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The Nikon D800 came out in June 2012 and the Nikon D610 was released in October 2013. While they both have a slightly old EXPEED 3 processor, this Nikon D800 vs d610 comparison will show you how the Nikon D800 outperforms the Nikon d610.
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Nikon D800 vs D610 Overview
The Nikon D800 and the Nikon d610 are great entry-level DSLRs. These cameras are still technologically sound and are likely to fit your budget. They both have high image resolution, great number of focus points, and much more.
Nikon D800 Overview
The Nikon D800 comes with a magnesium-covered body, which is both weather-sealed and water-resistant. It is made for durability, less so for portability. It has a highly capable image resolution of 36 megapixels which has the ability to capture detailed images with large sizes.
Its high shutter speed and phase detection autofocus make sure that you are able to capture fast-moving objects. The in-sync flash function complements the high shutter speed and allows you to capture in low light situations too.
Nikon D610 Overview
The Nikon D610 has an all-around plastic body, and small dimensions, making it easier to carry around with you. It has a full format sensor and EXPEED 3 image processor, allowing you to capture the best quality moments in ideal color dynamics.
It has an image resolution of 24 Megapixels which allows you to capture detailed images. The HD video capabilities make sure that you are able to capture high quality videos. With over 39 focus points, you can take nice, smooth pictures.
Nikon D800 vs D610 Comparison
The Nikon D800 and D610 pack a lot of features on a small budget. They have some similarities such as viewfinders, ISO levels and differences such as shutter speed, burst shots and a lot more make them interesting cameras.
Similarities
The Nikon D800 and Nikon D610 are entry-level cameras released by the same company, thus have a lot of features that overlap. Here are some of the similarities which include sensors, image processors and a lot more!
Sensor
These cameras have exactly the same sensor. They have a full format sensor which allows you to take better quality pictures, especially in low light. Also, this sensor gives you a more dynamic range when capturing pictures.
Moreover, these cameras are equipped with in-built sensor cleaners. With these, you can ensure that your sensor does not catch dust. Hence, it makes your job easier because you do not have to manually clean them.
Image Processor
Both these cameras come with an EXPEED 3 image processor. Although a bit older, the EXPEED 3 has excellent image results and great color dynamics, which does not put it far behind the newer processors out there!
Auto Focus
Another place where these two cameras coincide is the autofocus. Both the cameras come fitted with a built-in autofocus motor which is great for capturing fast-moving objects and sharp images.
Also, they have a phase detection auto-focus feature which is way faster than the contrast detection auto-focus. It thus gives you a lot more ease when capturing moving objects.
Viewfinder
Both these cameras come equipped with optical viewfinders. Optical viewfinders do not have any resolution limits and are more energy-efficient than their counterparts, electronic viewfinders.
Also, their viewfinders have 100% coverage. This allows you to see exactly what pictures you are about to take, thus making the pictures more accurate the first time around.
Waterproof
These cameras are both dustproof and water-resistant. This protects your camera from any kind of sudden weather change that might befall you. They might survive a sudden burst of water but cannot be submerged in water.
Screen
The Nikon D800 and D610 sport a fixed 3.2-inch screen. These screens have a 921k dots screen resolution. This big-sized screen thus gives you a better experience and allows you to use them with ease.
Video Making Abilities
Both these cameras have similar video-making abilities. They have a maximum resolution of 1080 x 30 fps. Although it is less than advanced cameras out there, it allows you to capture videos in HD.
Besides resolution, these cameras have a phase detection autofocus in videos too, making sure that your videos do not go out of focus. Moreover, they have a cinema and time-lapse functions, allowing you to shoot great videos.
ISO Levels
When it comes to shooting in low-light situations, both these cameras are a safe bet because their ISO levels can go up to 25600! These ISO levels complement fast shutter speed and help you capture fast-moving objects.
Differences
Although there are a lot of similarities, the difference in price tag and fast-moving technology makes room for the following differences (such as focus points and image resolution) when comparing Nikon D800 vs D610.
Focus Points
The Nikon D800 has 51 focus points (with 15 cross-type focus sensors) compared to the Nikon D610’s 39 focus points (with only nine cross-type focus sensors). This makes a huge difference when you are trying to capture a moment with a lot to focus on.
Shutter Speeds
While the Nikon D800 comes with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 seconds, the Nikon D610 has one of 1/4000 seconds. This faster shutter speed gives you an upper hand when trying to capture fast-moving objects, preventing motion blur.
Burst Shots
If you are looking to capture continuous images with your camera then you must go for the Nikon D610. It allows you to take six frames per second before slowing down or stopping (momentarily). On the other hand, the Nikon D800 allows only four frames per second.
Although it might seem a little different, they matter a lot if you are trying to capture moving objects or are interested in sports photography.
Flash
When it comes to flash sync speed, the Nikon D800 takes the spotlight. Although both these cameras come with flash, a higher flash sync speed, allows you to have flash capabilities at shutter speeds beyond 1/200 seconds.
On the contrary, the Nikon D610 has a slightly slower flash sync speed which can still work with shutter speeds at or below 1/200 seconds.
Most Differentiating Feature
The feature that makes the Nikon D800 stand out is the image resolution. The Nikon D800 has an image resolution of 36 Megapixels, on the contrary, the Nikon D610 comes with a 24 Megapixels image resolution.
This huge difference makes the images on the Nikon D610 a lot more detailed and smoother. It allows you to capture bigger-sized images and gives you a lot more flexibility in their use.
When to Use the Nikon D800
The Nikon D800 thus comes with a faster shutter speed, a higher number of focus points, and a higher image resolution. That along with being priced lower, make it an ideal choice for the following situations.
Sports Photography
With its faster shutter speed and more focus points, the Nikon D800 is better for sports photography. The shutter speed makes sure that there is no motion blur when you capture fast-moving players and the focus points complement it.
Moreover, a battery that lasts 900 shots stays with you all day long and the weather-sealed body allows you to shoot sports in every weather. Hence, be it ice hockey or rainy football day, this camera will have your back!
Portraits
The higher resolution camera makes sure that you capture all the details in your portraits. Also, the full format sensor, complements the high resolution and makes sure that the pictures you capture are of a higher quality and with great lighting.
When to Use the Nikon D610
The Nikon D610 is a must-have when you travel as it has smaller dimensions and lower weight which allows you to easily carry it around with you without space issues. Also, the higher burst makes sure that you can capture lots of pictures while traveling.
Which Is the Better Camera?
While both the cameras are strong contenders for the better camera, the d800 comes out on top. This camera has a higher resolution camera, faster shutter speed, and more focus points.
Besides these, the rest of the features are similar. The only place the Nikon D610 slightly creeps ahead is the burst shot limit. Moreover, the Nikon D800 was released earlier and is thus the lower-priced option between the two.
Hence, you get better features with the Nikon D800 while paying the lower price, and thus this is the one you should go for!
Conclusion
When comparing Nikon D800 vs D610, the Nikon D800 came out on top because of its higher image resolution and lower price tag. If you are looking to capture portraits or sports photography, be sure to get the Nikon D800.
