CameraReview

Nikon D300 vs Nikon D700 — Which Is Better?

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

Nikon D300
Nikon
Nikon D300
DSLR · 12.3 MP · APS-C
49
SCORE
$117.68
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D700
Nikon
Nikon D700
DSLR · 12.1 MP · Full Frame
53
SCORE
$368.60
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General
Brand NikonNikon
Model D300D700
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20072008
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
23/08/200701/07/2008
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 147 x 114 x 74 mm147 x 123 x 77 mm
Camera weight 925 g1074 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.3 MP05012.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4288 x 28484256 x 2832
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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.
15.8 x 23.624 x 36
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
6 fps0458 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 FX
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
ExpeedExpeed
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.
2003020020030200
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.
3200300328000064003003280000
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.
64003003280000256003003280000
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.
800080032000800080032000
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.
510300510300
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 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
92200011500015000009220001150001500000
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)Compact Flash (Type I)
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.
1000 shots15050001000 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D700 emerges as the winner with a score of 53/100, outperforming the Nikon D300 by 4 points. Both cameras share similarities as DSLR models released in the late 2000s, with the D300 announced in 2007 and the D700 in 2008. They also have the same camera width and depth measurements.

The D700 excels with a higher score and a larger height dimension, providing a more comfortable grip. However, it comes at a higher launch price of $2699 compared to the D300’s $1540. The D300 has the advantage of being lighter, weighing only 925g, whereas the D700 weighs 1074g.

Taking these specifications into account, the D700 proves to be a better camera, but the D300 offers a more affordable and lightweight option.

Nikon D300 vs D700 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D700 outperforms the Nikon D300 in optics with a score of 54/100 compared to the D300’s 47/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, Expeed processor, and the absence of image stabilisation. Despite these similarities, the D700 proves to be a superior camera in terms of optics.

The Nikon D700 excels with its full-frame sensor, which provides better image quality and low light performance compared to the D300’s APS-C sensor. Additionally, the D700 has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 80, while the D300 scores 67. This indicates that the D700’s sensor performs better in terms of dynamic range, color depth, and low light capabilities. The D700 also has an advantage in shooting speed, capturing 8 frames per second (fps) compared to the D300’s 6 fps. This makes the D700 more suitable for fast-paced photography, such as sports and wildlife.

The Nikon D300, however, has a slight edge in terms of megapixels, with 12.3 compared to the D700’s 12.1. This small difference allows the D300 to capture marginally more detailed images, although the overall impact on image quality is minimal. The D300 also has the Nikon F DX lens mount, while the D700 uses the Nikon F FX mount. This means that the D300 is compatible with a wider range of lenses specifically designed for APS-C cameras, potentially offering more versatility in lens choices.

Despite the Nikon D300’s advantages in megapixels and lens compatibility, the Nikon D700’s superior sensor performance, full-frame sensor, and faster shooting speed make it the clear winner in terms of optics.

Nikon D300 vs D700 Video Performance

When examining the video capabilities of the Nikon D300 and Nikon D700, it is important to note that neither camera has video functionality. This means that both cameras lack the ability to record video footage. Therefore, a comparison of their video capabilities is not applicable, as they both share the same limitation in this aspect.

Nikon D300 vs D700 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D300 and Nikon D700 both have a feature score of 54/100. Examining their specifications reveals the similarities and differences responsible for this identical score.

Both cameras share common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 922,000 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, or Bluetooth capabilities. These shared features contribute to their equal feature scores.

The Nikon D700 surpasses the D300 in one aspect: it has Wi-Fi connectivity. This feature allows users to transfer images wirelessly and control the camera remotely, providing added convenience and flexibility. This advantage is the primary reason the D700 could be considered a better option than the D300 in terms of features.

On the other hand, the Nikon D300 does not offer any notable advantages over the D700. Both cameras have the same feature score, and the D300 does not possess any additional capabilities that would make it a better choice than the D700.

Given the equal feature scores and the Wi-Fi advantage of the Nikon D700, it is the better choice of the two cameras. The Nikon D300 does not offer any unique benefits that would justify choosing it over the D700. Users seeking a camera with more advanced and convenient features should opt for the Nikon D700, while those who do not require Wi-Fi connectivity may find the Nikon D300 to be a suitable option.

Nikon D300 vs D700 Storage and Battery

Both the Nikon D300 and Nikon D700 have identical storage and battery scores of 43/100. They share common specifications, such as having one memory card slot, using Compact Flash memory cards, offering 1000 shots of battery life, and having an EN-EL3e battery type. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The Nikon D300 accepts both Type I and Type II Compact Flash memory cards, giving users greater flexibility in choosing storage options. This advantage allows for higher capacity and faster memory cards if desired, making the D300 slightly better in terms of storage compatibility.

On the other hand, the Nikon D700 only accepts Type I Compact Flash memory cards, which could limit storage options for users. However, this limitation does not significantly affect the overall performance of the camera and may not be a major concern for many photographers.

Despite the minor difference in memory card compatibility, both cameras perform similarly in terms of storage and battery life. Users will find satisfactory performance in either option, as the shared specifications provide ample storage capacity and battery life for various photography needs.

Nikon D300 vs D700 – Our Verdict

Nikon D300 vs D700 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D300 or the Nikon D700: