What To Know
- The 1100D has a buffer of 6 RAW images or 34 JPEG images, while the D80 has a buffer of 10 RAW images or 60 JPEG images.
- This means that the D80 can capture more shots in a burst before the buffer fills up, making it a better choice for fast-paced action photography.
- However, if you need a camera with better low-light performance, faster burst shooting, and a more advanced autofocus system, the Nikon D80 is a better choice.
When it comes to entry-level DSLR cameras, the Canon 1100D (EOS Rebel T3) and the Nikon D80 are two popular options that have been around for quite some time. Both cameras offer a great balance of features, performance, and affordability, making them ideal for first-time DSLR users and hobbyists. However, there are some key differences between these two cameras that you should consider before making a decision. In this blog post, we will compare the Canon 1100D vs Nikon D80 in-depth to help you choose the best camera for your needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Canon 1100D features a 12.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D80 has a slightly larger 10.2-megapixel APS-C CCD sensor. In terms of image quality, both cameras produce sharp and detailed images with good color reproduction. However, the D80 has a slight edge in low-light performance due to its larger sensor and higher ISO sensitivity range (up to 1600 vs 800 on the 1100D).
Autofocus System
The Canon 1100D uses a 9-point autofocus system, while the Nikon D80 has an 11-point autofocus system. Both systems are relatively basic and work well in most situations, but the D80’s 11-point system provides slightly better accuracy and tracking performance, especially in low-light conditions.
Burst Shooting and Buffer
The Canon 1100D can shoot up to 3 frames per second (fps) in burst mode, while the Nikon D80 can shoot up to 6 fps. The 1100D has a buffer of 6 RAW images or 34 JPEG images, while the D80 has a buffer of 10 RAW images or 60 JPEG images. This means that the D80 can capture more shots in a burst before the buffer fills up, making it a better choice for fast-paced action photography.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The Canon 1100D has a pentamirror viewfinder with 95% coverage, while the Nikon D80 has a pentaprism viewfinder with 96% coverage. The pentaprism viewfinder on the D80 provides a brighter and more accurate view of the scene, especially in low-light conditions. Both cameras have a 2.5-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 230k dots, which is adequate for composing and reviewing images.
Connectivity
The Canon 1100D and Nikon D80 both offer basic connectivity options, including USB 2.0 and video output. However, the D80 also has a built-in wireless transmitter, which allows you to connect to compatible devices and transfer images or control the camera remotely.
Battery Life
The Canon 1100D uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (LP-E10) that lasts for about 500 shots per charge, while the Nikon D80 uses four AA batteries that last for about 600 shots per charge. The D80’s battery life is longer, but it is also more expensive to replace the batteries.
Price and Availability
The Canon 1100D was released in 2011 and is now discontinued. It can be found used for around $200-$300. The Nikon D80 was released in 2006 and is also discontinued. It can be found used for around $150-$250. Both cameras are still widely available on the used market.
Which Camera is Right for You?
If you are looking for an affordable entry-level DSLR camera with good image quality, the Canon 1100D is a great option. It is easy to use, has a decent autofocus system, and produces sharp and detailed images. However, if you need a camera with better low-light performance, faster burst shooting, and a more advanced autofocus system, the Nikon D80 is a better choice. It is also more expensive, but it offers a number of features that the 1100D does not.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: Both cameras produce good image quality, but the Nikon D80 has a slight edge in low-light performance due to its larger sensor and higher ISO sensitivity range.
Q: Which camera has a better autofocus system?
A: The Nikon D80 has a slightly better autofocus system than the Canon 1100D, with 11 focus points instead of 9. This provides better accuracy and tracking performance, especially in low-light conditions.
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Nikon D80 has a longer battery life than the Canon 1100D, lasting for about 600 shots per charge compared to 500 shots per charge. However, the D80 uses AA batteries, which can be more expensive to replace than the lithium-ion battery used in the 1100D.
Q: Which camera is more expensive?
A: The Nikon D80 is more expensive than the Canon 1100D, both new and used.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are good options for beginners, but the Canon 1100D is easier to use and has a more user-friendly interface.
