What To Know
- The Canon 5D Mark II utilizes a 9-point autofocus system with a center cross-type point, while the Nikon D700 boasts a more advanced 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type points.
- The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 both offer video recording capabilities, but the 5D Mark II has a significant advantage in this area.
- The 5D Mark II offers a higher resolution sensor, larger viewfinder, and more advanced video capabilities, while the D700 has a faster autofocus system, better low-light performance, and dual card slots.
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 are two legendary full-frame DSLRs that have captured countless iconic images over the years. Both cameras offer exceptional image quality, advanced features, and robust build quality. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences and similarities between the Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700, helping you make an informed decision about which camera is right for you.
Body and Design
The Canon 5D Mark II features a slightly larger and heavier body than the Nikon D700. The 5D Mark II has dimensions of 152.5 x 116.4 x 75.9mm and weighs 810g, while the D700 measures 140 x 111 x 78mm and weighs 820g. Both cameras are constructed from magnesium alloy, ensuring durability and weather resistance. The 5D Mark II has a slightly larger grip, providing a more comfortable hold for extended shooting sessions.
Image Sensor
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 both feature full-frame CMOS sensors, but with different resolutions. The 5D Mark II has a 21.1-megapixel sensor, while the D700 has a 12.1-megapixel sensor. The higher resolution of the 5D Mark II allows for larger prints and more detailed images, but it also means larger file sizes and potentially slower processing times. The D700’s lower resolution sensor produces smaller files and offers better low-light performance due to its larger pixels.
Autofocus System
The Canon 5D Mark II utilizes a 9-point autofocus system with a center cross-type point, while the Nikon D700 boasts a more advanced 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type points. The D700’s autofocus system is faster and more accurate, especially in low-light conditions. Both cameras offer advanced autofocus customization options, allowing you to tailor the autofocus behavior to your specific shooting style.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The Canon 5D Mark II has a pentaprism viewfinder with 0.71x magnification and 98% coverage, while the Nikon D700 has a pentaprism viewfinder with 0.72x magnification and 95% coverage. Both viewfinders provide a bright and clear view of the scene, but the D700’s slightly larger magnification and coverage offer a more immersive shooting experience. The 5D Mark II features a 3.0-inch LCD screen with 920k dots, while the D700 has a 3.0-inch LCD screen with 922k dots. Both screens are bright and sharp, but the D700’s screen has slightly better color accuracy.
ISO Performance and Dynamic Range
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 offer excellent image quality at low ISO settings, with minimal noise and excellent dynamic range. At higher ISO settings, the D700 has a slight edge over the 5D Mark II in terms of noise control, but the difference is not significant.
Video Capabilities
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 both offer video recording capabilities, but the 5D Mark II has a significant advantage in this area. The 5D Mark II can record full HD video at 1080p resolution at 30/25/24 fps, while the D700 is limited to 720p resolution at 24 fps. The 5D Mark II also offers manual audio level control and an external microphone jack, making it a more versatile choice for videographers.
Connectivity and Storage
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 both feature a variety of connectivity options, including USB 2.0, HDMI, and a memory card slot. The 5D Mark II has a single CF card slot, while the D700 has dual SD card slots. Dual card slots provide added redundancy and storage capacity, but they also increase the risk of data loss if one card fails.
Wrap-Up
The Canon 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 are both exceptional full-frame DSLRs that have stood the test of time. The 5D Mark II offers a higher resolution sensor, larger viewfinder, and more advanced video capabilities, while the D700 has a faster autofocus system, better low-light performance, and dual card slots. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, resolution, and video capabilities, the 5D Mark II is the better choice. If you prefer faster autofocus, better low-light performance, and dual card slots, the D700 is the way to go.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which camera has a better image quality?
A: Both cameras offer excellent image quality, but the 5D Mark II has a higher resolution sensor, which allows for larger prints and more detailed images.
Q: Which camera has a faster autofocus system?
A: The D700 has a faster and more accurate autofocus system, especially in low-light conditions.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The D700 has better low-light performance due to its larger pixels and more sensitive sensor.
Q: Which camera has more video capabilities?
A: The 5D Mark II has more advanced video capabilities, including full HD video recording at 1080p resolution and manual audio level control.
Q: Which camera is more durable?
A: Both cameras are constructed from magnesium alloy, ensuring durability and weather resistance.
