Upgrade Guide

Nikon D700→Nikon D3S

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

You own

Nikon

D700

£133

2008

→

Upgrade to

Nikon

D3S

£268 (+£135)

2009

✅

Strong upgrade

The D3S improves across 3 key areas at a reasonable price gap. Most D700 owners will notice the difference.

What's new in the D3S

Unchanged or similar

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	D700	D3S
Price	£133	£268
Released	2008	2009	↑
Sensor	12.1MP full-frame CMOS	12.1MP full-frame CMOS
Resolution	12MP	12MP
Video	No video	720p/24
Autofocus	51-point phase-detect (15 cross-type) via viewfinder; contrast AF in live view (tripod mode)	51-point phase-detect (15 cross-type) via viewfinder; contrast AF in live view (tripod mode)
Stabilisation	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)	No IBIS (lens-based stabilisation only)
Burst Rate	5fps	9fps	↑
Battery Life	~1000 shots (CIPA)	~4200 shots (CIPA)	↑
Weight	1075g (with battery)	1420g (with battery)	↓
Weather Sealed	Yes	Yes
Viewfinder	Optical pentaprism, 95% coverage, 0.72x	Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.7x
Screen	3.0" fixed LCD, 920k dots	3.0" fixed LCD, 920k dots
Mount	Nikon F mount	Nikon F mount
Memory Cards	Single CompactFlash slot	Dual CompactFlash slots

Compare side-by-side

See D700 and D3S next to each other with our interactive comparison tool.

Get a personalised upgrade score

Tell us what you shoot and we'll score the D3S against your specific genres — not just specs.

Other upgrades from the D700

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Camera family history