Canon EOS 80D vs Nikon D3 Comparison
Canon EOS 80D
Nikon D3
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Canon | Nikon | |
Model | EOS 80D | D3 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2007 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 18, 2016 | August 23, 2007 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR | DSLR | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS 80D outperforms the Nikon D3 with a score of 64/100 compared to 58/100. Both cameras are DSLRs and were released in 2016 and 2007, respectively. They share some common specifications, including their camera type and announcement dates.
The Canon EOS 80D has a few advantages over the Nikon D3, such as a lower launch price of $1200 compared to $4300, a more compact size of 139 x 105 x 79mm, and a lighter weight at 730g or 1.61lbs. These features make the Canon EOS 80D more affordable and portable than its competitor.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3 has a larger size of 160 x 157 x 88mm and a heavier weight of 1300g or 2.87lbs, which might be preferred by some users for its sturdiness and durability.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS 80D is a better choice for those who prioritize affordability and portability, while the Nikon D3 might be more suitable for users who value a more robust build.
Canon EOS 80D vs Nikon D3 Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS 80D outperforms the Nikon D3 in optics with a score of 63/100 compared to the Nikon D3’s score of 56/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, no image stabilization, and similar processors (Canon’s Digic 6 and Nikon’s Expeed).
The Canon EOS 80D has a higher megapixel count at 24.2, allowing for more detailed and sharper images. Additionally, the sensor size of APS-C is more suitable for general photography and versatile shooting conditions. The Canon EOS 80D also uses a Canon EF-S lens mount, providing users with a wide range of lens options.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3 has its own advantages. With a shooting speed of 11, the Nikon D3 is more capable of capturing fast-moving subjects and is better suited for sports and action photography. Moreover, the D3’s full-frame sensor size delivers better low-light performance and shallower depth of field. The Nikon F FX lens mount also offers a vast selection of lens options.
Despite having a lower DXOMARK score of 79 for the sensor compared to the Nikon D3’s score of 81, the Canon EOS 80D still manages to provide better overall optics. This is due to its higher megapixel count and versatile sensor size. The Nikon D3, however, excels in shooting speed and low-light performance.
In the end, the Canon EOS 80D proves to be the better choice for photographers seeking higher image quality and versatility in their camera optics. The Nikon D3 remains a strong option for those prioritizing shooting speed and low-light performance.
|
Optics
|
Canon EOS 80D
|
Nikon D3
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 12.1 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6000 x 4000 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. | 15 x 22.5 mm | 24 x 36 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C |  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. | 7 fps | 11 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-S | 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 6 | 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 | 100 | |
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. | 16,000 | 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. | 100 | 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. | 45 | 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 80D vs Nikon D3 Video Performance
When it comes to video capabilities, there is a significant difference between the Canon EOS 80D and the Nikon D3. The Nikon D3 does not have any video functionality, making it impossible to capture video with this camera. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 80D does offer video capabilities, which will be discussed in more detail below.
The Canon EOS 80D has a video score of 70/100. This camera can record Full HD videos with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The EOS 80D also offers a maximum video frame rate of 60 frames per second, allowing for smooth and detailed video capture. Additionally, the Canon EOS 80D has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment.
Taking into account the video capabilities of both cameras, the Canon EOS 80D is the better choice for those who require video functionality in their camera. The Nikon D3, lacking any video features, is not suitable for users who need to capture video content. Therefore, the Canon EOS 80D is the more versatile option when considering video capabilities.
|
Video
|
Canon EOS 80D
|
Nikon D3
|
|
|
|
|
||
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | 60 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, MP4 | N/A |
Canon EOS 80D vs Nikon D3 Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS 80D outperforms the Nikon D3 in features with a score of 70/100 compared to the Nikon D3’s 54/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size and the absence of GPS functionality.
The Canon EOS 80D surpasses the Nikon D3 in various aspects. It has a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, compared to the D3’s 922,000 dots, providing clearer and sharper image previews. The 80D also features a touchscreen, making it convenient for users to navigate through menus and adjust settings quickly. Additionally, the 80D has a flip screen, which is beneficial for capturing images from different angles and shooting in tight spaces. The presence of WIFI in the 80D enables users to transfer images wirelessly and control the camera remotely.
On the other hand, the Nikon D3 lacks some of the modern features found in the 80D, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth. However, it is essential to note that the D3 is an older model, which may account for the absence of these features. Despite the lower score in features, the D3 may still be a suitable choice for photographers who prioritize other aspects, such as image quality and performance.
In comparing these two cameras, the Canon EOS 80D offers more advanced features, making it a better choice for photographers seeking convenience and versatility. The Nikon D3, while lacking in features, may still be a viable option for those who do not require the additional functionalities provided by the EOS 80D.
|
Features
|
Canon EOS 80D
|
Nikon D3
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
|---|---|---|---|
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 | 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. | 1,040,000 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 80D vs Nikon D3 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D3 triumphs over the Canon EOS 80D in storage and battery with a score of 87/100 compared to 43/100. Both cameras lack USB charging, but similarities end there.
Nikon D3’s superior performance stems from its two memory card slots, accepting Compact Flash (Type I or II) cards. In contrast, the Canon EOS 80D has a single slot for SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible) cards. The D3’s dual slots offer users more storage flexibility and backup options.
The D3 also surpasses the 80D in battery life, lasting an impressive 4300 shots with its EN-EL4a battery. The 80D’s LP-E6N battery pales in comparison, providing only 960 shots. This significant difference makes the Nikon D3 ideal for extended shooting sessions.
The Canon EOS 80D, however, offers a more modern memory card format with its SD/SDHC/SDXC compatibility, which is more widely available and affordable than the Compact Flash cards used by the Nikon D3.
Despite the Canon EOS 80D’s advantage in memory card format, the Nikon D3’s superior storage capacity and battery life make it the clear winner in this comparison.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Canon EOS 80D
|
Nikon D3
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | Compact Flash (Type I or II) | |
|---|---|---|---|
Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E6N | EN-EL4a | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 960 shots | 4,300 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS 80D
|
Nikon D3
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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.' | 23.6 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.' | 13.2 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' | 1135 | 2290 |
|
Scores
|
Canon EOS 80D
|
Nikon D3
|
Canon EOS 80D vs Nikon D3 – 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 80D or the Nikon D3:
|
User Scores
|
Canon EOS 80D
|
Nikon D3
|
|
B&H photo video | N/A |
|---|