3,840×2,160 (4K) up to 30p |
| Video Max Recording Time | 105 min | 29.59 min |
| Audio Recording Format | Linear PCM, AAC | Linear PCM |
| LCD Size | 3.2″ diagonal TFT-LCD | 3.2″ diagonal TFT-LCD |
| LCD Resolution | 2,359,000 dots | 2,359,000 dots |
| LCD Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in GPS | Yes | No |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes | No |
| Built-in Wired LAN | 1000 Base-T Support | 1000 Base-T Support |
| Battery | EN-EL18c | EN-EL18a |
| Battery Life | 3,580 shots (CIPA) | 3,780 shots (CIPA) |
| USB Type | USB 3.1, Type C | USB 3.0, Micro-B |
| Weight | 1,270g (Body Only) | 1,240g (Body Only) |
| Dimensions | 160.0 x 163.0 x 92.0mm | 160.0 x 158.5 x 92.0mm |
| MSRP Price | $6,499 | $6,499 |
As you can see from the above table, the main differences between the two cameras are in the new AF system, faster processor, storage type, continuous shooting speed and built-in Wi-Fi + GPS – the rest of the changes are mostly firmware tweaks. The biggest change, without a doubt, is in the autofocus system. Although the number of focus points went down from 153 to 105, all 105 of those focus points are cross-type, and the AF system has been optimized to yield maximum performance from each one of those focus points. This is going to be especially noticeable when using the updated Group-area AF mode, which allows for 17 different focus point combinations.
Over the years, Nikon has been refining the AF system on its flagship DSLR to deliver the best results for action photography, and I am sure the D6 will not disappoint in this regard. This is a workhorse camera that needs to deliver in every shooting scenario, and the D6 does it extremely well. Nikon chose to apply subtle updates to the already amazing camera, but are these changes enough to push existing D5 owners to upgrade? My guess is – probably not. However, those shooting with the D4 and D4s cameras and wanting to move up to the best Nikon has to offer should definitely look into the D6.
What do you think? Are you planning to upgrade to the Nikon D6? Please let us know in the comments section below.
I’m a little bit miffed here. Why didn’t Nikon bother to increase the resolution to 24 MP or increase the buffer capacity beyond 200? The only reason why I would even consider switching to a D6 from a D5 is if there is a significant improvement in AF. Could care less about video or the absence of an IBIS, but I can see why so many YouTubers are considerably disappointed with the announcement.
Michael, even a slight increase in resolution can lead to slower FPS due to slower sensor read-out, larger bandwidth needs and other issues. I am sure Nikon didn’t just make this decision without looking at all the technical limitations. For the type of photographer Nikon is aiming with this camera, they don’t need more resolution, but appreciate faster AF capabilities and features, which the D6 should be able to deliver.
In terms of YouTubers, I don’t think any of them is qualified to speak about this camera. You can’t be a “couch expert” and slam a camera based on specifications alone without first handling it in the field. Instead, look for feedback from real pros who shoot action with high-end DSLRs, after they get their hands on the D6…
“even a slight increase in resolution can lead to slower FPS due to slower sensor read-out, larger bandwidth needs and other issues” Hmmmmm D850 vs D810 comes to mind.
As far as handling D6, did you handle it? Are you qualified?
The buffer limit is irrelevant in the XQD/CFExpress world – take your hand off the shutter release for a couple of seconds and your back to a full 200 shots. The reason for the figure (which is the selectable limit in the camera menu) is just so if you accidentally leave the camera on and it falls on something that presses the shutter continuously down, it will not keep shooting forever.
Burghclerebilly, I recognize that the buffer is not particularly relevant when using super fast cards, but I remember testing the D5 with an XQD card, and when shooting in 14-bit RAW, the camera did slow down after about 11 seconds. I think the D6 is going to be very similar in this regard.
Nasim, yes the table above is incorrect. The 200 buffer for the D5 was only achieved with 12-bit compressed, or JPEGs. 14-bit uncompressed was limited to ‘just’ 176 shots, although that would be cleared in about 5-seconds with XQD. The real-world issue is whether you can shoot multiple 10-20 shot runs comfortably, with short gaps in between, which you can until your battery runs out with CFExpress.
Speaking as a sports photographer who owns a D4, who needs to shoot more than 200 photos in a row? I mean a large buffer is great, but I can’t think of a sports sequence that requires 200 shots continuously. One might take like 15 shot bursts a few times over a short period of time, but I would be pretty shocked if someone hit a 200 shot buffer and still felt like they missed the moment.
I can see how a D5 owner probably won’t upgrade to this, but as a D4 owner for the last 8 years, this newest and best camera definitely has my interest.
