Nikon D80 review

At the moment Nikon D80 is an outdated camera, but many amateur and professional photographers continue to use it. The camera was released in the fall of 2006, but is still popular, this is due to the huge set of useful functions and its trouble-free operation. The camera usually comes with one of 3 lenses

  1. Nikkor AF-S DX 18-135 / 3.5-5.6 G IF-EDthat was announced with the camera
  2. Nikkor 18-70mm f3.5-4.5G ED-IF AF-S DX, one of the best station wagons
  3. Nikon AF-S DX 18-55 F3.5-5.6G, a pretty whale lens.
Nikon D80 body

Nikon D80 body

Advantages of the device to which you should pay attention:

  1. An excellent viewfinder, more than its predecessors, but still does not provide 100% coverage.
  2. Optional liquid crystal display. This is not a relic of the past, but a convenient thing that allows you to quickly configure the necessary little things and save battery in contrast to the large main display. Also, there is a backlight mode, which is very easily turned on by the on / off button of the camera.
  3. Focusing drive. He is "engine"In common people or" screwdriver "- will work with all lenses from Nikon that have autofocus. This will significantly expand the range of possible optics and save some money. The motor turns focus pretty quickly on my Nikkor 50mm F1.8 D.
  4. Matrix in 10MP, type of CCD sensor, working with different cameras, I can say that CCD has sometimes more pleasant colors than CMOS. Also about 10MP - today it is not much and not a little. Don't chase megapixels at all, even professional full-frame cameras Nikon D3, Nikon D700, Nikon D3s have 12MP. I advise my article Battle of Megapixels.
  5. Many focus points (areas) (total 11 zones), as much as in the newer Nikon D90 or old semi-professional Nikon D200This is a really useful feature when taking pictures. After 3 focus points on Nikon D40, 11 points on the D80 are just a huge amount.
  6. The custom menu, it would seem a trifle, but you can customize the menu for yourself. I usually put out there ISO control functions, the built-in flash mode, battery power and shooting modes (portrait, standard).
  7. Great battery, same as in nikon d200, d300(s) D90, D700 making it easy to change batteries between cameras. On average, the battery can withstand 1000 to 1500 frames, depending on the lens and shooting method.
  8. FP Flash Sync Modeallowing you to shoot with an external flash with shutter speed up to 1/4000. An indispensable function, how to use, read in my article "how to take pictures with flash during the day»
  9. External flash control mode. An indispensable feature - allows you to remotely control external flash units at a distance in i-TTL mode. SB-600, SB-700, SB-800, SB-900 и SB-910 Ideal for such control. It is enough to switch the built-in flash to the control mode (C - Comand Mode) and set the synchronization settings.
  10. A programmable button on which you can hang a number of functions, I personally set it to focus modes - by point, auto, dynamic zone.
  11. A separate button for bracketing will always allow you to simplify the setup and selection of the frame with a successful exposure. By the way, there is an opportunity bracketing by BB and by flash.

Disadvantages:

  1. Joystick (multi selector) without central button - quite unusual for our time. This slightly reduces the ergonomics of the camera. Even on small Nikon D40 the joystick has a central OK button. In the D80, the "OK" button is taken out separately and to press it, you need to move your fingers from one place to another.
  2. Metering does not work exposure with manual lenses, a rather inconvenient thing if you, for example, use Soviet optics. And any manual optics from Nikon will work only in manual mode - this means that the camera cannot measure exposure with lenses that do not have a chip.
  3. The camera does not show as fast a reaction as we would like it to be (although this does not apply to the shooting process itself). There is no info button. The overall reaction speed (menu, switching modes) as in Nikon D40. But then, navigation on the secondary display is just great.
  4. Not necessary and not programmable button for viewing depth of field. On the cropped matrix, it does not really allow you to peer into the DOF (DOF). It would be better if the company spent on such a pleasant trifle as vibrational cleaning of the matrix or increased the shutter speed to 1/8000.
  5. On my copy, after 20.000 frames, the gum on the rear panel began to peel off - most Nikon's problem. It is solved by repeated gluing, and sometimes by complete removal from the camera. After 128.000 frames on the camera, the frame counter turns off and starts counting in the opposite direction. But the mileage of over 100.000 on my copy only says that the camera is really very high quality.

At the moment this is Nikon's cheapest and most practical DSLR APS-C camera, which will allow you to get almost all the necessary functions of a professional camera. At the moment, there are practically no new cameras on sale, but in the secondary market you can find a huge offer of Nikon D80. If the functionality is very important at work for minimal funds, then the Nikon D80 is the best option.

Nikon D80 rear view

Nikon D80 rear view

A brief comparison with a relative Nikon D90:

Nikon D80 has a basic ISO of 100, against Nikon D90 with his lo1. I Nikon D90 the maximum ISO is raised by one step, which is 6400. The Nikon D80 has a 2,5 inch screen with 230 thousand pixels, versus 3 inch with 920.000 pixels D90. And of course, D90 there is a Live View mode and video shooting. Nikon D90 also wins in terms of speed - 4.5 fps versus 3 fps. Otherwise, the cameras are very similar. I do not recommend upgrading from Nikon D80 to Nikon D90, D300, D300s without emergency. If you go already, then on Nikon D7000 or full frame Nikon D700 and others like that.

Here link to the archive with the originals - 586 MB, 73 photos in .NEF format (RAW) from the Nikon D80 camera.

Brief comparison with ancestor Nikon D200:

Nikon D80 same matrix as semi-professional camera Nikon D200. The only difference is the matrix kit, Nikon D200 it is double, which allows you to do 5 frames per second, while the Nikon D80 is single, which allows you to do only 3 frames per second. In general, they say that the matrices are different. The picture quality is very, very similar, I used a long time Nikon D200 and D80. Also, Nikon D200 has dust and moisture protection, it has more functionality, can work with manual lenses of the type AI-S, the shutter speed is half as fast as the Nikon D80 - 1/8000c versus 1/4000c. Also, the Nikon D200 has a 1,005 sensor, versus 420 for the Nikon D80. Nikon D80 uses SD cards, against big ones CF from Nikon D200. Well, the ergonomics are different. With Nikon D80 you will get the same picture as Nikon D200. When choosing between Nikon D80 and Nikon D200, the decisive factor was the battery life, which runs out very quickly on the two hundred. I do not recommend upgrading from Nikon D80 to Nikon D200.

Nikon D70(s), in my humble opinion, to compare is not practical due to the large difference in functionality. From D70 he took his classic design.

Sample photos on Nikon D80

All photos in this review without treatment. Size reduced to 2 or 3 MP and data from EXIF.

Features and recommendations for the use of Nikon D80:

The camera can very accurately show the number of spent frames for each battery and show the battery charge level with an accuracy of one percent. By the way, the battery is the same as the Nikon D90, D700, D200, D300, D300s, it’s convenient for me to change batteries between my D90 and D80 cameras.

Tips:

  • I advise you to program a function button to select the focus mode, this will help you quickly switch between automatic and spot focus mode. Also turn off high ISO and long shutter noise reduction functions, since they greatly reduce the number of frames in the buffer, there are about three of them. With disabled features you can achieve 6 frames in RAW in the buffer.
  • I use Nikon D80 and 32GB Class 10 without any problems SD HC memory card, this means that the camera works adequately with new memory cards, so you don’t have to worry about the age and compatibility of the camera.
  • Since this is still a DX camera, I do not advise buying expensive DX lenses for it, then you still have to switch to a full frame. Well, if the DX format is fine, then Nikon 35mm F1.8, Nikon 55-200 and classic Nikon 50mm f / 1.8D AF Nikkor will be a great addition to the camera for little money.

Prices for modern Nikon cameras in popular stores can look at this link.

Comments on this post do not require registration. Anyone can leave a comment. Many different photographic equipment can be found on AliExpress.

Conclusions:

Nikon D80 - an obsolete miracle of camera manufacturing with great functionality. Suitable for both amateurs and professionals. Recommended as a budget option for any need.

I advise you to look at the page recommendations for choosing an amateur Nikon camera.

Material prepared Arkady Shapoval. Training/Consultations | Youtube | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Telegram

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Comments: 702, on the topic: Review of Nikon D80

  • An excellent device, I use it myself.
    Even in the presence of other Nikon carcasses - 80 tons is the main one ...

