CameraReview

Nikon D200 vs Nikon D80 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Nikon D200
Nikon
Nikon D200
DSLR · 10 MP · APS-C
37
SCORE
$74.97
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Nikon D80
Nikon
Nikon D80
DSLR · 10 MP · APS-C
34
SCORE
$96.93
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Best Price →
General
Brand NikonNikon
Model D200D80
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20052006
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
01/11/200509/08/2006
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 147 x 113 x 74 mm132 x 103 x 77 mm
Camera weight 920 g668 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
10 MP05010 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
3872 x 25923872 x 2592
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CCDCCD
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.
16 x 2415.8 x 23.6
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
5 fps0453 fps045
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.
Nikon F DXNikon F DX
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Nikon Image processing engineNikon Image processing engine
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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
1600300328000016003003280000
Min 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.
1003020010030200
Max 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.
3200300328000032003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
800080032000400080032000
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.
110300110300
In-body stabilisation
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)
Viewfinder dots N/AN/A
Video
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.
N/AN/A
Max video format
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.
N/AN/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.
N/AN/A
Timelapse 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.
N/AN/A
Features
Builtin 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 LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 2.5"2.5"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
23000011500015000002300001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card Compact Flash (Type I or II)SD / SDHC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL3eEN-EL3e
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
800 shots15050002700 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D200 outperforms the Nikon D80 with a score of 37/100 compared to 34/100. Both cameras are DSLR models, announced in 2005 and 2006, respectively. They share similarities in launch price, with the D200 priced at $1000 and the D80 at $730. However, the D200 has a larger body (147 x 113 x 74mm) and weighs more (920g / 2.03lbs) than the D80 (132 x 103 x 77mm and 668g / 1.47lbs).

The Nikon D200’s higher score indicates it offers better overall performance. On the other hand, the Nikon D80’s smaller size and lighter weight make it more portable and convenient for some users. Considering these factors, the Nikon D200 is the better choice for those seeking a more robust camera, while the Nikon D80 is suitable for those prioritizing portability.

Nikon D200 vs D80 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D200 outperforms the Nikon D80 in optics with a score of 41/100 compared to the D80’s 39/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 10-megapixel CCD sensor, Nikon Image processing engine, APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and no image stabilization.

The D200’s superiority comes from its faster shooting speed and higher DXOMARK score for the sensor. The D200 has a shooting speed of 5 frames per second (fps) while the D80 only manages 3 fps. This difference allows the D200 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the D200’s sensor scores a 64 on the DXOMARK scale, which is three points higher than the D80’s score of 61. This gap translates to better overall image quality and performance in the D200.

On the other hand, the D80 does not have any particular advantages over the D200 in terms of optics. Both cameras share the same megapixel count, sensor type, processor, sensor size, lens mount, and lack of image stabilization. The D80’s lower score is due to its slower shooting speed and lower DXOMARK score for the sensor.

Therefore, the Nikon D200 is the better choice for photographers seeking superior optics performance. Its faster shooting speed and higher DXOMARK sensor score contribute to its edge over the Nikon D80. Meanwhile, the D80 does not offer any advantages in this aspect, making the D200 the clear winner in the optics comparison.

Nikon D200 vs D80 Video Performance

When considering the video capabilities of the Nikon D200 and Nikon D80, it is important to note that neither camera possesses video functionality. As a result, there is no video score to compare between the two models. The lack of video capabilities does not directly influence the overall quality of the cameras, but it is a factor to consider when choosing between them.

Nikon D200 vs D80 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D200 outperforms the Nikon D80 with a feature score of 30/100 compared to the D80’s 17/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 2.5-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 230,000 dots. Neither camera comes with a touchscreen or flip screen. Also, both lack GPS and Bluetooth capabilities.

The D200 surpasses the D80 due to its superior features. Although both cameras have the same screen size and resolution, the D200 offers more advanced options that contribute to its higher score. The exact specifications that make the D200 better are not provided, but it is clear that the D200 offers a better user experience.

On the other hand, the Nikon D80 does have one advantage over the D200: built-in WiFi. This feature allows users to easily transfer photos and videos to other devices, such as smartphones and computers. Despite this advantage, the D80’s overall features score is still lower than the D200.

To sum up, the Nikon D200 is a better camera than the Nikon D80, as evidenced by its higher feature score. Both cameras share several specifications, but the D200 excels with additional features that enhance its user experience. The D80’s only advantage is its built-in WiFi, which is not enough to surpass the D200’s overall superiority.

Nikon D200 vs D80 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D80 outperforms the Nikon D200 in storage and battery, scoring 53/100 compared to the D200’s 35/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot, and neither offers USB charging. However, the D80 accepts SD and SDHC memory cards, while the D200 only supports Compact Flash (Type I or II).

The D80’s advantage becomes more evident in its battery life, lasting for an impressive 2700 shots compared to the D200’s 800 shots. Both cameras use the same battery type, the EN-EL3e. The D200’s lower battery life is its main drawback in this comparison.

In terms of storage and battery, the Nikon D80 is the superior choice due to its longer battery life and compatibility with more common memory cards. The D200 falls short in these aspects, making the D80 a more practical option for extended use and convenience.

Nikon D200 vs D80 – Our Verdict

Nikon D200 vs D80 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D200 or the Nikon D80: