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Resolution-Forest105
Introduction
This page compares the resolving power of the D200 and D2x using the 70-200/f2.8 AFS VR, with VR disabled. Exposure was 1/13 second at f8. As usual, multiple frames were shot, refocusing each time, and the best of 3 was chosen (though little or no variance was observed). For these shots, the camera bodies were swapped while the 70-200VR remained mounted on the tripod.
Contrast and sharpness
The difference in contrast and sharpness is readily apparent (D200 image has been upsampled to match D2X resolution). The difference is more pronounced once sharpened. Click on the unsharpened images below to see large versions of the whole frame.
| Nikon 70-200/f2.8 VR @ 105mm,
f8 Unsharpened |
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| D200 | D2X |
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It seems clear that in this example the D2X is going to produce an obviously snappier image, especially printed at a larger size, such as 24 X 16. However, it does have a somewhat harsher look than the D200 due to its higher contrast, especially in the highlights.
| Nikon 70-200/f2.8 VR @ 105mm,
f8 Unsharp Mask {15, 50, 0} + {300, 0.3, 0} |
|
| D200 | D2X |
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Below is one more crop, confirming the impressions from the previous ones. The lower contrast of the D200 may appeal to some users, but there is no doubt that there is slightly less detail also.
| Nikon 70-200/f2.8 VR @ 105mm,
f8 Unsharp Mask {300, 0.3, 0} |
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| D200 | D2X |
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 |
Conclusions
The D2X offers a noticeable resolution advantage over the D200, though as seen with other examples its increased contrast also lends the impression of greater sharpness. Those wishing to make larger prints (eg 24 X 16) will find the increased resolution appealing.