CameraReview

Nikon D5500 vs Nikon D700 — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Nikon D5500
Nikon
Nikon D5500
DSLR · 24.2 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
61
SCORE
$428.63
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Nikon D700
Nikon
Nikon D700
DSLR · 12.1 MP · Full Frame
53
SCORE
$368.60
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Best Price →
General
Brand NikonNikon
Model D5500D700
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20152008
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
06/01/201501/07/2008
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 124 x 97 x 70 mm147 x 123 x 77 mm
Camera weight 420 g1074 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05012.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40004256 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.
15.6 x 23.524 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.
5 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.
Expeed 4Expeed
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.
1003020020030200
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.
25600300328000064003003280000
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.
256003003280000256003003280000
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.
400080032000800080032000
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.
390300510300
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 (pentamirror)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.
Full HDN/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.
1920 x 1080N/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.
60 fpsN/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.
MOVN/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 3.2"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
103700011500015000009220001150001500000
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 SD / SDHC / SDXCCompact Flash (Type I)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL14EN-EL3e
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
820 shots15050001000 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D5500 triumphs over the Nikon D700 with a score of 61/100 as opposed to 53/100. Both cameras share the DSLR camera type, but the D5500 outshines its competitor in several aspects. The D5500, released in 2015, is lighter and more compact, with dimensions of 124 x 97 x 70mm and a weight of 420g, making it more portable than the D700. Additionally, the D5500 had a more affordable launch price of $900 compared to the D700’s hefty $2699.

On the other hand, the Nikon D700, released in 2008, has the advantage of being more robust, with dimensions of 147 x 123 x 77mm and a weight of 1074g. This may appeal to those who prefer a sturdier camera. However, the D5500’s higher score, lighter weight, and lower launch price make it the clear winner in this comparison.

Nikon D5500 vs D700 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D5500 outperforms the Nikon D700 in optics, scoring 65/100 compared to the D700’s 54/100. Both cameras share similarities in their specifications, featuring CMOS sensors, Nikon F lens mounts, and no built-in image stabilization.

The D5500’s superior score is due to its higher megapixel count of 24.2, enabling it to capture more detailed images than the D700, which has a 12.1-megapixel sensor. Additionally, the D5500’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 84, compared to the D700’s 80, indicating better overall sensor performance. The D5500 also benefits from a more advanced Expeed 4 processor, which contributes to better image quality and processing speed.

On the other hand, the Nikon D700 has a faster shooting speed of 8 frames per second, compared to the D5500’s 5 frames per second. This allows the D700 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Furthermore, the D700 features a full-frame sensor, which provides better low-light performance and a wider field of view compared to the D5500’s APS-C sensor.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D5500 is the better choice for those prioritizing image quality and sensor performance, while the Nikon D700 may be more suitable for photographers who require faster shooting speeds and better low-light capabilities. Both cameras, however, lack image stabilization, which may be a consideration for those needing steady shots in various conditions.

Nikon D5500 vs D700 Video Performance

When comparing the Nikon D5500 and the Nikon D700, it is important to note that the Nikon D700 does not have any video functionality. Therefore, this section will focus on the video capabilities of the Nikon D5500.

The Nikon D5500 has a video score of 70 out of 100. This camera is capable of recording Full HD videos with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The D5500 can record videos at a maximum frame rate of 60fps, which allows for smooth motion capture in high-quality video recordings. Additionally, the Nikon D5500 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, enabling users to create dynamic time-lapse videos with ease.

Taking into account the video capabilities of the Nikon D5500, it is clear that this camera offers a range of video features for users to explore and utilize in their projects. On the other hand, the Nikon D700 lacks video functionality entirely, making it unsuitable for those looking to capture video content. When considering video capabilities, the Nikon D5500 stands out as the better option between the two cameras.

Nikon D5500 vs D700 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D5500 wins in the features comparison with a score of 59/100, while the Nikon D700 scores 54/100. Both cameras share some features, such as WIFI connectivity and the absence of GPS and Bluetooth. However, the D5500 stands out with its superior screen and additional functionalities.

The D5500 boasts a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the D700’s 3-inch screen, providing a better view of the images captured. Additionally, the D5500’s screen resolution is higher at 1,037,000 dots, as opposed to the D700’s 922,000 dots. This difference results in a sharper and clearer display on the D5500. Furthermore, the D5500 has a touchscreen, making navigation and settings adjustments easier and more intuitive for users. The D700 lacks this feature. The D5500 also has a flip screen, which enables users to capture images and record videos from various angles without straining. The D700 does not offer this flexibility.

On the other hand, the D700 does not have any specific advantages over the D5500 in terms of features. It shares the same connectivity options but lacks the touchscreen, flip screen, and larger display size.

Considering these points, the Nikon D5500 is the better option in terms of features, providing users with a more versatile and user-friendly experience. The larger screen size, higher resolution, touchscreen, and flip screen give the D5500 a clear edge over the D700. The D700, while still a reliable camera, does not offer any unique features that would make it a better choice than the D5500.

Nikon D5500 vs D700 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D700 outperforms the Nikon D5500 in storage and battery with a score of 43/100, compared to the D5500’s 35/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and do not support USB charging. However, there are differences in memory card types and battery life.

The D700 uses Compact Flash (Type I) memory cards, while the D5500 accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. The D700’s longer battery life of 1000 shots is superior to the D5500’s 820 shots, providing more shooting time before needing to recharge or replace the battery. The D700 uses an EN-EL3e battery, while the D5500 uses an EN-EL14 battery.

Though the D5500 has a shorter battery life, its compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards offers a wider range of storage options, which may be more accessible and affordable for some users.

Considering these factors, the Nikon D700 is the better choice for those prioritizing battery life and storage capabilities. However, the Nikon D5500 may be more suitable for users who prefer the versatility of SD card compatibility.

Nikon D5500 vs D700 – Our Verdict

Nikon D5500 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 D5500 or the Nikon D700: