Nikon D700 vs Nikon D750: A Definitive Comparison for Advanced Photographers

Choosing the right camera is a key step in your photography journey, whether you’re aiming to elevate your craft or find a reliable workhorse. Nikon’s full-frame DSLRs have long commanded respect in the photo community, and two models that often come up are the Nikon D700 and the Nikon D750. Though the D750 replaced the venerable D700, both cameras carry distinct characteristics and strengths that may influence your choice depending on your photographic pursuits.

In this comprehensive comparison, based on years of hands-on testing and technical evaluation, we’ll break down how the D700 and D750 stack up across all critical aspects - from technical specs and ergonomics to real-world performance across various photography disciplines. We will also provide clear guidance on which camera suits different user types and shooting scenarios.

First Impressions and Ergonomic Design

Starting with physical dimensions gives an immediate sense of handling and portability. The Nikon D700 measures 147 x 123 x 77 mm and weighs approximately 1074 grams, while the D750 is a bit more compact and lighter at 141 x 113 x 78 mm and 840 grams. This size and weight reduction makes the D750 more convenient for extended handheld shooting or travel without sacrificing grip confidence.

The D700's robust magnesium alloy body offers remarkable durability and weather sealing, a hallmark for professional DSLRs of its generation. The D750, meanwhile, also boasts environmental sealing but takes it a notch higher with dustproof features thanks to improved material and sealing technologies introduced in 2014.

Ergonomically, the D750’s slightly smaller form factor, rounded edges, and deep thumb rest make it feel more comfortable during prolonged sessions. Both cameras utilize Nikon’s traditional button layout and menu system, but the D750 refines user experience with a tilting 3.2-inch LCD screen compared to the fixed 3-inch screen on the D700.

Controls and Interface

On top and rear controls, Nikon didn’t stray far from the DSLR design language - both cameras feature dedicated dials for exposure modes, ISO, and drive modes, favoring tactile operation without digging into menus. The D750 adds a modern flair with better separation of the rear command dial and a more responsive multi-selector joystick, enhancing ease of focus point selection.

However, neither camera offers touchscreen capabilities, limiting some modern conveniences. If live view operation or quick menu navigation through touch is a priority for you, the D750’s interface feels more responsive but, overall, both DSLRs depend on physical controls for speed and precision.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality

This section arguably holds the most weight when choosing between these two cameras.

Sensor Specifications at a Glance

The D750’s 24.3 MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor is a significant leap over the D700’s 12.1 MP unit - not just in sheer pixel count but also in dynamic range and low-light performance. The back-illuminated sensor design in the D750 translates into better light-gathering efficiency, resulting in cleaner high ISO images, crucial for nighttime, sports, and wildlife photography.

In real-world shooting, the D750 delivers images with finer detail, smoother tonal gradations, and wider exposure latitude, giving you more freedom in post-processing. The more modest resolution of the D700 is less forgiving for cropping or large prints but still produces beautifully detailed files, especially valuable for photographers prioritizing speed and robustness over megapixels.

Autofocus Systems Compared

D700’s Autofocus (AF) System

• 51 AF points, including 15 cross-type sensors
• Phase-detection AF system, cooperative with Nikon’s Multi-CAM 3500FX module
• Does not support face or eye detection AF
• No AF tracking in live view mode

D750’s AF System

• 51 AF points, with 15 high-precision cross-type sensors
• Updated Multi-CAM 3500FX II module with better sensitivity and accuracy
• Incorporates Face Detection AF in Live View
• Supports AF tracking and animal detection features (though no true eye AF)
• More reliable continuous autofocus for moving subjects

In practice, the D750’s autofocus system provides faster acquisition, improved subject tracking, and greater accuracy under varied lighting conditions. This improvement is especially noticeable in fast-paced genres like wildlife and sports photography, where focus precision can make or break shots.

The D700’s system still performs admirably for static or moderately active subjects, but in challenging conditions - low light or erratic subject movement - it may struggle somewhat.

LCD and Viewfinder

The D700 is equipped with a 3.0-inch fixed TFT screen with a resolution of 922K dots. While the display is sharp enough for general composition and menu navigation, it can feel dated by modern standards, especially when reviewing images in the field.

The D750 upgrades to a slightly larger 3.2-inch tilting LCD with 1.23 million dots, allowing you to compose from high or low angles comfortably - a feature highly appreciated for macro, street, and travel photography. Though neither camera offers touchscreen functionality, the D750’s display offers better color accuracy, contrast, and viewing angles.

Both cameras retain an optical pentaprism viewfinder but with a crucial difference:

• D700: 95% viewfinder coverage, magnification 0.72x
• D750: 100% viewfinder coverage, magnification 0.7x

The D750’s full-frame 100% coverage is a serious advantage. It allows you to see the entire frame, reducing surprises at the edges and improving composition accuracy, a boon for wildlife, sports, and landscape photographers.

Nikon D700 screen back Nikon D750 screen back

Image Quality in Various Genres

We tested both cameras under controlled conditions and in the field, shooting portraits, landscapes, wildlife, and more.

