Nikon D800 / D800E
Announced February 7, 2012
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 D800E delivers class-leading resolution and exceptional dynamic range, making it a powerful choice for photographers who prioritize fine detail and shadow recovery. While the lack of a low-pass filter enhances sharpness, users should be prepared for potential moiré in specific subjects and the need for rigorous technique to maximize image quality.
Weighted from 28 reviewer scores
Pros
- Extensive dynamic range and shadow detail
- Exceptional image resolution and sharpness
- Solid build quality and ergonomic handling
- Strong high ISO and noise performance
- Reliable autofocus system for diverse conditions
Cons
- Limitations in live view and manual focus
- Slow continuous shooting speed
- Complex interface and button layout changes
- Large file sizes requiring significant storage
- Risk of moiré patterns
- Launch price $3,299.95 (USD)
- Sensor 36.3MP Full-Frame CMOS
What the Reviewers Say
All 28 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- DPReview 82/100
Expanded video capabilities hold appeal for those who need to produce both stills and video while on assignment.
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If you'll be exclusively photographing natural landscapes or other subjects where you can be confident that moiré won't be a problem, or if you need to avoid the low-pass filter for scientific imaging, the D800E is a fine choice.
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Promising extremely high-resolution images, the Nikon D800 doesn't disappoint; better yet, its high-ISO performance surprised us, able to produce a good 8 x 10-inch print even at ISO 25,600.
- Cameralabs 87%
The Nikon D800 is a triumph for still shooters. The new 36 Megapixel full-frame sensor delivers tremendous quality, comfortably out-resolving the Canon EOS 5D Mark III while matching its noise levels when viewed at 1:1.
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Given how little noise there is, I would not hesitate to use it at ISO 3,200 and could even push it as high as ISO 6,400.
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Even eleven years after it was launched, the Nikon D800 has a very respectable specification and gives exception image quality when used effectively.
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All those pixels deliver big time, and in a smaller less expensive body. State of the art in terms of current DSLR image quality.
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Yeah, the Nikon D800E, it's very easy to use, it's light, great selection of lenses, and when we put the files side by side, there wasn't much to pick between.
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The Nikon D800 offers unprecedented resolution at an unthought of price point, packed full of features, many from the Nikon D4 that is almost twice the price.
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On the resolution front, the Nikon D800E delivers images with a truly stunning amount of detail, even more so than the standard D800 model, and certainly comparable to what you can achieve with a number of medium-format digital cameras and backs.
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The D800E is a great camera for those who want the ultimate in sharpness from a DSLR, but it’s not for everyone.
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Nikon has managed to produce a camera that delivers exactly what many enthusiast and pro photographers want.
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There’s no doubt the D800E is a slightly specialist offering, but if you think you’ll be able to take full advantage of the potential of the D800E, then the extra investment is worth it.
- CNET 8.8/10
An excellent addition to the Nikon SLR line, the D800 does not disappoint on any front. If you don’t need the machine-gun speeds or hefty size of the D4, this camera provides a very satisfying photographic experience.
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The Nikon D800 is an excellent professional full-frame camera with a very large dynamic range and, consequently, very good image quality. I highly recommend it.
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The Nikon D800 then is a camera for those requiring a high level of detail above all else, perhaps because of a need to deliver pictures that can be printed billboard size.
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The D800 is a fantastic camera and its consistency with other Nikon cameras – and compatibility with lenses – mean there’s no need for existing Nikon users to switch allegiance. It’s time to start saving up.
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With its ultra-high resolution, the D800 can capture more details than any camera other than the almost identical D800E which does not feature an anti-alias filter.
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You, Nikon devotee, you should buy this camera.
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The Nikon D800 is the world's highest technical performance DSLR for outdoor, nature, landscape and many other kinds of precision photography.
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Quality: spectacular. You’ll find the enormous image size a great benefit in cropping in post editing. [T]his is a phenomenal piece of kit!
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[T]he impressions are good: very seldom is there a camera which I would consider perfect or close to it (the D700 was probably the last one) – the D800E pushes the image quality envelope forward by a significant margin, and with this necessarily comes compromises.
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If I were given the choice today though, I’m pretty sure I’d still go with the D800. The only reason is that from time to time, I may need the extra resolution.
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The Nikon D800 is indeed a standard setting camera that other manufacturers will have to scramble to approach.
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If you want to print huge prints, it’s an amazing camera that has no rival (unless you count cameras costing tens of thousands of dollars).
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For portrait, landscape, commercial work this camera is where it’s at.
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This is the best camera on the market, so if you want the best bang for buck, the highest resolution and the overall best camera for video and photos, I personally recommend the Nikon D800E.
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[T]he D800 and D800E are outstanding.
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