Nikon D7200 vs Canon 80D: A Duel Between Two Cameras

Canon and Nikon are powerhouse brands in the digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera sphere. Every DSLR camera they make is designed to produce magnificent imagery!

This being the case, choosing a brand is difficult.

Need a camera for indoor photography? Nikon has your answer. Is the photography you’re doing fast-paced? Canon has what you need.

In this article, I’ll be hosting a duel between the Nikon D7200 vs Canon 80D.

An Overview of the Nikon D7200 vs Canon 80D Duel

I wrote this article to see who comes out on top between two enthusiast-level APS-C sensor DSLRs, the Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D.

The Canon 80D is a younger model (introduced in February 2016) than the Nikon D7200 (launched in March 2015).

With only a one-year gap, there isn’t much of a difference between the two cameras in terms of technology. However, the advantage in terms of sensor tech goes to the younger 80D.

If you’re a photographer, either of the two cameras would be a good upgrade if you want to move on from your compact or entry-level DSLR.

Strengths and Weaknesses of the Nikon D7200 vs Canon 80D

I’ll start it off by covering characteristics BOTH cameras have in common. These will give you an idea of why they’re held in high regard.

What Makes Them Stand Out

These are the features that make them more noticeable in the market:

• They’re useful in low-light conditions with their built-in flash.
• Both are better for flash photography since you can use an external flash shoe.
• You get some of the best image quality and up your photography game thanks to their wide array of features.
• They’re convenient for portrait photography thanks to their face detection focus functions.
• Both are ideal for sports and action photography, thanks to their robust autofocus systems.
• You can shoot in tough conditions because of their environmental sealing.

We’ll cover their features and benefits more in-depth as we go along.

What They Lack

As for this aspect, the Nikon D7200 and Canon 80D actually have only two weaknesses.

First, they don’t have focus peaking. It’s a real-time focus mode that uses the camera’s Live View focusing aid.

It highlights peak contrast areas with a false-color overlay in your viewfinder, which helps determine which part of the image is in focus before you shoot.

Secondly, both cameras don’t have built-in image stabilization. Their bodies don’t have sensor-based image stabilization, so you’ll probably want to buy lenses with that feature.

These lenses can be wide-angle lenses for shooting landscapes or even super-telephoto lenses for shooting wildlife and sports.

Here are some Nikon lenses with IS for the D7200’s F mount:

• Standard zoom lens: Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED Vibration Reduction
• Wide-angle zoom lens: Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED Vibration Reduction
• Telephoto zoom lens: Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens

Here are some Canon lenses with image stabilization for the 80D’s EF/EF-S mount:

• Standard zoom lens: Canon EF 24-70mm f/4.0L IS USM
• Wide-angle zoom lens: Canon EF-S 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM
• Telephoto zoom lens: Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS II USM

Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D: Their Individual Key Features

Now that you know what they have in common let’s look at these two cameras individually.

I wanted to do this before getting into a side-by-side comparison to give you a more detailed understanding of each camera first.

The Nikon D7200

The Nikon D7200 has plenty of key features, delivers excellent performance, and has a robust autofocus (AF) system.

It’s a DSLR camera considered one of the best and is a great option if you want to upgrade from your entry-level DSLR.

Prefer something visual? You can watch this video!

For Image Capturing

The Nikon D7200’s 24.2-megapixel sensor, EXPEED 4 processor, and freedom from an anti-aliasing filter in front of its image sensor work together to produce remarkably detailed and sharper images.

With its improved processor, the Nikon D7200 also has a better buffer capacity than its predecessor (the Nikon D7100). This DSLR camera is also capable of HD video capture (1080p)!

The camera also has a shooting rate of 6 frames per second (FPS) at full resolution, which increases to 7 FPS in its 1.3x crop mode.

The 1.3x crop also extends your lens’s reach if you want to get closer to a subject! You’ll surely capture loads of shots!

Nikon even claims that their camera can capture 27 raw files or 100 JPEG files in a single burst! Just a heads up, their claim doesn’t refer to the 14-bit files most photographers prefer.

It actually refers to the smaller 12-bit NEF files.

Hint: To learn more about the difference between raw files and JPEG files, you can watch this video.

ISO Range

The Nikon D7200 flaunts its native sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600.

You can even expand its ISO range up to a whopping ISO 102,400, allowing you to easily capture breathtaking images in low-light conditions!

