Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 Comparison
Nikon Coolpix P900
Nikon D850
Price | |||
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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 | |||
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
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Nikon Coolpix P900
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Nikon D850
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP | 45.7 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. | 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. | |||
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. | |||
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
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Nikon Coolpix P900
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Nikon D850
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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. | |||
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
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Nikon Coolpix P900
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Nikon D850
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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 | |||
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
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Nikon Coolpix P900
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Nikon D850
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), XQD | |
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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 |
Nikon Coolpix P900
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Nikon D850
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | N/A | ||
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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.' | 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
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Nikon Coolpix P900
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Nikon D850
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Nikon Coolpix P900 vs D850 – Our Verdict
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:
User Scores
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Nikon Coolpix P900
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Nikon D850
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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