Nikon D7200 Vs D800: The Ultimate Comparison Guide
What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, this guide will help you discern the distinctions between the Nikon D7200 and D800, enabling you to make an informed decision.
- The Nikon D7200 and D800 are both well-built cameras, but the D800 has a slight edge in terms of durability and weather sealing.
- The D7200 is typically more affordable than the D800, making it a more budget-friendly option for photographers on a tighter budget.
Photographers of all skill levels are faced with the daunting task of choosing the ideal camera for their needs. The Nikon D7200 and D800 are two highly regarded DSLRs that cater to different types of photographers. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of each camera, analyzing their features, performance, and suitability for various genres of photography. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring enthusiast, this guide will help you discern the distinctions between the Nikon D7200 and D800, enabling you to make an informed decision.
Sensor Resolution: Megapixels Matter, But Not Always
The Nikon D7200 boasts a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the D800 packs a whopping 36.3-megapixel full-frame sensor. While more megapixels generally imply higher resolution and detail, it’s crucial to consider the intended use of your images. If you primarily share photos online or make small prints, the D7200’s resolution is more than adequate. However, if you plan on creating large prints or cropping your images extensively, the D800’s higher resolution provides more flexibility.
Sensor Size: Full-Frame vs APS-C – A Tale of Two Formats
The sensor size is a fundamental difference between the D7200 and D800. The D7200’s APS-C sensor is smaller than the D800’s full-frame sensor. This affects several aspects of image quality, including depth of field, low-light performance, and overall image quality. Full-frame sensors generally offer shallower depth of field, better low-light performance, and higher dynamic range, making them ideal for portraiture, landscape, and astrophotography. APS-C sensors, on the other hand, are more compact and affordable, making them popular for wildlife, sports, and travel photography.
Autofocus System: Speed and Accuracy Under Scrutiny
The Nikon D7200 and D800 employ different autofocus systems. The D7200 features a 51-point autofocus system, while the D800 boasts a more advanced 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors. In terms of speed and accuracy, the D800’s autofocus system is generally considered to be superior, especially in low-light conditions. However, the D7200’s autofocus system is still capable of producing sharp images in most situations.
Continuous Shooting: Capturing the Action
The Nikon D7200 and D800 differ in their continuous shooting capabilities. The D7200 can shoot up to 6 frames per second (fps), while the D800 can shoot up to 4 fps. For fast-paced action photography, such as sports or wildlife, the D7200’s higher frame rate provides a significant advantage. However, the D800’s slower frame rate is still sufficient for most types of photography.
Video Capabilities: Beyond Still Images
Both the Nikon D7200 and D800 offer video recording capabilities, but there are some key differences. The D7200 can record Full HD (1920 x 1080) video at up to 60 fps, while the D800 can record Full HD video at up to 30 fps. Additionally, the D800 offers the option of recording in 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution at 30 fps. If video is an important consideration, the D800’s 4K capabilities may be a deciding factor.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Durability and Reliability
The Nikon D7200 and D800 are both well-built cameras, but the D800 has a slight edge in terms of durability and weather sealing. The D800’s magnesium alloy body is more robust than the D7200’s polycarbonate body, and it also features more extensive weather sealing, making it better suited for use in harsh conditions.
Price and Value: Weighing the Options
The Nikon D7200 and D800 are priced differently, reflecting their respective features and capabilities. The D7200 is typically more affordable than the D800, making it a more budget-friendly option for photographers on a tighter budget. However, the D800’s higher resolution, full-frame sensor, and more advanced autofocus system may be worth the extra investment for photographers who demand the best image quality and performance.
Our Verdict: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Nikon D7200 and D800 are both excellent cameras, but they cater to different types of photographers. The D7200 is a versatile and affordable option for photographers who value compactness, speed, and affordability. It excels in genres such as wildlife, sports, and travel photography. On the other hand, the D800 is a high-resolution powerhouse that delivers exceptional image quality and low-light performance. It is ideal for portraiture, landscape, and astrophotography, where resolution and dynamic range are paramount. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and shooting style.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which camera has a better autofocus system, the Nikon D7200 or D800?
The Nikon D800 has a more advanced autofocus system with 51 focus points, including 15 cross-type sensors, providing faster and more accurate focusing, especially in low-light conditions.
2. Can I shoot 4K video with the Nikon D7200?
No, the Nikon D7200 can only record Full HD (1920 x 1080) video at up to 60 fps. The D800, on the other hand, offers the option of recording in 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution at 30 fps.
3. Which camera is better for low-light photography, the Nikon D7200 or D800?
The Nikon D800 has an advantage in low-light photography due to its larger full-frame sensor, which gathers more light and produces less noise at high ISO settings.
