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Face-off: Nikon D700 Vs Canon 5d Classic – Which Dslr Reigns Supreme?

Drew is a passionate photographer and the founder of the popular camera review blog, "DrewCaptures." With over a decade of experience behind the lens, Drew has developed a deep understanding of the latest camera gear and technologies.

What To Know

  • In the realm of professional photography, the Nikon D700 and the Canon 5D Classic stand as iconic cameras that have shaped the industry.
  • The D700 offers a burst mode of up to 8 frames per second (fps), while the 5D Classic manages a more modest 3 fps.
  • The D700 sports a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 922k dots, while the 5D Classic has a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 630k dots.

In the realm of professional photography, the Nikon D700 and the Canon 5D Classic stand as iconic cameras that have shaped the industry. Both released in 2008, they offer a unique blend of features and performance that continues to captivate photographers today. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Nikon D700 vs Canon 5D Classic, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different photographic needs.

Sensor and Image Quality

The D700 boasts a 12.1MP CMOS sensor, while the 5D Classic utilizes a 12.8MP full-frame CMOS sensor. The larger sensor size of the 5D Classic provides a wider dynamic range and better low-light performance, resulting in images with richer tones and reduced noise. However, the D700’s smaller sensor offers faster readout speeds and less rolling shutter distortion, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.

AF System and Focusing Speed

The D700 features Nikon‘s 51-point AF system with 15 cross-type sensors, while the 5D Classic employs Canon’s 9-point AF system with 6 cross-type sensors. The D700’s more advanced AF system provides superior tracking capabilities, enabling photographers to capture moving subjects with greater accuracy and precision.

Burst Mode and Continuous Shooting

The D700 offers a burst mode of up to 8 frames per second (fps), while the 5D Classic manages a more modest 3 fps. For photographers who specialize in sports, wildlife, or other fast-paced action, the D700’s faster burst rate provides a significant advantage.

ISO Sensitivity and Dynamic Range

The D700 has a native ISO range of 200-6400, expandable to 100-25600. The 5D Classic, on the other hand, has a native ISO range of 100-1600, expandable to 50-3200. The D700’s wider ISO range allows for greater flexibility in low-light conditions, enabling photographers to capture images with minimal noise.

Build Quality and Ergonomics

Both the D700 and 5D Classic feature rugged magnesium alloy bodies, ensuring durability and longevity. The D700 is slightly smaller and lighter than the 5D Classic, making it more comfortable to handle for extended periods. The 5D Classic, however, offers a more ergonomic grip and a larger viewfinder, enhancing the overall shooting experience.

LCD Screen and Viewfinder

The D700 sports a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 922k dots, while the 5D Classic has a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 630k dots. The higher resolution of the D700’s LCD screen provides a sharper and more detailed preview of images. The 5D Classic’s viewfinder, on the other hand, offers a slightly larger field of view and a brighter image.

Video Capabilities

The D700 and 5D Classic were released before the advent of full-fledged video capabilities in digital SLRs. However, both cameras offer basic video recording capabilities, with the D700 recording at 720p HD resolution and the 5D Classic recording at standard definition resolution.

Wrap-Up

Choosing between the Nikon D700 and the Canon 5D Classic depends on the photographer’s specific needs and preferences. The D700 excels in fast-paced action photography with its superior AF system, burst mode, and ISO performance. The 5D Classic, on the other hand, offers a wider dynamic range, better low-light capabilities, and a more ergonomic design. Ultimately, both cameras are excellent choices for professional photographers seeking high-quality images and reliable performance.

Information You Need to Know

1. Which camera has better image quality?
The Canon 5D Classic generally offers better image quality due to its larger full-frame sensor.

2. Which camera is better for sports photography?
The Nikon D700 is better suited for sports photography due to its faster burst mode and more advanced AF system.

3. Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Nikon D700 has a wider ISO range, making it more suitable for low-light photography.

4. Which camera has a more ergonomic design?
The Canon 5D Classic has a more ergonomic grip and a larger viewfinder.

5. Which camera is more durable?
Both cameras feature rugged magnesium alloy bodies, ensuring durability and longevity.

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Drew D.

Drew is a passionate photographer and the founder of the popular camera review blog, "DrewCaptures." With over a decade of experience behind the lens, Drew has developed a deep understanding of the latest camera gear and technologies.
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