Nikon D700: Review

Posted to Digital SLR 2009-08-13

Nikon D700 Review:

The Nikon D700 DSLR brings the full-frame FX sensor of the Nikon D3 to the compact body of the Nikon D300. While it sits squarely between these two models, there's no question about the fact that it's a pro camera - it has the tank-like construction Nikon built its reputation on and has a pro price to go along with it. Featuring a 12.3MP full-frame (36mmx24mm) sensor, a 3" 920,000 dot VGA LCD display, and two live-view shooting modes, the D700 is a welcome addition to the Nikon line.

The camera also features continuous shooting at up to 5fps (8 fps with optional MB-D10 battery pack), an ISO range of 100-6400 (plus two special modes - 12,800 and 25,600), and 51-point autofocus with 3D tracking. Like all of Nikon's pro cameras, the D700 features rugged magnesium alloy construction and dust and weather sealing. In addition, there's a built-in dust reduction system (sensor shake) to reduce the chance of getting dust on the image sensor.

Rating:

4.8 out of 5

Quality

You can't write about one of Nikon's pro cameras without mentioning the quality. From the magnesium alloy body construction, to the weather and dust seals, to the rubber damping used to protect against droppage, you can't beat Nikon quality. And you know the shutter has been tested for hundreds of thousands of activations. While you definitely pay for the build quality, it's worth every penny if you rely on your camera for your living.

Features

This is a pro camera with pro features. In addition to those features already mentioned, the D700 includes 3D color matrix metering, Nikon's exclusive Scene Recognition System (SRS), which improves white balance and autofocus fine tuning, and Active D-Lighting which improves shadow detail while maintaining highlights in high contrast situations. The camera also features shutter speeds ranging from 30 seconds to 1/8000 second, CompactFlash image storage, +/-5EV exposure compensation and 8 white balance settings, including custom.

Summary

If you're a pro, or an advanced amateur with a big budget, you definitely need to give the D700 a test drive. The marriage of the large sensor and compact body puts this camera head and shoulders above the competition, and it's got all of the features you're likely to need as well. All in all an excellent offering from Nikon.

Pros

12.3 megapixel resolution
Full-size FX (36x24mm) sensor
Two Live View modes
Magnesium-alloy construction, weather and dust sealing
Nikon's SRS (Scene Recognition System)

Cons

There are no cons for this product