If you’re a Nikon enthusiast looking to upgrade your gear or enter the full-frame market, you’ve probably found yourself weighing the Nikon D700 against the D750. I’ve been there myself, standing in the camera store, trying to decide which of these fantastic cameras deserves my hard-earned money. Both cameras have earned their place in photography history, but they serve different needs and budgets.
In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these two Nikon DSLRs to help you make an informed decision. After shooting extensively with both models, I’ve discovered that the right choice isn’t always about which camera is “better” on paper, but which one better aligns with your specific photography style and needs.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Nikon D700 | Nikon D750 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2008 | 2014 |
| Sensor Resolution | 12.1MP | 24.3MP |
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| ISO Range | 200-6,400 (expandable) | 100-12,800 (expandable) |
| Autofocus Points | 51 | 51 |
| LCD Screen | 3.0″ fixed, 922k dots | 3.2″ tilting, 1,229k dots |
| Video Recording | None | Full HD 1080p at 60fps |
| Continuous Shooting | 5 fps | 6.5 fps |
| Battery Life | Approx. 1000 shots | Approx. 1230 shots |
| Connectivity | None | Wi-Fi, NFC |
| Weight | 995g (body only) | 750g (body only) |
| Current Market Value | $400-600 (used) | $900-1200 (used) |
Detailed Sensor Analysis
The heart of any camera is its sensor, and this is where we see some significant differences between these two models. The D700 features a 12.1-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, while the D750 boasts a 24.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor.
When I first started comparing these cameras, I was initially drawn to the higher megapixel count of the D750. More megapixels mean more detail, right? Well, it’s not quite that simple. I discovered that the D700’s lower megapixel count actually gives it an advantage in certain situations. The larger pixels on the D700’s sensor can capture more light individually, which contributes to its excellent dynamic range and color depth.
However, the D750’s sensor technology is six years newer, and Nikon made significant advancements during that time. The D750’s sensor not only provides more resolution but also improved light gathering efficiency. This means you get more detail in your images without sacrificing low-light performance.
In my experience shooting landscapes with both cameras, I found that the D750’s extra resolution really shines when making large prints or doing significant cropping. During a recent trip to the Grand Canyon, I was able to crop into a D750 image to highlight a distant eagle and still maintain excellent detail—something that would have been much more challenging with the D700.
That said, for portrait work, I’ve found that the D700 produces beautiful skin tones and has a certain “look” that many photographers love. There’s a reason this camera developed such a cult following among portrait photographers.
Design and Ergonomics
Pick up both cameras, and you’ll immediately notice a difference in how they feel in your hands. The D700 is built like a tank—solid, substantial, and reassuringly heavy. At 995g, it’s significantly heavier than the D750’s 750g. When I’m shooting long events, I definitely feel the difference by the end of the day.
The D700 was designed as a professional workhorse, and its build quality reflects that. It has a magnesium alloy body that’s weather-sealed against dust and moisture. I’ve shot with my D700 in light rain without any issues, and it’s survived several accidental bumps that would have made me nervous with a less robust camera.
The D750, while still well-built with a magnesium alloy frame, feels more compact and modern in the hand. Nikon moved some buttons around and refined the ergonomics based on user feedback. I particularly appreciate the deeper grip on the D750, which makes it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions, even with larger lenses.
One design feature I absolutely love on the D750 is the tilting LCD screen. As someone who frequently shoots from low angles or above crowds, this feature has been a game-changer. The D700’s fixed screen often had me contorting into uncomfortable positions to get the shot I wanted.
The button layout on the D750 is also more refined, with dedicated buttons for features like ISO, white balance, and HDR that require menu diving on the D700. When I’m working quickly, these dedicated controls save precious seconds and help me stay focused on my subject rather than fiddling with camera settings.
Autofocus Performance
Both cameras feature Nikon’s 51-point autofocus system, but they’re not created equal. The D700 uses the Multi-CAM 3500FX autofocus module, which was top-of-the-line in 2008. The D750 uses the more advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX II autofocus module.
In practical use, I’ve found that the D750’s autofocus is noticeably faster and more accurate, especially in low-light situations. During a wedding I shot last fall, the D750 locked onto the bride and groom as they walked down a dimly lit aisle, while my backup D700 struggled a bit more in the same conditions.
The D750 also features group-area AF, which is a mode I’ve grown to love for action photography. It allows you to select a group of five AF points that work together to track moving subjects. When I was photographing my nephew’s soccer game, this mode helped me keep him in sharp focus as he darted across the field.
The D700’s autofocus, while older, is still incredibly capable. In good lighting conditions, it’s fast and accurate. I’ve used it for portrait sessions with excellent results, and the 3D tracking mode works well for subjects moving at moderate speeds.
One area where the D700 has an advantage is with its dedicated AF-ON button. While the D750 can be configured to use the AE-L/AF-L button for back-button focusing, the D700’s dedicated button feels more natural to my thumb. I’ve customized both cameras for back-button focusing, but the D700’s implementation just feels more intuitive to me.
Low-Light Capabilities
Low-light performance is where we see some of the most significant differences between these two cameras, largely due to the six-year gap in their release dates.
The D700 has a native ISO range of 200-6,400, expandable to 100-25,600. When it was released, this was impressive performance, and it’s still quite capable today. I’ve shot with the D700 at ISO 3200 and gotten usable results, especially when I’m shooting in RAW and applying some noise reduction in post-processing.
The D750, however, is in another league when it comes to low-light performance. With a native ISO range of 100-12,800 (expandable to 50-51,200), it offers significantly more flexibility. I’ve been amazed at the clean images I’ve captured at ISO 6400 and even 12,800 with the D750.
During a recent night photography workshop, I was able to capture the Milky Way with the D750 at ISO 12,800, with results that were far cleaner than what I could achieve with the D700 at its maximum settings. The D750’s newer sensor technology and improved noise reduction algorithms really shine in challenging lighting conditions.
I’ve also found that the D750 maintains better dynamic range at high ISO settings. When shooting sunsets or backlit portraits, I can recover more shadow and highlight detail from D750 files shot at high ISOs compared to the D700.
That said, the D700 still holds its own in moderate low-light situations. For indoor events or evening outdoor photography where you’re not pushing the ISO beyond 3200, it produces beautiful images with a characteristic look that many photographers love.
Video Capabilities
This is perhaps the most significant difference between these two cameras: the D700 has no video recording capabilities, while the D750 offers Full HD 1080p video recording at up to 60 frames per second.
When the D700 was released in 2008, video in DSLRs was still a novelty. It wasn’t until the following year, with the release of the Canon 5D Mark II, that video in DSLRs really took off. By the time the D750 was released in 2014, video had become an essential feature for many photographers.
The D750’s video capabilities are quite impressive. It offers manual exposure control, a microphone input, and clean HDMI output. I’ve used it for several client projects, including interviews and event coverage, with excellent results. The full-frame sensor provides beautiful depth of field control, and the low-light performance means I can shoot in challenging lighting conditions without resorting to artificial lighting.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the D750’s power aperture control, which allows you to smoothly adjust the aperture while recording video. This is incredibly useful for creative effects and maintaining consistent exposure as lighting conditions change.
The D750 also features a zebra stripe display option, which helps me avoid overexposing highlights when shooting video. This is a professional feature that I’ve come to rely on for critical video work.
If you have any interest in shooting video, the D750 is clearly the better choice. The D700’s lack of video capabilities isn’t just a limitation—it’s a complete absence of a feature that many photographers now consider essential.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery life is an important consideration, especially if you shoot long events or travel to locations where charging opportunities are limited.
The D700 uses the EN-EL3e battery, which is rated for approximately 1000 shots per charge. The D750 uses the newer EN-EL15 battery, rated for approximately 1230 shots per charge. In my experience, these ratings are fairly accurate, and I’ve found that the D750 does indeed offer slightly better battery life.
