Nikon D850 vs D750: Which One Should You Choose? Pros, Cons and Verdict

Nikon D850 and D750 are both part of Nikon’s esteemed FX-format lineup, which refers to their full-frame sensors that offer a larger image sensor compared to the smaller DX-format cameras. While they may share some similarities, these two cameras also have distinct differences in terms of specifications, features, and performance.

Whether you are a professional photographer or an avid enthusiast, understanding the key differences between Nikon D850 vs D750 can help you make an informed decision when choosing to buy one.

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Key Differences between Nikon D850 vs D750

Let’s dive into the key differences between the Nikon D850 and the Nikon D750, highlighting their unique features, performance capabilities, and design aspects.

Build and Ergonomics

Both the Nikon D850 and D750 are built to withstand the rigors of professional use, with robust and durable bodies that are weather-sealed to protect against dust and moisture. However, there are some differences in terms of their build and ergonomics.

D850 features a magnesium-alloy body construction that is designed to be rugged and durable, with a solid and substantial feel in hand. It also comes with a deep grip and a well-placed array of buttons and dials, making it comfortable to hold and operate for extended periods of time. The D850 also has an illuminated button layout, which is helpful for shooting in low-light conditions.
On the other hand, the D750 has a similar build quality with a magnesium-alloy body, but it is slightly smaller and lighter than the D850. The D750 also has a comfortable grip and a well-thought-out button layout, although it may not feel as robust and substantial as the D850 due to its smaller size. However, some photographers may prefer the smaller form factor of the D750, especially for travel or street photography, as it is more compact and easier to carry around.

Both cameras also come with a tilting LCD screen, which is useful for shooting from different angles and perspectives, such as low-angle or high-angle shots. However, the D850’s LCD screen has a higher resolution and a larger size compared to the D750, making it more detailed and easier to view. The D850’s LCD screen also has touch functionality, allowing for quick and intuitive menu navigation and image playback, which is a convenient feature for many photographers.

Sensor and Resolution

Nikon D850 and D750 boast full-frame sensors, but they differ in terms of resolution. The Nikon D850 features a 45.7-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor, while the Nikon D750 comes with a 24.3-megapixel CMOS sensor. This means that the D850 has a significantly higher resolution, allowing for more detailed images and larger prints.

The higher resolution of the D850 also provides more flexibility in cropping images without sacrificing image quality, making it an ideal choice for photographers who require higher levels of detail, such as in commercial, landscape, or studio photography. On the other hand, the D750’s lower resolution may be more suitable for those who prioritize faster burst shooting and require smaller file sizes, such as in sports or event photography.

ISO Performance

Both the Nikon D850 and D750 offer excellent ISO performance, but the D850 has a slight advantage due to its BSI sensor design. The D850 has a native ISO range of 64-25600, expandable down to ISO 32 and up to ISO 102400, while the D750 has a native ISO range of 100-12800, expandable down to ISO 50 and up to ISO 51200.

The D850’s BSI sensor design allows for improved light gathering capabilities, resulting in cleaner and less noisy images, especially in higher ISO settings. This makes the D850 a better choice for low-light photography, such as astrophotography or indoor shooting without flash, where maintaining high image quality at high ISOs is crucial. However, the D750 still offers excellent low-light performance and is capable of producing high-quality images even in challenging lighting conditions.

Autofocus System

Both cameras come with advanced AF systems, but the D850 has a more sophisticated AF system with a higher number of AF points.

The Nikon D850 boasts an impressive 153-point AF system, with 99 cross-type sensors and 15 sensors that support f/8 aperture. This AF system provides highly accurate and fast autofocus performance, making it well-suited for various shooting scenarios, including sports, wildlife, and action photography. Additionally, the D850 features Nikon’s Group Area AF mode, which allows for enhanced subject tracking in challenging situations.
On the other hand, the Nikon D750 features a 51-point AF system, with 15 cross-type sensors and 11 sensors that support f/8 aperture. While the D750’s AF system is not as extensive as the D850’s, it still offers reliable and accurate autofocus performance for most shooting situations, including portraits, landscapes, and general photography.

Both cameras also come with Nikon’s advanced 3D tracking technology, which allows for precise subject tracking and focus acquisition. However, the D850’s higher number of AF points and superior group area AF mode make it a better choice for fast-paced action photography, where quick and accurate autofocus is crucial.

Shooting Speed and Buffer Capacity

Another important factor to consider when comparing the Nikon D850 and D750 is their shooting speed and buffer capacity.

The D850 boasts an impressive burst shooting speed of up to 7 frames per second (fps) in standard mode, and up to 9 fps with the optional MB-D18 battery grip and EN-EL18b battery. Additionally, the D850 has a generous buffer capacity, allowing for continuous shooting of up to 51 RAW files or 170 JPEG files at a time.
On the other hand, the D750 has a slightly lower burst shooting speed of 6.5 fps, which is still quite fast and suitable for most photography needs. However, the D750 has a smaller buffer capacity, allowing for continuous shooting of up to 14 RAW files or 87 JPEG files at a time. This means that the D850 is better suited for high-speed photography, such as sports or wildlife, where capturing multiple frames in quick succession is essential.

Video Features

Both the Nikon D850 and D750 offer excellent video capabilities, making them versatile options for videographers as well. However, the D850 has some advantages in terms of video features. The D850 is capable of recording 4K UHD video at up to 30 fps, and it also offers a 1080p video recording option at up to 120 fps for slow-motion footage. The D850 also comes with focus peaking, zebra stripes, and other advanced video tools, making it suitable for professional video production.

D750 is limited to 1080p video recording at up to 60 fps, with no option for 4K video. While the D750’s video quality is still excellent, it may not be ideal for videographers who require 4K resolution or higher frame rates for their video work. However, for those who primarily focus on photography and occasional video recording, the D750’s video capabilities may still be more than sufficient.

Built-In Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Nikon D850 and D750 come with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easy transfer of images to mobile devices for quick sharing and remote camera control. Additionally, both cameras also have built-in GPS, which allows for geotagging of images, useful for landscape and travel photographers.

However, the D850 has some additional connectivity features that the D750 lacks. The D850 has Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for continuous low-energy connection to a smartphone or tablet for easy and quick image transfer. The D850 also has a USB 3.0 port for faster image transfer speeds compared to the D750’s USB 2.0 port. These additional connectivity features make the D850 a more suitable option for photographers who require quick and efficient image sharing and remote camera control capabilities.

Image Quality and ISO Performance

When it comes to image quality, both the Nikon D850 and D750 excel in their own right, thanks to their advanced sensor technology and powerful image processors. The D850 features a 45.7-megapixel full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor, while the D750 has a 24.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor.

The higher resolution of the D850’s sensor allows for greater detail and finer image quality, making it suitable for high-resolution printing and large-format displays. The D850 also has a wider dynamic range, which means it can capture more details in both highlights and shadows, resulting in better image quality in challenging lighting conditions.

On the other hand, the D750’s lower resolution sensor still delivers excellent image quality, especially for most everyday photography needs. The D750 also performs well in low-light situations, with a native ISO range of 100-12,800, expandable up to 51,200, allowing for clean and noise-free images even in high ISO settings.

Lens Compatibility

Both are compatible with Nikon’s extensive lineup of FX-format (full-frame) lenses, as well as DX-format (APS-C) lenses with a crop factor applied. This means that photographers who already own Nikon lenses can use them with either camera without any issues.

However, it’s worth noting that the D850 has a higher resolution sensor, which may require higher quality lenses to fully realize its potential. With 45.7 megapixels, the D850 can reveal any limitations in lens sharpness or image quality, so investing in high-quality lenses is recommended to make the most out of the camera’s capabilities.

The D750, with its lower resolution sensor, is more forgiving when it comes to lens quality, and can still deliver excellent image quality with a wide range of lenses. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for photographers who may not already own high-end lenses and are looking to invest in a versatile camera body without breaking the bank on lenses.

Battery Life

Nikon D850 and D750 both come with reliable battery performance, although there are some differences between the two.

D850 boasts a superior battery life, thanks to its EN-EL15a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is rated to deliver approximately 1,840 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. This is an impressive battery life, allowing photographers to shoot for extended periods without worrying about frequent battery changes or recharging. Additionally, the D850 has a battery grip accessory (MB-D18) option that can hold an additional EN-EL18a/b battery, further extending its battery life.
D750 uses the older EN-EL15 battery, which is rated to deliver approximately 1,230 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. While still a decent battery life, it falls short of the D850’s performance. However, similar to the D850, the D750 also has a battery grip accessory (MB-D16) option that can hold an additional EN-EL15 battery, providing a boost to its battery life.

It’s worth noting that battery life can vary depending on factors such as usage patterns, shooting conditions, and settings. It’s always a good practice to carry spare batteries or a battery grip for extended shooting sessions to ensure uninterrupted shooting.

Autofocus and Performance

D850 features a 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type sensors, covering a wide area of the frame. This autofocus system is highly capable and offers exceptional accuracy and tracking performance, making it well-suited for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as wildlife, sports, or action photography. The D850’s autofocus system also includes a dedicated autofocus processor, which further enhances its performance and accuracy.
D750 features a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors, which is still quite capable and provides reliable autofocus performance for most general photography needs. While it may not be as extensive or sophisticated as the D850’s autofocus system, it still delivers accurate and fast autofocus performance in a wide range of shooting situations.

Both cameras also come with advanced autofocus modes, such as 3D tracking, group-area AF, and face detection, which further enhance their autofocus capabilities. Additionally, both cameras have a fast and accurate autofocus in low-light conditions, thanks to their ability to focus down to -3EV, making them suitable for challenging lighting situations.

In terms of performance, the D850 has a faster burst rate of 7 frames per second (fps) in continuous shooting mode, compared to the D750’s 6.5 fps. This makes the D850 slightly more suitable for capturing fast-paced action or sports photography. However, both cameras provide reliable and responsive performance in various shooting situations, allowing photographers to capture decisive moments with confidence.

Video Capabilities

D850 boasts 4K UHD (Ultra High Definition) video recording at 30p, 25p, and 24p, providing high-quality video with fine detail and rich colors. It also offers Full HD (1080p) video recording at up to 120p for smooth slow-motion footage.
D750, on the other hand, offers Full HD (1080p) video recording at various frame rates up to 60p, which is still capable of delivering high-quality video, but falls short of the D850’s 4K capabilities.

Both cameras come with advanced video features, such as zebra stripes for exposure monitoring, focus peaking for precise focusing, and external microphone inputs for improved audio quality. They also offer the ability to output uncompressed video via HDMI, which is beneficial for professional videographers who require the highest quality footage for post-processing.

One notable advantage of the D850 over the D750 is its ability to shoot 4K UHD video without any cropping, utilizing the full frame of the sensor. This allows for wider field of view and better low-light performance compared to the D750, which uses a 1.5x crop in its video mode. The D850 also offers 4K UHD time-lapse recording in-camera, which eliminates the need for post-processing and simplifies the workflow for time-lapse enthusiasts.

While both cameras provide excellent video quality and advanced features, the D850’s 4K capabilities and lack of cropping give it an edge in terms of video performance, making it a better choice for videographers or multimedia creators who prioritize high-quality video recording.

Connectivity and Storage Options

In terms of connectivity, Nikon D850 and D750 come with a variety of options.

Both offer built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for wireless transfer of images and remote control of the camera using a smartphone or tablet. This feature is convenient for on-the-go image sharing and remote shooting, especially for social media enthusiasts or those who require remote control for their photography work.

Additionally, both cameras come with built-in GPS, which allows for geotagging of images, enabling photographers to keep track of the location where each photo was taken. This can be particularly useful for travel or landscape photographers who want to map their photos or remember the exact location of a particular shot.

They also offer dual memory card slots, which provide increased storage capacity and flexibility in managing files. But there are some differences in the types of memory cards supported by each camera. The D850 comes with one XQD card slot and one SD card slot, while the D750 has two SD card slots. XQD cards are known for their high-speed performance and durability, making them ideal for professional use, while SD cards are more widely available and affordable.

One notable advantage of the D850 over the D750 is its support for faster XQD memory cards, which can significantly improve the camera’s buffer clearing time during continuous shooting, allowing for longer bursts of high-speed shooting without interruption. This can be a significant benefit for sports, action, or wildlife photographers who require fast and continuous shooting.

Nikon D850: Pros and Cons

Pros

Higher Resolution Sensor: D850 boasts a 45.7-megapixel full-frame sensor, providing incredibly detailed and high-resolution images. This is ideal for landscape, studio, and other genres of photography that require maximum image detail.
Faster Burst Rate: With a burst rate of up to 7 frames per second (fps) in continuous high-speed mode, the D850 is capable of capturing fast action and sports photography with ease.
Advanced Autofocus System: The D850 features a 153-point autofocus (AF) system with improved accuracy and speed, making it highly reliable for tracking moving subjects and achieving precise focus in challenging shooting conditions.
Enhanced Video Capabilities: It offers 4K UHD video recording, along with slow-motion video at 120fps in Full HD, providing professional-grade video capabilities for videographers and content creators.
Robust Build Quality: It features a durable magnesium alloy body with extensive weather sealing, making it rugged and reliable for use in various environmental conditions.
Excellent Battery Life: Nikon D850 boasts an impressive battery life, allowing for extended shooting sessions without frequent battery changes.Cons of Nikon D850:
Higher Price: Nikon D850 is a premium camera with a higher price tag, making it less accessible to budget-conscious photographers or hobbyists.
Larger and Heavier: The D850 is a larger and heavier camera compared to the D750, which may not be as suitable for photographers who prioritize portability and ease of handling.
Larger File Sizes: Due to its high-resolution sensor, D850 produces larger file sizes, which may require more storage space and processing power.
Steeper Learning Curve: camera offers a wide range of advanced features and customization options, which may require a steeper learning curve for beginners or less experienced users.

Nikon D750: Pros and Cons

Nikon D750 Pros

Excellent Image Quality: Nikon D750 features a 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor with excellent low-light performance, producing high-quality images with great dynamic range and detail.
Lower Price Point: is more affordable compared to the D850, making it a viable option for budget-conscious photographers or enthusiasts.
Lightweight and Compact: is smaller and lighter compared to the D850, making it more portable and suitable for on-the-go photography.
Good Low-Light Performance: It offers impressive low-light performance, allowing for clean and noise-free images in challenging lighting conditions.
Tilting LCD Screen: The D750 features a tilting LCD screen, making it convenient for shooting from different angles, including overhead or low-angle shots.

Cons of Nikon D750:

Slower Burst Rate: D750 has a burst rate of up to 6.5 fps, which may not be as fast as the D850 for capturing fast action or sports photography.
Less Advanced Autofocus System: Nikon D750 features a 51-point autofocus system, which may not be as advanced as the D850’s 153-point AF system in terms of speed and accuracy.
Limited Video Capabilities: This camera offers Full HD video recording, but lacks the 4K UHD video capability of the D850, which may not be ideal for professional videography or content creation.
Lower Resolution Sensor: The D750 has a lower resolution sensor compared to the D850, which may result in slightly less detailed images, particularly for large

Verdict

The D850 is a top-of-the-line camera with a higher resolution sensor, faster burst rate, superior autofocus system, and advanced video capabilities, making it an ideal choice for professional photographers or advanced enthusiasts who demand the best image quality and performance. Its 45.7MP sensor, 153-point autofocus system, and 4K video capabilities make it a versatile tool for various genres of photography, including landscape, portrait, sports, and wildlife.

On the other hand, the D750 is a more affordable option that still delivers exceptional image quality, low-light performance, and advanced features. Its 24.3MP sensor, 51-point autofocus system, and Full HD video capabilities make it a reliable choice for enthusiasts, hobbyists, or those on a budget, who still want a high-quality camera with advanced features.

So it’s up to you which one of the two cameras meets your demands.