  • Denis

    Good review and generally an interesting site. You are doing a good job - you bring knowledge to people in an accessible language and, most importantly, truthfully. But I want to stand up for Nikon D70 (S) in fairness. It is (almost) not inferior to 80 in functionality, and it has only one less external button. Plus, shutter speeds up to 1/8000, 1005-point metering sensor, dynamic buffer are the advantages of the 70's.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Thanks. If on business, then Nikon D70 has a base ISO200 VS ISO100 Nikon D80, given this factor, that 1/4000 ISO100 at D80, that 1/8000 ISO 200 at D70 - will give the same exposure and due to the higher ISO, D70 ( s) loses. Also, the D70 (s) does not have a fast synchron with the flash, which is a very important factor. True, indeed, Nikon D70 wins with its buffer and CF card. By the way, I'm going to take the Nikon D70 as a camera that I don't mind taking anywhere, so expect a review and thanks again for your comment.

      • Oleg

        I will wait with interest for this review, because despite the fact that I received the recommendation to take the D80, my friend D70 turned up with two lenses, a flash and other nishtyak. Therefore:
        Give Revue D70 !!!!

        • Arkady Shapoval

          Give me a D70 - and I will write a review :) since I decided not to take it myself

  • Alexander

    tell me - and the 70s have 1005 exposure metering, it is significantly better in the 70s than the one in d90 - 420 ??

    • Arkady Shapoval

      yes, the Nikon D70 1005 has a segment sensor and the Nikon D90 has a 420 segment sensor. The question is, will you get a feel for the number of segments in practice. In theory, 5 segments are enough for correct measurement, the rest is marketing cheating, like in Nikon D7000 - personal opinion.

  • Sergei

    Tell me, please, what is better to buy: a nikon d80 with a mileage of 16000 frames and an 18-135 lens for 5000 hryvnias or a d3100 from 18-55 for 5135 hryvnias a new one.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      I would take the D80, it has convenient controls and there are a lot of important things, but in 3100 only liveviews and videos attract.

  • Sergei

    Thank you!

  • Bogdan

    The biggest drawback of the Nikon D80 is a 2,5-inch screen that you can’t use this screen instead of the viewfinder eyepiece in extremely rare but very necessary moments (and I miss it terribly)!
    can anyone hear whether the firmware appeared can eliminate this drawback?

    • Arkady Shapoval

      no, there is no such firmware, just like there is no firmware that would allow you to shoot video :)

  • Michael

    tell me what to do - from the donation a regular lens 18-135 failed, what to do: repair or purchase a different, more interesting universal lens (for family and tourism) if so what?

    • Arkady Shapoval

      I would take 18-200 VR for all occasions, if there is no money, then repair 18-135.

  • Michael

    Thank you, I thought so, just a lot of talk about blurring 18-200

  • altavista

    I twisted my D80, so I did not find the Active D-lightening function. Is it definitely present on this model? Perhaps something in the menu needs to be included in addition?

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Turn on any captured image, press the "OK" button - the first item of ADL. There is no ADL function on the D80, which is automatically applied to the photo. The same function is the first in the "Processing menu"

  • Volodimir

    I think remember my D3100 on the D80. Yakі plusi and minusi I will clear off?

    • Arkady Shapoval

      You can see the differences here. Nikon D80 vs Nikon D3100 Get quick sync, flash command mode, focus motor, improved ergonomics. Lose the ISO range, video, auto D-lighting and image correction, matrix cleaning, etc.

  • Alexey

    Please tell me, I want to hear individually) Is there a fundamental difference (overpay money) between d80 and d90?

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Yes, the D90 has a notch better ISO, and Live VIew is a very useful thing.