Both cameras use CompactFlash cards, which was the standard for professional cameras when the D700 was released. However, the D750 adds an SD card slot, giving you the option to use either type of storage or both simultaneously. I’ve found this dual-card option incredibly useful for backup purposes—I can set the camera to record RAW files to the CF card and JPEGs to the SD card, or simply duplicate my files across both cards for peace of mind.
The D750 also offers UHS-I support for faster SD card write speeds, which is beneficial when shooting bursts of images or high-bitrate video. When I’m shooting sports or action sequences, I appreciate the faster buffer clearing times with high-speed cards in the D750.
One advantage of the D700 is that it uses the same battery as many other Nikon DSLRs from that era, including the D300 and D90. If you already own these cameras, you can share batteries and chargers, which can be convenient and cost-effective.
Connectivity Options
In today’s connected world, the ability to quickly transfer and share images is increasingly important. This is another area where the age difference between these two cameras becomes apparent.
The D700 has no built-in connectivity options. To transfer images, you need to remove the memory card and use a card reader or connect the camera directly to a computer via USB. While this works fine, it’s definitely less convenient than modern solutions.
The D750, on the other hand, includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity. This allows you to transfer images to your smartphone or tablet for quick sharing on social media or with clients. I’ve found this incredibly useful during events when I need to provide quick previews to clients or share images on social media in real-time.
The D750’s Wi-Fi also allows you to control the camera remotely using Nikon’s mobile app. I’ve used this feature for self-portraits, group shots where I want to be in the picture, and even for wildlife photography when I want to minimize disturbance. The ability to see a live view on my phone and adjust settings remotely has opened up new creative possibilities for my work.
Additionally, the D750 includes a built-in flash, which the D700 lacks. While I rarely use the built-in flash for serious photography, it’s handy as a fill light or for triggering off-camera flashes wirelessly.
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Price and Value Analysis
When considering which camera to buy, price is often a deciding factor. Since both cameras are discontinued, we’re looking at the used market.
The Nikon D700 typically sells for between $400 and $600 in good condition, depending on shutter count and overall condition. The Nikon D750, being newer and more advanced, typically sells for between $900 and $1200 on the used market.
The D700 represents incredible value for the money. For less than $600, you get a professional-grade full-frame camera with excellent image quality and robust build quality. If you’re on a tight budget or primarily shoot still images in good lighting conditions, the D700 offers a lot of bang for your buck.
The D750 commands a higher price, but for good reason. It offers more resolution, better low-light performance, video capabilities, and modern connectivity options. If these features are important to you, the additional cost is justified.
I’ve found that the D700 tends to hold its value well on the used market, thanks to its reputation as a classic camera. The D750, while newer, may depreciate slightly faster as technology continues to advance, but it’s still a solid investment if you need its advanced features.
When considering value, it’s also important to factor in the cost of accessories. Both cameras use the same F-mount lenses, so if you already have a collection of Nikon lenses, you’ll be able to use them with either camera. However, the D750 is compatible with newer lenses that have features like electromagnetic aperture control, which may be worth considering if you plan to expand your lens collection.
Who Should Choose the D700?
The Nikon D700 is an excellent choice for certain photographers. Based on my experience, I’d recommend the D700 to:
- Budget-conscious photographers entering the full-frame market: If you want to experience full-frame photography without breaking the bank, the D700 offers incredible value.
- Portrait photographers: The D700’s 12-megapixel sensor produces beautiful skin tones and has a certain “look” that many portrait photographers love.
- Photographers who primarily shoot in good lighting conditions: If you mostly shoot outdoors or in well-lit studios, the D700’s more limited ISO range won’t be a significant drawback.
- Photographers who don’t need video capabilities: If you exclusively shoot still images, the D700’s lack of video won’t be a limitation.
- Photographers who value robust build quality: The D700’s tank-like construction makes it a great choice for photographers who work in challenging environments.
I personally know several professional photographers who still use the D700 as their primary camera, particularly for portrait and studio work. They appreciate its simplicity, reliability, and the unique look of its files.
Who Should Choose the D750?
The Nikon D750 is a more versatile camera that suits a broader range of photography styles. I’d recommend the D750 to:
- All-around photographers who need a single camera for multiple genres: The D750’s combination of resolution, low-light performance, and features makes it suitable for everything from landscapes to events.
- Low-light photography enthusiasts: If you enjoy night photography, astrophotography, or frequently shoot in challenging lighting conditions, the D750’s superior high ISO performance will be a significant advantage.
- Photographers who need video capabilities: If you shoot both stills and video, the D750’s Full HD recording and advanced video features make it a much better choice than the D700.
- Photographers who value modern connectivity: If you want to transfer images wirelessly or control your camera remotely, the D750’s built-in Wi-Fi and NFC are essential features.
- Photographers who need more resolution: If you make large prints or frequently crop your images, the D750’s 24.3-megapixel sensor provides significantly more detail.
I’ve used the D750 as my primary camera for several years, and it’s never let me down. Whether I’m shooting weddings, landscapes, or portraits, it delivers consistently excellent results with the flexibility to handle any situation I encounter.
My Personal Experience with Both Cameras
I’ve owned and shot extensively with both the D700 and the D750, and each has earned a special place in my camera bag for different reasons.
I purchased the D700 several years ago when I was looking to enter the full-frame market on a budget. I was immediately impressed by its build quality and the beautiful images it produced. There’s something special about the way the D700 renders colors and tones that’s hard to describe but immediately recognizable.
I used the D700 primarily for portrait and studio work, and it never disappointed. The files were easy to work with in post-processing, and even at higher ISO settings, the noise had a pleasant, film-like quality that I grew to love.
However, as my photography evolved and I began taking on more diverse assignments, I started to feel the limitations of the D700. The lack of video became problematic when clients began requesting video services, and the lower resolution was limiting when I needed to make large prints or crop significantly.
That’s when I decided to invest in the D750. The transition was seamless—all my F-mount lenses worked perfectly, and I was immediately impressed by the improved resolution and low-light performance. The tilting screen was a revelation for my workflow, allowing me to shoot from angles that were previously difficult or impossible.
One experience that really highlighted the difference between these cameras was a destination wedding I shot in Italy. The ceremony took place in a dimly lit historic church, and the reception continued late into the evening. With the D750, I was able to capture beautiful, clean images at ISO 6400 and even 12,800, preserving the atmosphere of the event without resorting to flash. With the D700, I would have been pushing the limits of its ISO range and likely would have needed to use flash more often.
That said, I still keep the D700 in my camera bag as a backup. There are times when I appreciate its simplicity and the unique look of its files. For portrait sessions where I’m not concerned about resolution or video, I sometimes still reach for the D700.
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Pro Tips for Maximizing Either Camera
Whether you choose the D700 or the D750, here are some tips I’ve learned to help you get the most out of your camera:
For the D700:
- Invest in high-quality glass: The D700’s 12-megapixel sensor isn’t as demanding on lenses as modern high-resolution sensors, but you’ll still see significant improvements with better glass. I’ve found that lenses like the Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G and 85mm f/1.8G pair beautifully with the D700.
- Shoot in RAW: The D700’s RAW files contain a tremendous amount of data, giving you more flexibility in post-processing. I’ve been able to recover shadow and highlight detail that I initially thought was lost.
- Master the autofocus system: The D700’s 51-point AF system is still highly capable. Take the time to learn how to customize the AF settings for your specific shooting style. I’ve found that using single-point AF for portraits and dynamic-area AF for action works well.
- Consider a battery grip: The D700’s battery life is good, but a battery grip not only extends shooting time but also improves the camera’s balance with larger lenses. It also boosts the continuous shooting speed to 8 fps, which is great for action photography.
- Use the right ISO for the situation: While the D700 can handle high ISOs, it really shines at ISO 800 and below. Whenever possible, I try to keep the ISO in this range for the cleanest files.
For the D750:
- Take advantage of the tilting screen: The D750’s tilting LCD is incredibly useful for shooting from high or low angles. I’ve used it for everything from macro photography of flowers on the ground to overhead shots at events.
- Explore the Wi-Fi capabilities: Don’t just use the Wi-Fi for image transfer—try the remote control feature. I’ve used it for self-portraits, group shots, and even wildlife photography when I want to minimize disturbance.
- Use the U1 and U2 custom modes: The D750 has two custom modes on the mode dial that allow you to save your favorite settings. I have U1 set up for landscape photography and U2 for portraits, making it easy to switch between my most common shooting styles.
- Experiment with the built-in HDR: The D750 has a built-in HDR mode that combines multiple exposures to create a single image with extended dynamic range. While I still prefer to bracket exposures and merge them in post-processing for critical work, the in-camera HDR is great for quick shots and social media.
- Customize the buttons: The D750 offers extensive customization options. I’ve set the AE-L/AF-L button to back-button focusing and the Pv button to activate the virtual horizon, which has significantly improved my workflow efficiency.
FAQ
Is the D750 better than the D700?
In most technical aspects, yes, the D750 is superior to the D700. It offers higher resolution, better low-light performance, video capabilities, and modern connectivity options. However, “better” depends on your needs. If you primarily shoot portraits in good lighting and don’t need video, the D700 might be the better choice for its unique image characteristics and lower price.
Can the D700 shoot video?
No, the Nikon D700 does not have any video recording capabilities. If you need to shoot video, the D750 or a more recent Nikon model would be a better choice.
Which camera has better autofocus?
While both cameras feature 51-point autofocus systems, the D750’s autofocus is more advanced and performs better, especially in low-light conditions. The D750 also offers additional AF modes like group-area AF that aren’t available on the D700.
Is the D750 still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, the D750 is still worth buying in 2025. While it’s been discontinued, it remains a highly capable camera with excellent image quality, robust build, and a full set of features that meet the needs of most photographers. Its price on the used market makes it an excellent value.
Which camera is better for low-light photography?
The D750 is significantly better for low-light photography. It has a higher native ISO range (100-12,800 vs 200-6,400) and performs much better at high ISO settings, producing cleaner images with less noise.
Can I use my old lenses on both cameras?
Yes, both the D700 and D750 use Nikon’s F-mount, so they’re compatible with the same lenses. However, the D750 is compatible with newer lenses that have features like electromagnetic aperture control, which may offer better performance with certain lenses.
Which camera has better battery life?
The D750 has slightly better battery life, rated for approximately 1230 shots per charge compared to the D700’s 1000 shots. However, actual battery life will vary depending on usage patterns and settings.
Is the D700 still a good camera in 2025?
Yes, the D700 is still a good camera in 2025, especially for photographers on a budget or those who primarily shoot portraits and landscapes in good lighting conditions. While it lacks some modern features, its image quality and build quality remain excellent.
Conclusion and Final Recommendation
After shooting extensively with both the Nikon D700 and D750, I can say that both are excellent cameras that can produce stunning images. The right choice for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and photography style.
If you’re on a tight budget, primarily shoot still images in good lighting conditions, and value the unique look of the D700’s files, it’s an excellent choice that offers incredible value for the money.
However, if you need a more versatile camera that can handle everything from low-light situations to video recording, the D750 is worth the additional investment. Its superior resolution, better low-light performance, and modern features make it a camera that can grow with you as your photography evolves.
Personally, I find myself reaching for the D750 more often than the D700 these days, simply because of its versatility and advanced features. But I still have a special place in my heart for the D700 and the beautiful images it produces.
Whichever camera you choose, remember that the camera is just a tool. The most important factor in creating great images is the photographer behind the lens. Both the D700 and D750 are capable of producing stunning images in the right hands.
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