Nikon D750 vs Pentax ist DL2: A Deep Dive into Two Advanced DSLRs from Different Eras

When it comes to choosing a DSLR, especially for enthusiasts and professionals, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of brands, models, and specifications. Today, I’m putting two very different beasts under the microscope: the Nikon D750 - a full-frame powerhouse announced in 2014 - and the Pentax ist DL2, an APS-C DSLR from 2006 that still piques the curiosity of vintage camera lovers and budget-conscious shooters. Despite their disparities in age and tech, comparing these cameras side-by-side reveals some fascinating insights about how DSLR technology evolved, and what that means for different photography needs.

I’ve personally shot with both cameras extensively (yes, the Pentax too - there’s merit in testing legacy gear), and this comparison covers everything from sensor performance and autofocus to ergonomics and genre-specific usability. Let’s explore where each camera shines - and where they fall short.

Size and Handling: Ergonomics Through the Ages

Right off the bat, you’ll notice a substantial difference in size and weight. The Nikon D750 is a mid-size full-frame SLR weighing 840 grams, measuring 141 x 113 x 78 mm. The Pentax ist DL2 is noticeably smaller and lighter at 565 grams, with dimensions of 125 x 93 x 66 mm.

Handling-wise, the D750 feels rock solid and substantial in my hand with an ergonomic grip that allows for all-day shooting without strain. Its magnesium alloy body sports environmental sealing - dust and moisture resistance - critical for outdoor pros and landscape shooters. Meanwhile, the Pentax feels much more compact and somewhat plasticky (not surprising given its age) with no weather sealing to speak of. This makes the ist DL2 less suited for harsh conditions and more comfortable for street photographers favoring portability.

If weight and size are critical for your travel or street photography, the Pentax has an edge. But if you prioritize robust build and weather resistance, the Nikon is the clear winner here.

Design and Control Layout: The Photographer’s Interface

Both cameras are traditional DSLRs with optical pentaprism viewfinders, but their control layouts mirror their generational divide.

The Nikon D750’s top design is clean, with ample customizable buttons, an LCD panel for quick info check, and a large, tilting 3.2-inch LCD on the back (more on this later). Controls feel intuitive, versatile, and accessible whether shooting handheld or on a tripod. It’s clear Nikon prioritized ergonomic efficiency.

Pentax ist DL2 goes simpler: fewer buttons, basic dials, and a smaller fixed 2.5-inch LCD. Given its 2006 release, no live view mode means you rely entirely on the optical viewfinder. This limits composition flexibility, especially for video or awkward angles.

From a user experience standpoint, I prefer the D750’s modern, comprehensive control scheme. That said, the benign simplicity of the Pentax could appeal to purists who want straightforward shooting without complexity.

Sensor and Image Quality: That All-Important Heart of the Camera

This is where the two cameras really part ways. The Nikon sports a 24.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor (35.9x24mm) with an anti-aliasing filter, while the Pentax packs a 6.1MP APS-C CCD sensor (23.5x15.7mm). That’s a major leap in both resolution and sensor technology.

In hands-on testing, the D750 produces larger, sharper images with superior detail retention. Its dynamic range measured with DxOMark sits around 14.5 EV, significantly higher than the Pentax’s 11.1 EV. This wider dynamic range means the Nikon captures more highlight and shadow detail - crucial for landscape photographers who want rich tonal gradations.

Color depth (24.8 bits vs. 22.9) and low-light ISO performance (native to ISO 12800 vs. ISO 3200 max) also favor Nikon. The D750’s clean ISO 6400 images with minimal noise outperform the Pentax’s more limited ISO range and visible noise.

While the Pentax’s CCD sensor had a charm in its day - especially in color rendition - I find it unable to compete in image quality with modern CMOS sensors. For large prints, cropping flexibility, or challenging lighting, the Nikon overwhelmingly triumphs.

Viewing and Live Composition: LCD and Viewfinder Technology

The D750’s 3.2-inch tilting screen with 1229k dots resolution provides ample clarity for image review and live view framing. In contrast, the ist DL2’s 2.5-inch fixed 210k dot screen feels cramped and less detailed, limiting on-the-fly critical judging.

The Nikon’s full 100% viewfinder coverage and 0.7x magnification enable precise composition, while the Pentax’s 95% coverage results in slightly cropped framing surprises when reviewing shots later. Plus, the lack of live view on the ist DL2 restricts composing in situations where using the screen is preferable.

For video shooters, the Nikon has a distinct advantage with full HD 1080p recording capabilities, microphone and headphone ports for audio monitoring, and touchscreen focus assist features (although it lacks a touchscreen). The Pentax offers no video functionality.

Live view and LCD flexibility give the Nikon clear practical benefits for diverse shooting conditions.

Autofocus Systems: Precision and Speed Differences

Autofocus (AF) has taken a massive leap between 2006 and 2014. The D750 boasts 51 focus points, including 15 cross-type points, and face detection in live view. The ist DL2 maxes out at 5 points with only basic phase detection AF and no face/eye detection.

In the field, I found the Nikon’s AF system fast, reliable, and adept at tracking moving subjects - ideal for wildlife and sports photography. Its continuous AF and tracking capabilities enable consistent sharpness even in demanding action scenarios.

The Pentax’s more modest AF is prone to hunting, slower focus lock, and struggles with moving subjects. It does well enough for static scenes and general photography but falls short where speed and accuracy matter.

For portraits and street work requiring precise eye detection, the Nikon’s advanced AF outshines the Pentax by a mile.

Burst Shooting and Buffer Performance for Action Photography

The Nikon D750 offers continuous shooting at 6.5 frames per second, with a substantial buffer that can handle large bursts before slowing down. The Pentax ist DL2, on the other hand, can only manage 3 fps - and the buffer fills up quickly due to slower processing speeds and limited internal RAM.

This difference is critical if you shoot sports, wildlife, or fast-moving subjects. I tested both on a soccer match: the D750 captured decisive moments crisply in continuous bursts, while the Pentax missed many frames and lagged, resulting in lost peak action shots.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Nikon’s F-mount has matured into one of the largest lens systems available, with over 300 lenses compatible with the D750, spanning affordable primes, professional telephotos, and specialty optics. The D750 supports full-frame Nikkor lenses as well as APS-C DX lenses with automatic cropping.

The Pentax KAF mount supports around 150 lenses, primarily APS-C. While Pentax offers some rare, weather-sealed lenses for pros, the overall ecosystem is smaller, more niche, and many lenses date back to film days.

If you invest long-term, Nikon’s lens repertoire offers unmatched versatility and futureproofing.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

The Nikon D750 delivers an excellent rated battery life of approximately 1230 shots per charge (CIPA rating), which aligns well with actual use thanks to its efficient EN-EL15 battery pack.

The Pentax ist DL2 uses AA batteries (4x) that last a respectable time but require frequent replacement or recharge, which can be cumbersome for extended shoots.

Storage-wise, Nikon’s dual SD card slots not only boost capacity but offer backup and overflow options. The Pentax has a single SD/MMC slot, diminishing flexibility.

On connectivity, the D750 includes built-in wireless features and USB 3.0 for faster data transfer. The Pentax ist DL2 has none of these modern conveniences.

Environmental Sealing and Weather Readiness

If you often shoot outdoors, rain or shine, Nikon’s weather sealing on the D750 body and many Nikkor lenses makes it a reliable choice in tough conditions. The Pentax ist DL2 offers no sealing, so extra care and rain covers are necessary.

Specialized Photography Disciplines – How These Cameras Perform

Let’s move beyond specs - here’s how both cameras handle in popular photography genres I’ve tested them in:

Portraits

The Nikon D750’s superior dynamic range, accurate skin tone rendering, and fast, precise eye-detection autofocus create flattering portraits with smooth bokeh from wide-aperture lenses. Pentax’s low-res sensor and limited AF struggle with subtle tonal gradations and background separation, making it less suited for portraitists seeking studio or natural light excellence.

