What To Know
- The Canon 5D Mark II has a durable magnesium alloy body, while the Nikon D700 features a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body.
- Both the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 offer live view shooting, allowing you to compose and focus your images on the camera’s LCD screen.
- The Canon 5D Mark II excels in video capabilities and image quality, while the Nikon D700 offers superior autofocus, weather sealing, and burst shooting speed.
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 are two of the most iconic full-frame DSLRs ever produced, each renowned for its exceptional image quality, versatility, and legacy. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences and similarities between these two legendary cameras, helping you make an informed decision on which one is the right choice for your photography needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
Sensor Resolution and Size
The Canon 5D Mark II boasts a 21.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D700 features a 12.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor. Despite the difference in resolution, both cameras deliver exceptional image quality with rich colors, fine details, and wide dynamic range.
Low-Light Performance
The Canon 5D Mark II has a native ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 50-25600. The Nikon D700 has a native ISO range of 200-6400, expandable to 100-25600. Both cameras perform admirably in low-light conditions, producing images with minimal noise and excellent detail preservation.
Autofocus and Performance
Autofocus System
The Canon 5D Mark II utilizes a 9-point autofocus system with all cross-type sensors. The Nikon D700 employs a 51-point autofocus system, with 15 cross-type sensors and 3D tracking capabilities. The Nikon D700’s autofocus system offers superior accuracy, speed, and subject tracking in challenging lighting conditions.
Burst Shooting Speed
The Canon 5D Mark II can capture up to 3.9 frames per second (fps) in continuous shooting mode. The Nikon D700 offers a slightly faster burst shooting speed of 5 fps, allowing you to capture fast-paced action with greater precision.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Body Construction
The Canon 5D Mark II has a durable magnesium alloy body, while the Nikon D700 features a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body. The Nikon D700’s weather sealing provides added protection against dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures, making it a more reliable choice for outdoor photography.
Ergonomics
Both the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 offer excellent ergonomics, with comfortable handgrips, well-placed controls, and intuitive menus. However, some photographers may prefer the slightly larger and heavier body of the Nikon D700 for a more secure grip.
Video Capabilities
The Canon 5D Mark II revolutionized video capabilities in DSLRs with the introduction of full HD 1080p video recording at 30 fps. The Nikon D700, on the other hand, only offers standard definition video recording at 720p. If video recording is an essential feature for you, the Canon 5D Mark II is the clear choice.
Other Features and Considerations
Live View
Both the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 offer live view shooting, allowing you to compose and focus your images on the camera’s LCD screen. The Canon 5D Mark II has a slightly larger 3.0-inch LCD screen compared to the Nikon D700’s 2.8-inch LCD screen.
Connectivity
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 both feature built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, providing convenient wireless image transfer and remote camera control.
Lens Compatibility
Both the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 use their respective lens mounts, Canon EF and Nikon F-mount. This gives you access to a wide range of lenses from both manufacturers and third-party vendors.
Summary: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 are both outstanding full-frame DSLRs that have made significant contributions to the world of photography. The Canon 5D Mark II excels in video capabilities and image quality, while the Nikon D700 offers superior autofocus, weather sealing, and burst shooting speed.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 depends on your specific photography needs and preferences. If you prioritize video recording, resolution, and dynamic range, the Canon 5D Mark II is a solid choice. If you value speed, accuracy, and weather resistance, the Nikon D700 is the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has the better autofocus system?
A: The Nikon D700 has a more advanced autofocus system with 51 focus points and 3D tracking capabilities, providing superior speed and accuracy.
Q: Can I use Canon lenses on a Nikon camera?
A: No, Canon lenses are not compatible with Nikon cameras. The Canon 5D Mark II uses Canon EF lenses, while the Nikon D700 uses Nikon F-mount lenses.
Q: Which camera is better for sports and wildlife photography?
A: The Nikon D700’s faster burst shooting speed and more accurate autofocus system make it the better choice for capturing fast-moving subjects in sports and wildlife photography.
