Nikon B700 Vs. Lumix Fz80: Battle Of The Bridge Cameras – Which One Captures Your Moments Better?

In the realm of superzoom cameras, two titans stand tall: the Nikon B700 and the Lumix FZ80. These powerhouses pack impressive focal lengths, versatile features, and user-friendly designs, making them ideal for capturing distant subjects, wildlife, and everyday moments. But which one emerges as the superior choice? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Nikon B700 vs Lumix FZ80 to determine the ultimate winner.

Image Quality: A Close Race

Both the Nikon B700 and the Lumix FZ80 boast impressive image quality, thanks to their large sensors and powerful processors. The B700 features a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the FZ80 boasts an 18.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS sensor. In terms of resolution, the B700 holds a slight edge, but both cameras produce sharp and detailed images, even at high ISO settings.

When it comes to low-light performance, the FZ80 takes the lead with its superior noise reduction capabilities. It maintains cleaner images with less noise, even in dimly lit conditions. However, the B700 holds its own, delivering acceptable low-light shots, especially when paired with a sturdy tripod.

Lens and Focal Range: A Battle of Extremes

The Nikon B700 and Lumix FZ80 are renowned for their exceptional focal ranges, making them ideal for capturing distant subjects and wildlife. The B700 boasts a remarkable 60x optical zoom lens, covering a focal length range of 24-1440mm (35mm equivalent). This staggering reach allows you to bring distant subjects close, making it perfect for birdwatching, sports, and wildlife photography.

The FZ80, on the other hand, offers a slightly shorter 60x optical zoom lens, covering a focal length range of 20-1200mm (35mm equivalent). While it may seem like a smaller range, the FZ80’s wider 20mm focal length provides a more versatile shooting experience, allowing you to capture wide-angle shots and landscapes with ease.

Video Recording: A Feature-Packed Showdown

Both the Nikon B700 and Lumix FZ80 offer impressive video recording capabilities, catering to the needs of aspiring videographers. The B700 records Full HD (1920 x 1080) videos at 60p, while the FZ80 goes a step further, offering 4K (3840 x 2160) video recording at 30p. Additionally, the FZ80 features a dedicated video button for quick and easy access to video recording mode.

However, the B700 redeems itself with its superior video stabilization system, which effectively minimizes camera shake and ensures smooth, steady footage. This makes it a more suitable choice for handheld video recording, especially when shooting on the move.

Design and Handling: A Matter of Personal Preference

The Nikon B700 and Lumix FZ80 share a similar design philosophy, featuring large, ergonomic grips and well-placed controls for comfortable handling. Both cameras feature tilting LCD screens, allowing you to shoot from various angles with ease. However, the FZ80’s fully articulating LCD screen provides even greater flexibility, making it ideal for shooting low-angle or overhead shots.

In terms of weight, the B700 is slightly heavier than the FZ80, weighing in at 1.4 pounds compared to 1.2 pounds. While this difference may seem insignificant, it can become noticeable during prolonged shooting sessions or when carrying the camera around for extended periods.

Connectivity and Sharing: Staying Connected

The Nikon B700 and Lumix FZ80 offer a range of connectivity options, enabling you to share your captured moments with ease. Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing you to connect to smartphones or tablets for wireless image transfer and remote control. Additionally, the FZ80 includes Bluetooth connectivity, providing a stable connection for continuous image transfer and remote shooting.

Battery Life: A Marathon of Endurance

Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a superzoom camera, especially for extended shooting sessions. The Nikon B700 boasts an impressive battery life, capable of capturing up to 1200 shots on a single charge. The Lumix FZ80, while still offering decent battery life, falls slightly behind with a capacity of approximately 330 shots per charge.

The Ultimate Verdict: A Close Call

The Nikon B700 and Lumix FZ80 are both exceptional superzoom cameras that offer a wealth of features and capabilities. The B700 excels in image quality, lens reach, and video stabilization, while the FZ80 impresses with its 4K video recording, versatile LCD screen, and longer battery life.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, lens reach, and video stabilization, the Nikon B700 is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for 4K video recording, a fully articulating LCD screen, and longer battery life, the Lumix FZ80 is the better option.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Which camera has a longer focal length range?

A: The Nikon B700 boasts a longer focal length range of 24-1440mm (35mm equivalent), compared to the Lumix FZ80’s 20-1200mm (35mm equivalent).

Q: Does the Lumix FZ80 have 4K video recording?

A: Yes, the Lumix FZ80 offers 4K (3840 x 2160) video recording at 30p, while the Nikon B700 is limited to Full HD (1920 x 1080) video recording at 60p.

Q: Which camera has a fully articulating LCD screen?

A: The Lumix FZ80 features a fully articulating LCD screen, providing greater flexibility for shooting from various angles, while the Nikon B700 has a tilting LCD screen.

Q: Does the Nikon B700 have Bluetooth connectivity?

A: No, the Nikon B700 does not have Bluetooth connectivity, while the Lumix FZ80 does.

Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?

A: The Nikon B700 has a longer battery life, capable of capturing up to 1200 shots on a single charge, compared to the Lumix FZ80’s 330 shots per charge.