Nikon D800e Vs Nikon D850: Which Full-frame Dslr Is Right For You?
What To Know
- 8 stops, the D850 can capture a wider range of tones and colors, resulting in images with greater depth and detail, especially in high-contrast scenes.
- The D800E has a native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 50-25600, while the D850 boasts an even wider native ISO range of 64-25600, expandable to 32-102400.
- Additionally, the D850 introduces a new Group-Area AF mode, which allows you to select a cluster of autofocus points and have the camera automatically select the best focus point within that group.
Nikon’s D800E and D850 are two of the most iconic and highly sought-after DSLRs ever produced. With their exceptional image quality, versatility, and durability, these cameras have earned a reputation among professional and enthusiast photographers alike. But which one is the better choice for you? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll put the Nikon D800E and D850 head-to-head to help you make an informed decision.
Image Quality: Resolution and Dynamic Range
The Nikon D800E and D850 both boast impressive image quality, but they differ in their resolution and dynamic range capabilities. The D800E features a 36.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, while the D850 packs an even higher resolution 45.7-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor. This means that the D850 can capture images with more detail and finer textures, making it ideal for landscape, wildlife, and macro photography.
When it comes to dynamic range, the D850 also has a slight edge over the D800E. With a dynamic range of 14.8 stops, the D850 can capture a wider range of tones and colors, resulting in images with greater depth and detail, especially in high-contrast scenes.
Low-Light Performance: ISO Range and Noise Control
Both the Nikon D800E and D850 excel in low-light conditions, thanks to their excellent high ISO performance. The D800E has a native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 50-25600, while the D850 boasts an even wider native ISO range of 64-25600, expandable to 32-102400. This means that both cameras can capture usable images in dimly lit environments without introducing excessive noise.
However, the D850 has a slight advantage in terms of noise control at higher ISO settings. Its newer sensor and improved image processing algorithms help to reduce noise and preserve detail, even at very high ISO values. This makes the D850 a better choice for astrophotography, night photography, and other situations where low-light performance is critical.
Autofocus: Speed, Accuracy, and Coverage
The Nikon D800E and D850 both feature advanced autofocus systems that deliver fast, accurate, and reliable focusing performance. The D800E utilizes a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors, while the D850 boasts a more advanced 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type sensors. This gives the D850 a significant advantage in terms of autofocus coverage and accuracy, especially when tracking moving subjects or working in low-light conditions.
Additionally, the D850 introduces a new Group-Area AF mode, which allows you to select a cluster of autofocus points and have the camera automatically select the best focus point within that group. This feature is particularly useful for sports and wildlife photography, where the subject’s position may change rapidly.
Video Capabilities: Resolution, Frame Rates, and Codecs
The Nikon D800E and D850 both offer impressive video capabilities, but the D850 takes the lead in this department. The D800E can record Full HD (1920 x 1080) video at up to 30 frames per second (fps), while the D850 can capture 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) video at up to 30 fps. Additionally, the D850 supports slow-motion recording at up to 120 fps in Full HD mode, making it a great choice for capturing fast-paced action sequences.
In terms of video quality, the D850 also has an edge over the D800E. Its 4K UHD footage exhibits greater detail, richer colors, and improved dynamic range. The D850 also offers a wider range of video codecs, including H.264 and H.265, giving you more flexibility in post-production.
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Durability, Weather Sealing, and Handling
The Nikon D800E and D850 are both built to withstand the rigors of professional use. They feature robust magnesium alloy bodies that are weather-sealed to protect against dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Both cameras also have a comfortable grip and well-placed controls that make them easy to operate, even for extended periods.
However, the D850 has a few ergonomic improvements over the D800E. It features a larger and higher-resolution rear LCD screen, which makes it easier to review images and adjust settings. Additionally, the D850 has a dedicated focus mode selector button, which allows you to quickly switch between autofocus modes without having to navigate through menus.
Connectivity and Workflow: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Image Transfer
The Nikon D800E and D850 both offer a range of connectivity options to facilitate seamless image transfer and remote control. They both have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing you to connect to smartphones, tablets, and computers for wireless image transfer and camera control. Additionally, both cameras have a USB 3.0 port for fast data transfer to external storage devices.
However, the D850 introduces a new SnapBridge feature, which allows you to maintain a constant Bluetooth connection between the camera and your smart device. This enables automatic image transfer, remote camera control, and GPS tagging, even when the camera is turned off.
Battery Life: Capacity and Endurance
The Nikon D800E and D850 both use the same EN-EL15 rechargeable lithium-ion battery. However, the D850 has a slightly better battery life, thanks to its more efficient power management system. The D800E can capture approximately 900 shots on a single charge, while the D850 can manage up to 1840 shots. This makes the D850 a better choice for long photography sessions, especially when you don’t have access to a power source.
Evolving Photography: The Verdict
The Nikon D800E and D850 are both exceptional DSLRs that offer outstanding image quality, versatility, and performance. However, the D850 emerges as the clear winner in this comparison, thanks to its higher resolution sensor, improved dynamic range, superior autofocus system, 4K video capabilities, enhanced ergonomics, and better battery life.
If you’re looking for a high-resolution DSLR that delivers stunning image quality, excellent low-light performance, and a wide range of features for professional photography, the Nikon D850 is the camera for you. It’s a powerful and versatile tool that will help you capture stunning images in any situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which camera has a higher resolution: the Nikon D800E or the Nikon D850?
A1. The Nikon D850 has a higher resolution of 45.7 megapixels, compared to the D800E’s 36.3 megapixels.
Q2. Which camera has better low-light performance?
A2. The Nikon D850 has better low-light performance, thanks to its wider native ISO range and improved noise control at high ISO settings.
Q3. Which camera has a more advanced autofocus system?
A3. The Nikon D850 has a more advanced autofocus system with 153 focus points, compared to the D800E’s 51 focus points. The D850 also offers Group-Area AF mode for improved subject tracking.
Q4. Which camera can record 4K video?
A4. Only the Nikon D850 can record 4K UHD video at up to 30 fps. The D800E is limited to Full HD (1920 x 1080) video recording.
Q5. Which camera has better build quality and ergonomics?
A5. Both cameras have excellent build quality and ergonomics, but the D850 has a larger and higher-resolution rear LCD screen, a dedicated focus mode selector button, and a more comfortable grip.
Q6. Which camera has better battery life?
A6. The Nikon D850 has better battery life, with a capacity of 1840 shots on a single charge, compared to the D800E’s 900 shots.
