What To Know
- The D850 and D810 both offer fast and accurate autofocus, but the D850 has a slight edge in both speed and accuracy.
- In addition to the core AF features, both the D850 and D810 offer a range of additional AF features to enhance the user experience.
- The D850 and D810 both offer excellent autofocus performance, but the D850 has a clear advantage in terms of speed, accuracy, and tracking capabilities.
The Nikon D850 and D810 are two of the most popular full-frame DSLRs on the market, renowned for their exceptional image quality and advanced features. However, one aspect that sets them apart is their autofocus (AF) systems. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into a detailed comparison of the Nikon D850 vs D810 autofocus, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and which one is best suited for different photography needs.
AF System Overview
The D850 boasts a 153-point AF system, while the D810 features a 51-point AF system. Both cameras utilize a hybrid AF system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus for fast and accurate focusing.
Phase-Detection AF Points
The D850 has a significantly higher number of phase-detection AF points (153) compared to the D810 (51). These AF points are spread across a wider area of the frame, providing more precise and consistent focus, even in low-light conditions.
Contrast-Detection AF Points
While the D850 has more phase-detection AF points, the D810 actually has a higher number of contrast-detection AF points (2,016 vs. 91,000). Contrast-detection AF is less precise than phase-detection AF but is more sensitive to fine detail, making it ideal for focusing on subjects with low contrast or in low-light conditions.
AF Speed and Accuracy
The D850 and D810 both offer fast and accurate autofocus, but the D850 has a slight edge in both speed and accuracy. The D850’s advanced AF algorithm and increased number of AF points enable it to lock onto subjects more quickly and maintain focus even when the subject is moving.
AF Tracking
Both the D850 and D810 offer advanced AF tracking capabilities, but the D850 once again shines in this area. The D850’s improved 3D tracking algorithm and increased number of AF points allow it to track moving subjects with greater precision and accuracy, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Low-Light Performance
The D850 and D810 both perform well in low-light conditions, but the D850 has a slight advantage. The D850’s increased number of phase-detection AF points and improved AF algorithm allow it to focus more accurately in low-light situations.
Other AF Features
In addition to the core AF features, both the D850 and D810 offer a range of additional AF features to enhance the user experience. These features include:
- AF-ON Button: Both cameras have a dedicated AF-ON button that allows users to focus independently of the shutter release, giving them more control over their focus.
- Focus Peaking: Both cameras offer focus peaking, a feature that highlights in-focus areas using a colored overlay, making it easier to manually focus.
- Customizable AF Settings: Both cameras allow users to customize their AF settings to suit their specific needs, such as adjusting the AF sensitivity, AF tracking mode, and AF point selection.
Which Camera is Best for Autofocus?
The D850 and D810 both offer excellent autofocus performance, but the D850 has a clear advantage in terms of speed, accuracy, and tracking capabilities. If you are a photographer who demands the best possible autofocus performance for fast-moving subjects, low-light photography, or any other demanding situation, the Nikon D850 is the clear choice.
In a nutshell: The Ultimate Autofocus Champion
The Nikon D850 is the undisputed autofocus champion among the two cameras. With its advanced AF system, increased number of AF points, and improved AF algorithm, the D850 delivers exceptional speed, accuracy, and tracking capabilities. Whether you are a professional photographer or an enthusiast who demands the best possible autofocus performance, the Nikon D850 is the camera for you.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which camera has more AF points?
A: The Nikon D850 has 153 AF points, while the D810 has 51 AF points.
Q: Which camera has faster autofocus?
A: The Nikon D850 has faster autofocus than the D810.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light autofocus?
A: The Nikon D850 has a slight advantage in low-light autofocus performance.
Q: Which camera has more AF tracking capabilities?
A: The Nikon D850 has more advanced AF tracking capabilities than the D810.
Q: Which camera has more customizable AF settings?
A: Both the Nikon D850 and D810 offer customizable AF settings, but the D850 has a wider range of options.
