The
Nikon D1H, D100 and D70 Digital Cameras Compared
by Lars Troels
username: Lars
Troels
Nikonian in Denmark
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INTRODUCTION
By
no means complete in all minute details of differences and similarities,
the intention here is to compare only the most relevant features.
Features which in my view show the amazing evolution of Nikon's
digital SLRs development. Those which do make a significant
difference from the perspective of the user.
My
very personal conclusion is that the D70 is a fantastic camera
and, before the D2X is in the stores shelves, Nikon's best.
The Nikon D100 is an excellent camera that can deliver amazing
photos; but a camera superseded by the D70 in almost every aspect.
If you don't absolutely need the vertical grip capability, get
the D70. The D1H is also a fantastic camera, built strong as
a tank and lightning fast. Surpassed in certain areas, nevertheless
still amongst the best in the world for sports photography.
I've concluded that if I could have most of the D70 on a D1H
body I would be a most happy man 
Yeah,
but one could ask "What about the D2H?" Well, it is
not in this comparison for two reasons. First, the D2H is at
another price range, despite it's dramatic price drop in the
USA. Second, I have not used the D2H enough to feel qualified
to judge it. I have closely followed the knowledgeable debate
about this camera at nikonians.org to know that a D2Hs will
soon follow. Evidently, the D2X can't be by itself in the top
range of pro DSLRs in Nikon's product strategy.
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Nikon
D1H - 2001
With
2.7 effective megapixels; S, C, and M shooting modes,
the D1H gives us 5 frames per second and up to 40 consecutive
shots in a rugged F5-like body. Flash synchronizes up
to 1/500 of a second.
When
it came to market it was around 3,100 USD. Today can be
found used, in excellent plus condition, for about 1,300
USD.
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Nikon
D100 - 2002
The
D100, with 6.1 effective megapixels, allows for 3 frames
per second bursts into a 6 frames buffer, in a F100-like
chassis. D-TTL flash synchronizes up to 1/180 of a second.
Back
in 2003, its price was 1,500 USD. Curently can be still
be found brand new for 1,200 USD, 1,000 USD after rebate
in the USA. |
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Nikon
D70 - 2004
Then
comes the D70, with the same 6.1 effective megapixel rating
as the D100. Built over a F/N80-like chassis allows 3
frames per second and a 12 frames dynamic buffer that
lets you capture up to 144 pictures in sequence with no
buffer stall using selected CF cards. i-TTL Flash synchronizes
up to 1/500 of a second, as the D1H.
Current
price in the US is 1,000 USD. |
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In
many areas the three cameras performances compare, but it is
important to take into account the difference made by their
specific positioning in Nikon's product segment strategy. Also,
one should remember that there are digital light years of technological
advancement in between each of them. The Nikon D70 is, for example,
way ahead in some areas, even though the least expensive model,
simply because it is the newest member of the family and takes
advantage of such developments.
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