The traditional rivalry is back in full swing within the photography arena. Nikon's new D70 looks set to storm the consumer-level digital SLR market that's currently being dominated by Canon's EOS 300D.
On paper, the Nikon D70 looks promising and every bit the budget dSLR we've been looking forward to. For starters, this next-generation Nikon sports a 6-megapixel CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) sensor, virtually matching Canon's 300D CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor pixel for pixel. However, the D70 sports a faster frame rate of 3fps, equaling the firm's higher-priced D100 and Canon's EOS 10D. What's even more surprising is the D70's memory buffer. It's able to maintain that frame rate for 12 JPEG images or four RAW shots, bettering both the older Nikon D100 and competing Canon 300D.
Other goodies adding an edge over the D100 include better metering, a higher pixel-count 1.8-inch LCD display and improved shutter and flash X-sync speeds. It appears that Nikon has chosen to venture along a different path to its rival, Canon. While Canon has opted to make the EOS 300D essentially a cut-down version of Canon's EOS 10D, the D70 seems every bit as good as the Nikon D100. In fact, in some cases, it's better.
Even so, as we've come to expect from this business, there's never really a perfect product. The D70 loses out in terms of accessories, as it does not have a vertical grip. Still, we think the enterprising aftermarket scene will come out with one when the popularity and sales of the D70 take off.
Other downsides include the eyepoint of the optical viewfinder. Unlike the D100, which has a 24mm eyepoint, the D70 has only an 18mm variant. This means the frame view will appear smaller. Although this in itself isn't a big problem, things may worsen as there are relatively few diopter adjustments. Bespectacled users should make a mental note of this and try the camera at your favourite camera shop before laying out the dough.
With an estimated sticker price of US$999 for the body alone or US$1,299 with the new DX Nikkor 17-80mm lens, the D70 is an enticing alternative for anyone looking at the EOS 300D or a prosumer camera. What will probably seal the deal is knowing that you're almost getting an upgraded D100 for the approximate price of Canon's EOS 300D.
