Nikon D40X vs Nikon D80
Nikon D40X vs Nikon D80: a Complete Review and Comparison
Are you looking for the best camera to suit your needs? Due to a wide range of options, making a wise and weighted decision can be rather challenging. Which specs to keep in mind? What are the key pros and cons of each model? This comparison should give some helpful hints!
The goal of this overview is to provide a detailed comparison of two popular camera models introduced by the same brand - Nikon. Although both products are offered by the same brand, they come from different categories. Thus, Nikon, is a camera from Entry-Level DSLR category, while D80 is a Semi-Pro DSLR camera. The first common feature of Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 that is worth mentioning is sensor. Both cameras feature 10.0 MP CCD sensors.
Now, before we can move on to our comparison, let's take a moment to look at the key characteristics of Nikon D40X and Nikon D80.
Nikon D40X Key Features:
Nikon D80 Key Features:
Since Nikon D40X has been around for some time, it was substituted by
Nikon D60.
Be sure to check out some of our other comparisons that may also interest you:
Nikon D40X vs. D60
Nikon D60 vs. Nikon D80
Being a newer model, Nikon D40X substituted
Nikon D50.
Be sure to check out some of our other comparisons that may also interest you:
Nikon D40X vs. D50
Nikon D50 vs. Nikon D80
Why is Nikon D40X a better choice than Nikon D80
| Flash Range | 17 vs 13 | 4 better flash range |
| Weight | 522 g vs 668 g | 146 g lighter |
| Dxo Color Depth | 22.4 vs 22.1 | Better color depth |
| Dxo Dynamic Range | 11.4 vs 11.2 | Better dynamic range |
What are the key reasons to pick Nikon D80 over Nikon D40X
| Sensor Area | 372.88 mm2 vs 369.72 mm2 | 0.8% larger pixel area |
| Dxo Low Light Iso | 524 vs 516 | Better High ISO performance |
| Viewfinder | Optical (pentaprism) vs Optical (pentamirror) | Better framing and control |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.64 vs 0.53 | 0.11 better magnification |
Key PROs of Nikon D40X and Nikon D80
| Viewfinder | Optical (pentamirror) | Optical (pentaprism) | Better framing and control |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| Built-In Flash | Yes | Yes | External flash available |
| Flash Sync Port | Yes | Yes | Port for Flash Sync |
Key CONs of Nikon D40X and Nikon D80
| Touch Screen | No | No | No touch screen |
| Screen Size | 2.5″ | 2.5″ | Not suitable for flash photography |
| Screen Resolution | 230k dots | 230k dots | Small screen resolution |
| Screen Type | Fixed Type | Fixed Type | No flexible viewing angles |
| Sensor Resolution | 10.0 MP | 10.0 MP | Small sensor resolution |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | No | No | No Face Detection |
| Timelapse Recording | No | No | No timelapse recording |
| Continuous Shooting | 3.0 fps | 3.0 fps | Low continuous shooting |
| Image Stabilization | No | No | No image stabilization |
| Environmental Sealing | No | No | No environmental sealing |
Nikon D40X vs Nikon D80: Comparing Two Models By Physical Characteristics
Before heading straight to the technical characteristics of each model, let’s start with comparing their physical specs. Let’s start with looking at the physical difference of the two products. Below are images that clearly show the sizes of Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 from the front view.
Now, let’s go on and see how the reviewed models are different or similar by the top view.
After looking at these images, you should get a clear idea of each model’s dimensions and how they are different from each other. However, we are not going to stop there. The next characteristic worth looking at is the weight. Of course, not every photographer is concerned about the weight, for example, it wouldn't be a decisive point for those who shoot in a studio. However, it is still an important factor because if you happen to go on a long photo session or just love having the camera with you wherever you go, you want to be sure that the chosen model isn't too heavy.
Speaking of weight, Nikon D40X is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 146g less than the Nikon D80. This difference, in fact, can become a significant disadvantage for the photographers, who prefer to have their cameras with them wherever they go.
Comparing Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 by the type of Sensor and Resolution
Sensor is, without a doubt, the most significant element of every digital camera. Its type, size, and resolution are the factors that define the quality of future shots. Thus, it is barely possible to pick a suitable camera without looking at these specs.
Are Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 any different in terms of sensor type?
In terms of sensor type and resolution, these models are identical. Both Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 come equipped with the same CCD that has a resolution of 10.0 MP. Thus, if you are wondering, which option to choose, this is not a factor you should be looking at.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 by the size of their sensors.
Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 are identical by this indicator, as each feature a sensor of the same size. Thus, both cameras will provide the same level of control in terms of the depth of field if you use them with the same focal length and aperture.
For Which Fields Of Photography Are Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 Suitable?
If you are interested in photography or has made a career in this field, you should know that different types of shooting actually require different camera characteristics. While one model can produce outstanding portraits, at the same time, it can be terrible for shooting landscapes, and so on. Thus, before you purchase a specific camera, it is vital to decide, which type of shooting you do most often and consider an option that suits it the most.
