Nikon D700 Vs Canon 5dii: The Verdict – Which Camera Wins?

In the realm of digital photography, the Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII stand as iconic DSLR cameras that have captivated the hearts of photographers worldwide. These two legendary cameras have been the subjects of countless debates and comparisons, with enthusiasts eager to determine which one reigns supreme. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the depths of their features, performance, and capabilities, providing you with an in-depth understanding of how they stack up against each other.

Image Quality: Capturing the Essence of Light

At the core of any camera’s performance lies its image quality. Both the Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII boast impressive sensors, capable of producing stunning images with exceptional detail and clarity. The D700 features a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the 5DII boasts a slightly higher resolution of 21.1 megapixels. However, it’s important to note that megapixel count alone does not determine image quality.

In terms of dynamic range, the D700 and 5DII perform admirably, capturing images with rich tonal transitions and a wide range of colors. Both cameras offer excellent low-light performance, allowing you to capture sharp and noise-free images even in challenging lighting conditions.

Speed and Performance: Capturing the Decisive Moment

When it comes to speed and performance, the Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII deliver impressive results. The D700 boasts a continuous shooting speed of 8 frames per second (fps), while the 5DII can capture images at a slightly faster rate of 3.9 fps. Both cameras feature autofocus systems that are quick and accurate, ensuring that you never miss a shot.

In terms of buffer depth, the D700 can capture up to 100 JPEG images or 12 RAW images in a single burst, while the 5DII can capture up to 170 JPEG images or 33 RAW images. This makes the 5DII a better choice for photographers who need to capture long bursts of images, such as sports or wildlife photographers.

Build Quality and Ergonomics: A Symphony of Form and Function

The Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII are both built to withstand the rigors of professional use. Both cameras feature robust magnesium alloy bodies that provide excellent durability and weather resistance. The D700 is slightly heavier than the 5DII, weighing in at 820 grams compared to the 5DII’s 765 grams.

In terms of ergonomics, both cameras offer a comfortable grip and well-placed controls that make them easy to operate. The D700’s control layout is more traditional, with a dedicated ISO button and a separate AF-ON button. The 5DII, on the other hand, features a more streamlined control layout, with a single button that controls both ISO and AF.

Video Capabilities: Embracing the Moving Image

Both the Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII offer video recording capabilities, although they differ in their respective strengths. The D700 can record 720p HD video at 24fps, while the 5DII boasts the ability to record 1080p Full HD video at 30fps. The 5DII also offers manual control over exposure and focus during video recording, making it a more versatile choice for videographers.

Connectivity and Sharing: Bridging the Gap Between Camera and World

The Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII offer a range of connectivity options, allowing you to easily transfer images and videos to your computer or share them with others. Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, making it easy to connect to smartphones and tablets for wireless image transfer. Additionally, both cameras have USB and HDMI ports for wired connectivity.

Price and Value: Striking a Balance

The Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII were both released several years ago and are no longer in production. However, they can still be found on the used market for varying prices. The D700 can typically be found for around $500-$700, while the 5DII can be found for around $700-$900. The price of each camera may vary depending on its condition and the included accessories.

Dynamic Range and Color Depth: Unveiling the Subtleties of Light

When it comes to dynamic range and color depth, both the Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII deliver impressive results. The D700 offers a dynamic range of approximately 12.8 stops, while the 5DII boasts a slightly higher dynamic range of approximately 13.5 stops. This means that both cameras can capture images with rich tonal transitions and a wide range of colors.

In terms of color depth, both cameras offer 14-bit A/D conversion, which allows them to capture a wide range of colors with excellent accuracy. This makes them ideal for photographers who demand the highest levels of image quality and color reproduction.

Autofocus Performance: Capturing the Perfect Shot, Every Time

The Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII both feature advanced autofocus systems that are designed to deliver fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging lighting conditions. The D700 features a 51-point autofocus system, while the 5DII boasts a 9-point autofocus system.

In terms of speed, the D700’s autofocus system is slightly faster, with a focus acquisition time of approximately 0.15 seconds. The 5DII’s autofocus system is still very capable, with a focus acquisition time of approximately 0.2 seconds. Both cameras offer a variety of autofocus modes, including single-shot AF, continuous AF, and manual focus, giving photographers the flexibility to choose the best autofocus mode for their specific needs.

Lens Compatibility: Expanding Your Creative Horizons

Both the Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII are compatible with a wide range of lenses, thanks to their respective lens mounts. The D700 uses Nikon’s F-mount, which is one of the most popular lens mounts in the world. The 5DII uses Canon’s EF-mount, which is also very popular and offers a wide selection of lenses to choose from.

This wide lens compatibility allows photographers to choose from a vast array of lenses, including prime lenses, zoom lenses, and specialty lenses, giving them the flexibility to capture a wide variety of subjects and scenes.

Recommendations: A Tale of Two Legends, United by Excellence

The Nikon D700 and Canon 5DII are both exceptional DSLR cameras that have left an indelible mark on the world of photography. While they have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, they both offer outstanding image quality, impressive speed and performance, and a wide range of features that make them ideal for a variety of photographic genres. Ultimately, the best choice between the two depends on your individual needs and preferences.

FAQs:

Q: Which camera has a higher resolution sensor?

A: The Canon 5DII has a higher resolution sensor, with 21.1 megapixels compared to the D700’s 12.1 megapixels.

Q: Which camera has a faster continuous shooting speed?

A: The Nikon D700 has a faster continuous shooting speed of 8 fps compared to the 5DII’s 3.9 fps.

Q: Which camera has a larger buffer depth?

A: The Canon 5DII has a larger buffer depth, capable of capturing up to 170 JPEG images or 33 RAW images in a single burst compared to the D700’s 100 JPEG images or 12 RAW images.

Q: Which camera has better video recording capabilities?

A: The Canon 5DII has better video recording capabilities, offering 1080p Full HD video recording at 30fps with manual control over exposure and focus, while the D700 can only record 720p HD video at 24fps.

Q: Which camera has better dynamic range and color depth?

A: Both cameras offer impressive dynamic range and color depth, with the D700 offering a dynamic range of approximately 12.8 stops and 14-bit A/D conversion, while the 5DII offers a dynamic range of approximately 13.5 stops and 14-bit A/D conversion.

Q: Which camera has a faster autofocus system?

A: The Nikon D700 has a faster autofocus system with a focus acquisition time of approximately 0.15 seconds compared to the 5DII’s focus acquisition time of approximately 0.2 seconds.

Q: Which camera has better lens compatibility?

A: Both cameras offer excellent lens compatibility, with the D700 using Nikon’s F-mount and the 5DII using Canon’s EF-mount, both of which have a wide range of lenses available.