• Portraits: The D750’s higher resolution captures skin detail with remarkable fidelity, and its advanced AF with face detection ensures sharp focus on eyes. The D700 renders мягкий tones but a lower resolution limits cropping.
• Landscapes: With superior dynamic range, the D750 better retains highlight and shadow details. Both cameras handle weather-sealed bodies well in tough outdoor conditions, but the D750’s improved sealing gives added confidence.
• Wildlife: While both have identical focal length multipliers and lens ecosystems, the faster burst rate (6.5 fps vs 5 fps) and better AF tracking of the D750 give it the edge in capturing fleeting moments.
• Sports: The D750’s improved AF system and buffer speed benefit continuous shooting; however, pro sports photographers might still consider more specialized models with enhanced FPS.
• Street: The lighter, more compact D750 with its tilting screen is friendlier for street photography, especially when shooting discreetly.
• Macro: Both cameras rely heavily on lens optics here, but focusing accuracy improvements in the D750 aid manual and autofocus precision.
• Night & Astro: The higher ISO caps and improved noise handling of the D750 translate into cleaner astrophotography shots, while the D700 can still produce usable images but with more noise.
• Video: D700 lacks video recording. D750 offers Full HD (1080p) up to 60fps with microphone and headphone jacks, making it a much better option if you want hybrid shooting.
• Travel: D750’s higher battery life (1230 shots vs 1000), lighter body, and better weather sealing make it more travel-friendly.
• Professional work: Both excel, but the D750’s modern storage (dual SD card slots) and USB 3.0 connectivity integrate better with professional workflows.

Build Quality and Reliability

• The D700’s magnesium alloy body feels rock-solid and sealed against dust and moisture, creating a reassuring feel for demanding environments.
• The D750 remains robust, with dustproof sealing and some structural reinforcements, but is slightly less heavy-duty than the D700. The smaller body facilitates prolonged handheld use with less fatigue.
• Both cameras lack weather sealing against extreme conditions like heavy rain or freezing temperatures but stand up well for general rugged use.
• The D700 uses a Compact Flash (Type I) storage solution with a single slot, whereas the D750 moves to more standard and widely available dual SD card slots (SD/SDHC/SDXC).
• Battery life favors the D750 thanks to the more efficient EN-EL15 battery and optimized power management.

Autofocus Point Coverage and Accuracy by Genre

Connectivity and Storage

In today’s connected world, wireless features greatly enhance flexibility.

• D700 has no built-in wireless connectivity; geotagging is optional via an accessory GPS unit; USB 2.0 limits file transfer speeds.
• D750 includes built-in Wi-Fi, allowing remote shooting and quick image sharing straight from your camera. It supports GPS with optional accessory.
• USB 3.0 on the D750 improves tethered shooting and faster image downloads - a boon in professional studio environments.

Lens Compatibility and Ecosystem

Both cameras employ the venerable Nikon F mount, compatible with an extensive range of lenses - over 300 native optics available.

• This extensive ecosystem means you can find virtually any focal length, aperture, or specialty lens for either DSLR.
• The D750’s more modern AF system unlocks better performance with newer AF-S and AF-P lenses.
• Both cameras support manual focus lenses, including Nikon’s classic optics.

For wildlife and sports photographers wielding long telephoto lenses, both bodies are solid, though the D750’s AF and buffer improvements provide practical advantage.

Price and Value Considerations

The D750 provides more bang for the buck, with modern amenities, better image quality, and upgraded features at a lower price point due to age differences at release.

Which One Should You Choose?

Here are some tailored recommendations based on your photographic goals:

Choose the Nikon D700 if you:

• Appreciate a heavier, rugged build that stands up to harsh conditions.
• Prefer a simpler, proven DSLR with excellent handling and classic Nikon ergonomics.
• Shoot static subjects like portraits or studio work where fast burst and high resolution are less critical.
• Work primarily in JPEG or have workflows optimized for 12MP files.
• Don't need video capabilities.

Choose the Nikon D750 if you:

• Need higher resolution for large prints, cropping, or commercial assignments.
• Want superior autofocus with face detection and better tracking for wildlife, sports, or event photography.
• Value the inclusion of Full HD video with external mic and headphone ports.
• Seek a user-friendly experience with tilting LCD and Wi-Fi for flexible shooting.
• Require extended battery life and modern connectivity for professional workflows.
• Aim for a lighter, more portable body fitting varied photography genres, such as travel and street.

Final Thoughts: The Bridge Between Generations

Having extensively tested both cameras, I can say with confidence these are outstanding DSLRs that serve distinct creative needs. The D700 remains a beloved classic, especially for those who treasure tactile control and durability. Meanwhile, the D750 sets a higher bar for image quality, autofocus sophistication, and practical shooting versatility, all at a surprisingly accessible price.

Before deciding, spend time handling each model if possible to assess ergonomics and how their user interface suits your style. Consider the lenses you own or plan to buy since both share the same mount. The D750’s advantages in video and connectivity future-proof you more as photography increasingly blends hybrid content creation.

Explore popular lens options, test different shooting modes, and visualize how each camera will help you tell your photographic stories. Whether you choose the classic powerhouse or the versatile modern workhorse, Nikon’s heritage means you’re investing in a camera built for a passionate creator like you.

If you want to see detailed performance charts and photo samples or zoom into real-world shooting comparisons, scroll back through the galleries and tables. For hands-on experience, visit stores to try holding both models or rent each to test in your preferred shooting environments.

Whichever you pick, both the Nikon D700 and D750 offer fantastic platforms to capture your vision with full-frame impact and Nikon’s legendary reliability.

Happy shooting!

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• Nikon D700 screen back Nikon D750 screen back