Nikon D70s vs Nikon D90: A Deep Dive into Two Classic DSLRs for Enthusiasts and Pros

Choosing a camera sometimes feels like navigating a minefield - with model numbers, specs, and years of tech advances all swirling in your head. Today, I’m taking you on a thorough, head-to-head journey between two Nikon DSLRs that mark important chapters in the brand’s history: the Nikon D70s (2005) and the Nikon D90 (2008). Both are advanced DSLRs built for enthusiasts, but they represent very different eras and capabilities. Whether you’re hunting for a solid vintage DSLR or curious about legacy Nikon gear’s practicality today, I’ll lay out everything you need to know from sensor tech to real-world handling.

Having spent years testing thousands of cameras across genres - from wildlife to studio portraits - this comparison is grounded in hands-on experience. I’ll throw in my own observations, technical deep-dives, and honest commentary on how each fits use cases ranging from casual travel snaps to more demanding professional workflows.

Let’s dig in, starting with their physical builds and ergonomics.

Feeling the Cameras in Your Hands: Size, Weight, and Ergonomics

First impressions count, and with cameras, how a rig feels in your hands can make or break the shooting experience. The Nikon D70s and D90 share a similar mid-sized DSLR form factor, but their design philosophies are subtly different.

The Nikon D70s measures approximately 140 x 111 x 78 mm and weighs about 679 grams (without a lens). Its grip is comfortable and slightly compact by today’s standards, which makes it a great choice if you want a camera that won’t wear out your wrist during long outings. The control layout is more straightforward, with classic dials and buttons integrated into the top and back panels. For those who prefer simplicity and a no-frills approach, the D70s offers a well-balanced physical presence.

Contrast that with the Nikon D90, which - despite packing a bigger sensor and more features - is about the same size in height and width but slightly shorter in depth (132 x 103 x 77 mm), and weighs slightly heavier at 703 grams. Nikon improved the grip ergonomics here, making it feel more substantial and confident in hand. The D90’s larger, denser body housing added features like Live View and video brought about more sophisticated button placement and a somewhat more refined control feel.

Moving up to the top control panel reveals differences worth noting.

Here, the D90 gains an edge with modernizations like dedicated autofocus mode selectors, better-placed exposure compensation buttons, and a faster shooting mode dial. The earlier D70s sticks to a simpler design that’s effective but lacks some of the ease-of-access buttons that pros or semi-pros will grow to appreciate.

Ergonomically, both cameras cater well to the enthusiast market, but if you're shooting for longer sessions or in dynamic scenarios like sports or wildlife, the D90’s grip and control layout might just save you precious milliseconds and prevent fatigue.

Peeking Inside: Sensor Technology and Image Quality Breakdown

Next to ergonomics, sensor performance is the single most important factor affecting image quality. The Nikon D70s uses a 6.1-megapixel APS-C CCD sensor measuring 23.7 x 15.5 mm, while the Nikon D90 sports a newer 12.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor slightly smaller at 23.6 x 15.8 mm.

Take a look.

From a purely technical angle, that’s more than double the resolution in the D90, which translates to more detail retention when cropping or printing large images. The CMOS sensor in the D90 also brings benefits in noise performance and dynamic range, thanks to advances in semiconductor processes and Nikon’s image processing pipeline.

Delving into DxOMark sensor scores (a handy industry benchmark), you’ll notice the gap:

Metric	Nikon D70s	Nikon D90
Overall Score	50	73
Color Depth	20.4 bits	22.7 bits
Dynamic Range	10.3 EV	12.5 EV
Low-Light ISO Score	529	977

This means the D90 offers significantly better noise control in low light, allowing clean images at higher ISO values (native up to ISO 3200, extendable to 6400) compared to the D70s’s ISO cap of 1600. The color depth improvements result in smoother gradations and richer tones, particularly noticeable in portraits and landscapes.

From my hands-on testing, you can expect richer shadows and brighter highlights from the D90, with less need for aggressive noise reduction. The D70s’s CCD sensor, while respectable for its time, shows earlier signs of noise creeping in past ISO 800, and dynamic range is a bit more limited, impacting highlight retention in high-contrast scenes.

Don’t take my word for it - check how the two perform across different photography types later on.

The Viewfinder and LCD: What You See Is What You Get

Composing your shots is another pillar of practical use. Nikon used optical pentaprism viewfinders on both models, but with different coverage and magnification:

• Nikon D70s: 95% frame coverage, 0.5x magnification
• Nikon D90: 96% frame coverage, 0.64x magnification

A slight but notable upgrade in viewing area and brightness in favor of the D90, making it easier to frame precisely and assess focus.

The LCD screens also mark a bigger leap.

The D70s comes with a modest 2-inch, 130k-dot fixed LCD screen - enough to review images but tiny and low resolution by today’s standards. Its menus and image playback are serviceable but feel outdated.

The D90 upgraded to a 3-inch, 920k-dot Super Density TFT color LCD with wide viewing angles. This means a sharper preview, better color accuracy, much-needed live view capability, and easier menu navigation. I personally find the D90’s screen a game-changer for tripod work, macro photography, and reviewing critical focus without needing a laptop immediately.

Autofocus Systems and Shooting Performance: Who Works Faster, Smarter?

One of the biggest leaps from the D70s to the D90 lies in autofocus and shooting dynamics.

Feature	Nikon D70s	Nikon D90
AF System Type	Phase Detection (3 points)	Phase Detection (11 points)
Continuous Shooting	3 fps	4.5 fps
AF Modes	Single, Continuous, Selective	Single, Continuous, Selective, Live View CAF
AF Face Detection	No	Yes

The D70s’s AF system uses a basic 3-point sensor, which worked fine for its time but struggled in challenging lighting or for fast-moving subjects. The limited AF points also meant less flexibility in composition when tracking subjects off-center.

The D90 steps up with an 11-point AF system, including better algorithms for subject acquisition and face detection, especially in Live View mode. This translates into noticeably faster and more reliable focusing during action photography and portraiture where precise eye tracking matters.

The increased continuous shooting speed from 3 to 4.5 fps isn’t revolutionary but helps when capturing fleeting moments in sports or wildlife contexts.

One caveat: neither camera offers AF tracking like today’s modern mirrorless systems, so you’ll want to practice panning or rely on good autofocus zone selection for moving subjects.

Battery Life and Storage: Shooting Longer and Keeping It Simple

Battery life noticeably improved from the D70s to the D90:

• Nikon D70s: Uses the EN-EL3a battery, with a typical rated shot count around 500-600 frames, depending on usage.
• Nikon D90: Comes with the EN-EL3e battery offering up to about 850 shots per charge under CIPA standards.

This extended battery life on the D90 makes a difference in the field when you may only get one battery at hand. I’ve found on extended shoots that the D90 lets you go longer without swapping or recharging.

Storage formats shifted too: the D70s uses the older CompactFlash (CF) cards, whereas the D90 moved to SD/SDHC cards, which are smaller, cheaper, more widely available, and faster on average. That convenience alone is worth noting when investing in older gear.

Video Capabilities: The D90 Starts the Nikon DSLR Movie Era

A feature the D70s lacks entirely is video capture, while the D90 introduced Nikon’s first DSLR video functionality:

• D70s: No video recording.
• D90: 720p HD video at 24 fps using Motion JPEG format.

While the D90’s video specs seem limited by today’s standards, this was remarkable for DSLR users in 2008. The D90 includes ability to adjust aperture and ISO during movie capture, though no microphone input limits audio quality.

In my experience, D90 footage can be usable for casual or hobbyist videographers, but if you want high-quality video or modern codecs, this isn’t a primary choice. Still, for videographers wanting some flexibility alongside stills, the D90 clearly wins.

Durability, Weather Sealing, and Build Quality

Neither camera sports professional-level environmental sealing - you won't find dustproof, waterproof, or shockproof features here. Both bodies rely on strong polycarbonate shells with metal internal chassis, offering solid construction but not designed for the harshest conditions.

The D90 holds a slight advantage in structural refinement; after years of use, I’ve witnessed more durable button response and better sealing around battery doors.

If all-weather reliability is your top priority, neither camera fully fits the bill compared to modern pro-tier DSLRs. However, for general outdoor shooting in moderate conditions, both will hold up well with appropriate care.

Lens Compatibility and Ecosystem: Nikon F Mount Benefits

Both cameras use the venerable Nikon F-mount, offering compatibility with an extensive range of over 300 lenses including Nikkor AF-S and AF lenses from Nikon and third-party manufacturers.

However, it’s important to note:

• The D70s lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS), so you’ll depend on stabilized lenses (VR models) for shake reduction.
• The D90 also has no IBIS, but with a better autofocus system specially tuned to communicate with VR lenses more effectively.

This means your choice of glass strongly influences results with either camera. Nikon’s communication protocols improved slightly by D90 era, resulting in faster AF and more responsive VR stabilization controls.

In short, both cameras tap into Nikon’s impressive ecosystem, but the D90 can extract a bit more from modern lenses thanks to firmware and AF improvements.

How Do They Perform Across Photography Genres?

Now the moment many of you want: how do these models function for the actual types of photography people shoot? I tested both across the board and compiled the highlights for you.

Portrait Photography

Look for smooth skin tones, accurate color, pleasing bokeh, and solid eye detection.

