Nikon D300S vs. D400 – To Wait or Not to Wait?
08 October 2009
Just to think that it was only six months ago when all the rumours were dead set on the release of a Nikon D400 or a Nikon D700X (D750), or both, which would have put Canon and their EOS 5D Mark II meekly into a corner. Instead, we are now seeing the release of an innovative EOS 7D from the Canon camp while the best that Nikon has shown us is an improved, but boring (yawn…), D300S which you won't see many D300 shooters upgrading to. With talk of the D400 becoming more imminent once again, let's explore whether the fabled Nikon D400 would really be worth the wait…
Factors to Consider
Nikon D300S
Nikon D400*
Resolution
12 megapixels
16-18 megapixels
LCD Display
3.0 inch (920k dots) LCD
3.0 inch (920k dots) vari-angle LCD
Memory Storage
Dual Slot (1x CF & 1x SD)
Single Slot (1x CF)
ISO Sensitivity
ISO 200-3200
(Extended: ISO 6400)
ISO 200-3200
(Extended: ISO 100-12800)
HD Movie
720/24p (5mins limit)
1080/24p (30mins limit)
Autofocus during Movie Mode
YES (Manual Activation)
YES (Manual Activation)
Continuous Burst Speed
7fps (8fps with MB-D10 grip)
6.5fps (8fps with battery grip)
AF System
Multi-CAM3500DX (51-point)
Multi-CAM3500DX (51-point)
Pop-up Flash
YES
YES
As you can see, it's unlikely that the D400 will deliver any major improvements beyond higher resolution and possibly better noise handling. Nikon may throw in electronic levelling similar to the Pentax K-7 or the Canon EOS 7D but it's not going to be a major factor in the buying decision. Perhaps given Nikon's success with the initial release of the D300, they did not feel there is much need to improve significantly. With Canon's 7D, the game plan will have changed but if the D400 is to come soon… then don't think you will see more than the expected. Of course, Nikon may just delay the release and take it back to the drawing board. Either way, don't wait if you need a camera now… unless you plan to change to full frame… in which case, the Nikon D700X may or may not be just around the corner… Just remember, if the camera serves your needs, you would probably be happy with it. Photographers are the key to good photos… not cameras.
# Artistic Rendering of Nikon D400
* Nikon D400 specs are based on popular expectations and best guess
I am currently using a Rebel XSI, an awesome little camera with a fierce ability to produce great images! One of my problems, however, is excessive high ISO noise. Also, I am looking for a more advanced camera; I am juggling between Nikon and Canon. My sister-in-law shoots Nikon, has for years teaching High school sports photography. She now uses a D-90. I am looking at getting something of a better grade than that. The d300s seems attractive, but not good enough to convince me to depart from Canon equipment. The new 7d, in all the many reviews I have read, seems at least equal to the d300s in so many ways. What I have been able to learn about the d400 really does not impress me to the point of going from Canon to Nikon. Is there any compelling reason to go for Nikon over Canon?
C From HONG KONG
09 Oct 2009, 11:57am
Why do you think the D400 will give up the dual storage of the 300s?rnrnAlso, Canon has been taking a lot of heat for packing in too many pixels on the crop sensor. Wouldn't Nikon get the same kind of flack for doing the same? I.e. would they be more likely to go for a 14-15 megapixel sensor and in stead focus more on high-ISO capabilities?