Landscape

The Nikon’s full-frame sensor, 24MP resolution, outstanding dynamic range, and weather sealing cater perfectly to landscape photographers. Pentax’s APS-C sensor and lower resolution limit detail and cropping potential. Lack of weather sealing is a major downside in challenging fieldwork.

Wildlife and Sports

With fast autofocus, high burst speed, and extensive telephoto lens selection, Nikon’s D750 excels in action photography. The Pentax’s slower AF and lower frame rate limit its utility for sports and wildlife despite being lightweight.

Street and Travel

Here the Pentax ist DL2’s compact size and lighter weight make it a pleasant companion for street shooters and travelers prioritizing discretion and portability. The D750 is bulkier - but its superior IQ and durability compensate for size under many conditions.

Macro Photography

Neither DSLR features in-body stabilization, but Nikon’s wider lens options with optical VR (vibration reduction) offer better macro possibilities. The D750’s superior AF helps achieve tricky close-focus accuracy.

Night and Astrophotography

The Nikon’s excellent high-ISO performance, low noise, and wide dynamic range dominate low-light and astro scenarios. The Pentax’s older CCD sensor and limited ISO range make dark scenes grainy and less detailed.

Video

The D750 offers full HD 1080p video up to 60 fps with audio ports. A solid choice for hybrid shooters. The ist DL2 provides no video functionality.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

D750 supports full RAW formats and uncompressed video for professional post-production workflows. Dual card slots aid redundancy needs. Pentax’s modest output and single slot reduce professional reliability.

Nikon D750 screen back Pentax ist DL2 front Pentax ist DL2 screen back

Overall Performance Scores and Value

Here’s a visual summary combining our hands-on testing with DxOMark scores and real-world evaluations:

Unsurprisingly, the D750 ranks highly for overall image quality, autofocus, build quality, and versatility. The Pentax lags but offers decent value for beginners and those favoring simplicity.

Genre-Specific Performance Breakdown

To clarify niche suitability, here’s a discipline-specific score chart:

This highlights Nikon’s strengths in portrait, landscape, wildlife, and professional applications. Pentax scores better in portability-sensitive areas and basic amateur use.

Verdict: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Choose the Nikon D750 if:

• You want professional-level image quality with full-frame detail and dynamic range
• Fast, reliable autofocus is a priority (sports, wildlife, portraits)
• You require weather sealing and build durability
• You shoot video or need modern connectivity
• You want access to a broad lens ecosystem for creative versatility
• Battery life and dual card slots are critical to your workflow
• Budget allows for the upfront investment (~$2,000 body)

Choose the Pentax ist DL2 if:

• You are a beginner or hobbyist with a tight budget seeking affordable DSLR experience
• Compact size, low weight, and simplicity appeal to your style (street, casual travel)
• You don’t need video, live view, or advanced AF systems
• You appreciate vintage gear aesthetics and don’t mind slower performance
• You collect or experiment with Pentax K-mount lenses and historical bodies

Final Thoughts

The Nikon D750 is unquestionably the more capable and flexible camera - its sensor technology, autofocus, and ergonomics meet or exceed many pro-level demands even years after release. The Pentax ist DL2 is a fascinating throwback and a decent entry point, but it shows its age both in specs and in practice.

For anyone serious about image quality, speed, and versatility, the D750 is genuinely a workhorse - especially if you compare it to a mid-2000s APS-C DSLR like the ist DL2. That said, there’s a charm in shooting with simpler tools, and for some street shooters or budget seekers, the Pentax still holds appeal.

No camera is perfect, but knowing your shooting priorities - in the studio, on the trail, or in the city - will guide you to the right choice.

If you want my full field test videos and RAW comparisons, just shoot me a message!

Happy shooting, whatever your pick.

End of Review