• D70s: The CCD sensor renders skin tones warmly but with limited dynamic range, requiring care in exposure.
• D90: Sharper resolution, enhanced dynamic range, and face detection deliver better-focused, more natural portraits with creamy out-of-focus backgrounds.

Overall, D90 is clearly ahead as a portrait tool, especially with its advanced AF system and sensor performance.

Landscape Photography

Key factors: resolution, dynamic range, weather resistance.

• D70s: Lower resolution and dynamic range limit cropping and highlight recovery.
• D90: Greater resolution and DR help capture fine detail and balanced exposures.

Neither offers weather sealing, so protect from elements. The D90’s improved sensor really shines here.

Wildlife Photography

Essential: autofocus speed, bursts, telephoto support.

• D70s: Basic 3-point AF and 3 fps limit framing and fast focus.
• D90: 11-point AF and 4.5 fps better detect and track moving animals.

The D90 is more comfortable for wildlife, though neither is ideal for high-speed professional work today.

Sports Photography

Important: Continuous shooting, AF tracking, low light.

• D70s: Limited burst and AF capabilities curtail chances of getting decisive shots.
• D90: Faster frame rate and better low-light ISO help, but lack of AF tracking is a limitation.

If you’re an occasional sports shooter, D90 is preferred. For intensive sports shooting, look elsewhere.

Street Photography

Priorities: Size, discreteness, quick focusing, low light.

• D70s: Slightly smaller and lighter.
• D90: Slightly bulkier but better AF and ISO performance.

The D70s might have an edge for pure stealth. However, the D90’s improved autofocusing and ISO open up better low-light street options.

Macro Photography

Key considerations: precise focusing, stabilization.

• Both lack IBIS, so lens VR and tripod use crucial.
• The D90’s live view and higher resolution facilitate finer focus adjustments.

For macro shooters, the D90 wins for ease of focusing and post-crop detail.

Night and Astro Photography

Evaluate: High ISO, exposure modes.

• The D70s caps at ISO 1600 with noisy images, limiting astrophotography.
• The D90 offers ISO 3200–6400, with much cleaner results.

The D90’s dynamic range and noise control make night and astrophotography more practical.

Video Use

• The D70s offers no video.
• The D90 delivers 720p video at 24fps, enough for casual or experimental use.

If video is important, the D90 is a clear choice.

Travel Photography

Focus on versatility, battery life, size.

• D70s: Lighter and simpler, but older storage and shorter battery life.
• D90: Slightly heavier, longer battery, Live View, and video expand flexibility.

The D90 balances compactness with modern features well.

Professional Workflows

Consider file types, reliability, workflow integration.

• Both support RAW capture.
• The D90 offers faster USB 2.0 transfer, and better computer support helps workflow.
• Neither supports newer tethering standards or Wi-Fi, limiting integration.

For pros relying on modern workflows, the D90 edges forward, but both remain functional in a pinch.

Summing Up Performance with Scores and Genre Breakdown

To help visualize the overall and genre-specific breakdown, I refer to these consolidated performance scores.

You can see how the D90 takes the lead in almost all categories due to its newer sensor, AF system, and feature set.

Making the Call: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Here’s the bottom line for different users and budgets.

Choose the Nikon D70s if:

• You want a budget-friendly entry into DSLR photography.
• You appreciate classic DSLR handling and simplicity.
• Your shooting focuses on daylight, static subjects, or learning basics.
• You’re interested in collecting vintage DSLR gear for education or film.
• Your lens collection is primarily older Nikon F lenses without VR.

Choose the Nikon D90 if:

• You want better image quality with higher resolution and cleaner high ISO.
• You shoot portraits, landscapes, macro, wildlife, or casual video.
• You need longer battery life and improved ergonomics.
• You’re interested in early DSLR video or live view options.
• You desire more advanced AF points and shooting flexibility.

Final Thoughts: The Legacy of Nikon’s Mid-2000s Classics

Both the Nikon D70s and D90 embody milestones in DSLR evolution. The D70s was a breakthrough in 2005, bringing solid image quality to enthusiasts at an accessible price; the D90 pushed Nikon into the DSLR video age and bridged the gap to the highly capable DX unibody machines we see today.

From personal experience, if you’ve got the budget and want a camera that feels relevant for many photographic situations, the D90 remains the more practical, enjoyable tool. The extra resolution, better autofocus, and video capabilities add up to a better shooting experience and results. However, the D70s holds charm as a simple, effective beginner DSLR or second body for collectors.

Whichever you choose, pairing either with quality lenses - preferably with VR for shake reduction - will unlock their full potential.

Photography is deeply personal, so if you can, try out both bodies to see which aligns with your tactile preferences, and assess your genre priorities. I hope this guide helps you navigate the choices without getting lost in specs alone.

Wishing you many great shots ahead with whichever Nikon you pick!

All images courtesy of Nikon specifications and verified testing.