Nikon D4 vs D5

[ingweDave]

Can anyone tell me what improvements I am likely to see upgrading from a D4 to a D5. Is it a big step up?
I have been using my D4 since it was launched and it has been my workhorse for many years. In recent years I have been using a D850 which is a fantastic camera, probably the best all round camera I have ever used. However, for low light and fast action, I always go back to the D4. I have used a Z6 over the past 18 months and despite all its critics, I can see the potential of mirrorless, I am just waiting for Nikon to catch up. (Like many others!) For this reason I can see myself using a SLR for the next year or so until the jump to mirrorless completely. I see the D4 as being a bit dated now and considering buying a low mileage D5 as a replacement. (I can't justify the cost of a D6) I love the feel, handling and build quality of the D4, so a D5 should feel the same with better performance. Any opinions from those that have used both would be appreciated.

 

[Warren D]

There is a much greater difference between the D4 and D5 than the D5 to D6. The gains of the D5 over the D4 are the extra resolution which makes a big difference, especially if you have to crop a bit. The AF improvements are substantial and worth the upgrade alone. High ISO....well, I'm on the fence. My D4 seems a bit cleaner noise-wise at the higher ISO's but I'd call it about equal in spite of many claims the D5 is a stop better. Dynamic range is a bit lower on the D5 at low ISO's but I never considered it a problem.
I'd consider the D5 a very good buy, especially if you can get a good deal. While the D6 AF is somewhat better than the D5, I'm not sure it's worth the difference.
There are a few differences, the D5 af system works a bit differently and takes some getting used to. Dynamic AF in the D4 works as it always has but the same mode on the D5 is different. The D4 in 9 point dynamic will pretty much stay locked on your target if you drift off for a second. The D5 in the same mode will stay locked for about 1/2 second then re-focuses. If your focus point happens to be off the subject, it'll grab whatever it sees at the instant. I've found it annoying as I was very happy with dynamic AF in the models leading up to the D5. I've been told it has to do with the extra focus points but whatever the cause, I've found it annoying.

 

[ingweDave]

Thanks Warren, that's really useful It sounds as though you have kept your D4? Although it's a dated model, its still a great camera and for what it would sell for, I may keep hold of it.

 

[Andy Work]

I would probably hold off if I was going to make the move to all mirrorless in a year or so.

 

[Charles Loy]

I went from D3 to D5. Later added a D4 to go with the D5. Did not like it, D5 was just so much better at (everything) acquiring focus, tracking subject and ripping off photos that I did not expect to get. The D4, so-so and was unused. I sold the D4 and put the cash back in my pocket. Recently I got the D6*, it's the best yet, but the D5 is right there with it in most all instances. D5 is the real deal. <--fact!
*Bought it for a screaming, jaw dropping deal, otherwise I'd not own it.

 

[Warren D]

Thanks Warren, that's really useful It sounds as though you have kept your D4? Although it's a dated model, its still a great camera and for what it would sell for, I may keep hold of it.

I still have my D4 (and my D100, D2x and D300) as it was a useful backup to the D5. When I fell with the D5 and it had to go to repair for 3 weeks I was glad I had the D4. The D4 is still fine for some of what I do, I really like the extra pixels of the D5 and the D5 files clean up a little better with respect to noise. The D5 AF is much better if you need a fast af system. When I upgraded from the D4 to the D5 I had no regrets, I honestly can't say the same about the upgrade from the D5 to the D6....at least not yet. My D6 came too late for prime osprey diving season last year so I never had the chance to really push it.

 

[Warren D]

D5 ISO 3200, 1/20 sec hand held (lens was 24-120)

 

[ingweDave]

D5 ISO 3200, 1/20 sec hand held (lens was 24-120)

Very nice Warren