Autofocus System and Controls

Would you believe the Nikon D7200 has 51 autofocus points? 15 of those focus points are cross-type sensors too! That’s a lot, right? Your images are always in focus, even while tracking!

This DSLR camera is also equipped with an eye-level pentaprism optical viewfinder. This optical viewfinder delivers 100% coverage!

The Nikon D7200 also features Picture Control 2.0, which offers seven different picture controls like most of Nikon’s DSLR cameras! You have a wide range of options for your photography!

Controls like the Flat mode let you take photos with optimum dynamic range and minimal contrast! This feature makes it easier for videographers to grade and enhance footage!

Looking at its display, the Nikon D7200 has a 3.2-inch LCD screen. Unfortunately, it’s neither adjustable nor touch-sensitive.

Storage

If storage is a concern, the Nikon D7200 has dual SD card slots. The dual card slots give you an easier time storing more footage and photos with this camera!

You can also transfer your footage to an external storage or recorder via HDMI!

Wireless Connectivity

As for wireless connectivity, the Nikon D7200 has Near Field Communication (NFC) and built-in Wi-Fi.

NFC is especially convenient since you can easily remote control your camera using any compatible devices you have!

Summary of Key Specifications:

• Weight: 675 grams
• Dimensions: 136 x 107 x 76 mm
• 24.2-Megapixel APS-C CMOS Sensor
• Full HD (1080p) video resolution
• No Anti-aliasing (AA) filter
• ISO 100 – 25,600 (Up to 102,400)
• 3.2″ Fixed Screen
• Pentaprism Optical Viewfinder
• 6 FPS continuous shooting
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• Dual SD Card Slots

Pros:

• Impressive burst mode speed
• Image processor effectively produces better image quality
• Great build quality
• Long-lasting battery life

Cons:

• Heftier of the two cameras
• Non-adjustable LCD screen

The Canon 80D

Now let’s take a look at the Canon 80D. Also, an enthusiast-level DSLR camera is considered one of the best. It combines ergonomics and lots of useful features.

It may take time to become proficient at using its settings and functions, but the 80D will certainly help you improve your photography!

It’s a wonderful option if you want to upgrade from a cheaper model.

Here’s a video in case you prefer something visual.

For Image Capturing

It delivers impressive high-resolution images thanks to its advanced 24 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 image processor!

If you want some information about the shooting rate, this camera offers a maximum continuous shooting rate of 7 FPS!

It doesn’t stop there. It has an even higher burst rate! Imagine a rate of 25 raw files or 110 JPEGs when you use a UHS-1 SD card! Capturing subjects in motion will be effortless!

All these features, combined with the high burst rate, make the Canon 80D an ideal camera for action and sports photography!

ISO Range

The Canon 80D also has a sensitivity range of ISO 100-16000. You can even expand the sensitivity range up to 25600, making it useful in low-light conditions!

It may not be able to capture a 4K video, but the Canon 80D actually has the ability to take cinematic pictures!

Autofocus System and Controls

As for its autofocus system and controls, the Canon 80D also has two advanced systems for different shooting modes.

• Reflex mode
• Live View modes

For its Reflex mode, it boasts a hybrid autofocus system that has 45 cross-type AF points! Hint: The reflex mode where images are created in the viewfinder.

As for its Live View and video autofocus, the camera has a technology that enables each pixel to perform phase-detection quickly and with great sensitivity!

The Canon 80D is also a camera capable of utilizing color information and easily tracking its subjects! This is thanks to the 7560-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor the camera has.

If you want to shoot video, you can also regulate the system’s speed (over seven steps) for focus changes!

All these features ensure that your subjects are always in focus and your photos are crisp! 

Storage

The Canon 80D ONLY has one SD card slot. It’s a bit inconvenient, especially if you’re the type that shoots A LOT and really need that storage space.

Wireless Connectivity

The Canon EOS 80D boasts NFC and built-in Wi-Fi. This is already a standard with modern digital single-lens reflex cameras.

