Nikon D90 Vs D7100: Which Camera Is Right For You? Ken Rockwell’s Head-to-head Comparison

The world of photography is vast and ever-evolving, presenting enthusiasts and professionals alike with a plethora of camera options. Amidst this diverse landscape, the Nikon D90 and D7100 stand out as two highly acclaimed models that have captured the attention of photographers worldwide. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these cameras, drawing upon the insights of renowned photographer Ken Rockwell to help you make an informed decision about which one best suits your photographic endeavors.

Image Quality: D7100’s Resolution Reigns Supreme

The Nikon D7100 boasts a remarkable 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, surpassing the D90’s 12.3-megapixel CCD sensor in terms of resolution. This significant difference translates into sharper, more detailed images, allowing you to capture stunning landscapes, portraits, and action shots with exceptional clarity.

Speed and Performance: D7100 Captures the Decisive Moment

When it comes to speed and performance, the D7100 once again takes the lead. Its rapid 6 frames per second (FPS) continuous shooting rate outpaces the D90’s 4.5 FPS, enabling you to capture fast-paced action sequences with ease. Moreover, the D7100’s improved autofocus system ensures accurate and precise focus, even in challenging lighting conditions.

Low-Light Capabilities: D7100 Shines in Dim Environments

In low-light situations, the D7100’s ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 25600) provides a distinct advantage over the D90’s ISO range of 200-3200 (expandable to 6400). This expanded ISO range allows you to shoot in dimly lit conditions without compromising image quality, resulting in cleaner, noise-free photographs.

Video Capabilities: D7100 Embraces the Moving Image

The D7100’s video capabilities far surpass those of the D90. It can record Full HD (1920 x 1080) videos at 60 FPS, providing smooth and cinematic footage. Additionally, the D7100 offers manual control over exposure and focus during video recording, giving you greater creative flexibility.

Build Quality and Ergonomics: D90’s Robustness Meets D7100’s Comfort

The D90’s magnesium alloy body exudes a sense of sturdiness and durability, while the D7100’s lightweight polycarbonate body prioritizes portability. Both cameras feature comfortable grips and intuitive control layouts, ensuring a pleasant shooting experience.

Price and Availability: D7100 Offers Value for Money

The Nikon D7100 is typically priced higher than the D90. However, considering its superior image quality, speed, performance, and video capabilities, the D7100 represents excellent value for money.

Summary: The D7100 Emerges as the Superior Choice

Based on the comprehensive comparison above, the Nikon D7100 emerges as the superior camera overall. Its higher resolution, faster speed, improved low-light performance, and advanced video capabilities make it an ideal choice for photographers seeking a versatile and capable camera.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography, the D90 or D7100?
A: The D7100 has a wider ISO range and better low-light performance than the D90.

Q: Can I shoot videos with both cameras?
A: Yes, both the D90 and D7100 can record videos, but the D7100 offers more advanced video capabilities, including Full HD recording at 60 FPS and manual control over exposure and focus.

Q: Which camera has a more comfortable grip?
A: Both cameras have comfortable grips, but some users may prefer the D7100’s slightly larger grip.

Q: Is the D7100 worth the extra cost compared to the D90?
A: If you prioritize image quality, speed, performance, and video capabilities, the D7100 is worth the additional investment.

Q: Can I use the same lenses with both cameras?
A: Yes, both cameras use Nikon’s F-mount lenses, so you can share lenses between them.