This section of our comparison is devoted to the performance of Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 in different fields of photography. Here we are going to look at the five main areas and evaluate how well each of the reviewed models performs in them. This will help you choose an option that suits your needs the most depending on your interest in one or several of these fields.
| Photography Type | Nikon D40X | Nikon D80 |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
|
| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
Nikon D40X for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.7 x 15.6 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- You might not like Nikon skintone
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon D80 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.6 x 15.8 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- You might not like Nikon skintone
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon D40X for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Large APS-C(23.7 x 15.6 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (124 x 94 x 64 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon D80 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Large APS-C(23.6 x 15.8 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (132 x 103 x 77 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon D40X for Sports Photography
Advantages:
No Significant Advantages
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (3.0 fps)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/4000s)
- Bad Low Light ISO (516)
Nikon D80 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Big size (132 x 103 x 77 mm)
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (3.0 fps)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/4000s)
- Bad Low Light ISO (524)
Nikon D40X for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.7 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (522 g)
- Big size (124 x 94 x 64 mm)
- Video is not available
Nikon D80 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.6 x 15.8 mm) sensor
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (668 g)
- Big size (132 x 103 x 77 mm)
- Video is not available
Nikon D40X for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.7 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- Good Dynamic Range (11.4)
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- Low resolution sensor (10 MP)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Bad Low Light ISO (516)
Nikon D80 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.6 x 15.8 mm) sensor
- Good Dynamic Range (11.2)
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- Low resolution sensor (10 MP)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Bad Low Light ISO (524)
Comparison of Nikon D40X vs Nikon D80: Final Verdict
Hopefully, our detailed overview of these models has helped you consider all the main specs, pros and cons of each cameras. Maybe, after reading this comparison, some of you have already decided which option to opt for depending on your needs and preferences. However, if you are still wondering which option is a better choice, Nikon D40X or Nikon D80, below you can see what scores each of them received in five different aspects. To wrap up, we have used our unique Decision Algorithm that assesses different camera models upon 63 different factors including their price, and, if possible, DxO Mark scores. This algorithm allows us to make our verdict more consistent and objective.
What is our final verdict? Based on our comparison and the final scores of Nikon D40X and Nikon D80 here is what we can say in conclusion:
According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Nikon D40X deserves a higher Total Score than the Nikon D80. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Nikon D40X vs Nikon D80 Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Nikon D40X | Nikon D80 | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | D40X | D80 |
| Announced | May 27, 2007 | Sep 23, 2006 |
| Body Type | Compact SLR | Mid-size SLR |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CCD | CCD |
| Sensor Size | APS-C | APS-C |
| Sensor Dimensions | 23.7 x 15.6 mm | 23.6 x 15.8 mm |
| Sensor Area | 369.72 mm2 | 372.88 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 10.0 MP | 10.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 3872 x 2592 | 3872 x 2592 |
| Max Native ISO | 1,600 | 1,600 |
| Max Boosted ISO | 3,200 | 3,200 |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Nikon F | Nikon F |
| Number of Lenses | 287 | 287 |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1.5x | 1.5x |
| Macro Focus Range | ||
| AutoFocus | ||
| AF Touch |  |
|
| AF Continuous | |
|
| AF Single | |
|
| AF Tracking | |
|
| AF Selective | |
|
| AF Center | |
|
| AF Multi Area | |
|
| AF Live View | |
|
| AF Face Detection | |
|
| AF Contrast Detection | |
|
| AF Phase Detection | |
|
| Number of Focus Points | n/a | n/a |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | n/a | n/a |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Fixed Type | Fixed Type |
| Screen Size | 2.5″ | 2.5″ |
| Screen Resolution | 230k dots | 230k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Optical (pentamirror) | Optical (pentaprism) |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 0k dots | 0k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | 95% | 95% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | 0.53 | 0.64 |
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 s | 1/4000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 3.0 fps | 3.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 17 | 13 |
| Flash Modes | Front curtain, Rear curtain, Red-Eye, Slow, Red-Eye Slow | Auto, Front curtain, Rear curtain, Red-Eye, Slow Sync, Wireless |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
|
| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| DxO Sensor Scores | ||
| DxO Sensor Score | 63 | 61 |
| DxO Color Depth | 22.4 | 22.1 |
| DxO Dynamic Range | 11.4 | 11.2 |
| DxO Low Light ISO | 516 | 524 |
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | n/a | n/a |
| Max Video Resolution | ||
| Video Formats | n/a | n/a |
| Microphone Port | |
|
| Headphone Port | |
|
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless Connectivity | |
|
| HDMI | |
|
| USB | USB 2.0 | USB 2.0 |
| Physical | ||
| Environmental Sealing | |
|
| Water Proof | |
|
| Dust Proof | |
|
| Shock Proof | |
|
| Crush Proof | |
|
| Freeze Proof | |
|
| Weight | 522 g | 668 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 124 x 94 x 64 mm | 132 x 103 x 77 mm |
| Battery Life | n/a | n/a |
| Battery Type | n/a | n/a |
| Battery Model | EN-EL9 | EN-EL3e |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | ||
| Storage Type | SD/SDHC card | SD/SDHC card |
| Storage Slots | 1 | 1 |
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