Could anyone explain to me the difference/advantage of the D7200 vs the D3400? Even in a comparison chart, the differences seem very slight. Is it just more solid construction? There must be some reason that people are willing to pay twice as much. Did a search on this site for the info, could not find it---am new, maybe didn't look in the right place. Thanks.
Allie wrote:
Could anyone explain to me the difference/advantage of the D7200 vs the D3400? Even in a comparison chart, the differences seem very slight. Is it just more solid construction? There must be some reason that people are willing to pay twice as much. Did a search on this site for the info, could not find it---am new, maybe didn't look in the right place. Thanks.
Google Thom hogan. But the d3000 to 3500 series is there low end cameras , and the 7000 to 7300 is there highest end before the get into
The full frames , but now they made a d500 which cost more than the a $1300 more than d7300 serious
I'll mention one important advantage of the D7200 that is not obvious when comparing technical specs: usability or ergonomics. As you get away from entry levels cameras, you may get better performance and more features, but you also get a camera that is easier to use. Compare pictures of the back, top, and front of these two cameras. The D7100 has a lot more buttons and wheels. While that seems more complex and confusing, it really means you get to use more of the functions without having get into the menus. It also allows for more manual control of the camera. In auto mode, both cameras take excellent photos. But if you're considering a DSLR, then at some point you'll want to get away from auto, and being able to directly control the camera will make for a much more enjoyable experience.
Mac
Loc: Pittsburgh, Philadelphia now Hernando Co. Fl.
The D7200 has a better AF system and a better view finder than the D3400. Also, the D7200 has a built in auto focus motor which the D3400 does not have. Actually none of the D3xxx and D5xxx cameras have a built in auto focus motor. Not having a built in auto focus requires you to use AF-S lenses which have an auto focus motor in the lens for auto focus. Having a camera with a built in focus motors allows you to use AF lenses which do not have a focus motor in the lens. AF lenses are smaller, lighter and less expensive than AF-S lenses.
The D3xxx and D5xxx series Nikons have a pentamirror viewfinder. The D7xxx series and above Nikons have a pentaprism viewfinder. The glass prism inside gives a larger, slightly brighter view when using the viewfinder. It's also more expensive. The D3xxx and D5xxx series Nikons have a polycarbonate body. The D7xxx series cameras have a mostly magnesium body. The D7xxx series cameras have a built-in focusing motor.
Appreciate the info, and everyone else's comments also. Is there a difference between the cameras as to the built-in flash? I think I've read that the D3400's was weaker than even its previous model. Thanks much.
Allie wrote:
Appreciate the info, and everyone else's comments also. Is there a difference between the cameras as to the built-in flash? I think I've read that the D3400's was weaker than even its previous model. Thanks much.
The built-in flash in the D7200 can be used as a commander to control off-camera flash units. A UHH member mentioned that the built-in flash on the D5xxx series can also be used as a commander. That might be something to look into.
Nikon eliminated the ultrasonic sensor cleaning function with the D3400. All of Nikon's recent DSLR cameras have had that feature. Also, its built-in flash has only one-half the power of the flash in the D3300.
mcveed
Loc: Kelowna, British Columbia (between trips)
You have found that spec sheets don't tell much of a story. If you must answer this question without going to a camera store then I suggest you read the reviews on DPReview or download the user manuals and read them. Best answer is to go to a camera store (not best buy) and ask a salesman your question. Look at the external controls on the D7200 as compared to the D3400. Feel the weight and size difference.
Allie wrote:
Could anyone explain to me the difference/advantage of the D7200 vs the D3400? Even in a comparison chart, the differences seem very slight. Is it just more solid construction? There must be some reason that people are willing to pay twice as much. Did a search on this site for the info, could not find it---am new, maybe didn't look in the right place. Thanks.
The most important difference for me (and there are many) is that the D7200 has a focus motor built into the camera so it will take any FX or DX Auto Focus lens and auto focus it. The D3400 requires lenses with the silent wave motor (SWF) built into the lens in order to auto focus. All others must be manually focused. So if lens compatibility is important to you (and I purchase some used AF lenses from KEH, Adorama, and B&H much cheaper than new) then you should look at the D7200. The D7200 is also designed as an entry level professional camera where the D3400 is designed as an amateur camera. I'm not saying that amateur cameras are bad but you need to be aware of what you are getting. The D7200 is more robust and weather sealed than the D3400.
If you shot in manuel the controls on the D7200 are more friendly
Allie wrote:
Could anyone explain to me the difference/advantage of the D7200 vs the D3400? Even in a comparison chart, the differences seem very slight. Is it just more solid construction? There must be some reason that people are willing to pay twice as much. Did a search on this site for the info, could not find it---am new, maybe didn't look in the right place. Thanks.
The differences come in this: The D3400 is an excellent intro camera, it is capable of making just as good images as the D7200 (Same sensor). The D7200 is much more rugged. More functions are easy to get to (More buttons and dials, rather than going into the menus) The D3400 does have built-in wifi and bluetooth for sharing with your cellphone or tethering to your computer. The D3400 is all that most people need or want. The D7200 is designed for the more serious photographer who may find himself/herself in some hot and heavy shooting without time to open menus etc. Great reviews of both at Kenrockwell.com. Rockwell does reviews based on actually doing a lot of photography with each camera. I have often followed his advice and come out smiling.
The D3400 is an entry camera whcih does not necessarily means it is not a good and practical body. The D7200 is a better camera intended for high amateur use and has more features.
If you are contemplating buying a camera for the first time you will be well served with the entry model.
All around good info from contributors. Thank you. Helping me to make my own decisions about a camera purchase.
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