Nikon Battle Supreme II: The Nikon D750 vs. Nikon D610
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Nikon currently has ten cameras in their current line-up of DSLR cameras, which fall into three categories of cameras. Nikon labels these categories “entry-level,” “enthusiast” or “professional” with each category containing two of more cameras targeting a specific market. Two of the most popular of the cameras in the “enthusiast” line of cropped sensor and full frame cameras are the Nikon D750, which was introduced in 2014, and the D610, which was introduced in 2013. At the time of their introduction, the D750 was a completely new camera, while the D610 was an update to the D600, which was the first Nikon “budget” full frame camera to go to market. While the D750 and the D610 are both excellent full frame cameras, which one is the better camera, the D750 or the D610?
The Similarities
The D750 and the D610 share some significant features beginning with their full frame CMOS sensor, which captures images at 24.2 megapixels. In contrast, Nikon’s flagship D5, which costs $6,499.95, only captures images at 20.8 megapixels! The image quality in both the D750 and the D610 is excellent, and the color accuracy is outstanding, which is what you would expect from a Nikon camera.
While not the same, the D750 and D610 are very similar in speed, with the D750 shooting at 6.5 frames per second compared to the D610, which shoots at six frames per second. Both cameras use EXPEED processors, with the D750 using the newer EXPEED 4, while the D610 uses the older EXPEED 3. In both cameras, the processor is very quick in processing JPEG or RAW files quickly to each camera’s two memory slots, which hold SD, SDHC or SDXC memory cards. These cards can be configured in both cameras in some ways, with the second memory card being used to backup the first card, overflow from the first card or to store video only.
One of the most useful features found on both cameras is the U and U2 setting on the top dial. This allows the photographer to store two of their favorite settings in the camera and instantly recall them by simply turning the dial. This is a very useful tool in the field and eliminates the need to navigate the menu to set up the photographer’s favorite settings constantly
The D750 and the D610 both shoot video as well, which is a standard feature with today’s DSLR cameras. The video is captured in a variety of formats including full HD with a frame size of 1,920 x 1,080. There is a slight difference in the frame rate between the two cameras when shooting in full HD. In the case of the D750, the frame rate is 60 frames per second, while the D610 is 30 frames per second. In both cameras the video quality is excellent!
Another similarity between the two cameras is the physical size of the two cameras, which make them great to handle in the field. While the D610 is slightly larger at 5.6” x 4.4” x 3.2” compared to the D750, which measures 5.3” x 4.2” x 3.0”, both cameras weigh in at approximately 26.5 ounces. The low overall weight of the D750 and D610 bodies is the result of the cameras having mainly plastic construction, featuring magnesium alloy construction at the top and bottom of the camera. Although light weight, both cameras are very well durable and feel solid in hand.
Other similarities include a built-in a flash, as well as a hot shoe to attach a variety of accessories too. The cameras also share the standard exposure modes including program, aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual, as well as some preset scene modes, where the camera’s settings are optimized for that type of scene. In both cameras the shutter speed range is 1/4,000 – 30 seconds. Finally, both cameras have a bright viewfinder that provides 100% coverage.
The Nikon D750 is a great camera, even by today's standards. Its Matrix-metering system is very capable, delivering correct exposure in a wide range of situations, and it produces images that have natural yet vibrant colors. The D750 captures an impressive level of sharp detail, and noise is controlled well.
The Differences
While the D750 and the D610 are very similar cameras, there are several notable differences between the two cameras. The first difference is the more robust ISO capabilities of the D750, which has a native ISO range of 100-12,500. In contrast, the native ISO range of the D610 is 100-6,400. The D750 also has the capability to push the ISO to 50 and expand it to ISO 51,200 at H-2. The D610 can only push the ISO to 25,600 at H-2.
The D750 also features a technically superior autofocus system offering up to 51 autofocus points including 15 cross-type points. In contrast, the D610 only has up to 39 autofocus points, with 9 being cross type points. In both cameras, the autofocus system was quick and accurate in finding and holding focus.
