What Makes a Nikon D1 Superior to a Kodak DCS 520/620
By: Tom DeRousie - Modern Imaging
Note: I have elected to base the comparison on the Kodak DCS 520/620 since at this
time, their overall features are the most competitive with the Nikon D1.
1. 35% Higher Resolution
Nikon D1: 1324 x 2012 (2.7 Megapixel)
Kodak DCS 520/620: 1152 x 1728 (2.0 Megapixel)
2. Faster Burst Rate
The Nikon offers a performance advantage, at the cost of image quality*. In certain
situations, this can make the difference between getting the desired image, or not.
Nikon D1: 4.5 FPS, 21 Image Buffer*
Kodak DCS 520/620: 3.5 FPS, 12 Image Buffer
*The D1's specs are based on permanently compressed images. Kodak files are
full raw images that are temporarily compressed (lossless format) for efficient
storage/handling (less than 2MB each before acquire, 6MB after acquire).
3. Resistance to Moisture and Dust
The Nikon is designed with seals that aid in resistance to undesirable elements. Kodak
specifically states that the 520/620 is not sealed.
4. Size/Weight
The Nikon D1 is the smallest/lightest in this comparison
|
Width |
Height |
Depth |
Weight |
| Nikon D1: |
157mm (6.2") |
153mm (6.1") |
85mm (3.3") |
1.1 kg (2.4 lbs) |
| Kodak 620: |
158mm (6.2") |
194mm (7.6") |
88mm (3.4") |
1.58 kg (3.5 lbs) |
| Kodak 520: |
161mm (6.3") |
174mm (6.9") |
92mm (3.6") |
1.65 kg (3.6 lbs) |
5. NTSC/PAL Video Output
This is a handy feature for attaching an external monitor. Kodak DCS Cameras do
not offer this feature.
6. Preview Screen Size
D1: Bright TFT 2" Polysilicon LCD Display
Kodak: Standard TFT 1.8" LCD Display
7. Flash Sync Speed
D1: 1/500th
Kodak: 1/400th
8. Shutter Speed
D1: Top Shutter Speed: 1/16,000th
Kodak: Top Shutter Speed: 1/8,000th
9. Internal TTL White Balance
The Nikon D1 places the white balance sensors inside of the camera (TTL). Kodak has an
external sensor that can be influenced by stray light, clothing, etc. This is especially
an issue if the subject matter is distant and in different lighting conditions than the
camera itself.
10. Cost
Although the Kodak DCS 520/620 cameras have recently been reduced in price, there is still
about $3,000 difference between them and the Nikon D1. If you do not need/utilize the
extra features of the Kodak DCS cameras, the D1 offers an excellent opportunity to own a
high end digital SLR camera at a more affordable price.
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