So, the introduction of the D700 creates a quandry...in what way(s) is the D700 superior to or inferior to the D3? Is the D3 worth a $2000 premium? Here's what I've been able to gather so far...(if this thread generates interest, I'll edit my table below with updates ...)

Until we see the camera, or at least the manual, we won't know for sure all of the differences. For example, does the D700 contain the built-in intervalometer function of the D3? Don't know. And there are other firmware features that are as yet unknown. Some may favor the D3; some may favor the D700.

The D3 AF is quicker than the D300 from the reports I've seen, but what, if anything, that portends for the D700 I don't know.

D3 has interchangeable focusing screens; D700 does not.

-- Jon
Wethersfield, CT, USA
Connecticut High School Sports Photos

The D3 has more processing power than the D300. Since the D700 has a slower frame rate than the D300, I assume it has the same processing power as the D300. The slower frame rate would be due to the larger FX sensor. Based on my assumption, the D3 would have more processing power than the D700. Of course, it will take some testing to prove or disprove my assumption.

Shoot nature with respect and don't trample it or startle its inhabitants.

It would be hard for me to justify $2000 for the slightly more features of the D3. My guess is the D3 price will drop to $4000. And then, that will be a lot closer. Then, it's actually D700+Grip+battery vs a D3, and the difference is only about $700. May still not be enough, but a lot closer. The way it is now, not a freaking chance.

You may well be right, but the slower frame rate of the D700 compared with the D3 could equally be due to using a lesser shutter and mirror mechanism, and the slightly slower rate compared with the D300 could be because the shutter and mirror are larger.

As you say, we'll know when samples are available for detailed examination and testing.

Brian
Welsh Nikonian
Check out the Nikonians Team pages

Hi,

For me there are basically two reasons to chose the D700 over the D3, size and price. However if I could afford it I would probably buy the D3 for the 100% coverage in the viewfinder in spite of its larger size.

Enjoy!

Randy

The Con of Heavier for the D3 only applies to the D700 on it's own. With the MB-D10 fitted the D700 is both larger and heavier than the D3

is it really creating a quandry?

I think the D3 and D700 compete in different markets. and this market is not only defined by the price, but size is a major factor.

Im not sure how the D700 perform with a el-en4 battery,but i think the D3 lasts longer on a charge. I have heard that the D3 lasts for 4.700 shots but i dont know how reality is.

Nikolaj Freiesleben

You forget that the shutter of the D3 is rated for double the exposures of that of the D700.

I would be interested to see how the viewfinder blackout time compares between the D3 and D700, as the D3 is very fast.

You also forgot the D3 has a 5:4 mode for those that like 8x10 or 16x20 prints without needing to do post cropping.

Shoot nature with respect and don't trample it or startle its inhabitants.

I would change the D3 con of being heavier to "can't be made lighter" instead since the D700 is actually heavier if you add the optional grip.

Shoot nature with respect and don't trample it or startle its inhabitants.

Or: you can make the D700 as big, heavy & intimidating as the D3 if you add the optional grip.

It's a lot faster to type or to say D3 than D700 because of the two extra zeros.

The D3 also has a speaker and microphone that is missing on the D700.

Shoot nature with respect and don't trample it or startle its inhabitants.

is the lack of a built in flash really a con?

>is the lack of a built in flash really a con?
Yes, if you want to use it in Commander mode to trigger remote speedlights in wireless i-TTL. Then you have to buy the SU-800 unit, which does the same thing.

Hammam

Is the lack of a built in flash really a con?
Yes, if you want to use it in Commander mode to trigger remote
speedlights in wireless i-TTL. Then you have to buy the SU-800
unit, which does the same thing.

Hammam

Hi Hammam...

I'm not sure if that's true as it's a feature I don't really care or worry too much about. However, my understanding is that an SB-800 in the Commander Mode will trigger external flash units. I could be wrong, but if so, I'm certain there are any number of helpful, considerate Nikonians who'll be happy to set me and the issue straight...

Dick
The Long Ranger
A Telephoto Lovin' Nikonian

"There are none so blind as those who would not see..."

Good additional points. Unfortunately, I cannot edit the OP to add to my table...maybe a new thread if there's enough interest.

I wonder how many people make use of the microphone/voice recording feature of the D3? I've never made a voice annotation on my D2X.

The built-in commander flash is a nice feature. I've used that a number of times with my D300, although I prefer the SU800 because to make changes with the built-in flash you need to go into the menus, which is cumbersome. You can do the same with an on-camera SB800, but I don't usually do that because the SU800 is lighter and smaller.

Now that the D900 and D3X are being rumored, with most folks thinking of the D3X as a certainty, what to buy....???

Lack of a little built in flash might be a plus because the little thing and all the support needed for it is gone and there is more space for better features. Most pros would be using a more powerful strobe because one can control the power of the flash and rotate the head for much more control.

How did the D2 control remote SB-800/600's before the SU-800 was introduced?

Both the SB-900/800 are capable of being either a commander or a master unit for controlling remote SB-900/800/600 units and can control 3 groups of remote flashes and not just the 2 of the D700 and SU-800. You might want to review the difference between the commander function and master function. The SU-800 can only be a commander and never a master.

George
My Nikonian Galleries

I'm planning on buying the D3 this fall, although, the D700 looks mighty inviting. I'm hoping the price of the D3 will drop with word of the D3X coming.

George:

The SU800 can control three remote groups. The D200, D300, and D700 (per specs, I haven't handled a D700) can control only two groups.

Yes, the SU800 can only be a commander as it cannot function as a flash as well, as can the SB800 and SB900. If you are not planning to use on-camera flash, the SU800 is smaller and lighter, and I prefer to us it. If I need a light from near camera position, I usually bring in another SB800.

nl

Besides what was said above, Thom Hogan in his recent (& late!) D3 review mentions:
- Pro D700 Difference: Gridlines in viewfinder, Focus Assist lamp, Better Info screen handling & LCD protective cover supplied
- Pro D3 Difference: Better weather sealing, Extra secondary LCD on back, Smaller size when grip is used on both

I think he nails it with "D700 is more targeted to the serious amateur and pro backup market".

Lack of portability & hefty price is what ruled out the D3 for my type of photography & budget & is what makes the D700 so attractive to me.

Built-in flash & sensor cleaning module are quite useful in a pinch when you want the smallest possible package when hiking or shooting in a crowd.

Since the engine is the same (sensor), cup holders, interior trimmings & mp3 connector differences are really not that important for me.

In the field self sensor cleaning with a D300 in 15 seconds through menu (vs. D3 lens off, mirror locked-up & blower):

Attachment #1, (jpg file)