Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Nikon D700 Comparison
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Nikon D700
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Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS 5D Mark II | D700 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2008 | 2008 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 17, 2008 | July 01, 2008 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II edges out the Nikon D700 with a score of 56/100 compared to 53/100. Both cameras are DSLR models released in 2008, with similar sizes: the Canon measures 152 x 114 x 75mm while the Nikon is 147 x 123 x 77mm. They also share the same launch price range of $2199 for the Canon and $2699 for the Nikon.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II stands out due to its lighter weight of 850g, making it more portable than the Nikon D700, which weighs 1074g. This difference in weight can be a deciding factor for photographers who need to carry their gear around for extended periods.
On the other hand, the Nikon D700 has a more compact body, which might be preferred by some users who value a smaller camera size. However, the difference in dimensions is relatively minor and may not significantly impact the user experience.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the overall winner due to its lighter weight, while the Nikon D700 may still appeal to those who prefer a slightly smaller camera.
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Nikon D700 Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II outperforms the Nikon D700 in optics, scoring 59/100 compared to the Nikon’s 54/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor, full frame sensor size, and no image stabilization. They also have different lens mounts, with the Canon using the EF mount and the Nikon using the F FX mount.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II has a higher megapixel count at 21 compared to the Nikon D700’s 12.1, which allows for capturing more detail in images. It also features a Digic 4 processor, which contributes to its overall better optics performance. However, the Nikon D700 has a faster shooting speed of 8 frames per second, which is double the Canon’s 3.9. This makes the Nikon more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Despite having a lower overall optics score, the Nikon D700 has a slightly higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 80, compared to the Canon’s 79. This means that the Nikon’s sensor performance is slightly better, but not enough to outweigh the advantages of the Canon’s higher megapixel count and processor.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the better choice for those prioritizing image detail and quality, while the Nikon D700 is better suited for photographers requiring faster shooting speeds. Ultimately, the decision depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer, but the Canon EOS 5D Mark II’s higher optics score makes it the winner in this comparison.
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Optics
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Nikon D700
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 21 MP | 12.1 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5616 x 3744 px | 4256 x 2832 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 36 mm | 24 x 36 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 3.9 fps | 8 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Canon EF | Nikon F FX | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic 4 | Expeed | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 200 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 6,400 | 6,400 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 50 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 25600 | 25600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 8000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 9 | 51 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (pentaprism) | Optical (pentaprism) |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Nikon D700 Video Performance
When comparing the video capabilities of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II and the Nikon D700, it is important to note that the Nikon D700 does not have video functionality. This means that the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the only camera in this comparison with video capabilities.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II has a video score of 43 out of 100. It provides Full HD video recording, with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The camera can record video at a frame rate of up to 30 frames per second. However, it does not have built-in time-lapse functionality.
Given the lack of video functionality in the Nikon D700, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II is the better option for those seeking a camera with video capabilities. The Canon EOS 5D Mark II’s Full HD resolution and 30fps frame rate provide decent video quality, despite its relatively low video score.
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Video
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Nikon D700
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD | N/A | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1920 x 1080 px | N/A | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 30 p | N/A | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MOV | N/A |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Nikon D700 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II and Nikon D700 both have a feature score of 54/100, making them evenly matched in this aspect. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen, no touchscreen, no flip screen, no GPS, WiFi connectivity, and no Bluetooth.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II has a screen resolution of 920,000 dots, while the Nikon D700 has a slightly higher screen resolution of 922,000 dots. This difference in resolution means that the Nikon D700 provides a marginally sharper and clearer display compared to the Canon EOS 5D Mark II. This can be useful for photographers who need to review their images in more detail on the camera’s screen.
However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark II has WiFi connectivity, which the Nikon D700 lacks. WiFi connectivity allows users to transfer images to their devices more easily and remotely control the camera. This feature can be beneficial for photographers who want to share their images quickly or control their camera from a distance.
Despite these differences, both cameras have a similar feature score, indicating that they offer comparable functionalities. The Nikon D700’s slightly higher screen resolution may be useful for some photographers, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II’s WiFi connectivity may be more important to others. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
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Features
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Nikon D700
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | TFT LCD | LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 920,000 dots | 922,000 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Nikon D700 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D700 wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 43/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark II scores 37/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and do not offer USB charging. They differ in the type of memory cards accepted and battery life.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark II accepts Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive cards, providing more flexibility in memory card choices. Its battery life is 850 shots per charge using the LP-E6 battery. On the other hand, the Nikon D700 only accepts Compact Flash (Type I) cards but has a longer battery life of 1000 shots per charge with its EN-EL3e battery.
While the Canon EOS 5D Mark II offers more memory card options, the Nikon D700 outperforms it in battery life. Both cameras have their advantages, but the Nikon D700 takes the lead in this comparison due to its longer-lasting battery.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Nikon D700
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Memory Card | Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive | Compact Flash (Type I) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6 | EN-EL3e | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 850 shots | 1,000 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Nikon D700
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 23.7 bits | 23.5 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 11.9 EVs | 12.2 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 1815 | 2303 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Nikon D700
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II vs Nikon D700 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 5D Mark II or the Nikon D700:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS 5D Mark II
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Nikon D700
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B&H photo video |
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