I bought the Nikon D780 and I am very happy with the choice. As this camera has a BSI sensor, I think the detail capture is even better. I also own the D750 and the raw files in D780 are about 15 percent larger with same lens at about 26 - 28mb per Raw holding more fine detail. This is the only hybride Nikon with dual focusing systems. Superfast AF in photo still mode using phase detect. In video, it uses the same PDAF sensor of Z6 for tracking fast and locking on, with face and eye detect. I would recommend it to anyone who loves using DSLRs for pro or semi-pro or hobby use and also want pro video. The Nikon 28-300mm is a very sharp lens as is the Nikon 24-120mm F4 (I own both). I would guess this camera is still a best seller for DSLR Nikon users. Thanks for review showing features.
Great review! So happy to see you on YT. I've been enjoying your blog for about two years. Love the How-To posts and no-BS reviews. My technique is slowly improving.
Truly no one better in the photo biz than Ken Rockwell. Been following you for at least 20 years now. Just shot my 700th event and much of the equipment I’ve used has been based on your reviews.
So happy you're finally active on the tubes! We can bin all other camera gear channels now ;) Question: is the size of the autofocus area similar to the D750 is more similar to a D800?
Thank you Ken for an excellent comprehensive and professional review. I am now the proud owner of a D780 and a 28-300mm 5.6 zoom lens. Awesome camera rig!
Really enjoyed this video. It told me all I wanted to know about the D780. It's also given me a lot to think about as I look for a second hand camera to ease myself back into taking pics for money again. I've been told by a few pros to get the D850 but after watching this I'm sold on the USB-C. I imagine this will make a great charging option when travelling. I'm also keen on the improved low light capability over the 850 and not fussed in regards to the lack of battery grip. Two SD cards is also a plus. Thanks Ken!
Thanks! I try not to come off as a know it all, thanks for letting me know it came off as informative. Honestly I have been shooting - well - forever and I like to share that as best I can. There are so many unqualified people handing out free information it’s hard to tell them apart. Trick: look at their portfolios. Most people handing out reviews have no gallery to show for it. Thanks again!
I really enjoyed your review about the D780! Thinking of upgrading from a D7100. I was stuck between buying a D7500, D500, or a Z6.... but lately I was exploring the D780. Your fantastic review makes my decision much easier! It's gonna be the D780!
Oh Ken! I first dropped by your site eons ago and bought my first DSLR a Nikon D70s based on your recommendation. You mentioned that its 1/500 flash sync speed was something even pro cameras didn't have. I still have the D70s and it still works like a charm. Then I progressed to a D7000 and now am thinking about the D780. Yes, I have a Sony E-mount camera but when I pick up the Nikon the solid build quality and reliability always has me coming back. Looking forward to more of your videos!
Terrific review. No one is as thorough as you when it comes to reviewing cameras. What blows me away is that you are using the Nikon 28-300 mm lens, which doesn't get high marks from DxoMark. Your images are outstanding, and you did not enhance many of them. Wow!!
28-300mm excels on D850. I’ve been doing this a heck of a lot longer than DxO; in the hands of talent the 28-300 is super sharp, this you may daddy ignore DxO. see samples at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/28-300mm.htm#sampleimages DxO are great people, but they get consumers all paranoid about the wrong things. Life isn’t a lab. Thanks!
Really liked this review, Ken. Glad to know I’m not the only one who likes this camera but I think they kind of blew it on the pricing. Love seeing that vintage 1.2 on there the whole time, as well.
Prices only go down. Give it a while and wait for the dollar to gain against the yen. D750 sold for EXACTLY THE SAME DOLLAR PRICE back when it came out in 2014, which is the same as a $2,500 camera today. $2,300 for S780 is perfectly reasonable.
I bought this d780 and really love it! the only thing is that you can't use a battery grip on it. so no MB-D16. Either way... I love it! by the way, I didn't know Ken had a TH-cam channel, I accidentally discovered his website about 20 years ago when I was studying photography in college. I wanted to know every single detail about Nikon lenses and Ken was the only person who had a website with charts, models, manuals.... etc etc. so now that I have the opportunity to say I will say.... THANK YOU KEN!!! Your knowledge and experience goes beyond anything!!! You are truly the man!
Got mine. I waited for a few years to upgrade from my D7100. I wasn’t happy with the D750 or the D500 and the D7500. However, this camera hit the nail on the head and I jumped on it. Really amazing and very happy with it.
Ken, excellent-to the point- review. Thanks for comparing the 780- to the 750. I have a 7200 and a 750 and I was going to trade one in on a 780 but I like my 750 and me having a crop sensor 7200 gives me added reach on my lenses should I need a little more distance. You review convinced me that the 780 is my next camera on the horizon.
Ken can correct me if I’m wrong but I believe that when you attach a “cropped sensor lens” to the 780 it automatically adjusts its sensor to match. This should give the same perspective as the 7200 will.
Excellent review Ken, have been reading your website since I got a brand new D70. Sitting back and listening it almost sounds like Jonathan Haidt reviewing Nikon, that's a good thing!
I have seen your review at least 3 times over the months... I love your philosophy on settings, I take your reviews and recommendations very seriously. I will soon upgrade to the D780 thanks to you! Then a Paypal thankyou coming.
Thank you Mr. Rockwell. Your video contained an extensive amount of detailed information. I’m planning on buying one very soon. Hopefully there is a good early Black Friday sale. As always, your content is TOP NOTCH.
Best review I've seen so far for the D780 on TH-cam (good you'r here!). I particularly liked your series of ISO pictures that showed the effects of high ISO settings, that really stroke me and was kind of the highlight in this video. And because I'm considering to move up the ladder it was very helpful to get some clear opinion about the Z-series that are getting touted so much for their smaller size, weight and better lenses but it seems that the new cameras don't (yet) get the same grade by a long time hard core Nikon photographer who knows his business in and out. Thank you!
Z6 and Z7 are simply Nikon’s first tries. Great for people who love having the newest and like Mirrorless for being able to see everything in the finder, but they are very clumsy to shoot. Z50 is better, while DSLRs still work much more quickly when you need to shoot. Thanks!
Hi Ken, I have been following your excellent reviews on the Nikon D780. After much deliberation between the D750 and D780, I have decided that the D780 will suit my photography needs (or wants?)better with more modern features.( I have found some Australian retailers are no longer stocking the D750 as supply and product life appears to be nearing an end?) The deal was sealed today when I purchased online from a reputable Australian camera retailer for $3102 AUD ($1797 USD) with a bonus SB 5000 flash valued at $699 AUD ($405 USD) v the best price I could find for the D750 of $2114 ($1225 USD). Both offers come with a Nikon 2 year warranty. Therefore the choice of the D780 became a little easier based on the price. ( I do expect the price of the D780 to rise in the near future based on recent world events affecting exchange rates).There is cheaper deals on the D750 with questionable warranties on the grey market and it pays to do your homework. I am looking forward to receiving my new toy this week. Thanks again for your informative, down to earth and knowledgeable reviews. Kind regards, Mark Wilson
This video has convinced me to experiment more with my picture control settings. You can't beat the full control of editing your photos by hand but picture control settings on the camera are clearly a powerful tool.
When I need to know the real deal about cameras and lenses, Ken is one of 2 go-to people I hold on high regard. Just look at his pictures….’nuff said!!!!
Thank you!! Yip, it’s all in the pictures. TH-cam is littered with people talking, but few of any can shoot, showing us we should ignore them if they have no good photos to show. See also my gallery www.kenrockwell.com/gallery.htm and www.kenrockwell.com/tech/2-kinds-of-photographers.htm
Fantastic camera I know - loves the old glass too. As long as you can carry the weight then you cannot go wrong . But I am no longer able to carry one all day now that I’m retired , so opted for something a lot smaller . Back in the day I loved 5x4 : what was I thinking ha ha. Yet, if you have used those cameras then you know how wonderful your images can be . Pick the right gear for the job and what you can carry . I am often reminded of Jane Brown who carried two secondhand Olympus film cameras and two lenses - 50 and 135 in a basket to jobs . Her work was great . She used no light meter , but only the back of her hand to judge exposure - just as I did with my F2 back then . Great video - and thanks
Hi Ken! Longterm reader of your blogs. Looking to upgrade my very old Nikon, and have been hovering over the 780 for a while... You made the decision for me! Incredible review. Thank you!
I did not knew Mr Rockwell is in TH-cam though I am going through your website for quite a long. Thanks for this review. Want to see many more in coming days!
Thanks! Yip, you guys insisted so now TH-cam, too. At least for the coming year I expect my online reviews will remain the more detailed and updated references. These videos have to be abridged from the written review so they don’t run five hours each. Thanks!
Thank you. I remember this when first posted. I bought this camera soon after. You stand out fantastic to others shooters. Excellent products and educational.
