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Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Nikon Coolpix P900

Nikon Coolpix P900 image
48%

Nikon D850

Nikon D850
Winner!
82%
Nikon Coolpix P900
vs
Nikon D850
Price
Brand
Nikon
Nikon
Model
Coolpix P900
D850
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2015
2017
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
March 02, 2015
August 23, 2017
Camera Type
Bridge
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon D850 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix P900 with a score of 82/100 compared to 48/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as being released by Nikon and having similar dimensions. However, the D850 is a DSLR camera, while the P900 is a bridge camera.

The D850 excels with its higher score, thanks to its superior image quality and versatile features. On the other hand, the P900 has a lower launch price of $599 compared to the D850’s $3300, making it a more affordable option.

In terms of weight, the P900 is lighter at 899g, whereas the D850 weighs 1005g. This could make the P900 a more convenient choice for some users. Despite the differences, both cameras offer unique advantages depending on one’s needs and budget.

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D850 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix P900 in optics with a score of 79/100 compared to the P900’s 53/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, a shooting speed of 7 frames per second, and a similar processor family (Expeed C2 for the P900 and Expeed 5 for the D850). However, there are significant differences that lead to the D850’s higher score.

The D850 has a remarkable 45.7-megapixel resolution, while the P900 only has 16 megapixels. This difference allows the D850 to capture more detail and produce higher quality images. Additionally, the D850 has a full-frame sensor, which contributes to better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. The P900 has a smaller 1/2.3″ sensor, which can limit its capabilities in certain situations. Furthermore, the D850 has a DXOMARK score of 100 for its sensor, which is significantly higher than the P900’s score of 72.

On the other hand, the P900 has built-in image stabilisation, which can help reduce camera shake and blur in photos. The D850 lacks this feature, which may require users to rely on stabilised lenses or external stabilisers. However, the D850 has a lens mount, allowing users to choose from a wide variety of lenses to suit their needs, while the P900 does not have this option.

Considering these factors, the Nikon D850 is superior in terms of optics due to its higher resolution, full-frame sensor, and lens mount compatibility. The P900 does have the advantage of image stabilisation, but its lower resolution and smaller sensor limit its overall performance. Therefore, the D850 is the clear winner in this comparison.

Optics
Optics
53%
79%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
16 MP
45.7 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4608 x 3456 px
8256 x 5504 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.
6.17 x 4.55 mm
23.9 x 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
1/2.3”
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
7 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.
Fixed
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.
Expeed C2
Expeed 5
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
64
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
25,600
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
32
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.
12800
102400
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
15 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/ 4000 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.
1
153
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.
Electronic
Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder Resolution
921,000 dots
N/A

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 Video Performance

The Nikon D850 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix P900 in video capabilities, with a video score of 70/100 compared to the P900’s 61/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing users to create stunning time-lapse videos with ease.

The D850’s superiority in video capabilities is evident in its maximum video resolution and dimensions. The D850 offers 4K video resolution (3840 x 2160), providing crisp, detailed footage that is ideal for professional use or high-quality content creation. In contrast, the P900 only offers standard HD video resolution (1920 x 1080), which may not meet the needs of users seeking top-notch video quality.

However, the P900 does have an advantage in its maximum video frame rate, offering 60fps compared to the D850’s 30fps. This allows the P900 to capture smoother footage, especially in fast-paced situations. This feature may appeal to users who prioritize smooth motion over resolution in their videos.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D850 is the better choice for users who require exceptional video quality and resolution, making it suitable for professional projects and high-quality content. On the other hand, the Nikon Coolpix P900 may be a more suitable option for those who prioritize smooth motion and a higher frame rate, despite its lower overall video score and resolution. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras for video capabilities depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences.

Video
Video
61%
70%
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.
Standard HD
4K
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.
1280 x 720 px
3840 x 2160 px
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
30 p
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.
MPEG-4, MOV
MOV, MP4

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D850 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 87/100, compared to the Nikon Coolpix P900’s score of 41/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a WIFI feature and a 3-inch (or larger) screen. However, the D850 surpasses the P900 in several aspects, while the P900 excels in a few areas of its own.

The D850’s 3.2-inch screen is larger than the P900’s 3-inch screen and boasts a higher resolution of 2,359,000 dots, compared to the P900’s 921,000 dots. Additionally, the D850 features a touchscreen, allowing for easier navigation and control. The D850 also comes with Bluetooth, which the P900 lacks, enabling seamless connectivity and file transfers.

On the other hand, the Coolpix P900 has a flip screen, which offers more flexibility in shooting angles and is particularly useful for capturing images and videos in challenging situations. The P900 also has a built-in GPS, allowing users to geotag their photos and track their locations during shoots, a feature absent in the D850.

Despite the P900’s advantages, the D850’s superior screen resolution, touchscreen capabilities, and Bluetooth connectivity make it a more feature-rich camera. The P900’s flip screen and GPS functionality are notable benefits, but they do not outweigh the D850’s advantages. As such, the Nikon D850 is the better option for those seeking a camera with more advanced features.

Features
Features
41%
87%
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
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"
3.2"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
921,000 dots
2,359,000 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.

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D850 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix P900 in storage and battery with a score of 84/100, compared to the P900’s 21/100. Both cameras share similarities, including accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards and lacking USB charging capabilities.

The D850 surpasses the P900 by offering two memory card slots, allowing for more storage capacity and flexibility. Additionally, it is compatible with UHS-II and XQD cards, providing faster data transfer rates. The D850 also boasts a significantly longer battery life, with 1840 shots per charge compared to the P900’s 360 shots, using the more powerful EN-EL15a battery.

The P900’s advantage lies in its simplicity, offering a single memory card slot and a less complicated storage system. However, this does not outweigh the D850’s superior storage and battery capabilities.

Given these factors, the Nikon D850 is the clear winner in terms of storage and battery performance, providing users with more storage options and longer shooting times. The Nikon Coolpix P900 may suffice for casual photographers, but the D850 is undeniably better for those who require more storage flexibility and extended battery life.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
21%
84%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), XQD
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL23
EN-EL15a
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
360 shots
1,840 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
N/A
100%
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.'
N/A
26.4 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.'
N/A
14.8 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'
N/A
2660
Scores

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 – Our Verdict

Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Coolpix P900 or the Nikon D850:

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B&H photo video
N/A
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