  • Volodimir

    Arkady, good day! I have already overwhelmed the entire Internet and looked around Nikon D80, having re-read all the forums and read it. Would your special advice - exchange D3100 on D80 be primed? But I want to correct the offensive perevagi: 1. The appearance of the "vicrutka", so that you can give the vikoristovuvati a chance to b 50 1,8D (the price of which is 1200 UAH), and not 50 vidstrilanimi 1,8 AF-C for 2400 UAH. 2. The presence of a non-“chipped” battery. І etc. It is ІСО, then on D3100 I і trimmed up to 800-1200, D-lighting nicoli і not including. If you have seen a video a couple of times, then I will go to the video camera. It’s less time to tweak the summaries and showcase the D80 sample, display the option from 17000 frames. As for the function of cleaning the matrix, then the D3100 can be tested, but after reading the Nikon pilot shaker no worse, it’s due to the olimpus, but if you don’t often think about the activation, then the saw will be less (why not?). And why would you recommend me to respect you at D80 with a good exchange? I will be even more vivid for your opinion !!! Your sai is super.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Yes, the benefits are real. My D80 ran over 120.000 thousand and feels great. Dust shaker is not a panacea. When exchanging, look at the mileage of the camera by any program and at the hot pixels.

  • Volodimir

    Arkadiy! For a look I may try the program. And you recommend for provіtki pіkselіv. I’ll guess the procedure for the removal of the photo for checking the photo, and I’m more beautiful from the program. I’m going to be a drowsy one.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Any program that extracts information about the number of shutter releases from EXIf. Broken ones can be checked with a closed aperture and a fast shutter speed - you get a dark shot and look for stars.

  • Volodimir

    Arkadiy, good evening! But what can you say about the Canon EOS 40D? Crazy!

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Cano 40D will be better.

  • Volodimir

    Arkady good day! See if you can vibrate, I'm bothering you, but I want to please yours. Є Canon 40D body in trial 20 yew. i Nikon D80 + 18-70 AF-S in 25 yew trial. As brothers Kenon, then you need a squabble (and the song will be 18-55 or 50 1,8 II). Ale tricky me in kenony "pomilka 99" yak vinikє in them. From і I don’t know how varto brothers kenon with such a trial. I can’t vibrate with two models. Dyakuyu again!

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Each device has its advantages. No one except you will help with the right choice. I would take Kenon, the decision is up to you.

  • Valera

    Good afternoon, Arkady, I bought the d80, I twisted the settings for everyone, I can’t get a clear result, the 18-105vr lens on the d40 photo turned out much better. Please tell me what you need to configure, thanks in advance.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      What do you mean by a clear result?

  • Valera

    at least clear photos

  • Dmitriy

    Good afternoon, Arkady, tell me please, when buying a D80, what is the maximum mileage you can consider and what to focus on? Thanks in advance.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      I would not take with a run over 50.000. My D80, for example, has already over 130.000. The main attention should be paid to the integrity of all pixels, so that there are no hot, broken, etc.

  • Dmitriy

    Thank you!

  • Volodimir

    Dmitry! Take more beautifully kenon 40D. I took it and I don’t regret it (with a run of 10144), and I took a “budget” 50 mm F1,8 on the cob. Dyakuyu Arkady for your words: "I would take Kenon, the decision is up to you."

  • Aleksandrov

    Good afternoon, I’m renting on a nikon d3100 but it’s small for me and there is no screwdriver, etc. I took a d80 from a friend to shoot, I liked it. Yes, I’m thinking of changing d3100 to d80, taking into account the family budget of d90, I still can’t allow it. What do you recommend? Thanks.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      I do not recommend. The D3100 is still almost twice as good as the noise matrix. I use the D80 only because of the fast sync with the flash and convenient controls.

  • Aleksandrov

    And what is better in photo quality? Thanks…

    • Arkady Shapoval

      D3100 will be better due to lower noise, slightly greater color depth and slightly larger DD. Yes, and the camera is newer, in another evolutionary branch is.

  • Yefim

    Tell me, does it make sense on the nikon d-80 to take a nikon nikkor lens 24-70 lens? Or is it necessary to use a D-700 with such a lens?

    • Arkady Shapoval

      The lens is good, but on DX cameras it’s better to take 17-50.

  • Andrei

    Tell me, is there a possibility of manual exposure in this camera? I mean, so that you can shoot something at night for 30 seconds, as stated in the instructions, and as much as you need to keep the shutter open. For example, using a remote control.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Yes, it’s called BULD, it’s available when you twist the shutter speed for 30 seconds.

  • Andrei

    Thanks, I'll look for this option.

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