I bought this camera recently looking to upgrade into full frame and found that even now it is a good mix of image quality,dual card slots,used availability etc. with the money I saved compared to a comparable new mirrorless system (Sony is the closest in terms of lens selection to Nikon dslr but Nikon obviously has years and years of lenses in their back catalogue) I was able to get myself a 70-200b that I otherwise wouldn’t have
Yes. It’s here: www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d700.htm you’ll find a thousand times more detail and articles at KenRockwell.com rather than my TH-cam channel. Thanks!!!
Hello, congratulations on your work on TH-cam. Seeing your video, would you recommend buying this body? I was about to buy the z6 1 month ago, but this option that puts nikon on the table is making me hesitate. I have 9 nikon lenses so i am seriously considering buying the d780. Thank you
I like the D780 but not the Z6. Only some Nikon lenses work in Z6, and only then with an adapter. They all work on the D780. The Z6 and Mirrorless are night and day different from dslrs. All depends on what you want to shoot, and if changing (it’s not an upgrade, it’s a change) to Mirrorless than you should look at what brand to use. I prefer canon www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comparisons/nikon-vs-canon-vs-sony-full-frame.htm
Just saw this. Fantastic job with your review. I was a long time Nikonian starting with a FE 35 years ago up to a D610 then made a switch over to the a7Riii Sony. I'm giving that camera to my son and will be ordering the D780 shortly. Good thing I kept most of my lenses for the F mount. There's nothing like a Nikon...
Please let me know how you like it. I'm currently in the market for a new camera and I love the Nikon D780. However all these mirrorless options are making my decision little harder.
Thank you, Ken. I am pretty sure I am going to buy this camera. I would love to hear from you if I am making a mistake not getting the D850. I may move to mirrorless, but I am not a professional, and spending $4000 for a camera and $2000 for a lens is out of my range.
PS my favorite lens is the 28-300mm VR. See it’s review and where to get it at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/28-300mm.htm and see a more detailed review and the best places to get the D780 at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm
Yes, from back when Nikon led the world. Honestly the 58/1.2 Noct-NIKKOR doesn't work anywhere near as well as any of the modern Z lenses, but it looks nice and also drums home the fact that I do my own product shots in my own studio at great effort. Thanks!
Really enjoyed this review of the D780. I recently purchased this camera and I’m enjoying it. I’m now in the market for a flash. I’ve read that the d780 has compatibility issues even with the Nikon SB series. Has this proved true in your case? If not, what other manufacturers flashes would you recommend other than Nikon’s?
I haven’t tried flash with it. I see no reason all the last 15 years or so of I-TTL compatible Nikon flash won’t work brilliantly. Ignore what you read on the internet. I love my SB-400, small and works great even in the Z series.
No; different cameras. 850 has more pixels and crop modes, while 780 has a mode dial with presets. Neither is perfect, which is why I prefer my Canon 5DS/R instead that offers all of the best of both of those, and more pixels and more mode dial modes than either nikon!
@@KenRockwellTV I've been on the fence with the D850 on one side and the D780 on the other. Seems the 780 is a nice combo of D5, D850, and Z6. If I'm going to get a camera to accompany my D4S (better suited for sports and really fast action) and stay away from Nikon's current mirrorless offerings (own too much F mount glass) I might as well get the latest DSLR tech Nikon has to offer. Your reviews (and those of others) have helped to sway my decision. Thank you, sir.
Notice this D780 can digitizing 35mm film negative by using ES-2 adapter. Does this camera automatically convert to positive and straight out to computer? Thanks for your great review.
Oh man I learn so much from you Ken. For instance a real world reasoning for using 1x1 aspect ratio. Bam. Saturation settings? Bam. 95% of this review also applies to me that I can apply using my 10 year old Nikon D5000 and D7000 and my 7 year old Fujifilm X-S1. You repeat your thinking and reasoning and experience ad nauseam... I love it.
Thanks, just experience talking here. KenRockwell.com has been out before there were any practical shipping DSLRs. Back in 1999 we scanned our film and edited it on a computer; that was digital photography back when I first went on-air.
Great review Ken, I'm still considering the d780, on the point you mention about picture settings on vivid with saturation at +3, do you use those settings for every exposure ?,
I do, unless it’s people or something like a real estate listing where I want accurate color, instead of vivid color. See also my D780 users guide www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780-users-guide.htm thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV thank you, have noticed when using the saturation bumped by +3 the colours vary from lens to lens, casing point my tamron 70-300 vc produces a deeper purple and green than my tamron 70-200 g2...(both attached to D800e)...I find it enjoyable using different settings with different lens, I've always followed your method of shooting jpeg 99% of the time, in the 5 years I've been photographing and have found a lot of shooters get so hung up on sharpness, mega pixels, post processing etc which kind of detracts from the art we are trying to recreate and produce....just my view dosent mean I'm right lol....thanks for your in depth and thorough reviews, I've learnt so much from your product reviews
Hi dear Ken, I know you and your great and valued website since 10 years ago or a bit more when I was a university student and at that time I started photography with Zenit camera. I always read your articles to upgrade my knowledge on technology and here I have to appreciate you. You’re the best tester in the world. Now after your comparison and however I know that D780 is great upgrade, but based on my budget I decided to buy D750 + Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR + Nikon SB-400 AF. I hope it is still worth to buy the old D750. And at the end one technical question: To shoot a great photo, sensor is more important or lens? Thank you in advance for all your great works and efforts. God bless you!
Sensor and cameras and sensors don’t matter: only thing they really matters is the photographer. D750 is an awesome camera and a much better camera per dollar than the D780 when you’re on a budget. Thanks! See also www.kenrockwell.com/tech/notcamera.htm
Hi Ken, hope u're doing fine. I'm a Canon user and still use the legendary 5DII and 7D for my landscape and wildlife photography purposes respectively as an enthusiast. Main reason - IMO these workhorses produce better image quality than most of the latest models. I can comfortably live with the absence of extra bells and whistles of modern cameras. Likewise, had I been a Nikon shooter, I would prefer D700 and D300 for my needs. IMO, the D780, D700's second successor you are now talking about must produce great IQ mainly because, it possesses bigger pixels instead of over-crowded tiny ones. Also the updated sensor and processor are playing important roles. BTW, I'm also a lover of old lenses like you. Based on your review, I bought a used Canon EF 28-135mm IS. It's a gem and much better than owning an EF 24-105mm, its newer sibling. Canon stopped production of that great glass in 2016.
Hi from 2022! Shall I choose a D780, a D850 or a z6ii? (I have some great zoning MF and AF glass). I do photo and video (and the low light performance of the D780 seems pretty good which is a +). Thank you
I’d forget nikon Mirrorless; it’s way behind Canon - and with the lenses you own you’ll eventually buy all new Mirrorless, so you may as well upgrade to Canon if you want Mirrorless. The 780 is the newest and better if you want to do video or live view or huge dynamic range like shooting straight into the sun. The 850 excells as the highest resolution. Does that help? All depends what you went to do; I assume you mean you have DSLR lenses and they work best on DSLRs.
@@KenRockwellTV hi, thanks for the reply Ken. I have a lot of old Nikon FX manual focus + a few more modern auto focus glass (with VR). I am wondering if adapting is the way to go instead of sinking 1000s of dollars in a new mirrorless system. I really love the build quality of my D800 but it is lacking in some departments (low light and video) which is why I am wondering if I should stick to dslr (780/850) or jump into the mirrorless bandwagon. Nikon is really that far behind Canon in mirrorless? (the z6iii seems to be right around the corner ;))
@@jd5787 Manual lenses and many AF lenses work crappy adapted to Nikon. See my FTZ compatibility article www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/lenses/ftz.htm Don't waste your time; Nikons evil plan is that they can take pictures, however the experience is so poor that they know you'll eventually buy native Z lenses. Here's where you just got scammed when you do: by offering the iffy FTZ, you buy into the Nikon Z system thinking you're saving $1000s using your old lenses, bt wood up replacing them all anyway - when you could have just as easily upgraded to Canon instead since you rebought all your lenses! Stick with DSLRs with your F-mount lenses. If you want a mirrorless-like DSLR, the D780 does a great job of that.
Thank you for your reviews. I am still using the D700. Hate the flip up flash module (go away) Whilst I do not 'live view', a pull out screen would only be attractive if it worked horizontally and vertically. Yeah, yeah, yeah, a few more pixels would be good. Longest lens I frequently use is a 28shift. What is this 'hand held'?
@@KenRockwellTV I do watch your stuff/reviews - I still set up my camera with a spirit level, use 'manual', maybe the old pentax spotmeter. Yes, the old 'pre-ai' lenses have been 'filed down' for 'digital'. I thank you for being there.
I need a new camera myself, I have currently a Nikon D5200. I was looking into the D750 and the D810, both are great camera's from what I understood. But then I noticed this camera being released early this year. Which made me look in to it. I like what I see and that build in flash thing isn't a issue for me. Rather find that stupid thing highly annoying as it did often pop up without me even touching it. So actually find it a plus that it isn't on this camera. The double card slots I love as well, although so far I didn't figure out yet up to what card sizes it can take without slowing down too much. Something the D5200 seriously has issues with if you place a 64 card in it and higher it doesn't even do. A double card for me would be more to shoot a lot more photo's without bothering to switch cards all the time. I have no idea whether I can get the 2000 euro I need for this body, but I will most likely figure out a way to get it done. It would be the perfect update as the D850 is just too expensive. For the lenses, well being F-mount the lenses probably won't be a real big problem. I got 3 atm and I can probably buy more over time. I still need a lens that does 500mm or better for example. I have no fisheye lens yet or other specific lenses. Please do give me tips, will be welcomed! First lens is a Tamron AF70-300mm F/4-5.6Di LD macro 1:2 lens would be great (was thinking to replace this one with a general travel lens, along the lines of 24-300 or something like that) I have a Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG, I rarely use it as it's so damn heavy. I just won't replace it as it's a excellent lens. I got this one to replace the kit lens that originally came with my camera, that lens was just not doing much good at all. And the last lens is a Sigma 17-70mm F.2.8-4 DC Macro, this is my general main use lens right now. I love this thing and it's always with me. I ended up settling with this lens after my 50mm proofed to be lacking to some degree, I did want something that could zoom but no kit lens. So this was the best choice and it proved to be well worth it.
Hi Ken, Been a fan of your web site for years. I noticed as you scrolled through the shutter speeds and identified the time-exposure as the "- -" option but I also saw "Bulb" displayed in the mix. What's that all about?
Great review, I have been collecting zeiss lenses overt the years and i still use the three dragons. I looking foward ro reeplace my D-800 will you recommend the D-780 over the D-850?
Love your video reviews. Always the most comprehensive information. I now shoot a Nikon D750 which has performed well with one exception: shutter mech replacement. If I may ask you one question, where can I get my beloved Nikon D700 repaired? I called Nikon USA on Long Island only to find that they no longer service the D700. Any ideas as to where I might send this camera in for repair? The thought of finding one on eBay seems unwise now. Best, Jim Archer
Getting another on eBay seems great. Search “Sold items” to see what they go for and compare to a few hundred dollars for a repair typically. Also ask my repairman Gus www.kenrockwell.com/tech/repair.htm#gus
Great review Ken. I have been thinking about this body versus the Z6. I have alot of good glass and don't want to part with them. So this just makes sense. Plus u get the phase detect live performance. Thanks again Ken.
Thank YOU! I wouldn’t buy no on Mirrorless. Long term it’s a better idea to just go with Canon from the start rather than be stuck in Nikon. I prefer Canon for Mirrorless
Thanks to your review, I now have a good option for upgrading from a D5300 if the D850's price doesn't drop. I seriously need a full frame DSLR, so having an alternative choice to D850 is what I need. If the D780 is as good as it sounds I might just be able to upgrade my glass(lens) as well. I only have one FX lens(50mm f/1.8) so I need more. Thanks for the great review!
Wow after so many years reading your reviews it’s good to finally see them. Right now I’m replacing my old d300 and was deciding between this one and the d750. Would you justify the price difference or go with the older one? I think the d750 is kinda old in terms of technology but there doesn’t seem to be any real difference between them.
If you want flash or price matters, get the D750. If you’ve got money to burn, shoot movies or for some bizarre reason shoot mostly in live view, consider the 780. Read the written review at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm for the explicit details and comparisons. Thanks!
Have fun, just know that they are completely different fro dslrs. You might want to change brand while you’re at it; see www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comparisons/nikon-vs-canon-vs-sony-full-frame.htm
Awesome review! Thank you! You clearly know a lot about photography and have been shooting for a long time! I have a question. I am upgrading from my Nikon D7000 which has served me well for many years but I've found lacking in low-light situations. I'm deciding between the D850 and the D780. Which one do you think works best for travel photography?
Hi Stephanie! What works best is what weighs the least. Both the D780 and D850 are big. D780 weighs less and is newer, so among those two, I'd go D780. Does this help? Thanks for asking!
@@KenRockwellTV Thank you so much! I do agree that for travel the lower weight makes a difference! For that reason amongst others, I am now considering upgrading to the mirrorless system instead and going for the z6, as I am already spending money on new lenses for the full-frame system and might as well make those the z-lenses with the option to do better video as well during my travels! I hope you are doing well during these crazy times!
Hi Stephanie - check out the Z50 www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z50.htm it’s a better camera, and smaller and lighter than either of the Z6 or Z7. Be sure to get the lenses that come with it. You won’t need full frame lenses for it.
Nice video. I'm hesiting between d780 and d850(i have an opportunity to get a d850 with just 200$ more than the d780 that s why i hésitate) can you tell me on this year for wich one should i get? For wesding portrait and low light event. Thank you
Easy: d850 if you want too many pixels, while the d780 is much newer and especially better if you use much live view. For low light pixels do t matter, so I’d go with the D780. Thanks! Of course read the written review at kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm
Hi Ken, I'm tempted to get a D780 because my D750 is still worth something and it's now off the company accounts so I could get a D780 and with tax deductions it wouldn't cost much. I have some AF-D lenses and Z mount replacements are just too expensive. The thing is that I'm also tempted to get a nice used DF for similar money. If I can only have one which one should I get? I don't do enough video for it to matter.
D780. It’s the newest and last DSLR Nikon will ever make so you’ll have lots of years of support. Df is only for weirdos trying to use non-AI lens for what purpose I don’t know.
Great review, thank you. I have a D750 and love it; it's a real workhorse. But one of the things I love the most about it is the vertical grip. One of my few paying gigs is doing sports photography on the water, and craning my arm around to do a vertical shot while keeping my balance on a bouncing chase boat just isn't going to cut it. So, probably no D780 for me, at least not until the price has come down considerably. Oh well.
Ken you do Ap Fantastic Review of the Nikon D 780 Fantastic I use your settings on my D750 And photos are Amazing Thank you from Allan in nth Qld Australia, Merry Christmas 2020 Bring On 2021
So thjs or an R6? Price-wise they're rather similar and both offer good burst capability. Im not invested in either but looking for a FF system I can start growing with. I'm afraid the D780 might be a bit too bulky (hence why I love my fuji) but willing to sacrifice looks for something that works like a mule in all situations.
They are entirely different cameras and systems. See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/mirrorless-vs-dslr.htm If high frame rates are important, get the R6 which is over twice as fast, and does it silently. Canon also does a better job of taking care of its customers while Nikon, at least in the USA, tends to treat us more like an annoyance rather than the reason they exist. Thanks!
I have had my D750 for nearly 5 years now and I love it, came here to see if I should upgrade to the D780, it would be an upgrade but I dont think i need it... Besides the built in flash on the D750 is awesome for flash slave mode triggering...
Thanks you so much for the Wonderful review, Ken! I’m currently a d750 owner and I love it except two things. Firstly, 3D tracking doesn’t impress me too much and buffer drain out in very short time. Secondly, the ring like cut out around the sun dish you’ve mentioned in your first picture in the video really bothers me a lot. Do you find Z6 performing as smoothly as d780 does in terms of the transition between sun and sky? As I’m thinking of upgrading but hesitating d780 over Z6 because owning 6 AF-S and 1 AF D lens as well as IBIS though I’m just a causal video shooter, mainly for young kids.
As you comment that the photos are perfect out of camera.. with no more frustrating Perfectly Clear remarks for most even Nikon shots, would you stll place an 81A filter on say the 28-300?
81A filters went out with film and the very first DSLRs from 1999-2004. Haven’t used an 81A on digital ever since. I do use UV filters on everything for protection instead of caps. Thanks!
Hi ken what are your sharpness and picture control settings ie saturation and contrast for people and things on the nikon d780. Also what do you use inside and outside
That’s unimportant. It probably did, but it’s not something that matters much - although consumers worry themselves sick about it. See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/dynamic-range.htm thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV Thanks for the quick reply! I appreciate the dynamic range of the D750, its better than on my Leica Q, imo its more important than resolution.
@@KenRockwellTV read your article on DR, don't agree that consumers worry about DR, because they mostly don't even know about the topic. And yes, pros know how to deal with it, but that doesn't mean that more DR isn't an advantage. But yes, Nikon does it right for many years now, so I don't worry. Again thanks for your quick answer!
Agreed, but dynamic range is not specified by the makers so it’s an intangible, and how you set the camera also has a lot to do with it so it’s not as simple as measuring the cameras weight or size.
Hello Ken!, I'm only shooting prime AI and AIS lenses on my D780. However for me the exposure preview in M mode live view (with the meter set for a correct exposure) is too dark for ff5.6! If I turn exp.preview off I lose the light meter! In other words, live view, meter and resulting image all agree only for f5.6. Non-cpu lens data are set correctly and if I just follow the meter I get correct exposures. Is it so for everyone or is my camera malfunctioning? I can't find anyone mentioning this and it's driving me insane..
I haven’t tried live view in much depth, and not with manual focus lensss. Try both settings of exposure preview/simulation on and off, and be sure that the spring-loaded aperture feeler on the camera correctly follows the position of the aperture ring at every setting. Be sure this happens with every lens the same; if the lens has a sticky diaphragm and doesn’t stop down properly you’ll see weird things (differences between preview and resulting photos) as well.
@@KenRockwellTV Thanks for taking the time! Mechanicaly all my lenses are fine, so it's not that. I have a short 4' video about it, th-cam.com/video/ypBvfXGgeFU/w-d-xo.html If I could beg 4 minutes more of your time but it could also be a valuable addition to your own camera review if you're interested. Also someone of your stature covering this could mean Nikon fixing it... Thanks anyway!
Hi Ken, many thanks, great camera! Color rendition on my Nikon Z6 ist also excellent and vibrant like on this Nikon! Much better than my Sony A 7II I had before. Dynamic range is also great! I like this! Same vivid colors as with Canon R cameras. The only thing I miss on my Z6 is the missing SD card slot. Best wishes, Ralf
Easy: D500 for its superior af speed and its DX format which gets you 50% closer with the same lens. You’d need a 450mm lens on either other camera for the same picture you get with just 300mm on d500. Forget the Z cameras for action, dslrs are faster. Thanks!
I love this review, just have one (obvious I think) question to ask but I wanna be sure... if it s working with non AF 50's lenses, It is working with all the other AF lenses like the D ED lenses right ? (I have 50-mm 85mm & 80-200ED).
Not sure of your question, but if you mean doesn’t work well with classic manual lenses, yes, and with 1980s original AF lenses, also yes. Full details at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm#compat
Hi Ken, Question about AF D screw drive lens . I was out today shooting with my new 35mm F2D lens and a few times while auto focusing , my hand was on the lens and was stoping the AF as it wants to rotate. Would this damage the AF screw on the D700 or any Nikon with the AF screw drive? And could it damage the lens? I’m so use to supporting the lens with my left hand while focusing , so force of habit. Be am a little concerned. As soon as I realised my hand was catching the front element, I immediately moved it. Could I have caused any damage to camera or lens? Thanks
Hi! This is a defect in Nikons antiquated AF system. You are correct: don’t touch the focus ring. It won’t hurt the lens and shouldn’t hurt the camera, but obviously it’s not good and not helping anything if you impede the motion or turn it manually against the motor.
Thank you so much for the video. I’m planning to purchase my very first DSLR which is Nikon D750 along with 85mm 1.8 + 50mm 1.8 G lens. I’m wondering is it still worth to buy this camera considering 5 years old?. The concern I have is from D750 is - 1. Slower AF, 2. Shutter speed 1/4000 which is half the D780/Z6ii/Z5 1/8000. Are these show stopper for D750?. Purpose of buying a camera is for taking Portraits, Still, Landscape, Bird, Product photography (learning) and of course my kids. It would be really great if you throw some lights on my concern to make a wise decision.... other options I have considered is Nikon D780 with one of the lens and Z6ii with the kit lens... apart from D780 and Z6ii I have been suggesting to go with D850 with the kit lens. Thank you and looking forward to your suggestion.
As you point out, you’re new to this. Features like AF speed and 1/8,000 don’t matter much, but for me the built in flash does. Get the d750. It’s a brilliant camera and a bargain today. The d750 AF is way better than the Z6 or Z7, for instance.
@@KenRockwellTV I really appreciate your time taking to reply my query. Thanks for the suggestion what about Z6ii mirrorless. Do you think dslr go away soon and only mirrorless rule, that’s what many commented and makes me think about it my choices. My first preference was/is D750 but after many guys suggestion given thought of D780 and Z6ii. Any thoughts on my concern.
Mirrorless costs more for the same thing. Mirrorless good if you need to see playback or zoom in daylight. Dslr better for action. Totally different kinds of cameras.
@@KenRockwellTV thanks, many suggests to for mirrorless cause very soon every mfg stops development for dslr.... but I like the dslr more than mirrorless don’t know why.
@@KenRockwellTV I’ tested couple of hours d750 and Z5 somehow I didn’t like the Z5 or mirrorless.. didn’t feel good about it, unfortunately didn’t have Z6ii to check. Your suggestion add values to my decision. Only concern D750 is best for product, bird and landscape photography- if answer is yes then I stick to d750 no matter what.
@@KenRockwellTV same here, i went from d750 to canon 90D love the colors but miss the Dynamic Range of sony sensor. But canon glass superior IQ even 55-250 IS produce sharp Image.
![[Gegagedigedagedago] NEW Help Gegagedigedagedago Nugget escape from Nikocado Avocado Challenge](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/hJWnwRC2Fz8/mqdefault.jpg)
Finally, someone who understands what photography is all about! Nice review!
Thank you!
Took me a while to understand that art isn't about accuracy. I still have to remind myself.
I bought the Nikon D780 and I am very happy with the choice. As this camera has a BSI sensor, I think the detail capture is even better. I also own the D750 and the raw files in D780 are about 15 percent larger with same lens at about 26 - 28mb per Raw holding more fine detail. This is the only hybride Nikon with dual focusing systems. Superfast AF in photo still mode using phase detect. In video, it uses the same PDAF sensor of Z6 for tracking fast and locking on, with face and eye detect. I would recommend it to anyone who loves using DSLRs for pro or semi-pro or hobby use and also want pro video. The Nikon 28-300mm is a very sharp lens as is the Nikon 24-120mm F4 (I own both). I would guess this camera is still a best seller for DSLR Nikon users. Thanks for review showing features.
Exactly! Thanks!
Nikon had the birth of a hybrid camera but it stopped. The Df another wonderful camera but Nikon stopped its further developing.
Great review! So happy to see you on YT. I've been enjoying your blog for about two years. Love the How-To posts and no-BS reviews. My technique is slowly improving.
Thank you!!!
Truly no one better in the photo biz than Ken Rockwell. Been following you for at least 20 years now. Just shot my 700th event and much of the equipment I’ve used has been based on your reviews.
So happy you're finally active on the tubes! We can bin all other camera gear channels now ;)
Question: is the size of the autofocus area similar to the D750 is more similar to a D800?
Af area the same as all full frame dslrs from Nikon past 12 years.
Thank you Ken for an excellent comprehensive and professional review. I am now the proud owner of a D780 and a 28-300mm 5.6 zoom lens. Awesome camera rig!
Love it! Thanks!
"protecting the camera against my own stupidity"...There's a photographer with a heart! 🥰
Just being honest. Thanks!
Really enjoyed this video. It told me all I wanted to know about the D780. It's also given me a lot to think about as I look for a second hand camera to ease myself back into taking pics for money again. I've been told by a few pros to get the D850 but after watching this I'm sold on the USB-C. I imagine this will make a great charging option when travelling. I'm also keen on the improved low light capability over the 850 and not fussed in regards to the lack of battery grip. Two SD cards is also a plus. Thanks Ken!
Thank YOU! See also www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm
I am convinced you don’t sleep, thank you for this, and all your contributions.
Oh c’mon, do I post that many videos? You are too kind. Thanks!
Forever loving your reviews, helped me decide on every lens ive bought 📸
Thank you!!! That means a lot; I put a lot into my site.
I really enjoyed that review. You just ooze years of experience and cover so much info in such a short amount of time.
Thanks! I try not to come off as a know it all, thanks for letting me know it came off as informative. Honestly I have been shooting - well - forever and I like to share that as best I can. There are so many unqualified people handing out free information it’s hard to tell them apart. Trick: look at their portfolios. Most people handing out reviews have no gallery to show for it. Thanks again!
I really enjoyed your review about the D780! Thinking of upgrading from a D7100. I was stuck between buying a D7500, D500, or a Z6.... but lately I was exploring the D780. Your fantastic review makes my decision much easier! It's gonna be the D780!
Perfect! Thanks!
I'm thinking about upgrading my D7100 too as I want to step up to full frame.
I like your reviews, you point at important things which nobody else says, and they are fun to watch!
Grazie Paolo!
Nobody else, huh
I couldn't agree more. After an enjoyable run with DX I'm coming back to full-frame. There is a D780 in my future.
Thanks!
Oh Ken! I first dropped by your site eons ago and bought my first DSLR a Nikon D70s based on your recommendation. You mentioned that its 1/500 flash sync speed was something even pro cameras didn't have. I still have the D70s and it still works like a charm. Then I progressed to a D7000 and now am thinking about the D780. Yes, I have a Sony E-mount camera but when I pick up the Nikon the solid build quality and reliability always has me coming back. Looking forward to more of your videos!
Thanks!!!
Terrific review. No one is as thorough as you when it comes to reviewing cameras. What blows me away is that you are using the Nikon 28-300 mm lens, which doesn't get high marks from DxoMark. Your images are outstanding, and you did not enhance many of them. Wow!!