Another difference between the two cameras is the rear LCD screen. While the screen in both cameras measures 3.2”, the screen on the D610 is fixed, while the screen on the D750 tilts. This feature is particularly useful in composing images from unusual positions, especially close to the ground. While it may appear that the tilting screen is fragile, it is quite strong and should not be an issue as long as reasonable care is taken using it. The screen in both cameras is used to preview still and video images, as well as to navigate the camera’s menu system and to compose images using “live view.”
The Nikon D610 Digital SLR Camera has the power of a 24.3 MP Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor in a compact, streamlined HD-SLR body. The Nikon D610 Digital SLR Camera has the power of a 24.3 MP Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor in a compact, streamlined HD-SLR body.
Other minor differences include built in WIFI capabilities on the D750, while the D610 relies on an optional accessory. Also, although the same battery is used in both cameras, the battery life on the D710 is approximately 1,230 still images, while the D610 can only capture 900 still images between charges.
The Pros and Cons
While the D750 and D610 are excellent cameras, neither camera is perfect with each having both positive and negative features. The significance of these features will depend on upon the individual photographer and their style of photography. Anyone considering either of these cameras should look at these features, as well as the technical specifications of the camera before making a decision on either camera.
In the case of the D750, the biggest positive feature of the camera is the built-in WIFI capabilities, which allow the camera to communicate with a Smartphone or tablet. This feature gives the photographer some options including a remote operation of the camera or the ability to quickly download images to their Smartphone or tablet.
The biggest “con” of the D750 is the layout of the camera’s autofocus points in the viewfinder. While the D750 has up to 51 autofocus points, they are all pretty much located in the center of the viewfinder. While the D610 also has this negative trait, it is worse in the D750 because of the higher number of autofocus points.
The biggest “pro” of the D610 is the camera’s low price of $1,499, which is almost unheard of for a full frame camera. The Nikon D610 is priced slightly higher than the popular D7200, which is a very popular and capable cropped sensor camera. Traditionally the price gap between full frame cameras and cropped sensor cameras have been $1,000 or more, but “budget” full frame cameras such as the D610 changed that tradition!
The biggest negative feature of the D610 is the limited ISO capabilities of the camera, especially compared to the D750, as well as other cameras in this class. The biggest limitation is not in how high the ISO can be pushed using the H-1 and H-2 settings, but the upper end of the camera’s native ISO, which is 6,400. That being said, the low light capabilities of the D610 are still excellent and satisfactory for most situations.
Just the Facts, A Side-By-Side Comparison
While most serious photographers look at image quality over technical specifications, many feel that the specifications are equally important. The Nikon D750 and D610 both have excellent image quality, as well as technical specifications, which are shown in the table below.
| Item | Nikon D750 | Nikon D610 |
| Year Introduced | 2014 | 2013 |
| Format | Full Frame | Full Frame |
| Megapixels | 24.3 | 24.3 |
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Processor | EXPEED 4 | EXPEED 3 |
| Image Format | RAW or JPEG | RAW or JPEG |
| Sensor Size | 36.0 mm x 24.0 mm | 35.9mm x 24.0mm |
| Sensor Cleaner | Yes, Ultrasonic | Yes, Ultrasonic |
| Auto-focus Points | 51 With 15 Cross Type | 39 With 9 Cross Type |
| Scene Modes | Yes | Yes |
| Creative Exposure Modes | No | No |
| Metering | 3D Color Matrix Metering III | TTL Exposure Metering Using 2,016-Pixel RGB
