What To Know
- The Z5 is a mirrorless camera designed for aspiring photographers, while the D300 is a DSLR geared towards advanced enthusiasts and professionals.
- In RAW format, the Z5 can capture up to 14 shots in a single burst, while the D300 can capture up to 11 shots.
- The Nikon Z5 is an excellent choice for aspiring photographers who want a versatile and user-friendly camera with excellent image quality, autofocus performance, and video capabilities.
The Nikon Z5 and D300 are two highly acclaimed cameras that cater to different photography needs. The Z5 is a mirrorless camera designed for aspiring photographers, while the D300 is a DSLR geared towards advanced enthusiasts and professionals. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these cameras, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision based on your photography goals.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon Z5 features a 24.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor, while the D300 has a 12.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor. The Z5’s larger sensor offers several advantages, including better low-light performance, wider dynamic range, and shallower depth of field. However, the D300’s higher pixel density results in sharper images at lower ISOs.
Autofocus System
The Z5 boasts a hybrid autofocus system with 273 on-sensor phase-detect points that cover 90% of the frame. This system provides fast and accurate autofocus, even in low-light conditions. The D300, on the other hand, has a 51-point autofocus system that uses phase-detect sensors in the viewfinder. While it’s less advanced than the Z5’s system, it’s still capable of delivering reliable autofocus performance.
Viewfinder and Display
The Z5 has a 3.69m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a magnification of 0.8x. The EVF provides a clear and detailed view of the scene, allowing for precise composition. The D300, on the other hand, has a traditional optical viewfinder (OVF) with a magnification of 0.94x. OVFs offer a more natural viewing experience, but they don’t provide the same level of information and customization as EVs.
The Z5 also features a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, while the D300 has a fixed 3-inch LCD. The Z5’s touchscreen interface allows for easy navigation and control, while the D300’s fixed LCD is more traditional.
Burst Shooting and Buffer Capacity
The Z5 can shoot up to 4.5 frames per second (fps) in continuous shooting mode, while the D300 can shoot up to 8 fps. However, the Z5 has a larger buffer capacity, allowing it to capture more shots before it slows down. In RAW format, the Z5 can capture up to 14 shots in a single burst, while the D300 can capture up to 11 shots.
Video Capabilities
The Z5 offers superior video capabilities compared to the D300. It can record 4K UHD video at up to 60fps, while the D300 is limited to 1080p Full HD video at up to 24fps. The Z5 also features a built-in microphone input, allowing for external audio recording.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
The Z5 is a compact and lightweight camera, weighing in at 675 grams. It features a comfortable grip and intuitive controls. The D300, on the other hand, is a larger and heavier camera, weighing in at 920 grams. It has a more rugged build quality, making it more suitable for demanding conditions.
Price and Availability
The Nikon Z5 is currently available for around $1,400, while the D300 was discontinued in 2009. Used D300 cameras can be found for around $500-$800.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The Nikon Z5 is an excellent choice for aspiring photographers who want a versatile and user-friendly camera with excellent image quality, autofocus performance, and video capabilities. The D300, while discontinued, remains a solid option for advanced enthusiasts and professionals who prioritize ruggedness, fast burst shooting, and traditional handling.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which camera has better low-light performance?
A: The Z5, with its larger full-frame sensor, has better low-light performance than the D300.
Q: Which camera has a more advanced autofocus system?
A: The Z5 has a more advanced hybrid autofocus system with 273 phase-detect points compared to the D300’s 51-point phase-detect system.
Q: Which camera is more suitable for video recording?
A: The Z5 offers superior video capabilities, including 4K UHD recording at up to 60fps and a built-in microphone input.
Q: Which camera is more compact and lightweight?
A: The Z5 is more compact and lightweight than the D300, weighing in at 675 grams compared to 920 grams.
Q: Which camera is more rugged and durable?
A: The D300 has a more rugged build quality, making it more suitable for demanding conditions.
