What To Know
- In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Nikon D4S and D810, providing you with an in-depth analysis to help you make an informed decision about which camera is best suited for your specific requirements.
- The D810, on the other hand, has a more modest burst shooting speed of 5 fps, but it can still capture up to 51 RAW images or 100 JPEG images in a single burst.
- The D4S, however, has a slightly more rugged construction and is designed to endure even the most demanding environments, making it an excellent choice for photographers who frequently work in challenging outdoor conditions.
In the realm of professional photography, the Nikon D4S and D810 stand as two formidable contenders. Both cameras boast exceptional image quality, advanced features, and rugged durability, making them ideal for various photographic disciplines. However, each camera has its unique strengths and weaknesses, catering to different needs and preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Nikon D4S and D810, providing you with an in-depth analysis to help you make an informed decision about which camera is best suited for your specific requirements.
Sensor and Image Quality
The D4S features a 16.2-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor, while the D810 boasts a 36.3-megapixel FX-format CMOS sensor. The higher resolution of the D810 allows for more detailed images, particularly when cropping or printing large prints. However, the D4S’s lower resolution provides advantages in terms of high ISO performance and faster burst shooting speeds.
ISO Sensitivity and Dynamic Range
The D4S excels in low-light conditions with an impressive native ISO range of 100-25,600, expandable to 50-102,400. This makes it an ideal choice for photographers who frequently work in dimly lit environments or need to capture fast-moving subjects. The D810, on the other hand, has a native ISO range of 64-12,800, expandable to 32-51,200. While it does not match the D4S’s extreme low-light capabilities, it still provides excellent image quality at high ISO settings.
The D810 has a slight edge in dynamic range, allowing for greater flexibility in post-processing and recovering details in both highlights and shadows. However, both cameras offer exceptional dynamic range, ensuring that photographers can capture images with rich tonal gradations and minimal noise.
Autofocus System
The D4S boasts Nikon’s Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus system with 51 autofocus points, including 15 cross-type sensors. This advanced autofocus system provides fast, accurate, and reliable performance, even in challenging lighting conditions. The D810, on the other hand, features Nikon‘s Multi-CAM 3500FX II autofocus system with 51 autofocus points, including 15 cross-type sensors and 9 cross-type sensors sensitive to f/8. This enhanced autofocus system offers even greater precision and reliability, particularly when using teleconverters or lenses with slower apertures.
Burst Shooting Speed and Buffer
The D4S is a powerhouse when it comes to burst shooting, capable of capturing up to 11 frames per second (fps) for up to 200 RAW images or 300 JPEG images. This makes it an excellent choice for sports, wildlife, and action photography where capturing fast-moving subjects is crucial. The D810, on the other hand, has a more modest burst shooting speed of 5 fps, but it can still capture up to 51 RAW images or 100 JPEG images in a single burst.
Video Capabilities
Both the D4S and D810 offer impressive video capabilities, but each has its unique strengths. The D4S supports 4K video recording at 30p and 25p, while the D810 offers 4K video recording at 30p, 25p, and 24p. The D810 also features a higher maximum frame rate of 120p at 720p resolution, making it ideal for capturing slow-motion footage.
Ruggedness and Durability
Both the D4S and D810 are built to withstand the harsh conditions often encountered in professional photography. They feature robust magnesium alloy bodies and are fully weather-sealed to protect against dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. The D4S, however, has a slightly more rugged construction and is designed to endure even the most demanding environments, making it an excellent choice for photographers who frequently work in challenging outdoor conditions.
Ergonomics and Handling
The D4S and D810 share a similar overall design, but there are some subtle differences in ergonomics. The D4S has a slightly larger grip and deeper handgrip, providing a more secure hold for extended shooting sessions. It also features dedicated dials for ISO, shutter speed, and aperture, allowing for quick and easy adjustments. The D810, on the other hand, has a more compact body and a slightly shallower grip. It also features a top-mounted LCD screen that displays shooting parameters, providing convenient access to information without having to take your eye away from the viewfinder.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The Nikon D4S and D810 are both exceptional cameras, but their specific strengths and weaknesses make them better suited for different types of photography.
- Choose the D4S if: You need exceptional low-light performance, fast burst shooting speeds, and rugged durability for demanding environments. It is ideal for sports, wildlife, and action photography.
- Choose the D810 if: You prioritize high-resolution images, greater dynamic range, and enhanced autofocus precision. It is an excellent choice for landscape, portrait, and studio photography.
Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds
The Nikon D4S and D810 represent the pinnacle of professional photography, offering a combination of advanced features, exceptional image quality, and rugged durability. While each camera has its unique strengths and weaknesses, they both deliver outstanding results in their respective areas of specialization. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific photography needs and preferences.
What People Want to Know
Q1: Which camera has a higher resolution?
A: The Nikon D810 has a higher resolution of 36.3 megapixels, while the D4S has a resolution of 16.2 megapixels.
Q2: Which camera has better low-light performance?
A: The Nikon D4S has better low-light performance with a native ISO range of 100-25,600, expandable to 50-102,400.
Q3: Which camera has a faster burst shooting speed?
A: The Nikon D4S has a faster burst shooting speed of 11 fps, while the D810 has a burst shooting speed of 5 fps.
Q4: Which camera has a more rugged construction?
A: The Nikon D4S has a slightly more rugged construction designed to withstand demanding environments.
Q5: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: Both cameras offer impressive video capabilities, but the Nikon D810 has a higher maximum frame rate of 120p at 720p resolution for slow-motion footage.
