Canon EOS R vs Nikon Z9
Canon EOS R Black 2018
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
What Buyers Say
Canon EOS R Black 2018
The Canon EOS R is widely praised for its excellent image quality, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable autofocus, especially when paired with RF lenses or adapted EF glass. Many users upgraded from DSLRs and found the transition smooth, noting the lighter weight and intuitive menu system. A few concerns include the single card slot, lack of CFexpress support, and one report of autofocus failure after light use. Overall, it is seen as a fantastic value for full-frame mirrorless photography.
Pros
- Excellent image quality
- Comfortable ergonomics and grip
- Reliable autofocus with eye detection
- Lightweight and portable
- Intuitive menu system
Cons
- Single memory card slot
- No CFexpress Type B support
- Autofocus failure reported after light use
- No in-body image stabilization
- 4K video has crop factor
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
The Nikon Z9 is widely praised as a flagship mirrorless camera that delivers outstanding image quality, blazing-fast autofocus, and robust build quality. Enthusiasts and professionals alike appreciate its continuous firmware updates, which have added valuable features and refined performance. While some users note its substantial weight and learning curve, the overwhelming consensus is that it is one of the best cameras available, offering exceptional versatility and reliability.
Pros
- Excellent autofocus speed and accuracy
- Superb image quality and color
- Robust build and weather sealing
- Long battery life
- Continuous firmware updates
Cons
- Heavy and bulky body
- Steep learning curve
- High price point
- Requires new Z-mount lenses for full benefit
Scores
Specifications
| Canon EOS R | Nikon Z9 | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | ||
| Type | CMOS | Stacked CMOS |
| Size | full-frame | full-frame |
| Megapixels | 30.299999237060547 MP | 45.70000076293945 MP★ |
| ISO Range | 100 | 64★ |
| Processor | DIGIC 8 | EXPEED 7 |
| Autofocus | ||
| AF Points | ||
| AF Type | Phase Detection: 5655 | Phase Detection: 493 |
| Eye AF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Animal AF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Subject Detection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Shooting | ||
| Burst (Mechanical) | 8 fps | 30 fps★ |
| Burst (Electronic) | — | 120 fps★ |
| Max Shutter | 1/8000 | 1/32000 |
| Electronic Shutter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Video | ||
| Max Resolution | 4K | 8K★ |
| 4K FPS | 30 fps | 120 fps★ |
| 1080p FPS | 60 fps | 100 fps★ |
| 10-bit | ✓ | ✓ |
| Log Profile | ✓ | ✓ |
| RAW Video | ✗ | ✓★ |
| Codec | H.264/MP4 | ProRes 422 HQ, H.265 |
| Display & EVF | ||
| Screen Size | 3.2" | 3.2"★ |
| Touchscreen | ✓ | ✓ |
| Articulating | ✓ | ✓ |
| EVF Resolution | 3.7M dots | 3.7M dots |
| Build | ||
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 0.66 kg★ | 1.16 kg |
| Battery Life | — | 700 shots★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB | USB-C (USB 3.2 / 3.1 Gen 1) | USB-C |
| HDMI | Mini-HDMI | HDMI Output |
| Hot Shoe | ✓ | ✓ |
Pros & Cons
Canon EOS R Black 2018
- Strong af (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong build (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong connectivity (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong evf (91st percentile)91st %ile
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
- Strong build (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong video (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong battery (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Below average affordability (9th percentile)9th %ile
Verdict
Scores 98 overall, wins 9 of 10 usage categories and 10 of 33 specs.