28-300mm excels on D850. I’ve been doing this a heck of a lot longer than DxO; in the hands of talent the 28-300 is super sharp, this you may daddy ignore DxO. see samples at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/28-300mm.htm#sampleimages DxO are great people, but they get consumers all paranoid about the wrong things. Life isn’t a lab. Thanks!
Really liked this review, Ken. Glad to know I’m not the only one who likes this camera but I think they kind of blew it on the pricing. Love seeing that vintage 1.2 on there the whole time, as well.
Prices only go down. Give it a while and wait for the dollar to gain against the yen. D750 sold for EXACTLY THE SAME DOLLAR PRICE back when it came out in 2014, which is the same as a $2,500 camera today. $2,300 for S780 is perfectly reasonable.
I bought this d780 and really love it! the only thing is that you can't use a battery grip on it. so no MB-D16. Either way... I love it! by the way, I didn't know Ken had a TH-cam channel, I accidentally discovered his website about 20 years ago when I was studying photography in college. I wanted to know every single detail about Nikon lenses and Ken was the only person who had a website with charts, models, manuals.... etc etc. so now that I have the opportunity to say I will say.... THANK YOU KEN!!! Your knowledge and experience goes beyond anything!!! You are truly the man!
Thank you, and merry Christmas!
Got mine. I waited for a few years to upgrade from my D7100. I wasn’t happy with the D750 or the D500 and the D7500. However, this camera hit the nail on the head and I jumped on it. Really amazing and very happy with it.
YESSSS! Thanks!
Ken, excellent-to the point- review. Thanks for comparing the 780- to the 750. I have a 7200 and a 750 and I was going to trade one in on a 780 but I like my 750 and me having a crop sensor 7200 gives me added reach on my lenses should I need a little more distance. You review convinced me that the 780 is my next camera on the horizon.
Thanks! Glad I could help.
Ken can correct me if I’m wrong but I believe that when you attach a “cropped sensor lens” to the 780 it automatically adjusts its sensor to match. This should give the same perspective as the 7200 will.
I subscribed because of every good thing said about you. Keep up the good work, it speaks for you!
Thank you!!!
Excellent review. Thanks a lot. Your professional no-nonsense content is greatly appreciated by me.
Thank You!
Excellent review Ken, have been reading your website since I got a brand new D70. Sitting back and listening it almost sounds like Jonathan Haidt reviewing Nikon, that's a good thing!
Thanks!!!
I have seen your review at least 3 times over the months... I love your philosophy on settings, I take your reviews and recommendations very seriously. I will soon upgrade to the D780 thanks to you! Then a Paypal thankyou coming.
Thank YOU!!!
Thank you Mr. Rockwell. Your video contained an extensive amount of detailed information. I’m planning on buying one very soon. Hopefully there is a good early Black Friday sale. As always, your content is TOP NOTCH.
Thanks! Be sure to use the links from my written review for the best speed sources www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm
Best review I've seen so far for the D780 on TH-cam (good you'r here!). I particularly liked your series of ISO pictures that showed the effects of high ISO settings, that really stroke me and was kind of the highlight in this video. And because I'm considering to move up the ladder it was very helpful to get some clear opinion about the Z-series that are getting touted so much for their smaller size, weight and better lenses but it seems that the new cameras don't (yet) get the same grade by a long time hard core Nikon photographer who knows his business in and out. Thank you!
Z6 and Z7 are simply Nikon’s first tries. Great for people who love having the newest and like Mirrorless for being able to see everything in the finder, but they are very clumsy to shoot. Z50 is better, while DSLRs still work much more quickly when you need to shoot. Thanks!
Hi Ken, I have been following your excellent reviews on the Nikon D780. After much deliberation between the D750 and D780, I have decided that the D780 will suit my photography needs (or wants?)better with more modern features.( I have found some Australian retailers are no longer stocking the D750 as supply and product life appears to be nearing an end?) The deal was sealed today when I purchased online from a reputable Australian camera retailer for $3102 AUD ($1797 USD) with a bonus SB 5000 flash valued at $699 AUD ($405 USD) v the best price I could find for the D750 of $2114 ($1225 USD). Both offers come with a Nikon 2 year warranty. Therefore the choice of the D780 became a little easier based on the price. ( I do expect the price of the D780 to rise in the near future based on recent world events affecting exchange rates).There is cheaper deals on the D750 with questionable warranties on the grey market and it pays to do your homework. I am looking forward to receiving my new toy this week. Thanks again for your informative, down to earth and knowledgeable reviews. Kind regards, Mark Wilson
Oh oh, I don’t recommend any Australian dealers. Hope it works OK for you. Thanks!
Ken Rockwell , with TH-cam you have the potential of a world wide audience including "down under" . We have many vg camera dealers in oz. 😀
Man! Good to hear your voice! Hahaha. Been reading your blog since 2009.
Sorry to break the silence! thanks!
This video has convinced me to experiment more with my picture control settings. You can't beat the full control of editing your photos by hand but picture control settings on the camera are clearly a powerful tool.
I've bene using them ever since digital cameras came out. Thanks!
When I need to know the real deal about cameras and lenses, Ken is one of 2 go-to people I hold on high regard. Just look at his pictures….’nuff said!!!!
Thank you!! Yip, it’s all in the pictures. TH-cam is littered with people talking, but few of any can shoot, showing us we should ignore them if they have no good photos to show. See also my gallery www.kenrockwell.com/gallery.htm and www.kenrockwell.com/tech/2-kinds-of-photographers.htm
Fantastic camera I know - loves the old glass too. As long as you can carry the weight then you cannot go wrong . But I am no longer able to carry one all day now that I’m retired , so opted for something a lot smaller . Back in the day I loved 5x4 : what was I thinking ha ha. Yet, if you have used those cameras then you know how wonderful your images can be . Pick the right gear for the job and what you can carry . I am often reminded of Jane Brown who carried two secondhand Olympus film cameras and two lenses - 50 and 135 in a basket to jobs . Her work was great . She used no light meter , but only the back of her hand to judge exposure - just as I did with my F2 back then .
Great video - and thanks
Thank YOU!
Hi Ken! Longterm reader of your blogs. Looking to upgrade my very old Nikon, and have been hovering over the 780 for a while... You made the decision for me! Incredible review. Thank you!
Thank YOU! You must be an artist. Thanks!
I did not knew Mr Rockwell is in TH-cam though I am going through your website for quite a long. Thanks for this review. Want to see many more in coming days!
Thanks! Yip, you guys insisted so now TH-cam, too. At least for the coming year I expect my online reviews will remain the more detailed and updated references. These videos have to be abridged from the written review so they don’t run five hours each. Thanks!
Thank you. I remember this when first posted. I bought this camera soon after. You stand out fantastic to others shooters. Excellent products and educational.
Thank you!!!!! That’s why I do it.
Finally arrived !!! Waiting for an long time to see this review 😍😍😍 thankzz man
Spent a month making it.
I enjoyed your comments, especially about the mirrorless bodies.
Thank you!
I don't know what I envisioned your voice sounding like, but it wasn't this lol. Great overview and review, Ken!
What is it supposed to sound like? Thanks!
I bought this camera recently looking to upgrade into full frame and found that even now it is a good mix of image quality,dual card slots,used availability etc. with the money I saved compared to a comparable new mirrorless system (Sony is the closest in terms of lens selection to Nikon dslr but Nikon obviously has years and years of lenses in their back catalogue) I was able to get myself a 70-200b that I otherwise wouldn’t have
Ken, first off thank you for all of your time and effort to bring information to all of us seeking it! Have you done a review on the D700?
Yes. It’s here: www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d700.htm you’ll find a thousand times more detail and articles at KenRockwell.com rather than my TH-cam channel. Thanks!!!
Hello, congratulations on your work on TH-cam. Seeing your video, would you recommend buying this body? I was about to buy the z6 1 month ago, but this option that puts nikon on the table is making me hesitate. I have 9 nikon lenses so i am seriously considering buying the d780.
Thank you
I like the D780 but not the Z6. Only some Nikon lenses work in Z6, and only then with an adapter. They all work on the D780. The Z6 and Mirrorless are night and day different from dslrs. All depends on what you want to shoot, and if changing (it’s not an upgrade, it’s a change) to Mirrorless than you should look at what brand to use. I prefer canon www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comparisons/nikon-vs-canon-vs-sony-full-frame.htm
Just saw this. Fantastic job with your review. I was a long time Nikonian starting with a FE 35 years ago up to a D610 then made a switch over to the a7Riii Sony. I'm giving that camera to my son and will be ordering the D780 shortly. Good thing I kept most of my lenses for the F mount. There's nothing like a Nikon...
Yes! Honestly other than my beloved 16-35 VR and 28-300 VR, I love using my old AI-s lenses on the DSLRs. Thanks!
