Nikon D40 vs Pentax K200D Comparison
Nikon D40
Pentax K200D
Price | |||
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Brand | Nikon | Pentax | |
Model | D40 | K200D | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2006 | 2008 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | November 16, 2006 | January 23, 2008 | |
Camera Type | |||
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Pentax K200D outperforms the Nikon D40 with a score of 44/100 compared to the D40’s 28/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, launched in 2006 and 2008 respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the K200D measuring 134 x 95 x 74mm and the D40 at 124 x 94 x 64mm. However, the Pentax K200D is heavier at 690g, while the Nikon D40 weighs 522g.
The Pentax K200D’s higher score reflects its better overall performance and features. However, the Nikon D40 has its advantages, such as being lighter and more affordable, with a launch price of $400 compared to the K200D’s $660.
Considering the specifications, the Pentax K200D is the superior camera, but the Nikon D40 may be a better choice for those prioritizing a lighter and more budget-friendly option.
Nikon D40 vs Pentax K200D Overview and Optics
The Pentax K200D outperforms the Nikon D40 in optics with a score of 48/100 compared to the D40’s 33/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CCD sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and a similar shooting speed (2.8 for the K200D and 2.5 for the D40). However, the K200D has several advantages that contribute to its higher score.
The Pentax K200D has 10.2 megapixels, while the Nikon D40 has only 6 megapixels. This difference allows the K200D to capture more detail in images. Additionally, the K200D has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 64, compared to the D40’s score of 56. This indicates better overall image quality from the K200D’s sensor. The K200D also features image stabilization, which the D40 lacks, making it more effective at reducing camera shake and producing sharper images. The K200D uses the Pentax KAF lens mount, providing access to a wide range of lenses.
The Nikon D40, however, has some advantages as well. It uses the Nikon F DX lens mount, which is compatible with a vast selection of high-quality lenses. Furthermore, the D40’s image processing engine is developed by Nikon, a reputable and well-known brand in the photography industry.
Taking these factors into account, the Pentax K200D is the superior camera in terms of optics, thanks to its higher megapixel count, better sensor performance, and image stabilization. The Nikon D40 remains a viable option, primarily due to its compatibility with the extensive range of Nikon F DX lenses.
Optics
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Nikon D40
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Pentax K200D
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 6 MP | 10.2 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. | 3008 x 2000 px | 3872 x 2592 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CCD | CCD | |
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 24 mm | 16 x 24 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. | 2.5 fps | 2.8 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. | Nikon F DX | Pentax KAF | |
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 engine | Prime | |
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. | 200 | 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. | 1,600 | 1,600 | |
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. | 200 | 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. | 3200 | 1600 | |
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/ 4000 s | 1/ 4000 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. | 3 | 11 | |
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 (pentamirror) | Optical (pentamirror) |
Nikon D40 vs Pentax K200D Video Performance
When examining the video capabilities of the Nikon D40 and the Pentax K200D, it is essential to note that neither camera offers video functionality. Both the Nikon D40 and the Pentax K200D have no video score, as they lack this feature entirely.
In summary, neither the Nikon D40 nor the Pentax K200D provides video capabilities, and users seeking cameras with video functions should consider other models.
Video
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Nikon D40
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Pentax K200D
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |||
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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. |
Nikon D40 vs Pentax K200D Features and Benefits
The Pentax K200D outperforms the Nikon D40 in features with a score of 34/100 compared to the D40’s 17/100. Both cameras share some common specifications such as the absence of a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth. Despite these similarities, the K200D has a few distinct advantages over the D40.
The most noticeable advantage of the Pentax K200D is its larger screen size. The K200D features a 2.7-inch screen, whereas the Nikon D40 has a smaller 2.5-inch screen. This difference in size provides a better visual experience when reviewing images and navigating menus on the K200D. Additionally, both cameras have the same screen resolution of 230,000 dots, which means the image quality on the K200D’s larger screen remains just as sharp as the D40’s smaller screen.
The Nikon D40, on the other hand, does not have any specific features that surpass the Pentax K200D. The D40’s lower feature score reflects its lack of advantages over the K200D. With all other specifications being equal, the D40 falls short in comparison to the K200D in this particular aspect.
Taking into account the shared specifications and the advantages of the Pentax K200D over the Nikon D40, it is evident that the K200D is the superior choice in terms of features. The larger screen size and equal screen resolution make the K200D a more user-friendly and visually appealing option. While the Nikon D40 may still be a viable choice for some photographers, the Pentax K200D’s feature set makes it the better option in this comparison.
Features
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Nikon D40
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Pentax K200D
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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 | 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. | 230,000 dots | 230,000 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 D40 vs Pentax K200D Storage and Battery
The Pentax K200D outperforms the Nikon D40 in storage and battery with a score of 51/100, while the Nikon D40 scores 27/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD and SDHC cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The K200D has a significant advantage in battery life, providing 1800 shots compared to the D40’s 470 shots. This longer battery life is due to the K200D using 4 x AA batteries, which are easily replaceable and widely available. Additionally, the K200D accepts MMC cards, giving users more storage options.
The Nikon D40 falls short in battery life, but it does have a dedicated battery type, the EN-EL9, which may be more convenient for some users who prefer proprietary batteries.
Considering the storage and battery capabilities, the Pentax K200D is the clear winner with its longer battery life and broader memory card compatibility. The Nikon D40 may be suitable for users who prefer a dedicated battery type, but its performance in this category is weaker.
Storage and Battery
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Nikon D40
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Pentax K200D
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC | SD / SDHC / MMC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots | |||
Battery Type | EN-EL9 | 4 x AA batteries | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 470 shots | 1,800 shots | |
USB Charging |
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D40
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Pentax K200D
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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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.' | 21 bits | 22.4 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.' | 11 EVs | 11.4 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' | 561 | 561 |
Scores
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Nikon D40
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Pentax K200D
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Nikon D40 vs Pentax K200D – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D40 or the Pentax K200D:
User Scores
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Nikon D40
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Pentax K200D
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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