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Dslr Vs Mirrorless: Nikon D80 Vs Z5 Head-to-head Showdown

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

  • The Nikon D80 is a DSLR camera, while the Nikon Z5 is a mirrorless camera.
  • The Nikon D80 is a good option for those looking for an affordable DSLR with a decent image quality and a wide lens selection.
  • The Nikon Z5 is a more advanced camera that offers better image quality, faster autofocus, video recording capabilities, and a more modern design.

The Nikon D80 and Nikon Z5 are two popular cameras that have been used by photographers of all levels. They offer a range of features and capabilities, making them suitable for various photography genres. In this blog post, we will compare the Nikon D80 vs Nikon Z5 in-depth to help you make an informed decision about which camera is right for you.

Image Quality

The Nikon D80 features a 10.2MP CCD sensor, while the Nikon Z5 boasts a 24.3MP CMOS sensor. The Z5’s higher resolution allows for more detailed images, especially when cropping or printing large prints. Additionally, the Z5’s CMOS sensor offers better low-light performance, resulting in cleaner images in dim lighting conditions.

Autofocus System

The Nikon D80 has an 11-point autofocus system, while the Nikon Z5 has a 273-point hybrid autofocus system. The Z5’s more advanced autofocus system provides faster and more accurate focusing, especially in low-light conditions. It also features eye-detection autofocus, which is useful for capturing sharp portraits.

Burst Shooting

The Nikon D80 can shoot up to 3 frames per second (fps), while the Nikon Z5 can shoot up to 4.5 fps. The Z5’s faster burst shooting speed is advantageous for capturing fast-moving subjects or sequences of action.

Video Capabilities

The Nikon D80 does not have video recording capabilities, whereas the Nikon Z5 can record 4K UHD video at 30 fps. This makes the Z5 a more versatile camera for those interested in capturing video content.

Build and Design

The Nikon D80 is a DSLR camera, while the Nikon Z5 is a mirrorless camera. The D80 is bulkier and heavier than the Z5, but it offers a more traditional handling experience with direct access to physical controls. The Z5 is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry around. It also features a tilting touchscreen, which provides more flexibility for shooting from different angles.

Lens Compatibility

The Nikon D80 uses F-mount lenses, while the Nikon Z5 uses Z-mount lenses. Z-mount lenses are newer and offer better optical quality and faster autofocus performance. However, the D80’s F-mount compatibility provides access to a wider range of lenses, including legacy lenses.

Price and Availability

The Nikon D80 was released in 2006 and is no longer in production. It can be found used for around $100-$200. The Nikon Z5 was released in 2020 and is currently available new for around $1,400.

Which Camera is Right for You?

The Nikon D80 is a good option for those looking for an affordable DSLR with a decent image quality and a wide lens selection. It is suitable for beginners or hobbyist photographers.

The Nikon Z5 is a more advanced camera that offers better image quality, faster autofocus, video recording capabilities, and a more modern design. It is suitable for enthusiasts and professionals who need a versatile and high-performing camera.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Which camera has a better image stabilization system?
A: Neither the Nikon D80 nor the Nikon Z5 has in-body image stabilization.

Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Nikon D80 has a longer battery life than the Nikon Z5, with approximately 600 shots per charge compared to 470 shots per charge.

Q: Which camera is weather-sealed?
A: The Nikon D80 is weather-sealed, while the Nikon Z5 is not.

Q: Which camera has a built-in flash?
A: Both the Nikon D80 and the Nikon Z5 have built-in flashes.

Q: Which camera has a better dynamic range?
A: The Nikon Z5 has a better dynamic range than the Nikon D80, allowing for more detail in both highlights and shadows.

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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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