Please let me know how you like it. I'm currently in the market for a new camera and I love the Nikon D780. However all these mirrorless options are making my decision little harder.
I owned the D750 and loved it. I'm tempted to buy the D780.
All good. Detailed comparisons at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm#compared thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV Thank you.
Thank you, Ken. I am pretty sure I am going to buy this camera. I would love to hear from you if I am making a mistake not getting the D850. I may move to mirrorless, but I am not a professional, and spending $4000 for a camera and $2000 for a lens is out of my range.
D780 is many years newer. It’s certainly no mistake. Thanks!
PS my favorite lens is the 28-300mm VR. See it’s review and where to get it at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/28-300mm.htm and see a more detailed review and the best places to get the D780 at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm
@@KenRockwellTV Dear, Ken. I appreciate your advice greatly. Gratefully, and with respect for all you do for the photographic community.
Just bought mine! Thank you for the thorough review and tips. (upgrading from a D7500)
Enjoy! Thanks!
Love that 58mm F1.2 noct. you have on the D780 Ken. It's my favorite Nikon lens and always on my FE2 camera.
Yes, from back when Nikon led the world. Honestly the 58/1.2 Noct-NIKKOR doesn't work anywhere near as well as any of the modern Z lenses, but it looks nice and also drums home the fact that I do my own product shots in my own studio at great effort. Thanks!
Really enjoyed this review of the D780. I recently purchased this camera and I’m enjoying it. I’m now in the market for a flash. I’ve read that the d780 has compatibility issues even with the Nikon SB series. Has this proved true in your case? If not, what other manufacturers flashes would you recommend other than Nikon’s?
I haven’t tried flash with it. I see no reason all the last 15 years or so of I-TTL compatible Nikon flash won’t work brilliantly. Ignore what you read on the internet. I love my SB-400, small and works great even in the Z series.
Great review, Ken. Seems you prefer the D780 over the D850 - particular reasons? Cheers.
No; different cameras. 850 has more pixels and crop modes, while 780 has a mode dial with presets. Neither is perfect, which is why I prefer my Canon 5DS/R instead that offers all of the best of both of those, and more pixels and more mode dial modes than either nikon!
@@KenRockwellTV I've been on the fence with the D850 on one side and the D780 on the other. Seems the 780 is a nice combo of D5, D850, and Z6. If I'm going to get a camera to accompany my D4S (better suited for sports and really fast action) and stay away from Nikon's current mirrorless offerings (own too much F mount glass) I might as well get the latest DSLR tech Nikon has to offer. Your reviews (and those of others) have helped to sway my decision. Thank you, sir.
Notice this D780 can digitizing 35mm film negative by using ES-2 adapter. Does this camera automatically convert to positive and straight out to computer? Thanks for your great review.
I believe it does. Haven’t tried it. See www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780-users-guide.htm#scanner Thanks!
Oh man I learn so much from you Ken. For instance a real world reasoning for using 1x1 aspect ratio. Bam. Saturation settings? Bam. 95% of this review also applies to me that I can apply using my 10 year old Nikon D5000 and D7000 and my 7 year old Fujifilm X-S1. You repeat your thinking and reasoning and experience ad nauseam... I love it.
Thanks, just experience talking here. KenRockwell.com has been out before there were any practical shipping DSLRs. Back in 1999 we scanned our film and edited it on a computer; that was digital photography back when I first went on-air.
Great review Ken, I'm still considering the d780, on the point you mention about picture settings on vivid with saturation at +3, do you use those settings for every exposure ?,
I do, unless it’s people or something like a real estate listing where I want accurate color, instead of vivid color. See also my D780 users guide www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780-users-guide.htm thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV thank you, have noticed when using the saturation bumped by +3 the colours vary from lens to lens, casing point my tamron 70-300 vc produces a deeper purple and green than my tamron 70-200 g2...(both attached to D800e)...I find it enjoyable using different settings with different lens, I've always followed your method of shooting jpeg 99% of the time, in the 5 years I've been photographing and have found a lot of shooters get so hung up on sharpness, mega pixels, post processing etc which kind of detracts from the art we are trying to recreate and produce....just my view dosent mean I'm right lol....thanks for your in depth and thorough reviews, I've learnt so much from your product reviews
Hi dear Ken,
I know you and your great and valued website since 10 years ago or a bit more when I was a university student and at that time I started photography with Zenit camera. I always read your articles to upgrade my knowledge on technology and here I have to appreciate you. You’re the best tester in the world. Now after your comparison and however I know that D780 is great upgrade, but based on my budget I decided to buy D750 + Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR + Nikon SB-400 AF. I hope it is still worth to buy the old D750.
And at the end one technical question:
To shoot a great photo, sensor is more important or lens?
Thank you in advance for all your great works and efforts.
God bless you!
Sensor and cameras and sensors don’t matter: only thing they really matters is the photographer. D750 is an awesome camera and a much better camera per dollar than the D780 when you’re on a budget. Thanks! See also www.kenrockwell.com/tech/notcamera.htm
@@KenRockwellTV Thank you Sir! 💙🌷
Thank you Ken, i needed this. My camera will be the D780 i upgrade from the D7200.
Thanks!
Hi Ken, hope u're doing fine.
I'm a Canon user and still use the legendary 5DII and 7D for my landscape and wildlife photography purposes respectively as an enthusiast. Main reason - IMO these workhorses produce better image quality than most of the latest models. I can comfortably live with the absence of extra bells and whistles of modern cameras.
Likewise, had I been a Nikon shooter, I would prefer D700 and D300 for my needs. IMO, the D780, D700's second successor you are now talking about must produce great IQ mainly because, it possesses bigger pixels instead of over-crowded tiny ones. Also the updated sensor and processor are playing important roles.
BTW, I'm also a lover of old lenses like you. Based on your review, I bought a used Canon EF 28-135mm IS. It's a gem and much better than owning an EF 24-105mm, its newer sibling. Canon stopped production of that great glass in 2016.
Nikon was popular - ten years ago. Forget them. Thanks!
Hi from 2022! Shall I choose a D780, a D850 or a z6ii? (I have some great zoning MF and AF glass). I do photo and video (and the low light performance of the D780 seems pretty good which is a +). Thank you
I’d forget nikon Mirrorless; it’s way behind Canon - and with the lenses you own you’ll eventually buy all new Mirrorless, so you may as well upgrade to Canon if you want Mirrorless. The 780 is the newest and better if you want to do video or live view or huge dynamic range like shooting straight into the sun. The 850 excells as the highest resolution. Does that help? All depends what you went to do; I assume you mean you have DSLR lenses and they work best on DSLRs.
@@KenRockwellTV hi, thanks for the reply Ken. I have a lot of old Nikon FX manual focus + a few more modern auto focus glass (with VR). I am wondering if adapting is the way to go instead of sinking 1000s of dollars in a new mirrorless system. I really love the build quality of my D800 but it is lacking in some departments (low light and video) which is why I am wondering if I should stick to dslr (780/850) or jump into the mirrorless bandwagon. Nikon is really that far behind Canon in mirrorless? (the z6iii seems to be right around the corner ;))
@@jd5787 Manual lenses and many AF lenses work crappy adapted to Nikon. See my FTZ compatibility article www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/lenses/ftz.htm Don't waste your time; Nikons evil plan is that they can take pictures, however the experience is so poor that they know you'll eventually buy native Z lenses. Here's where you just got scammed when you do: by offering the iffy FTZ, you buy into the Nikon Z system thinking you're saving $1000s using your old lenses, bt wood up replacing them all anyway - when you could have just as easily upgraded to Canon instead since you rebought all your lenses! Stick with DSLRs with your F-mount lenses. If you want a mirrorless-like DSLR, the D780 does a great job of that.
Excellent Review, Ken !!
Thanks Donald!!! I worked really hard on that one.
Thank you for your reviews.
I am still using the D700.
Hate the flip up flash module (go away)
Whilst I do not 'live view', a pull out screen would only be attractive if it worked horizontally and vertically.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, a few more pixels would be good.
Longest lens I frequently use is a 28shift. What is this 'hand held'?
Hand held means not used with a tripod. It’s a growing trend. Thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV I do watch your stuff/reviews - I still set up my camera with a spirit level, use 'manual', maybe the old pentax spotmeter. Yes, the old 'pre-ai' lenses have been 'filed down' for 'digital'. I thank you for being there.
I have a Z6 and you are SPOT on about low light and action...It struggles badly. I may have to look further into this amazing camera.
Z6 is awful for AF.
I need a new camera myself, I have currently a Nikon D5200. I was looking into the D750 and the D810, both are great camera's from what I understood. But then I noticed this camera being released early this year. Which made me look in to it. I like what I see and that build in flash thing isn't a issue for me. Rather find that stupid thing highly annoying as it did often pop up without me even touching it. So actually find it a plus that it isn't on this camera. The double card slots I love as well, although so far I didn't figure out yet up to what card sizes it can take without slowing down too much. Something the D5200 seriously has issues with if you place a 64 card in it and higher it doesn't even do. A double card for me would be more to shoot a lot more photo's without bothering to switch cards all the time. I have no idea whether I can get the 2000 euro I need for this body, but I will most likely figure out a way to get it done. It would be the perfect update as the D850 is just too expensive.