Hm, fuel for rumors of the demise of Nikon? I mean, 2 fps, incremental improvement in AF, geotagging and wifi and Nikon calls it a whole new version? I think this should have been called the D5s, they didn’t even bother with a sensor upgrade…
I am interested to find out more about the ’17 selectable AF areas’, which don’t yet appear to be specified on Nikon sites. What’s a bit strange is that they say the AF array is ‘denser’, but if it has less total AF points (105 v 153), then that implies a smaller area is covered, which is not so good. On the other hand, one of the pictures shows just the top level of sensors being active, so it could be the case that the Group regions can now be any row or column, which might be quite useful.
Eye priority in Auto and 3D-tracking (without using LV) and being able to select where Auto starts from seems to be the big improvement. Basically sound like a hybrid of auto and 3D-tracking with eye priority -> could be very good.
Big increase in the number and layout of Cross-Type sensors sounds to be the game-change with the D6, plus all the new options.
6 more cross type points is not a big increase.
Super excited about the new EXIF 2.31 support! Finally I can keep my OffsetTime stored in my JPGs!
Unless someone is a serious sports photographer, the D780 is a more versatile camera for most photographers. The D6 is a one dimensional beast for fast action and durability. The D780 is a more versatile and flexible camera with better live view tech from the Z6 than the D6 has. Before the 2024 Olympics, I hope that Nikon’s flagship camera is mirrorless.
Nassim:
I found a typo here: ‘…there is now a little indention in the center…’. I think it should be ‘indentation’.
Thanks for letting me know, I fixed the typo :)
To repeat comment on earlier article. The dpr interview with a Nikon Exec (published 12th Feb) confirms Nikon prioritized the feedback from D5 shooters to design the D6. Apparently, they ranked their top needs as: Better AF, Seamless Wireless, improved options to Customize Menus. In contrast, Video, Lv etc didn’t feature much if at all, and it appears neither did higher resolution sensor. Low light performance with fastest shutter speeds possible are what matters.
[In retrospect, it is utterly bizarre the underwhelming D6 teaser videos failed to feature these features – tantalizingly, instead of D5 promos?]
Yet the www is polluted by noisy condemnation of a camera that is still untested, and most will never handle let alone own! The longer strategic factor is upgrading the D5 AF engine, this new Nikon AFC system is going to be with us for 4 years and likely longer, and it’s very likely Nikon will adapt the algorithms into the Z cameras. In this respect, if And if Keiji Oishi-San is correct, over Nikon’s ‘transitional stage’ to the Zed System, we should see “both mirrorless and DSLR bodies which share common technology.”
It is a mission to find deeper details about the D6 across Nikon’s official websites (true to tradition these are shambolic, nearly as bad as what passes for their marketing). The best I’ve found is Nikon Japan. The AFC makes impressive reading. The figure labels/legends don’t translate but there’s a post yesterday on Nikon Rumors, where a reader kindly translated a graphic of the “Advanced scene recognition system” in the D6.
The Grays of Westminster video also mentioned the ability to constrain focusing range to a subject, besides the 17 Group AF options etc. The AFC promises to be the game changer – not only over the d5 (which has the industry’s best AF) but across Nikon for a few years hence. We may even see profound impacts IF official specs of AFC are met outdoors.
The D6 will also allow you to program the secured camera with preset-AF settings and shoot gps referenced images; then preview and tag, and leave the D6 alone to upload this stream of preselected GPS tagged images to the server. Neat :-)
Trolls and the utuber clickbaiters sure do struggle with these realities of actual photography
The ingredients of the D6 AF system are now with us for the next 4 years if not longer. It is clear they have invested serious R&D into its features including pattern recognition algorithms. This builds on the D5 AF engine – the industry leader.
Nikon is characteristically reticent to spell out deeper details in the intricacies of this new AF system. In their video, based on demos of ping-pong players at the UK Launch, GoW mentioned the ability to delimit the AF zone as well as the 17 options to configure sensors in Group Mode. These are 2 facets… check out the AF features in the Spec page of Nikon Japan.
If I recall correctly, the D4 used “only” the updated D3 AF, and this was then tweaked in the D4s – adding improvements. 2 generations after the D3, the D5 was the first camera to get a completely new AF System: cloned with distinct changes into the D500 and D850. We read/hear the D6 again gets a completely new AF System above and beyond the D5. This is only one generation later. Nevertheless, the Nikon bashing is strident?! Maybe cynical, but I suspect most of the bleaters will never buy a D6 (neither a Used D4 etc) and most only use cellphones ;-)
If the credible reviewers confirm the D6 AF is a great leap forward “in the Wild”, this alone holds big implications across the industry (besides across ALL Nikon cameras).
