Nikon D1 vs Nikon D4

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Nikon D1 vs Nikon D4, both Pro DSLR digital cameras and both are produced by Nikon. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the D1 (3MP) and D4 (16MP) and the D1 (APS-C) and D4 (Full frame) feature different sensor sizing.

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The D1 was unveiled 12 years earlier than the D4 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Large SLR).

Before getting through a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise view of how the D1 scores versus the D4 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon D1 and Nikon D4. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon D1 Gallery and Nikon D4 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera often, you need to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon D1 enjoys outer measurements of 157mm x 153mm x 85mm (6.2" x 6.0" x 3.3") along with a weight of 1200 grams (2.65 lbs) whilst the Nikon D4 has specifications of 160mm x 157mm x 91mm (6.3" x 6.2" x 3.6") and a weight of 1340 grams (2.95 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon D1 vs Nikon D4 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at that time. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the D1 against the D4.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the D1 and D4 is 51 and 50 respectively.

Normally, it can be tough to imagine the difference between sensor sizing just by reviewing a spec sheet. The graphic below will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the D1 and D4.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The D1 having a tinier sensor is going to make getting bokeh trickier and the Nikon D4 will deliver greater detail having an extra 13 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs far more aggressively. The older D1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.