For the lenses, well being F-mount the lenses probably won't be a real big problem. I got 3 atm and I can probably buy more over time. I still need a lens that does 500mm or better for example. I have no fisheye lens yet or other specific lenses. Please do give me tips, will be welcomed!
First lens is a Tamron AF70-300mm F/4-5.6Di LD macro 1:2 lens would be great (was thinking to replace this one with a general travel lens, along the lines of 24-300 or something like that)
I have a Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG, I rarely use it as it's so damn heavy. I just won't replace it as it's a excellent lens. I got this one to replace the kit lens that originally came with my camera, that lens was just not doing much good at all.
And the last lens is a Sigma 17-70mm F.2.8-4 DC Macro, this is my general main use lens right now. I love this thing and it's always with me. I ended up settling with this lens after my 50mm proofed to be lacking to some degree, I did want something that could zoom but no kit lens. So this was the best choice and it proved to be well worth it.
Thank you!
And this is how a review should be done 👌
THANKS!!!
Hi Ken, Been a fan of your web site for years.
I noticed as you scrolled through the shutter speeds and identified the time-exposure as the "- -" option but I also saw "Bulb" displayed in the mix. What's that all about?
Bulb and time are separate settings. Use either one. More details at my users guide at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780-users-guide.htm#time
@@KenRockwellTV Thanks!
Great review, I have been collecting zeiss lenses overt the years and i still use the three dragons. I looking foward ro reeplace my D-800 will you recommend the D-780 over the D-850?
780 newer and more like Mirrorless, get it for video. D850 is older and more serious for stills and landscapes.
Great review from a proper professional. Thank you. I will be buying mine very soon.
Thanks!
Love your video reviews. Always the most comprehensive information. I now shoot a Nikon D750 which has performed well with one exception: shutter mech replacement. If I may ask you one question, where can I get my beloved Nikon D700 repaired? I called Nikon USA on Long Island only to find that they no longer service the D700. Any ideas as to where I might send this camera in for repair? The thought of finding one on eBay seems unwise now. Best, Jim Archer
Getting another on eBay seems great. Search “Sold items” to see what they go for and compare to a few hundred dollars for a repair typically. Also ask my repairman Gus www.kenrockwell.com/tech/repair.htm#gus
Hello sir, how is this camera for rains? How tough is the weather sealing? Can we say it's can perform good in rains?
I stay out of the rain. Never had a problem with any camera, even unsealed, since I bring an umbrella. Thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV Okay thanks.
Great review Ken, thank you 🙏
Thank YOU!
Great review Ken. I have been thinking about this body versus the Z6. I have alot of good glass and don't want to part with them. So this just makes sense. Plus u get the phase detect live performance. Thanks again Ken.
Thank YOU! I wouldn’t buy no on Mirrorless. Long term it’s a better idea to just go with Canon from the start rather than be stuck in Nikon. I prefer Canon for Mirrorless
Amazing amount of useful information served with the efficiency and speed of automatic machine gun, awesome video.
Just the facts. Thanks!
Your website helped me to buy bunch of nikon gear in past 10+ yrs. Thank you
Thanks to your review, I now have a good option for upgrading from a D5300 if the D850's price doesn't drop.
I seriously need a full frame DSLR, so having an alternative choice to D850 is what I need. If the D780 is as good as it sounds I might just be able to upgrade my glass(lens) as well. I only have one FX lens(50mm f/1.8) so I need more.
Thanks for the great review!
780 is newer and more like Mirrorless with better live view and video. 850 is the boss if you’re mostly just shooting stillls.
Wow after so many years reading your reviews it’s good to finally see them. Right now I’m replacing my old d300 and was deciding between this one and the d750. Would you justify the price difference or go with the older one? I think the d750 is kinda old in terms of technology but there doesn’t seem to be any real difference between them.
If you want flash or price matters, get the D750. If you’ve got money to burn, shoot movies or for some bizarre reason shoot mostly in live view, consider the 780. Read the written review at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm for the explicit details and comparisons. Thanks!
Ken Rockwell thanks for the answer. Money is always important, now more than ever, so I was even considering the d7500. I’ll go for the d750. Cheers.
I'm a happy D750 user for three years. But I would look at mirrorless for my next camera.
Have fun, just know that they are completely different fro dslrs. You might want to change brand while you’re at it; see www.kenrockwell.com/tech/comparisons/nikon-vs-canon-vs-sony-full-frame.htm
Awesome review! Thank you! You clearly know a lot about photography and have been shooting for a long time! I have a question. I am upgrading from my Nikon D7000 which has served me well for many years but I've found lacking in low-light situations. I'm deciding between the D850 and the D780. Which one do you think works best for travel photography?
Hi Stephanie! What works best is what weighs the least. Both the D780 and D850 are big. D780 weighs less and is newer, so among those two, I'd go D780. Does this help? Thanks for asking!
@@KenRockwellTV Thank you so much! I do agree that for travel the lower weight makes a difference! For that reason amongst others, I am now considering upgrading to the mirrorless system instead and going for the z6, as I am already spending money on new lenses for the full-frame system and might as well make those the z-lenses with the option to do better video as well during my travels! I hope you are doing well during these crazy times!
Hi Stephanie - check out the Z50 www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/mirrorless/z50.htm it’s a better camera, and smaller and lighter than either of the Z6 or Z7. Be sure to get the lenses that come with it. You won’t need full frame lenses for it.
@@KenRockwellTV Thank you! I'll definitely check it out!
Nice video.
I'm hesiting between d780 and d850(i have an opportunity to get a d850 with just 200$ more than the d780 that s why i hésitate) can you tell me on this year for wich one should i get? For wesding portrait and low light event.
Thank you
Easy: d850 if you want too many pixels, while the d780 is much newer and especially better if you use much live view. For low light pixels do t matter, so I’d go with the D780. Thanks! Of course read the written review at kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm
@@KenRockwellTV thank you
Hi Ken, I'm tempted to get a D780 because my D750 is still worth something and it's now off the company accounts so I could get a D780 and with tax deductions it wouldn't cost much. I have some AF-D lenses and Z mount replacements are just too expensive. The thing is that I'm also tempted to get a nice used DF for similar money. If I can only have one which one should I get? I don't do enough video for it to matter.
D780. It’s the newest and last DSLR Nikon will ever make so you’ll have lots of years of support. Df is only for weirdos trying to use non-AI lens for what purpose I don’t know.
Do you recommend the 780 over the 750? I am torn between these two, mostly because I can get the D750 for the price. Comments?
See the full written review as always for all the details. See www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm#new and www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm#compared
Great review, thank you.
I have a D750 and love it; it's a real workhorse. But one of the things I love the most about it is the vertical grip. One of my few paying gigs is doing sports photography on the water, and craning my arm around to do a vertical shot while keeping my balance on a bouncing chase boat just isn't going to cut it. So, probably no D780 for me, at least not until the price has come down considerably.
Oh well.
Exactly. Thanks!
Ken you do Ap Fantastic Review of the Nikon D 780 Fantastic I use your settings on my D750 And photos are Amazing Thank you from Allan in nth Qld Australia, Merry Christmas 2020 Bring On 2021
Thanks, mate!!! Merry Christmas to you and yours, too!
the noise reduction capabilities of this camera are amazing so far, I've used it up to 52000 iso and the noise is still not extremely noticable
Great camera. Thanks!!
So thjs or an R6? Price-wise they're rather similar and both offer good burst capability. Im not invested in either but looking for a FF system I can start growing with. I'm afraid the D780 might be a bit too bulky (hence why I love my fuji) but willing to sacrifice looks for something that works like a mule in all situations.
They are entirely different cameras and systems. See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/mirrorless-vs-dslr.htm If high frame rates are important, get the R6 which is over twice as fast, and does it silently. Canon also does a better job of taking care of its customers while Nikon, at least in the USA, tends to treat us more like an annoyance rather than the reason they exist. Thanks!
I have had my D750 for nearly 5 years now and I love it, came here to see if I should upgrade to the D780, it would be an upgrade but I dont think i need it... Besides the built in flash on the D750 is awesome for flash slave mode triggering...
Exactly. See also kenrockwell.com/tech/upgrades.htm Thanks!
Do you still have D850? Can you compare D780 autofocus speed and reliability for fast moving subjects (like kids 😉)?
It’s all about the same. Thanks!
