Mastering the art of DSLR shooting
Guide

Nikon D810 Vs D800e: Low-light Photography Battle For The Stars

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 D810 features an advanced 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors, while the D800E has a 51-point autofocus system with 11 cross-type sensors.
  • The D810 has a slightly longer battery life than the D800E, with a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 1,200 shots per charge compared to the D800E’s 900 shots per charge.
  • The D810 has a slightly longer battery life, with a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 1,200 shots per charge compared to the D800E’s 900 shots per charge.

In the realm of professional photography, the Nikon D810 and D800E stand as formidable contenders. Both cameras boast exceptional image quality, high-resolution sensors, and advanced features. However, discerning photographers often face a dilemma when choosing between these two powerhouses. This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key differences, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.

Sensor and Resolution

The Nikon D810 features a 36.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor, offering a significant resolution advantage over the D800E’s 36MP sensor. This higher resolution translates into finer details, larger print sizes, and the ability to crop images more aggressively without sacrificing image quality.

Low-Light Performance

Both cameras perform admirably in low-light conditions, thanks to their wide ISO ranges and advanced noise reduction capabilities. However, the D810 has a slight edge due to its improved noise handling at higher ISOs. This allows you to capture cleaner images in dimly lit environments without compromising image quality.

Dynamic Range

The D810 boasts an impressive dynamic range of 14.8 EV, surpassing the D800E’s 14.4 EV. This means that the D810 can capture a wider range of tones, preserving details in both the highlights and shadows. As a result, you’ll have greater flexibility when editing images and recovering lost details.

Autofocus System

The D810 features an advanced 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors, while the D800E has a 51-point autofocus system with 11 cross-type sensors. The D810’s more advanced autofocus system provides faster and more accurate focusing, particularly in low-light conditions.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras offer excellent video capabilities, supporting 1080p video recording at up to 60fps. However, the D810 has a slight advantage in this area, as it supports 4K video recording at 30fps. This higher resolution provides greater detail and cinematic appeal for videographers.

Battery Life

The D810 has a slightly longer battery life than the D800E, with a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 1,200 shots per charge compared to the D800E’s 900 shots per charge. This extended battery life allows you to shoot for longer periods without having to worry about running out of power.

Which Camera Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize high resolution, low-light performance, dynamic range, and advanced autofocus, the Nikon D810 is the clear choice. However, if you’re primarily interested in video capabilities or have a budget constraint, the Nikon D800E remains a solid option.

In a nutshell: The Reigning Champion

In this comprehensive comparison, the Nikon D810 emerges as the superior camera overall. Its higher resolution, improved low-light performance, wider dynamic range, and faster autofocus system make it the ideal choice for professional photographers seeking the highest image quality and versatility. While the Nikon D800E is still a capable camera, the D810’s advancements make it the more compelling option for discerning photographers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which camera has a better autofocus system?
The Nikon D810 has a more advanced 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors, providing faster and more accurate focusing.

2. Does the D810 support 4K video recording?
Yes, the D810 supports 4K video recording at 30fps, while the D800E only supports 1080p video recording.

3. Which camera has a longer battery life?
The D810 has a slightly longer battery life, with a CIPA-rated battery life of approximately 1,200 shots per charge compared to the D800E’s 900 shots per charge.

4. Is the D810 significantly more expensive than the D800E?
The D810 was initially more expensive than the D800E, but the price gap has narrowed over time. Currently, the D810 is available at a comparable price to the D800E.

5. Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The D810 has a slight edge in low-light performance due to its improved noise handling at higher ISOs.

Was this page helpful?

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.
Back to top button