Nikon D700 Camera Assessment

Ian Miller
Jul 17
2 min read

Updated: Jul 19

Overview:

Released in 2008, the Nikon D700 was Nikon’s first affordable full-frame DSLR aimed at professional and advanced amateur photographers. Sharing much of its DNA with the flagship D3, the D700 brought high-end performance into a more compact and accessible body, making it a standout in Nikon’s lineup for many years.

Key Specifications:

Sensor: 12.1 MP full-frame CMOS sensor (FX-format)
ISO Range: 200–6400 (expandable to 100–25,600)
Autofocus: 51-point Multi-CAM 3500FX AF system
Burst Rate: Up to 5 fps (8 fps with battery grip)
Build: Magnesium-alloy body, weather-sealed
Viewfinder: 95% coverage, 0.72x magnification
LCD: 3.0" VGA (920k dots)
Video: Not available (still photo only)

Strengths:

Image Quality: The D700 delivers excellent image quality, particularly in low light. Its 12MP sensor prioritises dynamic range and clean high ISO performance over sheer resolution, making it ideal for photojournalism, portraiture, and event photography.
Robust Build: The rugged, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body is built to last. It can handle demanding environments and heavy use, appealing to professionals who need durability in the field.
Professional-Level Autofocus: The 51-point AF system, inherited from the D3, is fast, accurate, and highly configurable, performing reliably even in challenging lighting.
Ergonomics and Handling: With a traditional Nikon control layout, dual command dials, and a deep grip, the D700 feels solid and intuitive in hand, especially for those used to Nikon DSLRs.
Legacy Lens Compatibility: The D700 supports a wide range of Nikon F-mount lenses, including older manual focus lenses with metering support, which adds significant value for users with existing lens collections.

Limitations:

Resolution by Today’s Standards: While 12MP is more than enough for many applications, it limits cropping flexibility and large-format printing compared to modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.
No Video Capability: The lack of video recording may be a dealbreaker for hybrid shooters, especially in an era where even entry-level cameras offer HD or 4K video.
Outdated Features: The D700 lacks modern conveniences like a tilting touchscreen, Wi-Fi, or dual card slots—features that have become standard in recent cameras.
Bulk and Weight: While solidly built, the D700 is heavy and large compared to modern mirrorless systems, which may deter travel or street photographers seeking a lighter kit.

Conclusion:

The Nikon D700 remains a cult favourite among photographers who value reliability, ruggedness, and top-tier image quality at a reasonable price. Though today’s standards technologically outpace it, its performance, especially in low light, continues to impress. For those who don’t need video or ultra-high megapixel counts, the D700 can still be a formidable tool, especially on the used market.

Ideal For: