D800 w/80-400mm or D7100 w/300mm f2.8

[Raybel Robles]

Hi guys,

Which of these set ups you think would be the best option?

I already have the Nikon D7100 and I'm considering if I should just buy the 300mm f2.8 (with the TC eventually) or should I go instead to FX (D800) but with the 80-400mm lens.

I can't afford both the D800 and 300mm f2.8 which is obviously the best option! Any recommendation?

Thanks :)

[Tiago Caravana]

Hi Raybel,

I would definitely go for the 300mm 2.8, and if you can afford, the one with VR. Good glass is always more important than cameras!

I own a D7100, a D4 and use a 500mmf4 VR with TCs. Full frame has great IQ, but depending on were you're photographing and your technique to approach birds, the more pixels on the bird that you get with the 7100 can be important.
D800 is more a landscape/studio camera than a wildlife/sports camera. Of course you can take wonderfull pics of static birds and even some BIFs, but it's not what it was made for.

[Raybel Robles]

Hi Raybel,

I would definitely go for the 300mm 2.8, and if you can afford, the one with VR. Good glass is always more important than cameras!

I own a D7100, a D4 and use a 500mmf4 VR with TCs. Full frame has great IQ, but depending on were you're photographing and your technique to approach birds, the more pixels on the bird that you get with the 7100 can be important.
D800 is more a landscape/studio camera than a wildlife/sports camera. Of course you can take wonderfull pics of static birds and even some BIFs, but it's not what it was made for.

Super! Thank you so much for your opinion. I'm leaning towards the 300mm f2.8 option. Everywhere I read it seems to be a superb lens. Thanks again!