Nikon D700
Announced July 1, 2008
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The Nikon D700 is a versatile full-frame DSLR that delivers excellent image quality and robust performance in a body that is smaller and more accessible than the flagship D3. Although it lacks modern features like video recording and high-resolution sensors, it remains a highly regarded tool for photographers who value build quality and reliable autofocus.
Weighted from 25 reviewer scores
Pros
- Excellent image quality with impressive high-ISO performance
- Fast and accurate 51-point autofocus system
- Ergonomic design with a large, bright optical viewfinder
- Strong battery life and broad F-mount lens compatibility
- Robust, weather-sealed magnesium alloy construction
Cons
- Heavy and bulky physical design
- Limited resolution and lack of modern features like video or wireless connectivity
- Incomplete viewfinder coverage and lack of sensor-shift stabilization
- Occasional issues with white balance and autofocus in specific conditions
- Minor hardware frustrations including rubber grip wear and loose eyecups
- Launch price $2,999 (USD)
- Sensor 12.1MP Full-Frame CMOS
- Burst 5 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 25 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
Is this product missing a reputable review? Share a link to a review article or YouTube video for consideration.
-
When we reviewed Nikon’s first full-frame DSLR, the D3, in April this year we said it was ‘possibly the most compelling, capable and well-rounded professional digital SLR ever made.’ Only three months later Nikon announced another full-frame camera with the D700.
-
The Nikon D700 is well-built, with such superb features and a nimble, smart interface. It is adaptable to most any kind of photography, and thanks to its full-frame sensor, works with lenses in a way that photographers familiar with 35mm film will find comfortable and familiar.
- Cameralabs 89%
Nikon has been very cunning with the feature-set of the D700, taking the key specifications of the D3, and only leaving those which would affect a small and generally pro audience – who probably already have a D3 anyway.
-
The Nikon D700 yields very impressive, practically noise-free results between ISO 200 and 1600.
-
I've awarded the Nikon D700 with our highly recommended award because of the image quality, features and performance.
-
[T]he Nikon D700 looks and handles closer to the D300 than D3, in terms of controls and layouts, whilst of course featuring the D3's full frame capture ability, but in a lighter and smaller design. As such it comes across as a kind of 'greatest hits' of Nikon DSLRs.
-
The Nikon D700 is a great camera, but it’s not perfect. The autofocus can be slow, the dust reduction system is a little suspect, and there are some colour issues.
-
The D700 is the ultimate enthusiast's DSLR, offering class-leading performance across the board. If you've got the money, buy one immediately!
-
Nikon has played a smart card with the D700, where professional credentials meet affordability.
- CNET 8.5/10
As long as you don’t need seriously high-resolution photos, video capture, or machine-gun-fast sports shooting, the Nikon D700 has everything you need in a pro full-frame camera for a reasonable price.
-
The Nikon D700 is Nikon's most affordable full-frame DSLR. I don't recommend it for beginners - it's heavy and requires an understanding of photography techniques.
-
It may just be all the camera you’ll ever need.
- Photo Review 9/10
Nikon’s D700 is positioned between the ‘pro-sumer’ D300 and the professional D3 models and is the second Nikon DSLR with an FX-format (35mm sized) CMOS sensor.
-
The Nikon D700 is a camera defined by what it does brilliantly rather than what it lacks, and this demonstrates why it still matters.
-
The D700 is smaller and lighter than the Nikon D3 which is over twice its price, but still affords the same incredible image quality.
-
The Nikon D700 is Nikon's, and the world's, best serious digital camera. The old professional D3 costs more and runs faster for sports, but the D700 is newer, smarter, smaller and lighter.
-
When I bought my Nikon D700, it was the cheapest full-frame Nikon I could find. I didn’t expect to use it for anything more than product photography, and didn’t expect it to wow me as much as my F4 or even my F100.
-
The Nikon D700 is an envy-inducing device, a camera of breathtaking all-round competence.
-
I think I know what kind of beast it is now: the Goldilocks camera: not too big, not too small, just right, and incredibly versatile.
-
[I]'m just blown away by how good the quality of the images are, especially the RAW files and the JPEG when you're shooting ISO 3,200 or whatever.
-
Low noise and excellent image quality make the Nikon D700 a great, easy-to-use choice for astrophotography.
-
[I]n short, if you’ve dreamed of a D3 without the D3 pricetag, your dreams have finally come true in the Nikon D700 (and it’s why I’m awarding it my “Scott Thinks It’s Hot!” Award).
-
The main point is that Nikon has made full-frame quality more accessible with this camera. ‘Groundbreaking’ is the word that comes to mind when you use it and see the results.
-
Even today, the Nikon D700 is still a very capable, full-frame DSLR with a robust body and an optical viewfinder. The camera switches on almost instantly, ready to use. It will also give you beautiful photos with great colors straight out of the camera and pleasant-looking grain.
-
This is a joy to shoot, it's a banging value camera, it's really, really impressive value, and I'm definitely holding on to mine, so this one will stay in the drawer, stay with me.