Sensor |
| Exposure Modes | Aperture-Priority (A), Manual (M), Programmed Auto With Flexible Program (A), Shutter-Priority (S) | Aperture-Priority (A), Manual (M), Programmed Auto With Flexible Program (A), Shutter-Priority (S) |
| View Finder Type | Eye-Level Pentaprism Single-Lens Reflex | Eye-Level Pentaprism Single-Lens Reflex |
| View Finder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| Live View | Yes | Yes |
| Frames Per Second | 6.5 | 6 |
| ISO | 100-12,500 | 100 – 6,400 |
| Lowest Expandable ISO | H-1 (ISO 50) | Lo-1 (50) |
| Highest Expandable ISO | H-2 (ISO 51,200) | H1 (12,800)
H2 (25,600) |
| Shutter Speed Range | 1/4,000 – 30 Seconds | 1/4,000 – 30 Seconds |
| Built-In Flash | Yes | Yes |
| Card Slots | 2 | 2 |
| Card Type | SD, SDHC or SCXC | SD, SDHC or SDXC |
| LCD Size | 3.2” | 3.2” |
| LCD Fixed or Tilting | Tilting | Fixed |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Video Type | Full HD 1,920 x 1,080 / 60 FPS; Plus Various Other Formats | Full HD 1,920 x 1,080 / 30 FPS; Plus Various Other Formats |
| Video Format | .MOV | .MOV |
| Internal Autofocus Motor | Yes | Yes |
| GPS | Optional Accessory | Optional Accessory |
| Wireless | Yes | Optional Accessory |
| WIFI | Yes | Optional Accessory |
| Battery | EN-EL 15 Lithium – Ion | EN-EL 15 Lithium – Ion |
| Battery Life | Up to 1,230 Shots | 900 Shots |
| Body Construction | Partial Magnesium Alloy | Partial Magnesium Alloy |
| Unique Features | Tilt Screen, U1 and U2 Settings | Low Cost, U1 and U2 Settings |
| Size Without Lens | 5.3” x 4.2” x 3.0” | 5.6” x 4.4” x 3.2” |
| Weight Without Lens | 26.5 Ounces | 26.8 Ounces |
| Manufactured In | Thailand | Thailand |
| Body Only or with Kit Lens | Sold Either Way | Sold Either Way |
| Included Accessories | EN-EL15 Lithium-Ion Battery, MH-25A Charger, DK-5 Eye Piece Cap, DK-21 Rubber Eyecup UC-E17 USB Cable, AN-DC14 Camera Strap, BF-1B Body Cap and Nikon View NX-2 CD-Rom | EN-EL 15 Lithium-Ion Battery, MH-25 Charger,
DK-5 Eye Piece Cap, DK-21 Rubber Eye Cup, UC-E15 USB Cable, AN-DC8 Camera Strap, BM-14 LCD Monitor Cover, BF-1B Body Cap, BS Accessory Shoe Cover and a Nikon NX 2 CD Rom |
| Cost, Body Only | Around $1,999.95* (Check out the latest discounts and prices.) | Around $1,499.95* (For latest discounts and prices.) |
| Cost With Kit Lens (Lens Varies) | Varies Depending On Lens Selected | Varies Depend On Lens Selected |
*Information from the Nikon USA websites, including pricing. Pricing shown reflects Nikon’s current discounted price on both bodies.
My Overall Recommendation
The Nikon 750 and D610 are two very capable cameras that capture excellent still and video images. While the D750 has slightly better technical specifications, I prefer the D610 for a couple of reasons. First, the technical specifications of the D610 are completely acceptable for the style of shooting that I do. I find that the increased ISO range and autofocus points found in the D750 were not sufficient to justify the increased cost of the D750. The second reason for my preference is the tremendous value that the D610 represents. It is hard to believe that you can get a full frame and very capable DSLR camera for around $1,499.95 when just a few years ago consumers were paying $2,500 plus for full frames cameras! Nikon has two great cameras in the D750 and the D610, and either one would be a great choice for anyone looking for a new full frame camera!
The Nikon D750 is a great camera, even by today's standards. Its Matrix-metering system is very capable, delivering correct exposure in a wide range of situations, and it produces images that have natural yet vibrant colors. The D750 captures an impressive level of sharp detail, and noise is controlled well.
The Nikon D610 Digital SLR Camera has the power of a 24.3 MP Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor in a compact, streamlined HD-SLR body. The Nikon D610 Digital SLR Camera has the power of a 24.3 MP Nikon FX-format CMOS sensor in a compact, streamlined HD-SLR body.