Upgrade Guide

Nikon D4→Nikon D4S

Is it worth upgrading? Spec analysis, key improvements, and our verdict.

You own

Nikon

£283 used

2012

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D4S

£425 used (+£141)

2014

✅

Worthwhile

Clear improvements over the D4. Whether it justifies the cost depends on which upgrades matter most to your shooting.

What's new in the D4S

Unchanged or similar

Suitability by genre

Base scores — computed from verified specs for an enthusiast shooting photo and video. The Upgrade Checker adjusts them for your skill level.

Full spec comparison

Spec	D4	D4S
Price	£283 used	£425 used
Released	2012	2014	↑
Sensor	16.2MP full-frame CMOS	16.2MP full-frame CMOS
Resolution	16MP	16MP
Video	Full HD 1080p/30, 720p/60	Full HD 1080p/60
Autofocus	51-point phase-detect (15 cross-type, 11 at f/8) via viewfinder; contrast AF with face priority in live view	51-point phase-detect (15 cross-type, 11 at f/8) via viewfinder; contrast AF with face priority in live view
Stabilisation	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)
Burst Rate	11fps	11fps
Battery Life	~2600 shots (CIPA)	~3020 shots (CIPA)	↑
Weight	1340g (with battery)	1350g (with battery)	↓
Weather Sealed	Not weather sealed	Not weather sealed
Viewfinder	Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.7x	Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.7x
Screen	3.2" fixed LCD, 921k dots	3.2" fixed LCD, 921k dots
Mount	Nikon F mount	Nikon F mount
Memory Cards	Dual slots: XQD + CompactFlash	Dual slots: XQD + CompactFlash

Compare side-by-side

See D4 and D4S next to each other with our interactive comparison tool.

Get a personalised upgrade score

Tell us what you shoot and we'll score the D4S against your specific genres — not just specs.

Other upgrades from the D4

Related buying guides

Camera family history