The D850 reflex is the third generation of the series and aims to position itself as a benchmark in its segment. To achieve this, Nikon uses a new 45.7 Mpx sensor and also changes the processor to be able to manage everything without flinching.
With the D850, Nikon engineers were able to give it their all and finally let the full extent of their talent speak. Impeccable in terms of handling, image quality, responsiveness and even modernity, it would border on perfection if there were not two or three small details at the margins. For its 100th anniversary, Nikon offers you a photographic monster whose kingdom extends from studios to the Arctic Circle, including photojournalism, weddings and portraits. Magic.
Strong points
- Excellent image quality up to ISO 12,800.
- High-level resolving power.
- Burst of 9 fps in 45 Mpx!
- Impeccable construction.
- Viewfinder 100%.
- Touchscreen and adjustable.
- Electronic shutter (in liveview).
- Dual SD and XQD slots.
- Low consumption Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Battery life of 1,800 to 2,000 views.
- Good video skills.
- Backlit keys.
Weak points
- Loss of built-in flash.
- No framing in 16:9.
- Underutilized 8K time-lapse.
Alternatively
On the photo side, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a beautiful and expensive development with increased definition, Dual Pixel AF technology, an LCD touch screen, modern connections, top-notch autofocus and quality manufacturing.
On the video side, 4K is welcome, but we remain unsatisfied with the absence of features such as exposure and focus assistants.
From a strictly photographic point of view, the 5D Mark IV easily receives a recommended rating.
However, four years have passed since the arrival of the 5D Mark III and the competition has not rested on its laurels, quite the contrary. Surprisingly, it is not on the side of SLRs that we should look for the most dangerous rivals, but on the side of hybrids. Indeed, if the technologies are still developing, it must be admitted that Sony or Fujifilm are renewing their ranges very quickly. Thus, at Sony, the A7 range has seen the birth of no less than 6 boxes in 3 years. And these boxes integrate new and interesting features (completely silent shutter release, panoramic mode, 11 fps burst, etc.) in smaller and lighter boxes. Before you start buying a SLR and if electronic aiming doesn’t make you nauseous, the hybrid offer is now a more than credible alternative.