Nikon Japan – under D6 Product “The strongest AF in Nikon history”
www.nikon-image.com/produ…res01.html
Yesterday, a poster on NikonRumors translated the schematic of the Advanced scene recognition system
Thanks for the link Mr Cotterell, it’s a shame the Nikon sub-sites haven’t already translated this, but I’m sure that the official translation will come soon.
What we can see is that Nikon have corrected two of the three main problems with the D5’s system: (I) There is less of a dead-spot between the three sensor banks. Previously, there were two quite large sections of non cross-type sensors that did hamper performance in some situations, but now that has been reduced to about 1-rows worth of space; (ii) There is full flexibility now with sensor selection and area size. Previously, whilst many sensors were being used at the same time, only 1 was prioritised in Dynamic, or 5 in Group-AF, or all sensors in Auto and 3D. Now as I understand the new system, you can select any of the 17 area patterns and place them anywhere in the array, and they will perform as either Auto or 3D style tracking, with the usual face-priority bias (part of the scene-recognition algorithms), but now also with the more precise eye-priority. There are almost too many options now, so I trust they will also allow the limited selection setting in the menus.
The examples of shooting above the net in tennis, or above a row of hurdles are very real. Similarly, in horse eventing being able to select just the upper third of the sensors will be very useful to avoid picking up the fences. Unfortunately, the main other problem of limited total coverage remains, which we know is an optical/space problem. The ultimate AF-flexibility will be available when they drop multi-cam 37k into a D500s (hopefully).
Yes, thanks for more real world context. Photographers are probably going to find getting to grips with the D6 will challenge muscle memory etc, after trial & error testing so many options!
As also commented on Nasim’s Comparison Article, if indeed the D6 performance in the wild matches official claims, this AF alone is a big leap forward. Too few seem to recognize the implications of this new AF system for not only all Nikon cameras moving forward but the entire industry (sports and wildlife genres especially). It follows all of us who upgrade and invest in Nikon will interact increasingly with key features of this D6 AF system through the 2020s, if not beyond. (There might be other such features to be revealed.)
A Nikon Executive at CES 2020 acknowledged Nikon is in a ‘transitional stage’, and that we should see more in “both mirrorless and DSLR bodies which share common technology.” This is obviously a wise investment of R&D, and especially the nuggets in the D6 AF, which cannot have been a trite exercise (even if built on precursors ie D5). Personally, and more parochially, a D880 ie 45mp D850 with D780 features will make a great camera WITH above all a D6 AF engine. This will be a game changer for wildlife. A similar camera albeit with hybrid EVF/OVF would be even better.
I feel so hilariously out of my league to comment here…
Hello everyone
coming from D4s, I will upgrade. AF performance and sensitivity is definitely a massive improvement compared to D4S; plus there are other things (GPS, connectivity, etc) that make of D6 a much more mature and allround camera than the already capable D4s and ultimately more enjoyable.
Liebe Freunde und Berufsfotografen,
Mit meinen Bodys unter anderem Nikon D5
bin ich mit dem WT-5 Modul drahtlos gut vernetzt.
Im Studio kann ich mit dem LAN arbeiten.
Kann mir nicht vorstellen dass mir der neue AF
und integrierte GPS Modul die ergänzende Neuanschaffung etwas bringt.
Denke aber dass für schon fast ausgediente
Nikon D4 oder D4s (300.000 – 400.000 Auslösungen) sie die richtige Investition wäre !
Ob jetzt der WT6 für größere Sportveranstaltungen
noch besser ist und die Neuinvestition notwendig kann ich nicht sagen. Habe aber auf Grund dieser
Tatsachen meine Neuinvestition zur Nikon D6 gestoppt! Möglich dass ich mir zum Test eine Nikon Z7 als Begleitkamera mit ein bis zwei Objektive zulegen werde.
LG/BR Peter
Just to avoid confusion, the D5 does have Auto-FP too, so shouldn’t lose a point there.
The only disappointment with my D5 has been with the way the fine tuning of lenses works. I find it extremely difficult to get consistent results because the final button press, or maybe it’s a release, tends to vibrate the camera ever so slightly using either a heavy Gitzo or an even heavier RRS tripod. If that system has been changed to make adjustment more solid, I could be persuaded to consider upgrading, but for me, primarily trying to shoot birds in flight, the D5 is about perfect. Not sure I can see how it could be much improved other than my quibble with the AF fine tune. I suppose that having more cross sensors could never be a bad thing, but I’d have to have lost or dropped my D5 overboard before switching. Focusing has always been superb. My substantial investment in F mount lenses means I will never switch from DSLR. I bet the new Zs are nice, though.
After 3 years of development this update seems to be too decent.
/Karl
I presently shoot with a Nikon D850. I am considering the purchase of a second full frame body. Would I be better off with a second 850 or a D5 or D6, when the latter is available. I also use a D500, but mostly when I travel. Money is not an issue, however image quality is.