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Nikon D850 Specs and Scores

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery
Nikon D850
82%
General
82%
Price
Brand
Nikon
Model
D850
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2017
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 23, 2017
Camera Type
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight
See Full Review Review

Scoring an impressive 82/100, the Nikon D850 is a DSLR camera that was announced on 08/23/2017 and released later that year. With a launch price of $3300, this camera measures 146 x 124 x 79mm and weighs 1005g, or 2.22lbs. Its specifications remain competitive in today’s market, offering users a high-quality camera option. The Nikon D850 is a reliable choice for photographers seeking a top-performing camera.

Nikon D850 Overview and Optics

The Nikon D850 scores 79/100 in the optics category, which is a solid result in today’s market. The camera has 45.7 megapixels, providing high-resolution images that capture fine details. Its shooting speed reaches 7 frames per second, which is efficient for various photography styles. With a full-frame CMOS sensor and an Expeed 5 processor, the D850 achieves a DXOMARK score of 100, showcasing its excellent image quality.

The Nikon F FX lens mount allows for compatibility with a wide range of lenses, giving photographers flexibility in their choice of optics. However, the D850 lacks image stabilization, which might be a downside for some users. The 3:2 aspect ratio is standard and suitable for most photography needs.

The Nikon D850’s optics performance is impressive, with high-resolution capabilities and a strong sensor performance. Despite the absence of image stabilization, the camera remains competitive in the current market due to its other advanced features and flexibility in lens options.

Optics
Optics
79%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
45.7 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
8256 x 5504 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
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 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full Frame
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
7 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 FX
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 5
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.
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
64
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.
25,600
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.
32
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.
102400
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
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/ 8000 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.
153
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 (pentaprism)

Nikon D850 Video Performance

The Nikon D850 receives a video score of 70 out of 100. This camera offers a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160 pixels. The maximum video frame rate stands at 30 frames per second. Additionally, the D850 includes a built-in time-lapse functionality.

When comparing the D850’s video capabilities to other cameras in today’s market, the 4K resolution is a common feature among high-end models. However, the 30fps frame rate falls short of the 60fps offered by some competitors. Despite this, the time-lapse functionality adds value to the camera’s overall video performance.

The Nikon D850 presents solid video capabilities, although not groundbreaking when compared to other cameras in its class. The time-lapse feature enhances its appeal, but the 30fps frame rate is an area where improvement is possible.

Video
Video
70%
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.
4K
Max Video Dimensions
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 2160 px
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.
30 p
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.
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.
MOV, MP4

Nikon D850 Features and Benefits

The Nikon D850 boasts a feature score of 87/100, showcasing its impressive capabilities. Its 3.2-inch screen with a resolution of 2,359,000 dots delivers crisp and clear visuals, while the touchscreen functionality enhances user experience. However, the absence of a flip screen might limit its versatility for some users.

The camera is equipped with WIFI and Bluetooth, allowing for seamless connectivity and effortless sharing of images. On the other hand, it lacks GPS, which could be a drawback for those who require location-based data for their photography.

Considering the specifications, the Nikon D850 holds its ground in the competitive market with its remarkable feature set. The combination of high-resolution screen, touchscreen, and wireless connectivity options make it a strong contender for photographers seeking quality and performance.

Features
Features
87%
Built-in 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
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
3.2"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2,359,000 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 D850 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D850 receives a storage and battery score of 84 out of 100. This camera is equipped with two memory card slots, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, with UHS-II compatibility, as well as XQD cards. In the market today, this versatility in memory card options is a valuable feature for photographers.

Regarding battery life, the D850 can take 1840 shots with its EN-EL15a battery type. While this battery life is not the highest among modern cameras, it still provides ample shooting time for various photography needs. However, the D850 does not have USB charging capabilities, which may be a drawback for some users.

The Nikon D850’s storage and battery performance make it a reliable choice for photographers seeking versatility and reasonable battery life in their camera.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
84%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), XQD
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL15a
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
1,840 shots
USB Charging
Photography Genre
Graded from the first-hand experience of one of our writers
Beginner Friendly
75%
Portrait
90%
Landscape
90%
Sports and Action
70%
Street
60%
Value for Money
70%
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
100%
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.'
26.4 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.'
14.8 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'
2660
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video

Nikon D850 Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Nikon D850 compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Nikon D850 photographed on a colored background

Nikon D850 FAQ

Does the Nikon D850 Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

The Nikon D850 does not have built-in image stabilization. However, it can utilize lens-based stabilization, such as Nikon’s VR (Vibration Reduction) technology, for steadier shots.

Does the Nikon D850 Support 4K Video Recording?

Yes, the Nikon D850 supports 4K video recording at 30 frames per second, providing high-resolution and professional-quality videos for photographers and videographers alike.

What Size Sensor Does The Nikon D850 Have?

The Nikon D850 features a full-frame sensor, specifically a 45.7-megapixel BSI CMOS FX-format sensor, which enables excellent image quality and low-light performance.

Does the Nikon D850 Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

Yes, the Nikon D850 comes with a dual memory card slot, accommodating one XQD card and one SD card, providing flexibility and extra storage capacity for photographers.

Does the Nikon D850 Have a Touch Screen?

Yes, the Nikon D850 is equipped with a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD that offers intuitive control and easy access to camera settings and features.

Does the Nikon D850 Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

Yes, the Nikon D850 has both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity options, allowing for seamless image transfer and remote camera control using compatible devices and Nikon’s SnapBridge app.

Does the Nikon D850 Have GPS?

No, the Nikon D850 does not have built-in GPS. However, it can connect to an external GPS device via its accessory terminal for geotagging purposes.

Is the Nikon D850 Weather Sealed?

Yes, the Nikon D850 is weather sealed, featuring dust and moisture resistance that allows photographers to shoot in various conditions with confidence.

Does the Nikon D850 Have a Built-in Flash?

No, the Nikon D850 does not have a built-in flash. Instead, it offers compatibility with Nikon’s extensive range of external Speedlights for versatile and creative lighting solutions.

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