CameraReview

Nikon D810 vs Pentax 645D — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Nikon D810
Nikon
Nikon D810
DSLR · 36.3 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
72
SCORE
$1,708.23
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Pentax 645D
Pentax
Pentax 645D
DSLR · 40 MP · Medium Format
61
SCORE
$1,953.54
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Best Price →
General
Brand NikonPentax
Model D810645D
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20142010
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
26/06/201401/03/2010
Camera type DSLRDSLR
Camera size 146 x 123 x 82 mm156 x 117 x 119 mm
Camera weight 980 g1480 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
36.3 MP05040 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
7360 x 49127264 x 5440
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCCD
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.
24 x 35.933 x 44
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameMedium Format
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 fps0451.1 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 FXPentax 645AF2
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 4Prime II
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.
3:24:3
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
643020010030200
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.
32000300328000016003003280000
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.
323020010030200
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.
51200300328000016003003280000
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.
800080032000400080032000
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.
510300110300
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 (tunnel)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.
122900011500015000009210001150001500000
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, Compact Flash, UDMASD / SDHC
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL15D-LI90
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1200 shots1505000800 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Pentax 645D with a score of 72/100 compared to 61/100. Both cameras share the DSLR camera type and similar sizes, with the Nikon D810 measuring 146 x 123 x 82mm and the Pentax 645D at 156 x 117 x 119mm. The Nikon D810 excels with its lighter weight of 980g, while the Pentax 645D weighs 1480g. Additionally, the D810 offers a more affordable launch price of $3300 compared to the 645D’s $9400.

Despite its lower score, the Pentax 645D still has merits, such as its earlier release in 2010. However, the Nikon D810’s higher score, lighter weight, and lower price make it the superior choice for consumers.

Nikon D810 vs Pentax 645D Overview and Optics

The Nikon D810 triumphs over the Pentax 645D in optics with a score of 76/100, compared to the Pentax 645D’s 66/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as having no image stabilization and featuring similar lens mounts – Nikon F FX for the D810 and Pentax 645AF2 for the 645D.

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Pentax 645D in several aspects. It has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 97, compared to the Pentax’s 82, providing better image quality. The D810 also features a faster shooting speed of 5 frames per second, while the 645D only manages 1.1 frames per second. Additionally, the D810 uses a CMOS sensor and an Expeed 4 processor, resulting in better low-light performance and faster processing speeds.

On the other hand, the Pentax 645D offers a higher resolution with 40 megapixels, compared to the D810’s 36.3 megapixels. It also has a larger sensor size, with a medium format sensor compared to the D810’s full-frame sensor. The 645D’s 4:3 aspect ratio provides a more square image, which some photographers may prefer over the D810’s 3:2 aspect ratio.

Despite the Pentax 645D’s advantages in resolution and sensor size, the Nikon D810’s superior sensor performance, faster shooting speed, and better low-light capabilities make it the better choice in terms of optics. The D810’s higher score reflects its overall superior performance, making it the clear winner in this comparison.

Nikon D810 vs Pentax 645D Video Performance

When comparing the Nikon D810 and the Pentax 645D, it is important to note that the Pentax 645D does not have any video functionality. Therefore, this comparison will focus on the video capabilities of the Nikon D810.

The Nikon D810 has a video score of 70 out of 100. Its maximum video resolution is Full HD, with dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The camera can record video at a maximum frame rate of 60 frames per second, providing smooth and high-quality footage. Additionally, the Nikon D810 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software.

Considering the video capabilities, the Nikon D810 clearly stands out as the camera with the ability to record video, while the Pentax 645D lacks this feature. For those interested in video recording, the Nikon D810 is the better choice due to its higher score and various video features.

Nikon D810 vs Pentax 645D Features and Benefits

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Pentax 645D in features, scoring 59/100 compared to the latter’s 54/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including the absence of a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and Bluetooth. However, they both have WIFI capabilities.

The Nikon D810 surpasses the Pentax 645D in screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen and a resolution of 1,229,000 dots, the D810 offers a better viewing experience than the 645D, which has a 3-inch screen and a resolution of 921,000 dots. This difference makes it easier for photographers to review images and navigate menus on the D810.

On the other hand, the Pentax 645D has few advantages over the Nikon D810 in terms of features. Both cameras lack certain specifications, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, and Bluetooth. However, these missing features do not necessarily make the 645D a better camera than the D810.

Taking all of these factors into consideration, the Nikon D810 is the superior camera in terms of features, with a larger and higher-resolution screen, providing a more enjoyable user experience. The Pentax 645D falls short in comparison, as it does not offer any significant advantages over the D810. Therefore, the Nikon D810 is the clear winner in this comparison.

Nikon D810 vs Pentax 645D Storage and Battery

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Pentax 645D in storage and battery, scoring 79/100 compared to the latter’s 35/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as not having USB charging capabilities and accepting SD/SDHC memory cards. However, the Nikon D810 excels with its dual memory card slots, supporting SDXC and Compact Flash UDMA cards in addition to SD/SDHC. This provides more storage and flexibility for photographers.

Furthermore, the Nikon D810 has a longer battery life, offering 1200 shots per charge with its EN-EL15 battery, while the Pentax 645D only provides 800 shots using the D-LI90 battery. This difference allows Nikon D810 users to capture more photos before needing to recharge or replace the battery.

On the other hand, the Pentax 645D does not have any advantages over the Nikon D810 in terms of storage and battery. Considering the significant difference in scores, the Nikon D810 is the clear winner in this comparison, offering greater storage options and longer battery life for photographers.

Nikon D810 vs Pentax 645D – Our Verdict

Nikon D810 vs Pentax 645D Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D810 or the Pentax 645D: