Canon 20D vs Nikon D700

Following is a in-depth comparison of the Canon 20D and Nikon D700, both Advanced DSLR cameras by rivals Canon and Nikon. There is a huge difference among the resolutions of the 20D (8MP) and D700 (12MP) and the 20D (APS-C) and D700 (Full frame) enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

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The 20D was announced 4 years before the D700 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the 20D scores versus the D700 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon EOS 20D and Nikon D700. The whole galleries are available at Canon 20D Gallery and Nikon D700 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Canon 20D enjoys outside measurements of 144mm x 106mm x 72mm (5.7" x 4.2" x 2.8") with a weight of 770 grams (1.70 lbs) while the Nikon D700 has measurements of 147mm x 123mm x 77mm (5.8" x 4.8" x 3.0") along with a weight of 1074 grams (2.37 lbs).

See the Canon 20D and Nikon D700 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the 20D and the D700.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the 20D and D700 is 59 and 54 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to visualise the difference in sensor sizes purely by viewing technical specs. The image below will provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the 20D and D700.

As you have seen, both cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 20D having a smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF tougher and the Nikon D700 will result in greater detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images much more aggressively. The more aged 20D will be behind with regard to sensor tech.