CameraReview

Nikon D70s vs Nikon D7100 — Which Is Better?

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

Nikon D70s
Nikon
Nikon D70s
DSLR · 6.1 MP · APS-C
29
SCORE
$28.05
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✓ WINNER
Nikon D7100
Nikon
Nikon D7100
DSLR · 24.1 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
65
SCORE
$448.28
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General
Brand NikonNikon
Model D70sD7100
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20052013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
20/04/200521/02/2013
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 140 x 111 x 78 mm136 x 107 x 76 mm
Camera weight 679 g765 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
6.1 MP05024.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
3008 x 20006000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CCDCMOS
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 2415.6 x 23.5
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.
3 fps0456 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 engineExpeed 3
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.
2003020010030200
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.
1600300328000064003003280000
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.
2003020010030200
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.
16003003280000256003003280000
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.
50300510300
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/AFull HD
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/A1920 x 1080
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/A30 fps
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/AMOV
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"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
130000115000150000012288001150001500000
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 / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL3aEN-EL15
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
950 shots1505000950 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D7100 outperforms the Nikon D70s with a score of 65/100 compared to the latter’s 29/100. Both cameras share the same DSLR camera type and have similar sizes, with the D7100 measuring 136 x 107 x 76mm and the D70s at 140 x 111 x 78mm. However, the D7100 is slightly heavier at 765g compared to the D70s’ 679g.

The D7100’s advantages include its higher score, more recent release in 2013, and a launch price of $1200, reflecting its advanced features. On the other hand, the D70s, released in 2005, has a lower launch price of $700, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Considering these points, the Nikon D7100 is the superior camera due to its enhanced features and higher score. However, the Nikon D70s may be a suitable choice for those seeking a more affordable option.

Nikon D70s vs D7100 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D7100 emerges as the winner in the optics comparison, scoring 67/100, while the Nikon D70s scores 35/100. Both cameras have several specifications in common, such as the APS-C sensor size, Nikon F DX lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization.

The D7100 has several advantages over the D70s, including a higher megapixel count of 24.1 compared to 6.1, resulting in better image resolution and detail. The D7100 also has a faster shooting speed of 6 frames per second, allowing for improved action capturing and continuous shooting. Its sensor type is CMOS, which generally performs better in low light conditions and has lower power consumption than the CCD sensor found in the D70s. Additionally, the D7100 has an Expeed 3 processor, which contributes to faster processing and overall improved performance. With a DXOMARK sensor score of 83, the D7100’s sensor outperforms the D70s’ score of 50, confirming its superior image quality.

The D70s does not have any significant advantages over the D7100 in terms of optics. Its lower megapixel count, slower shooting speed, and older sensor type make it less desirable for photographers prioritizing image quality and performance.

Comparing the optics of the Nikon D70s and the D7100, it is clear that the D7100 is the superior camera. With a higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, better sensor type, and a more advanced processor, it delivers better image quality and performance. The D70s does not offer any advantages in this aspect, making the D7100 the better choice for photographers focused on optics.

Nikon D70s vs D7100 Video Performance

When comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D70s and the Nikon D7100, it is important to note that the Nikon D70s does not have any video functionality. Therefore, this comparison will focus on the video features of the Nikon D7100.

The Nikon D7100 has a video score of 57 out of 100. This camera can record videos in Full HD with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The maximum video frame rate for the Nikon D7100 is 30 frames per second, providing smooth and clear video footage. Additionally, the camera has a built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing users to create captivating time-lapse videos with ease.

Taking into account the video capabilities of the Nikon D7100, it is evident that this camera offers a range of video features that the Nikon D70s lacks. For those interested in capturing high-quality video content, the Nikon D7100 would be the more suitable choice between the two cameras.

Nikon D70s vs D7100 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D7100 outperforms the Nikon D70s with a feature score of 59/100, compared to the D70s’ 10/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including the lack of a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and Bluetooth. They both also have WIFI connectivity.

The D7100 excels in its screen size and resolution. Its 3.2-inch screen is larger than the D70s’ 2-inch screen, providing a more comfortable and clear view of images. The D7100’s screen resolution is significantly higher at 1,228,800 dots, compared to the D70s’ 130,000 dots. This higher resolution allows for sharper and more detailed image previews, making it easier to review and edit photos on the camera itself.

The D70s, despite its lower score, does not offer any specific advantages over the D7100 in terms of features. It falls short in screen size and resolution, and does not provide any additional functionality that the D7100 lacks.

Considering the differences in their feature scores and specifications, the Nikon D7100 is the superior camera when compared to the Nikon D70s. Its larger screen size and significantly higher screen resolution provide a better user experience for photographers. On the other hand, the D70s does not present any notable advantages over the D7100, making it a less desirable option. Therefore, the Nikon D7100 is the clear winner in this comparison.

Nikon D70s vs D7100 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D7100 outperforms the Nikon D70s in storage and battery with a score of 76/100, compared to the D70s’ 43/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as having the same battery life of 950 shots and lacking USB charging options. However, the D7100 surpasses the D70s in other aspects.

The D7100 has two memory card slots, while the D70s has only one. Additionally, the D7100 accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, offering more flexibility and storage options than the D70s, which only accepts Compact Flash (Type I or II) cards. The D7100 also uses the EN-EL15 battery type, providing better compatibility with other Nikon cameras.

On the other hand, the D70s has no significant advantages over the D7100 in terms of storage and battery. This makes the D7100 a superior choice for photographers who require more storage options and better battery compatibility. The D70s may still be suitable for those who prefer using Compact Flash cards and do not require multiple memory card slots.

Nikon D70s vs D7100 – Our Verdict

Nikon D70s vs D7100 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D70s or the Nikon D7100: