What To Know
- The D850 has a slightly more robust build with a magnesium alloy body, while the D780 uses a combination of magnesium alloy and carbon fiber.
- The D780 has a slightly smaller and lighter body compared to the D850, making it easier to handle for extended periods.
- The D850, on the other hand, boasts a higher resolution sensor, a more advanced autofocus system, a larger buffer capacity, and built-in GPS.
When it comes to capturing wildlife, photographers demand cameras that can handle the challenges of fast-paced action, extreme environments, and demanding lighting conditions. Two formidable contenders in the wildlife photography realm are the Nikon D780 and D850. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features and capabilities of these two cameras to help you determine which one is the ideal choice for your wildlife pursuits.
Image Quality
Sensor Resolution and Dynamic Range
The Nikon D850 boasts a higher resolution 45.7MP full-frame CMOS sensor compared to the D780’s 24.5MP sensor. This translates to larger file sizes and more detail in your wildlife images. However, the D780’s smaller sensor size contributes to a slightly higher dynamic range, allowing for better preservation of highlights and shadows.
Low-Light Performance
Both cameras excel in low-light situations with impressive ISO capabilities. The D850 has a native ISO range of 64-25600, expandable to 32-102400, while the D780’s native range is 100-51200, expandable to 50-204800. This means that both cameras can capture sharp and clear images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Autofocus and Tracking
AF System and Coverage
The Nikon D780 features a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors, while the D850 has a more advanced 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type sensors. This gives the D850 a wider and more precise autofocus coverage, crucial for tracking fast-moving wildlife subjects.
Eye Detection and Animal Detection
Both cameras offer advanced autofocus modes, including eye detection and animal detection. However, the D850’s animal detection system is more sophisticated, providing more accurate tracking of animals’ eyes and bodies. This makes it easier to capture sharp portraits of wildlife even in challenging conditions.
Speed and Responsiveness
Burst Rate and Buffer Capacity
The Nikon D780 has a faster burst rate of 12 frames per second (fps) compared to the D850’s 9 fps. However, the D850 has a larger buffer capacity, allowing you to capture longer bursts of images before the camera slows down. This is important for capturing sequences of fast-paced wildlife action.
Shutter Speed and Flash Sync
Both cameras offer a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000s, sufficient for freezing motion in wildlife photography. The D850 has a slightly faster flash sync speed of 1/250s compared to the D780’s 1/200s, which can be advantageous for using flash in daylight conditions.
Build and Ergonomics
Weather Sealing and Durability
Both the Nikon D780 and D850 are weather-sealed to protect them from moisture and dust, making them ideal for outdoor wildlife photography. The D850 has a slightly more robust build with a magnesium alloy body, while the D780 uses a combination of magnesium alloy and carbon fiber.
Grip and Handling
The D780 has a slightly smaller and lighter body compared to the D850, making it easier to handle for extended periods. The D850’s larger grip and deeper handgrip provide better stability and comfort during long shooting sessions.
Other Features
Video Capabilities
The Nikon D780 offers 4K video recording at up to 30 fps, while the D850 supports 4K video at up to 60 fps. Both cameras offer slow-motion recording and support external recording devices.
Connectivity and GPS
The D850 has built-in GPS, which can be useful for geotagging wildlife images and tracking your location. Both cameras have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy image sharing and remote control.
Key Points
The Nikon D780 and D850 are both exceptional cameras for wildlife photography, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The D780 offers a faster burst rate, a more compact body, and a slightly higher dynamic range. The D850, on the other hand, boasts a higher resolution sensor, a more advanced autofocus system, a larger buffer capacity, and built-in GPS.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific wildlife photography needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed, portability, and dynamic range, the D780 is a great option. If you demand the highest resolution, the most accurate autofocus, and the most extensive feature set, the D850 is the clear choice.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which camera has better autofocus for wildlife?
A: The Nikon D850 has a more advanced 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type sensors, providing wider and more precise autofocus coverage than the D780.
Q: Can I use both cameras in extreme weather conditions?
A: Yes, both the Nikon D780 and D850 are weather-sealed to protect them from moisture and dust, making them suitable for outdoor wildlife photography.
Q: Which camera offers better video capabilities?
A: The Nikon D850 supports 4K video recording at up to 60 fps, while the D780 offers 4K video at up to 30 fps. The D850 also provides slow-motion recording and external recording device support.