Thanks you so much for the Wonderful review, Ken! I’m currently a d750 owner and I love it except two things. Firstly, 3D tracking doesn’t impress me too much and buffer drain out in very short time. Secondly, the ring like cut out around the sun dish you’ve mentioned in your first picture in the video really bothers me a lot. Do you find Z6 performing as smoothly as d780 does in terms of the transition between sun and sky? As I’m thinking of upgrading but hesitating d780 over Z6 because owning 6 AF-S and 1 AF D lens as well as IBIS though I’m just a causal video shooter, mainly for young kids.
Haven't tried D750 at the same time. Also beware; video performance may be quite different. I use video cameras for video, not Nikons. Thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV would be interested if z6 can provide as smooth transition between sun and sky like d780 does or not.
Great review, thank you.
Thank YOU!
As you comment that the photos are perfect out of camera.. with no more frustrating Perfectly Clear remarks for most even Nikon shots, would you stll place an 81A filter on say the 28-300?
81A filters went out with film and the very first DSLRs from 1999-2004. Haven’t used an 81A on digital ever since. I do use UV filters on everything for protection instead of caps. Thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV Thanks. Greetings from Siam.
Hi ken what are your sharpness and picture control settings ie saturation and contrast for people and things on the nikon d780. Also what do you use inside and outside
What awb do you use for inside pics and outside pics
All told at my written guide at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780-users-guide.htm and specifically www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780-users-guide.htm#useawb
Thanks Ken! One question: dynamic range, did it improve on the D780 vs D750?
That’s unimportant. It probably did, but it’s not something that matters much - although consumers worry themselves sick about it. See www.kenrockwell.com/tech/dynamic-range.htm thanks!
@@KenRockwellTV Thanks for the quick reply! I appreciate the dynamic range of the D750, its better than on my Leica Q, imo its more important than resolution.
I did notice the highlight dynamic range was superb in the D780
@@KenRockwellTV read your article on DR, don't agree that consumers worry about DR, because they mostly don't even know about the topic. And yes, pros know how to deal with it, but that doesn't mean that more DR isn't an advantage. But yes, Nikon does it right for many years now, so I don't worry. Again thanks for your quick answer!
Agreed, but dynamic range is not specified by the makers so it’s an intangible, and how you set the camera also has a lot to do with it so it’s not as simple as measuring the cameras weight or size.
Hello Ken!, I'm only shooting prime AI and AIS lenses on my D780.
However for me the exposure preview in M mode live view (with the meter set for a correct exposure) is too dark for ff5.6! If I turn exp.preview off I lose the light meter!
In other words, live view, meter and resulting image all agree only for f5.6.
Non-cpu lens data are set correctly and if I just follow the meter I get correct exposures.
Is it so for everyone or is my camera malfunctioning? I can't find anyone mentioning this and it's driving me insane..
I haven’t tried live view in much depth, and not with manual focus lensss. Try both settings of exposure preview/simulation on and off, and be sure that the spring-loaded aperture feeler on the camera correctly follows the position of the aperture ring at every setting. Be sure this happens with every lens the same; if the lens has a sticky diaphragm and doesn’t stop down properly you’ll see weird things (differences between preview and resulting photos) as well.
@@KenRockwellTV
Thanks for taking the time!
Mechanicaly all my lenses are fine, so it's not that.
I have a short 4' video about it,
th-cam.com/video/ypBvfXGgeFU/w-d-xo.html
If I could beg 4 minutes more of your time but it could also be a valuable addition to your own camera review if you're interested.
Also someone of your stature covering this could mean Nikon fixing it...
Thanks anyway!
Great review! Wished it had a built-in flash, might go for the 750 instead.
Get a used SB-400 and you’re good. www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/sb400.htm
Thank you so much for the comparison and your valuable critiques ,does the D780 have multiple exposure,the 750 only goes to three.
D780 does multiple exposures. See starting at page 282 in the manual download.nikonimglib.com/archive4/Vkws100OCmCB04rk5Tj37PN2eQ13/D780RM_(En)01.pdf
Ken I'm glad to hear your voice! You're my lens guru for long....
Thanks!
is the 28mm f1.4E ED Nikkor Lens compatible please? Would I need an adapter? Thanks very much
Works flawlessly! These are designed for each other. Ditto for the original AF 28mm f/1.4D. Thanks for asking.
@@KenRockwellTV Thank you Ken, I'm thinking about the lens for landscapes. I love the focal length. Thank you for taking the time to reply.
Hi Ken, many thanks, great camera! Color rendition on my Nikon Z6 ist also excellent and vibrant like on this Nikon! Much better than my Sony A 7II I had before. Dynamic range is also great! I like this! Same vivid colors as with Canon R cameras. The only thing I miss on my Z6 is the missing SD card slot. Best wishes, Ralf
By the way: I have old Non-AI Nikkor lenses. They are also great performers still today!
Thanks Ralf!!!!
D780 vs D500 which should I buy today? Or the improved z6 mark II?
PS: I shoot mostly wildlife including and especially BIF.
Easy: D500 for its superior af speed and its DX format which gets you 50% closer with the same lens. You’d need a 450mm lens on either other camera for the same picture you get with just 300mm on d500. Forget the Z cameras for action, dslrs are faster. Thanks!
hey Ken! what is your faforit nikon camera to date?
D850.
@@KenRockwellTV and overall favorite one, regardless of brand? R5?
What an amazing review, wow!
Great camera btw, I just ordered it
Hope you LOVE IT!!! Thanks!
I love this review, just have one (obvious I think) question to ask but I wanna be sure...
if it s working with non AF 50's lenses, It is working with all the other AF lenses like the D ED lenses right ?
(I have 50-mm 85mm & 80-200ED).
Not sure of your question, but if you mean doesn’t work well with classic manual lenses, yes, and with 1980s original AF lenses, also yes. Full details at www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d780.htm#compat
Hi Ken,
Question about AF D screw drive lens . I was out today shooting with my new 35mm F2D lens and a few times while auto focusing , my hand was on the lens and was stoping the AF as it wants to rotate.
Would this damage the AF screw on the D700 or any Nikon with the AF screw drive? And could it damage the lens?
I’m so use to supporting the lens with my left hand while focusing , so force of habit.
Be am a little concerned.
As soon as I realised my hand was catching the front element, I immediately moved it.
Could I have caused any damage to camera or lens?
Thanks
Hi! This is a defect in Nikons antiquated AF system. You are correct: don’t touch the focus ring. It won’t hurt the lens and shouldn’t hurt the camera, but obviously it’s not good and not helping anything if you impede the motion or turn it manually against the motor.
@@KenRockwellTV Hi Ken, thanks for your reply , much appreciated. I love your reviews .
So If it still autofocus , I take it there’s no damage done ?
Correct.
Thank you so much for the video. I’m planning to purchase my very first DSLR which is Nikon D750 along with 85mm 1.8 + 50mm 1.8 G lens. I’m wondering is it still worth to buy this camera considering 5 years old?.
The concern I have is from D750 is - 1. Slower AF, 2. Shutter speed 1/4000 which is half the D780/Z6ii/Z5 1/8000. Are these show stopper for D750?.
Purpose of buying a camera is for taking Portraits, Still, Landscape, Bird, Product photography (learning) and of course my kids.
It would be really great if you throw some lights on my concern to make a wise decision.... other options I have considered is Nikon D780 with one of the lens and Z6ii with the kit lens... apart from D780 and Z6ii I have been suggesting to go with D850 with the kit lens.
Thank you and looking forward to your suggestion.
As you point out, you’re new to this. Features like AF speed and 1/8,000 don’t matter much, but for me the built in flash does. Get the d750. It’s a brilliant camera and a bargain today. The d750 AF is way better than the Z6 or Z7, for instance.
@@KenRockwellTV I really appreciate your time taking to reply my query. Thanks for the suggestion what about Z6ii mirrorless. Do you think dslr go away soon and only mirrorless rule, that’s what many commented and makes me think about it my choices. My first preference was/is D750 but after many guys suggestion given thought of D780 and Z6ii. Any thoughts on my concern.
Mirrorless costs more for the same thing. Mirrorless good if you need to see playback or zoom in daylight. Dslr better for action. Totally different kinds of cameras.
@@KenRockwellTV thanks, many suggests to for mirrorless cause very soon every mfg stops development for dslr.... but I like the dslr more than mirrorless don’t know why.
@@KenRockwellTV I’ tested couple of hours d750 and Z5 somehow I didn’t like the Z5 or mirrorless.. didn’t feel good about it, unfortunately didn’t have Z6ii to check. Your suggestion add values to my decision. Only concern D750 is best for product, bird and landscape photography- if answer is yes then I stick to d750 no matter what.
At 12:20, I enjoyed seeing you doing that old aperture indexing shuffle. Ingrained habits die hard.
Thanks! In retrospect, that was no bug deal.
You in love with Nikon again!
Love DSLRs. Mirrorless isn’t for things that move - yet.
@@KenRockwellTV same here, i went from d750 to canon 90D love the colors but miss the Dynamic Range of sony sensor. But canon glass superior IQ even 55-250 IS produce sharp Image.
Love this camera
Thank you!