Upgrade Guide

Nikon D3→Nikon D800

Is it worth upgrading? Spec analysis, key improvements, and our verdict.

You own

Nikon

£97 used

2007

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D800

£121 used (+£23)

2012

✅

Strong upgrade

The D800 improves across 3 key areas at a reasonable price gap. Most D3 owners will notice the difference.

What's new in the D800

Suitability by genre

Base scores — computed from verified specs for an enthusiast shooting photo and video. The Upgrade Checker adjusts them for your skill level.

Full spec comparison

Spec	D3	D800
Price	£97 used	£121 used
Released	2007	2012	↑
Sensor	12.1MP full-frame CMOS	36.3MP full-frame CMOS
Resolution	12MP	36MP	↑
Video	No video	Full HD 1080p/30, 720p/60
Autofocus	51-point phase-detect (15 cross-type) via viewfinder; phase or contrast AF in live view	51-point phase-detect (15 cross-type) via viewfinder; contrast AF with face priority in live view
Stabilisation	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)
Burst Rate	9fps	4fps	↓
Battery Life	~4300 shots (CIPA)	~900 shots (CIPA)	↓
Weight	1240g (body only)	1000g (with battery)	↑
Weather Sealed	Not weather sealed	Yes	↑
Viewfinder	Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.7x	Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.7x
Screen	3.0" fixed LCD, 921k dots	3.2" fixed LCD, 921k dots
Mount	Nikon F mount	Nikon F mount
Memory Cards	Dual CompactFlash slots	Dual slots: CompactFlash + SD

Compare side-by-side

See D3 and D800 next to each other with our interactive comparison tool.

Get a personalised upgrade score

Tell us what you shoot and we'll score the D800 against your specific genres — not just specs.

Other upgrades from the D3

Related buying guides

Camera family history