What To Know
- In the realm of professional photography, the Nikon D700 and Canon 5D Mark II stand out as two iconic cameras that have left an indelible mark on the industry.
- Its body is made of a stronger magnesium alloy, and it has a more robust shutter mechanism that is rated for 150,000 actuations, compared to the 5D Mark II’s 100,000 actuations.
- The 5D Mark II has a more compact and streamlined design, with a smaller grip and a more minimalist control layout.
In the realm of professional photography, the Nikon D700 and Canon 5D Mark II stand out as two iconic cameras that have left an indelible mark on the industry. Both cameras have been praised for their exceptional image quality, reliability, and versatility. However, each camera has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, making it crucial for photographers to understand the differences between them before making a decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon D700 boasts a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Canon 5D Mark II features a 21.1-megapixel CMOS sensor. At first glance, the higher resolution of the 5D Mark II might seem like a clear advantage. However, the D700’s lower resolution sensor actually offers several benefits.
The D700’s larger pixel size allows for better light-gathering capabilities, resulting in less noise at higher ISO settings. This makes the D700 an excellent choice for low-light photography and astrophotography. Additionally, the D700’s sensor is known for its accurate color reproduction and dynamic range.
On the other hand, the 5D Mark II’s higher resolution sensor provides more detail and flexibility for cropping and large prints. However, it is more susceptible to noise at higher ISO settings, especially in low-light situations.
Autofocus and Performance
The Nikon D700 is renowned for its exceptional autofocus system, which features 51 autofocus points, including 15 cross-type points. This advanced autofocus system allows for fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging lighting conditions.
The Canon 5D Mark II also has a powerful autofocus system, with 9 autofocus points, including 6 cross-type points. While it is not as advanced as the D700’s system, it is still capable of delivering sharp and accurate focus.
In terms of performance, the D700 has a faster burst rate of 8 frames per second (fps), compared to the 5D Mark II‘s 3.9 fps. This makes the D700 a better choice for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife.
Build and Durability
Both the Nikon D700 and Canon 5D Mark II are built to withstand the rigors of professional use. They feature sturdy magnesium alloy bodies and are weather-sealed to protect against dust and moisture.
However, the D700 has a slight edge in terms of durability. Its body is made of a stronger magnesium alloy, and it has a more robust shutter mechanism that is rated for 150,000 actuations, compared to the 5D Mark II‘s 100,000 actuations.
Ergonomics and Handling
The Nikon D700 and Canon 5D Mark II offer slightly different ergonomics and handling experiences. The D700 has a more traditional DSLR design, with a large grip and a well-placed control layout. It is comfortable to hold and operate for extended periods.
The 5D Mark II has a more compact and streamlined design, with a smaller grip and a more minimalist control layout. It is slightly lighter than the D700, making it easier to carry around. However, some users may find the smaller grip less comfortable for長時間使用.
Features and Functionality
Both the D700 and 5D Mark II offer a comprehensive range of features and functionality. They include built-in flash, self-cleaning sensors, and a variety of creative shooting modes.
The D700 has a slight advantage in terms of features. It offers a wider range of ISO settings (ISO 100-6400, expandable to ISO 25600) compared to the 5D Mark II (ISO 100-6400, expandable to ISO 12800). Additionally, the D700 has a built-in intervalometer, which is useful for time-lapse photography.
The 5D Mark II, on the other hand, has a higher resolution LCD screen (3.0 inches, 920,000 dots) compared to the D700 (3.0 inches, 922,000 dots). It also offers a more advanced video mode, with support for 1080p video recording at 30 fps.
Price and Value
The Nikon D700 and Canon 5D Mark II were both released in 2008, and they have since been replaced by newer models. However, they are still widely available on the used market.
The price of a used D700 typically ranges from $500 to $1,000, depending on its condition and accessories. The price of a used 5D Mark II typically ranges from $600 to $1,200.
Both cameras offer excellent value for money. The D700 is a great choice for photographers who prioritize low-light performance, fast autofocus, and durability. The 5D Mark II is a better option for photographers who need higher resolution, a more compact design, and advanced video capabilities.
Final Thoughts
The Nikon D700 and Canon 5D Mark II are both exceptional cameras that have earned their place among the most iconic DSLRs ever made. While they share many similarities, they also have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize low-light performance, fast autofocus, and durability, the Nikon D700 is an excellent choice. If you need higher resolution, a more compact design, and advanced video capabilities, the Canon 5D Mark II is a better option.
No matter which camera you choose, you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality tool that will help you capture stunning images.
What You Need to Know
1. Which camera has better image quality?
Both cameras offer excellent image quality, but the Nikon D700 has an advantage in low-light performance due to its larger pixel size. The Canon 5D Mark II has a higher resolution sensor, which provides more detail and flexibility for cropping and large prints.
2. Which camera has better autofocus?
The Nikon D700 has a more advanced autofocus system with 51 autofocus points, including 15 cross-type points. This gives it an edge in terms of speed and accuracy, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
3. Which camera is more durable?
The Nikon D700 has a more durable body made of a stronger magnesium alloy and a more robust shutter mechanism. It is also weather-sealed to protect against dust and moisture.
4. Which camera is more comfortable to use?
The Nikon D700 has a more traditional DSLR design with a larger grip and a well-placed control layout. The Canon 5D Mark II has a more compact and streamlined design, which some users may find less comfortable for長時間使用.
5. Which camera has more features?
The Nikon D700 has a wider range of ISO settings and a built-in intervalometer. The Canon 5D Mark II has a higher resolution LCD screen and a more advanced video mode with support for 1080p video recording at 30 fps.
6. Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The Nikon D700 has a larger pixel size and a wider range of ISO settings, making it better for low-light photography and astrophotography.
7. Which camera is better for sports and wildlife photography?
The Nikon D700 has a faster burst rate and a more advanced autofocus system, making it better for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife.
8. Which camera is better for video recording?
The Canon 5D Mark II has a more advanced video mode with support for 1080p video recording at 30 fps. It also offers a wider range of video codecs and manual controls.
9. Which camera is better for beginners?
Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Canon 5D Mark II has a more user-friendly interface and a wider range of beginner-friendly features.
10. Which camera is better for professionals?
Both cameras are used by professionals, but the Nikon D700 is particularly popular among photojournalists and sports photographers due to its fast autofocus and durability.