Summary of Key Specifications:

• Weight: 730 grams
• Dimensions: 139 x 105 x 79 mm
• 24.2 MP – APS-C CMOS Sensor
• Full HD (1080p) video resolution
• ISO 100 – 16000 (Up to 25600)
• 3″ Fully Articulated Screen
• Pentaprism Optical Viewfinder
• 7 FPS continuous shooting
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• Single SD Card Slot

Pros:

• Great ergonomics with intuitive controls
• Higher burst performance of 7 FPS
• Splendid for capturing video
• Effortless connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC

Cons:

• The kit lens isn’t so sharp, and the camera can’t capture 4K-resolution video
• Inferior ISO and dynamic range performance

A Face-to-Face Comparison: The Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D

Now let’s go into a head-to-head comparison of the two cameras. I’ll be comparing them using 6 main criteria you should look at when choosing a camera that fits you. These criteria would be:

• Image quality
• Video capturing
• Build and design
• Image capturing
• Autofocus performance
• Battery life

You’ll be able to spot some key differences between the Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D in this section, too, making it easier to choose which one you should get.

1.) Image Quality: Which One Does It Better?

When comparing the image quality of the Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D, the two cameras are actually capable of producing high-quality images.

BOTH cameras have a native aspect ratio (sensor width to sensor height) of 3:2.

The Nikon D7200 has great color reproduction and low-light performance with its 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor.

Also, the fact that the noise suppression is also very effective at higher ISOs means you can get a great shot no matter what lighting conditions there are!

As for the Canon 80D, it has impressive color reproduction (even indoors).

Low-light shooting is also great with this camera, but grain becomes an issue once you go beyond 3200 ISO. Simply put, its ISO performance isn’t as good.

Winner for Image Quality: Nikon D7200

Our main reason for choosing the Nikon D7200 would be its advantage when it comes to low-light performance.

Shooting in low-light conditions can be a huge challenge in photography. Having hardware possessing splendid low-light sensitivity is a huge plus!

2.) Capturing Video Footage: A Bit One-Sided?

The Nikon D7200 has features for decent HD video capture. It lacks a full sensor readout, but it can shoot full HD (1080p) videos at up to 30 FPS!

It also has functions allowing you to control ISO sensitivity automatically and make exposure adjustments!

It also gives you the option for high-quality audio recording with its external 3.5 mm microphone jack. You even have the choice to monitor audio quality thanks to its 3.5mm headphone jack!

The Canon 80D EMPHASIZES video quality! It can capture full HD video at higher frame rates, making it ideal for capturing live-action video.

It also has a variety of real-time movie filters which offers you more room for creativity!

The headphone jack and 3.5 mm microphone jack are bonuses for monitoring audio quality.

Winner for Video Capturing: Canon 80D

The breadth of features the Canon 80D has makes it an easy choice for video capturing.

From better frame rates to real-time movie filters, making movies on this digital camera will surely feed your creativity!

3.) Build and Design: Which Is More User-Friendly?

As for the build and design comparison, I’ll look at the ergonomics, weight, button placement, and camera screen. These all affect how quickly you navigate your way around your camera.

Ergonomics, Weight, and Button Placement

With the Nikon D7200, you can easily play around with the camera’s settings (even while working), thanks to its well-positioned buttons.

This camera also snugly fits your hand despite having quite a bulky design.

Another thing to point out is the Nikon D7200 weighs 675 grams without a lens or battery. Holding it steady while taking photos could take some getting used to, especially in low-light.

As for the Canon 80D, the buttons and controls are also laid out so that changing settings while looking through the optical viewfinder is intuitive!

It’s quite hefty (730 grams), so getting used to it could take a while. It’s a bit bulky too, but the sturdy grips help the camera fit your hand well.

Screen

The Nikon D7200 features a larger-than-usual 3.2-inch screen. A downside is it isn’t a touchscreen, nor is it adjustable.

As for the Canon EOS 80D, the camera has a tiltable 3-inch  LCD touchscreen.

It provides more user-friendliness that allows easier camera function navigation! It even helps with different types of photography!

Winner for Build and Design: Canon 80D

The Canon 80D wins because it’s more user-friendly.

It’s easier to handle than the Nikon D7200. Not to mention its LCD touchscreen, which makes it easier to go through your camera’s other features too!

4.) Image Capturing: Cutting It Close

Its EXPEED 4 processor powers the Nikon D7200, but another factor that flaunts the performance of the Nikon D7200 is its shooting rate.

The 6 FPS continuous shooting rate is quite good, but its burst rate of 27 raw files or 100 JPEG files in a single burst is even better!

On the other hand, the Canon 80D is primarily powered by its DIGIC 6 processor. It also has rapid shutter speeds and a continuous rate of 7 FPS which is a tad faster than the Nikon D7200.

As for its burst rate, it can capture 25 raw files or 110 JPEGs when you use a UHS-1 SD card!

Winner for Image Capturing Performance: It Depends

The differences in the image capturing performance of the Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D are actually quite slim. Choosing would really depend on your preferences.

Do you want a slightly faster continuous shooting rate? Choose the Canon 80D. Are you looking for a somewhat higher burst rate? Then go for the Nikon D7200.

5.) Autofocus Performance

Let’s make an autofocus sensor comparison here.

The Nikon D7200 has 51 autofocus points. 15 of those focus points are cross-type sensors which are faster to focus. It has more autofocus points than the Canon 80D!

For its part, the Canon 80D has a hybrid autofocus system that boasts 45 cross-type focus points. This makes its system really quick!

You can continuously track your moving subject without losing focus with this camera!

Winner for Autofocus Performance: Canon EOS 80D

You might be wondering why. Let me explain for a bit. The D7200 may have more focus points, but they’re not ALL cross-type sensors.

The Canon EOS 80D has autofocus sensors that are ALL cross-type ensuring your camera doesn’t lose focus while tracking your subjects. It makes capturing action shots effortless!

6.) Battery Life: Which One Can Shoot More Shots?

The Nikon D7200 has a great battery life that’s good for 1,110 shots per charge. This is thanks to its EN-EL15 lithium-ion charge rechargeable battery pack.

As for the Canon 80D, it has good battery life. It uses an LP-E6N rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack which is good for about 960 shots.

Battery Life Trivia: Canon claims that you can make your battery last for up to 1,390 shots per charge if you decide not to use the flash. That’s a healthy amount!

Winner for Battery Life: Nikon D7200

This was actually an easy choice. Canon can claim that you’ll greatly extend the battery life of the Canon 80D by not using the flash.

I still prefer being able to squeeze out 150 more shots with flash using the Nikon D7200.

The Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D: Key Differences and Stand-Out Features

I’ve now touched on the basic criteria and gave you an idea of where each camera triumphs over the other.

This section will cover some more features that set the Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D apart from each other. This will be a quicker list of things that won’t be needing as much explanation.

In Which Aspects Are the Nikon D7200 Superior to the Canon Eos 80D?

Here are some other factors where the Nikon D7200 beats the Canon 80D:

• You can easily see what you’re capturing since it has a larger viewfinder magnification (0.63x vs. 0.6x)
• You see crisper images on your LCD screen since its resolution is 18% better (1.229K dots vs. 1.040K dots)
• You get more colorful images thanks to its advantage in terms of color depth (24.5 bits vs. 23.6 bits)
• The Nikon D7200 gives you detailed photographs with more dynamic range (14.6 Evs vs. 13.2 Evs)
• It has better sensitivity thanks to its sensor pixel area that’s 8% larger (15.28µm2 vs. 14.06µm2)
• It has a sturdier shutter (150000 cycles vs. 100000 cycles)

How Does the Canon EOS 80D Triumph Over the Nikon D7200?

Now here’s where the scales are tipped in the Canon 80D’s favor:

• It allows for more flexible shooting positions with its fully articulated LCD screen.
• You have easier control over the functions of your camera because of its LCD touchscreen.
• You can use it to broadcast live, thanks to its webcam function.
• You also avoid uneven color and exposure under flickering light thanks to the Canon 80D’s anti-flicker function.

The Winner of the Nikon D7200 vs. Canon 80D Duel

This may be a bit anticlimactic, but it depends on what you’re looking for! I know. It’s supposed to be a duel, but hear me out.

Both are GREAT enthusiast cameras capable of capturing great images and have desirable features, but let me talk about how each one fits you.

Why Choose the Nikon D7200?

If you’re more into taking portraits or amazing still images, then the Nikon D7200 should float your boat! It has the upper hand in these aspects:

• It captures more crisp and outstanding photographs.
• It has better performance at higher ISOs.
• It offers incredible results with minimal image noise.

You can check out the Nikon D7200 here and take your first step to capture moving photos!

How About Getting the Canon 80D?

The Canon 80D is for those who like doing fast-paced photography and are into filmmaking!

• Its design and controls allow for more flexible shooting.
• It rarely loses focus while tracking a moving subject.
• It can capture live-action video at higher frame rates and more real-time movie filters to enhance your films too!

Itching to capture those action shots you’ve always envisioned? You can take a peek at the Canon 80D here!

Have You Chosen Your Winner?

That’s great! I hope you had fun reading this article. Whichever camera won you over, I’m sure it’s the right one!