What To Know
- The D200 is constructed with a magnesium alloy body, making it more durable and weather-resistant than the D3200, which has a polycarbonate body.
- The D3200 has a smaller optical viewfinder with 90% coverage, but it compensates with a larger 3-inch LCD screen compared to the D200’s 2.
- The D3200 has a higher resolution and better noise reduction at higher ISO settings, but the D200 has a CCD sensor known for its excellent dynamic range and low-light performance.
The Nikon D200 and D3200 are two popular DSLR cameras from Nikon, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. If you’re considering purchasing one of these cameras, it’s important to understand their differences to make an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison will guide you through the key aspects of each camera, helping you determine which one is the best fit for your photography needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
The D200 features a 10.2-megapixel CCD sensor, while the D3200 boasts a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. While the D3200 offers a higher resolution, the D200’s CCD sensor is known for its excellent dynamic range and low-light performance. Both cameras produce sharp and detailed images, but the D3200 has an advantage in terms of resolution and noise reduction at higher ISO settings.
Autofocus and Performance
The D200 has a 11-point autofocus system, while the D3200 has a 39-point autofocus system. The D3200’s more advanced autofocus system provides faster and more accurate focusing, especially in low-light conditions. Additionally, the D3200 offers continuous autofocus during video recording, which is absent in the D200.
Build and Ergonomics
The D200 is constructed with a magnesium alloy body, making it more durable and weather-resistant than the D3200, which has a polycarbonate body. The D200 also features a larger and more comfortable grip, making it easier to hold for extended periods. However, the D3200 is significantly lighter and more compact, making it more portable.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The D200 has a large and bright optical viewfinder with 95% coverage, providing a clear and immersive shooting experience. The D3200 has a smaller optical viewfinder with 90% coverage, but it compensates with a larger 3-inch LCD screen compared to the D200’s 2.5-inch LCD screen.
Connectivity and Features
The D200 offers a variety of connectivity options, including USB 2.0, FireWire, and Ethernet, while the D3200 has USB 2.0 and HDMI connectivity. The D3200 includes built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, allowing you to wirelessly transfer images and tag them with location data. Additionally, the D3200 has a dedicated movie mode for recording videos in full HD resolution.
Battery Life and Memory
The D200 uses EN-EL3e batteries, providing approximately 500 shots per charge. The D3200 uses EN-EL14a batteries, offering approximately 540 shots per charge. Both cameras support SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards.
Which Camera Is Right for You?
The choice between the Nikon D200 and D3200 depends on your specific photography needs and preferences. If you prioritize durability, low-light performance, and a large viewfinder, the D200 is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more compact and portable camera with higher resolution, advanced autofocus, and built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, the D3200 is the better option.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re still unsure about which camera to choose, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Nikon D7000: A higher-end DSLR with a 16.2-megapixel sensor, advanced autofocus, and weather sealing.
- Nikon D5300: A newer model than the D3200 with a 24.2-megapixel sensor, built-in Wi-Fi, and a touch-screen LCD.
- Canon EOS Rebel T6i: A comparable DSLR from Canon with a 24.2-megapixel sensor, advanced autofocus, and a compact design.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: The D3200 has a higher resolution and better noise reduction at higher ISO settings, but the D200 has a CCD sensor known for its excellent dynamic range and low-light performance.
Q: Which camera has a more advanced autofocus system?
A: The D3200 has a 39-point autofocus system, which is faster and more accurate than the D200’s 11-point system.
Q: Which camera is more durable?
A: The D200 has a magnesium alloy body, making it more durable and weather-resistant than the D3200’s polycarbonate body.
Q: Which camera has built-in Wi-Fi and GPS?
A: The D3200 has built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, while the D200 does not.
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The D3200 has a slightly longer battery life than the D200, with approximately 540 shots per charge compared to 500 shots per charge.
