Difference Between Canon EOS 450D and Nikon D80

Canon EOS 450D vs Nikon D80

The Canon EOS 450D and Nikon D80 are on the high end of the prosumer line of cameras that are aimed towards hobbyist and amateur photographers. These cameras offer a little bit more compared to the entry level offerings of each company. The most noticeable difference between the two, in terms of specifications, is in the sensor. The 450D has a 12 megapixel CMOS sensor while the D80 only has a 10 megapixel CCD sensor. Obviously, the 450D is able to capture more detail with every shot as its sensor has a higher resolution. CMOS sensors are also a tad bit superior to CCD sensors. Though both perform equally at low ISO settings, CCD sensors suffer from increased noise and bloom effects at higher ISO settings. This is part of the reason why high end professional cameras use CMOS sensors instead of CCD.

At the rear end of the cameras, the 450D sports a 3 inch LCD screen. This is significantly bigger than the 2.5 inch LCD that you would find on the D80. Despite having the same resolution, the bigger screen lets you see more of the image when viewing the shots you took. When shooting at continuous mode, the 450D is also a little bit better than the D80. It shoots at 3.5 frames per second while the D80 shoots at 3 fps.

When it comes to the battery, the 450D packs a smaller capacity than that of the D80. The D80 has a 1500mAh battery while that of the 450D is only 1050mAh. The smaller battery means that you can shoot fewer photos before you need to recharge the battery again. Although this isn’t such a big issue for casual photographers, heavy shooters may find the smaller battery restrictive. You can increase the battery capacity by adding an optional grip that can take AA batteries. Another measure that Canon took to enhance battery life is the addition of the eye sensor, which is not available on the D80. It is able to detect when you hold up the camera to your face and shut-off the LCD to save power.

Summary:
The 450D has a 12 megapixel CMOS sensor while the D80 has a 10 megapixel CCD sensor
The 450D has a bigger LCD screen compared to the D80
The 450D is slightly faster at continuous shooting than the D80
The 450D has a smaller capacity battery compared to the D80
The 450D is equipped with an eye sensor while the D80 is not

Sharing is caring!