Should I rely on SnapSort scores when choosing between a Canon T5i and Nikon D5300?
Asked 5/16/2014
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I'm deciding between the Canon T5i and Nikon D5300. On SnapSort, the D5300 scores much higher, but when I compare sample images, the difference doesn't look dramatic except perhaps at higher ISO. How meaningful are those comparison-site scores for real-world image quality? Do differences like higher ISO performance, color depth, autofocus points, or overall sensor scores make a big practical difference? I also had a bad experience with a Nikon 1 V1, so I'm wondering how much weight to give specs versus handling and real use.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
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If things are remotely close on Snapsort, then Snapsort is generally agreed to be a poor judge of which is best. It can reliably tell you that a D800 is better than a T5i since it is a huge difference, but Snapsort overall scores and the noise and IQ ratings rarely relate that closely to real life experience.
What is a little more telling though is looking at the actual stats. The Nikon has far more AF points available, which increases flexibility unless there is some other problem with using those AF points. It also has slightly less shutter lag (takes photos closer to when you push the button) though both are still not super fast (compared to other DSLRs), nor super slow (compared to P&S cameras). The slightly larger sensor on the Nikon is also an advantage as it means it can collect more light, which probably does help it on low light performance. The GPS and extra megapixels are both nice to haves for the Nikon, but generally not major deciders. Similarly 60fps 1080 video is nice for doing anything slow motion, but is not a deal maker or breaker.
Unfortunately however, the way that Snapsort handles noise measuring makes this comparison pretty hard to trust, so the best bet is to look at real world photos and see how the two compare for low light shots.
The Nikon probably does actually have a slight lead (I say that reluctantly as a long time Canon fan) but it also costs slightly more. My recommendation still would be to go with whichever system you feel is more natural to you when you hold them in your hands and try using them. Also compare actual real world photos taken with both and see which you prefer. Both are fine cameras and there really isn't a wrong choice that you can make. Either will serve you well.
Originally by user11392. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11392
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
No—don’t put much weight on a camera “winning” on SnapSort. Those overall scores are compiled from various sources and weighted in a way that often doesn’t reflect real-world photography priorities. They’re fine for a quick feature checklist, but not a final buying decision, and specs should be verified elsewhere.
Between the T5i and D5300, the Nikon may have some measurable advantages on paper, such as somewhat better high-ISO performance, more AF points, a slightly larger sensor, and possibly a bit less shutter lag. But that does not automatically mean it will produce dramatically better photos for you in normal use.
If sample images look similar to you, that’s important: in practice, differences between cameras in this class are often smaller than differences caused by lens choice, lighting, technique, and post-processing.
A bad experience with a Nikon 1 model also shouldn’t be assumed to predict Nikon DSLR reliability.
So use comparison sites to narrow the field, then choose based on ergonomics, features you actually need, lens options, and which camera feels better in your hands. There isn’t really a wrong choice here.
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