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Olympus E-520 Vs Nikon D80: The Ultimate Budget Dslr Battle

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 Olympus E-520 can shoot at a maximum of 3 frames per second (FPS), while the Nikon D80 offers a burst rate of up to 6 FPS.
  • The Olympus E-520 is a great option for those who prioritize portability and affordability, while the Nikon D80 is a better choice for photographers who need fast autofocus, a large viewfinder, and a wider lens selection.
  • The Nikon D80 offers a burst rate of up to 6 FPS, while the Olympus E-520 can shoot at a maximum of 3 FPS.

When it comes to photography, choosing the right camera is crucial. The Olympus E-520 and Nikon D80 are two popular DSLR cameras that have been the subject of much debate among photography enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two cameras, analyzing their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Sensor and Image Quality

The Olympus E-520 features a 10.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor, while the Nikon D80 boasts a 10.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. Both cameras offer comparable image quality, with excellent color reproduction and dynamic range. However, the Nikon D80 has a slight edge in low-light performance due to its larger sensor size.

Lens Compatibility

The Olympus E-520 uses the Four Thirds System lens mount, which provides access to a wide range of third-party lenses. The Nikon D80, on the other hand, uses the Nikon F-mount, which offers an even wider selection of lenses, including professional-grade options.

Autofocus System

The Olympus E-520 has a contrast-detect autofocus system, while the Nikon D80 employs a phase-detect autofocus system. Phase-detect autofocus is generally considered to be faster and more accurate, especially in low-light conditions. Therefore, the Nikon D80 has an advantage in terms of autofocus performance.

Burst Shooting

The Olympus E-520 can shoot at a maximum of 3 frames per second (FPS), while the Nikon D80 offers a burst rate of up to 6 FPS. This makes the Nikon D80 a better choice for capturing fast-moving subjects or sports photography.

Viewfinder

The Olympus E-520 has a smaller viewfinder with 0.92x magnification, compared to the Nikon D80’s larger viewfinder with 0.94x magnification. The larger viewfinder of the Nikon D80 provides a more comfortable and immersive shooting experience.

Ergonomics and Handling

The Olympus E-520 is a compact and lightweight camera, making it easy to carry around. The Nikon D80, on the other hand, is slightly larger and heavier, but offers a more robust and durable build quality. Both cameras have well-placed controls and a comfortable grip.

Price and Value

The Olympus E-520 was released in 2008 and is now discontinued, while the Nikon D80 was introduced in 2006. As a result, the Olympus E-520 can be found for a more affordable price on the used market. However, the Nikon D80 still holds its value well due to its proven performance and reliability.

The Bottom Line: Olympus E-520 vs Nikon D80

Both the Olympus E-520 and Nikon D80 are capable DSLR cameras that offer excellent image quality and a wide range of features. The Olympus E-520 is a great option for those who prioritize portability and affordability, while the Nikon D80 is a better choice for photographers who need fast autofocus, a large viewfinder, and a wider lens selection. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which camera has a better autofocus system?
A: The Nikon D80 has a phase-detect autofocus system, which is generally faster and more accurate than the contrast-detect autofocus system of the Olympus E-520.

Q: Which camera has a higher burst rate?
A: The Nikon D80 offers a burst rate of up to 6 FPS, while the Olympus E-520 can shoot at a maximum of 3 FPS.

Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Nikon D80 has a larger sensor size, which gives it a slight advantage in low-light performance compared to the Olympus E-520.

Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Olympus E-520 is generally more affordable than the Nikon D80, especially on the used market.

Q: Which camera has a wider lens selection?
A: The Nikon D80 uses the Nikon F-mount, which offers a wider range of lens options, including professional-grade lenses.

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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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