CameraReview

Nikon D780 vs Nikon D810 — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Nikon D780
Nikon
Nikon D780
DSLR · 25 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
81
SCORE
$1,746.95
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Nikon D810
Nikon
Nikon D810
DSLR · 36.3 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
72
SCORE
$1,708.23
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General
Brand NikonNikon
Model D780D810
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202014
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
12/02/202026/06/2014
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 144 x 116 x 76 mm146 x 123 x 82 mm
Camera weight 850 g980 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
25 MP05036.3 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6048 x 40247360 x 4912
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.
23.9 x 35.924 x 35.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull 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.
12 fps0455 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 FNikon 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 6Expeed 4
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.
100302006430200
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.
512003003280000320003003280000
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.
50302003230200
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.
2048003003280000512003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
900440803044080
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 (tunnel)
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.
4KFull 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.
3840 x 21601920 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.
120 fps60 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.
MPEG-4, MOVMOV
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 TFT 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"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2359000115000150000012290001150001500000
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 / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL15bEN-EL15
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
2260 shots15050001200 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D780 emerges as the winner in this comparison, scoring 81/100, while the Nikon D810 trails behind with a score of 72/100. Both cameras are DSLRs, with the D780 being released in 2020 and the D810 in 2014. They share similarities in size, with the D780 measuring 144 x 116 x 76mm and the D810 at 146 x 123 x 82mm.

The D780 edges ahead due to its lighter weight of 850g, compared to the D810’s 980g. Additionally, the D780 is more affordable with a launch price of $2299, as opposed to the D810’s $3300 price tag. Considering these factors, the D780 is a better choice for those seeking a lighter and more cost-effective camera.

However, the D810 still has its merits despite its lower score. It may appeal to those who prefer a slightly larger camera, as it is marginally bigger than the D780. Ultimately, the D780’s superior score reflects its advantages in weight, affordability, and being a more recent release, while the D810’s larger size could still attract certain users.

Nikon D780 vs D810 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D780 slightly outperforms the Nikon D810 in optics with a score of 77/100 compared to the latter’s 76/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, the full-frame sensor size, the Nikon F lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization. They also have the same DXOMARK score for the sensor, which is 97.

The D780 surpasses the D810 in certain aspects, such as shooting speed and processing power. With a shooting speed of 12 frames per second (fps), the D780 is more than twice as fast as the D810, which has a shooting speed of 5 fps. This faster shooting speed allows the D780 to capture action and fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the D780 is equipped with the Expeed 6 processor, a more advanced and faster processor than the D810’s Expeed 4.

On the other hand, the D810’s advantage lies in its higher megapixel count of 36.3, compared to the D780’s 25 megapixels. This higher resolution allows the D810 to capture more detail and produce higher quality images, especially in situations where large prints or extensive cropping is required.

While the Nikon D780 emerges as the winner in terms of optics performance and processing power, the D810 still maintains an edge in terms of image resolution. Photographers should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras, as both offer unique advantages.

Nikon D780 vs D810 Video Performance

The Nikon D780 outperforms the Nikon D810 in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to 70/100. Both cameras share time-lapse functionality, which is a useful feature for creating dynamic videos with ease.

The D780’s superiority is evident in its maximum video resolution, offering 4K (3840 x 2160) compared to the D810’s Full HD (1920 x 1080). This difference in resolution means that the D780 can produce videos with greater detail and clarity. Additionally, the D780 boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, double the D810’s 60fps. This allows for smoother slow-motion playback and more flexibility in post-production editing.

While the D810 has a lower video score, it is not without its merits. The Full HD resolution it offers is still suitable for many applications and can produce high-quality videos. This may be sufficient for those who do not require the added detail and resolution that 4K provides. Additionally, the D810’s 60fps frame rate is enough for general video recording purposes.

Considering these points, the Nikon D780 is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities. The 4K resolution and higher frame rate make it a more versatile camera for videographers who need top-notch quality and flexibility in their work. However, the Nikon D810 is still a viable option for those who do not require the advanced video features of the D780 and are satisfied with Full HD resolution and a 60fps frame rate.

Nikon D780 vs D810 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D780 comes out as the winner in the feature comparison, with a score of 87/100, while the Nikon D810 scores 59/100. Both cameras have a few similarities, but the D780 outperforms the D810 in various aspects.

Shared specifications between the two cameras include a 3.2-inch screen size, no GPS, and WIFI capabilities. However, the Nikon D780 surpasses the D810 in terms of screen resolution, with 2,359,000 dots compared to 1,229,000 dots on the D810. The higher resolution provides a clearer and sharper image on the D780’s screen.

The D780 also offers a touchscreen and a flip screen, both of which the D810 lacks. These features make the D780 more user-friendly and versatile, allowing for easier navigation and more flexible shooting angles. Additionally, the D780 is equipped with Bluetooth, enabling seamless connectivity with other devices, while the D810 does not have this feature.

The Nikon D810, despite having a lower feature score, still holds its ground in some aspects. It shares the same screen size, GPS, and WIFI capabilities with the D780. However, the D810 does not offer any unique features that give it an advantage over the D780.

Taking all of these factors into account, the Nikon D780 proves to be the superior camera in terms of features, offering a higher screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, and Bluetooth capabilities. The Nikon D810, while not a bad camera, falls behind in these aspects and does not provide any additional benefits to set it apart from the D780.

Nikon D780 vs D810 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D780 triumphs over the Nikon D810 in storage and battery with a score of 97/100, while the D810 scores 79/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots, with the D780 accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) cards and the D810 taking SD/SDHC/SDXC and Compact Flash UDMA cards. The D780 outshines the D810 in battery life, offering 2260 shots compared to the D810’s 1200 shots. Additionally, the D780 uses the EN-EL15b battery type and supports USB charging, whereas the D810 relies on the EN-EL15 battery without USB charging capabilities.

The D810’s advantage lies in its compatibility with Compact Flash UDMA cards, which may appeal to users with existing card collections. However, the D780’s superior battery life and USB charging feature make it the clear winner in terms of storage and battery performance. Both cameras cater to different user preferences, with the D780 offering convenience and longevity, while the D810 provides additional storage options.

Nikon D780 vs D810 – Our Verdict

Nikon D780 vs D810 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D780 or the Nikon D810: