Nikon Z9 vs Nikon D3X Image Quality review | The results SHOCKED ME!

[@flavio5725]

Hello photographers,Flavio from Italy here,yeah I'm a spaghetti guy... :))) Ok I was a pro photographer (reporter) in the years 80/90's usually working with Nikon F2 ( I still have 2 bodies) 35 mm f1.4 ,55 mm f.1.2. 85 mm f.1.8 H series,135mm f.2.5 ais few zoom like 80-200 f2.8 and so on.... I still have all those great lenses... I restart with photgraphy 2 years ago with an old Nikon D3,great camera bought used with 300k shots,just to see if I could back as pro...I've got some job and in the next 2or 3 months I'll open my own studio. In the meantime, I've bought a Nikon D3x and a Nikon D4 used ofcourse... a 28/70 f2,8 nikon and a 70/200 f2.8 VR, both for 1000 eu. You know what? I don't care about billions pixel, with this 2 cameras I worked frorm Wedding cerymony to the street photography or sport reportage... Resoults??? The video here says everything I guess... I've bought the D3x for 400 eu shutter count of 45.000 looks still like new,and a D4 with 193.000 shots for 800 eu total 1.200 euros. Ridicolous price for the quality of the files I have in any situation, Better the D3x in studio and great the D4 in all situations. Question is it worth to spend 6000 eu for one ML camera when I can have a great resoults with 1.200 and 2 cameras? Thank you and sorry for my bad english. P.s. Vahagraphy,thx for your great videos...

[@jean-marcducommun8185]

Was immediately attracted to this video and it didn't let me down. I would never have thought that a 14 year old camera - although a professional on like the D3 - could compete with the latest top model from Nikon. And if you consider the ability of the photographer behind these cameras there is no point to change all the time your gear and upgrade it to the latest model. It confirms me to stick with my D850 and spend more time learning to take better pictures. Well done, thank you!

[@Vahagraphy]

Thank you Jean. For some reason youtube has not yet let the 4K version of this clip run yet. re watch it when it becomes available. Makes a heck of a difference on a monitor with the image samples.

[@Vahagraphy]

FInally 4K hehe

[@sexysilversurfer]

You have to consider the AF technology in the cameras, for some that’s a huge improvement but maybe for landscape, portraits, studio not so.

[@heinz-jurgenbertram9269]

@@sexysilversurfer genauso sieht es aus....

[@jaimeduncan6167]

It’s not the d3 , but the d3x. It was a revelation. A lot was spoken about the the price , but Rut image quality was a jumó. Clearly he is showing it under ideal circumstances. If you are recovering shadows etc the D3x will fall apart faster than say the d850 (don’t know about the Z9 that is not the image quality too dog from Nikon the d850 and the z7 ii are better)

[@eric2685]

I will stick with my Nikon D 810 . It does the job extremely well . Thanks for your analysis of the two cameras here .

[@j.m.gratton6000]

Great comparison...I prefer the D3x files myself, perhaps I'm biased since I still use a D3x! For me, 16 to 24 mp is the sweet spot. I simply don't need 45mp and I don't shoot birds. The D3x simply renders wonderful files...very artsy like the D4! You've just shown us that we don't need to keep upgrading our gear and DSLRs are far from dead.

[@lennyvlaminov9480]

Great gear, don't sell it

[@Jo-mm3vo]

and for the price too, it's still very good for an "old" camera!

[@kaminobatto]

I have to admit that I prefer the D3X files better. There is something sexy about that warmer tone. That said, I am assuming that the Z9 color rendition is closer to reality. That D3X sensor really stacks up nicely compared to today's sensor technology! I'm really impressed!

[@Vahagraphy]

exactly. and that was the whole point of this video. what you said. just to see how it stacks up . image quality. starting point. thats it.

[@reinholdthomas1187]

I don't own a Nikon D9 but I have a Nikon D3x and a Nikon D4s and had a Nikon D5 and Nikon D6... The image quality of the Nikon D3x with Nikon 105 1.4 E puts everything I have in the shade at low iso to iso 400 from Nikon know that is painting with light! My favorite list Nikon D3x Nikon D4s and Nikon D3s. Everything else is cold coffee...Don't compromise Nikon D3x is Nikon's ever built camera. The workshop also says it couldn't be better and that's a fact

[@Vahagraphy]

Now I have to shoot portraits with the D3X and see for myself. I was shocked my these amazing results here and this is just scratching the surface. I was just shooting anything. Doing portraits well, cnt wait.

[@reinholdthomas1187]

hello yes do it best with the 105 1.4E The results will blow your mind, unbelievable what they are selling today, just because the A9 is faster doesn't mean it's better. In terms of image quality, I even let the D3x compete against a Nikon D5 and D6. You can see that the black and white transitions in the dynamic range of the D5 D6 run smoothly. LG Reinhold from Berlin Lichterfelde.

[@Eugene-Braack]

Excellent video. I still use a D700 every day.

[@geoffprotheroe1201]

I have owned a number of Nikon cameras over the years with my last a D500 purchased a few years ago and has proved itself with excellent results for pet and animal photography. Recently I got a chance to branch out with the business and decided a full frame camera was needed so started looking at the Nikon mirrorless cameras. The Z9 caught my attention but at over £5000 plus lenses I felt that was a big jump for a relatively small part of my business. Lo and behold I found this video and what a great video it is. It told me about all the things I needed to hear and see. Guess what! My full frame camera is going to be the best D3X I can find as it presses all the right buttons and my Canon A3 printer is going to get busier. Thank you for creating this video as I feel you have saved me a lump of cash and maybe stopped me from over complicating my life with buying a camera that offers probable far more capability than I need. All the best.

[@Vahagraphy]

Well thank you for the nice comments. Hope it works out. But also keep in mind you are buying older tech. Also, the low light performance is not that great. tracking on moving subjects will not come close to a Z system. Finding a good condition body with no issues will be a challenge because of the time past. 14 years. These samples are before any edits. I'd say if you had to get something newer and FF and still stick with DSLR. try a D850, its newer. more pixels. more advanced camera.

[@guildengilbert170]

I am not one to chase technology (I am old school having started photography over 40 years) and in my teaching photography I stress to my students that chasing technology is unnecessary. This video proves my point. I have had my D3x for a few years now and I am still in love with it. It certainly is not designed for high ISO or for speed but for studio/portrait and landscape work, which is what the camera was designed for it is a beast. Thank you for this comparison, I have only just come across it.

[@tracyleepitre6079]

Wow, what a terrific video ...thank you!! I preferred the D3x colors better in all photos including when you set the WB to 5800 on both cameras. In the tap and stick photos in particular the D3x warmer colors also showed better depth rendition and detail. The only place were I liked the Z9 better was with the closeup of the fence where at all ISO settings the Z9 was much sharper. I loved the rendering of all the D3x photos you showed at the end! It would seem that the D3x is best suited to an artist, and the Z9 is best suited to a working professional.

[@Nicofoto]

The color rendition of the D3 series is unbelievably great. It is also better than the Nikon Df which has a D4 sensor. I don't know why Nikon abandoned this great color science.

[@nilofido411]

👍👍👍 You have just shown the world why I kept using the D3x for the best part of a decade! Image Quality! Fred Flintstone era features, 3fps max in raw, dinosaur Af, sculpted out of a piece granite... but Yabba dabba doo.....

[@Vahagraphy]

Thank you Nilo. Great camera. hidden used market gem. The AF is fast, 5FPS all you need really for most situations if that. the camera delivers very nice results.

[@nilofido411]

@@Vahagraphy 5fps came with a dreaded asterisk, in lossless 14bit raw was 2 to 3 fps, Af was good but limited to the lens for speed, the main issue was the limited number of Af points and tracking capabilities compared to later DSLR’s, slower processors... it never bothered me, I still use manual lenses, and when needed I was using the D3s.

[@stevenherzog2358]

This was so interesting, thanks for making this comparison! The Z9 seems to have more accurate white balance overall, but the D3x, just like the other DSLR flagships of that era, just seems to create more depth and “pop” which is arguably just as important as accurate color balance!

[@mistergiovanni7183]

By construction, a lifetime with the D3X. For image quality, even more so. The first thing you notice, indeed, is that there is a warmer tone to the D3X. But what most strikes me is the variety and richness in the colors of the D3X. If I had a Z9 I would sell it to buy another D3X.

[@datfly3034]

If you sold a z9 you could buy about 10 D3x cameras!

[@TEEJAYMOVIES]

Thx for this comparison. As a long time Nikon user I spent years and years before changing from F to D, always in search of better image quality. Finally I felt arrived with my D850s and the fact is amazing that you can put on almost any Nikon F lens to them and it simply works. Am I doing this? Not really but I could. Changing for D to Z would be a huge step for me. Not ready at this point especially after watching your video. Finally the results are counting not the gear you are using. From the artistic point of view on photography, you wouldn't judge about the paint brush of the artist but about his pictures. Thx again. Greetings from Switzerland.

[@bernardlanguillier7970]

I bought the D3x on the day of availability back in 2008 and just loved it. I still have 300mp stitches made with it that blow my Phaseone IQ4-150 out of the water! But... the Z9 is amazing too and Z lenses are just better.

[@billb8262]

I prefer the D3X files every time. Better detail with fewer megapixels....bang for the buck! Great video!

[@Vahagraphy]

Big time Bang for the Buck. Thank you BIll. Now I need to change the little clock battery, easy fix. Didnt know the latch was in the battery housing.

[@jaysherlock7307]

Love your videos. Made me buy a d700 and d4

[@Vahagraphy]

I hope you made a good decision buying those cameras. hehe. I would say, good choice . thank you Jay. Appreciate the kind words.

[@enricomarconi8358]

great combo you've got there! And I do love OVF as well man! (great drumming by the way)

[@Vahagraphy]

thanks man, ROCK N ROLL!!!!

[@HaimGreen]

I would like to see a Portrait photo shoot comparison (people 😃)with those two beast.

[@Vahagraphy]

Coming soon. 105 E.

[@lovemadeinjapan]

Then make sure you use Nikons best portrait lens, the 85mm PCE

[@madnesstothemethod3328]

The D3x files seem to have a broader and more natural colour pallette, with an almost 3-dimensional "pop" (comparable to my D3s and D700) , than the Z9., to my eyes at least. That said, the Z9 files ain't too shabby, but would need more post processing to bring out their best.

[@kimpedersen]

Loved this comparison and actually enjoyed the D3x pictures a bit more! As a hobbyphotographer who doesnt make a single dollar on photography its great to see the old flagships keeping up in IQ. I'm gonna keep my D800 and D4s for a while :)

[@mythicalireland]

My first full-frame camera was the D3X, purchased five years ago. I still have it! Superb camera that is only limited in certain respects, the main one being its lack of high ISO performance. If you have plenty of light, or even if you are a long-exposure landscape photographer using a tripod, it's superb. I also own a D750, a D3 and a D4S. In terms of image quality and colour rendering, it's still hard to beat the D3X.

[@Vahagraphy]

Yes all you need is that little bit of light and a good tripod. Solid images out of the D3X. I like the fact that my files don't have a digitized look to them using the D3X. It looks almost analog with depth in the image if that makes sense. I say hold on to that D3X and never sell it.

[@1477747878787]

I own one too, you're right about everything

[@Audimann]

Finally got one for 800 bucks. A bit high but 10k shutter and in mint condition. The rubbers still shine. Must be used only in a studio I guess but 10k shutter is crazy imo. Will test it against my Z5 tomorrow because they have the same resultion but I will get the same results I guess. Did some test shots and at high ISO settings and there is noise but nothing more different than my D3s. Think that most criticism back then had to do with the insane high price. 8000 bucks which translates in todays money in 12000 bucks or something.

[@Vahagraphy]

Congrats man, Awesome camera. 10k Shutter and $800. thats a great price. Let me know what you think after you take it for a spin a little.

[@Audimann]

@@Vahagraphy Will do. Only thing I noticed is that the sensor has developed some hot/stuck pixels. Well I shoot only RAW so Lightroom automatically takes care of those pixels. I see the same on my other older bodies as the D300. Nothing I can't handle. Maybe Nikon service can do a sensor remap. But as I said Lightroom saves the day😀

[@FierceSleepingDog]

WOW... Bought a used D500 last month. Love it. Upgraded from a D200 purchased in 2007. Eyeing a used D850 in the next year. Also just competed the holy trinity: 12-24 (bought used last week), 24-70 (bought new in 2014), 70-200 VR (bought new in 2009). Love to see the DSLRs still taking awesome pictures. I'm looking forward to buying all your discarded Nikon gear as you jump to mirrorless.

[@Vahagraphy]

hehe oh yah? lol. Well, this is the best time to buy F mount. Prices are dipping and now with the economy. More people looking to unload gear they don't use. Z Mirrorless has allot to do with the used prices now. this is why I will stuill keep some DSLR stuff and at the same time doing the mirrorless thing.

[@seb7560]

Great video, still rocking my D3s !

[@CarmineTavernaPhotography]

Hello V, at 7:28 I ordered a used Nikon D3x...just to show my D3 what his brother can do :)

[@Vahagraphy]

You did? Ebay? good deal? shutter? Hope its in good shape. Its one of those cameras to hold on to for sure. I was looking at the amount of units made. its less than all the other pro dslr units out there. let me know when you get it.

[@timurtamerlan2399]

Il will purchase tomorrow 23/11/2023 a mint Nikon D3X at €700 , first hand. This video definitively convinced me the correctness of my choice. Regards from the south west of France .

[@GirdHerd]

The D3X is now on my wish list.

[@Vahagraphy]

This camera is a hidden gem in 2023. Not to many know about this camera and not to many of them out there.

[@user-yr2mx9mn1j]

D3S is also a special camera;)

[@charlesdavis6371]

I was surprised how well the D3X stood up here. Good content.

[@Vahagraphy]

Me too, shocked really. Yes I could of done things a bit different but with these type tests. they are always not 100 percent scientific. There is always light shift. the elements. you know, specially when dealing with a big lens like this.

[@dominicwroblewski5832]

There is something about that generation of Nikons. My favorite is the D300. When I compare the images I get from my D300 to my D7000, D600 or D7100, the D300 seems to render a much better image.

[@linjicakonikon7666]

I fully agree. My pair of D300s are phenomenal. I'm a film shooter, but I find shooting with the D700 and D300 equally satisfying.

[@inspiredartphotos]

I bought the Z9 for it’s video capabilities. I am a hybrid shooter.

[@erichramone7812]

Really great video Vahagan.

[@Vahagraphy]

Thank you so much. Rock n Roll

[@albertjimenez7896]

This is an awesome video, and thank you for demonstrating that while new camera and lens technology may provide lightning-fast results with pinpoint accuracy, it does not always imply a higher standard of beauty and aesthetics.

[@Vahagraphy]

Thank you Albert. I think this test fits its purpose. I think what I wanted to portray here I did. Without making it to technical. Simple, snap a picture, same settings, take the body off , mount the other body, take a picture. since im using the 400, im basically doing the opposite, instead of taking the lens off the tripod, im taking the camera off the lens. but next time around I will change a few things up, also shoot the Z9 on iso64 like many have mentioned they want to see.

[@albertjimenez7896]

​@@VahagraphyI like how you kept it simple since you recognize that some technical components of both cameras are mismatched. Anyone who believes otherwise is probably missing the point. Once again, thank you for making such a fantastic video.

[@williamcwynar9300]

Great video my friend! I'm glad you incorporated our 400 2.8. I have the D3s,D5, D850. I actually liked the D3x photos better. Take care,and Rock on my friend!

[@Vahagraphy]

Its crazy. I get that allot with this D3x camera. Is this like a hidden gem forgotten and abandoned by the used market. Well i believe only 23K made , compared to the other bodies, its a low number. Thank you William.

[@ruhnet]

Very surprising. I knew the D3X would be very good, but expected the Z9 to strongly outperform it-but in almost every photo I preferred the D3X! In the first shot I really even couldn’t tell a visible resolution advantage on the Z9. I’m sure the Z9 can be tweaked a bit more to look as good as the D3X, but straight out of camera the D3X is very impressive!

[@Vahagraphy]

Yes I was very surprised. But let me say. With some tweeaks the power of the Z9 file with pull ahead. As far as resolution, if I did this same test with a wider lens, maybe landscape, then you will see a clear advantage. Using a super tele here is probably not the best to compare that. and as far as low light, well. hehe. you know. that said the D3X is a keeper and will use this camera even in today's times.

[@mobilography6786]

V its the best comparison we were all waiting for.😆 Nikon d3 series are unbeatable. After that many years the images are beating any top end marque. I would never give up my d3. Best video😆👌👍🤟

[@Vahagraphy]

Well glad you enjoyed it M. Part 2 will be made with other lenses and portraits for sure. There is a few things I want to try out. This was just a teaser for whats to come with the D3X. I had the D3 OG on launch. I remember that day clearly.

[@Daniel1974.]

I am so proud of my son Nikon D3x 😀😀😀😀

[@Vahagraphy]

Amazing camera. One of my fav DSLRs.

[@ACTuebler]

Thank you for the wonderful video comparing Nikon D3x with Nikon Z9, I have a D3s myself and have now bought a d3x, I'm looking forward to the results, thank you very much for this detailed and informative video and um, I know now, I'll love the d3x. I don‘t need the video option, cause I have a Fuji xt3 etc. But I love this elder Nikon cam, cause the bokee and the Megapixel.. best greetings from Hamburg/Germany. Chris

[@claudioluccarini4891]

Bellissimo confronto. Io le possiedo entrambe, sia la D3x che la Z9. Due fotocamere fantastiche... " passato " e presente. Ma forse per certi aspetti... il passato... non è mai passato. Viva Nikon !!!

[@Vahagraphy]

Amo il passato di Nikon. In alcuni casi anche più del presente. D3X è una delle mie DSLR preferite di tutti i tempi, nessun video, solo phorography e amore.

[@claudioluccarini4891]

@@Vahagraphy guarda con me sfondi una porta aperta. Sono molto d'accordo con te... Nikon forever !!!

[@neriozulberti1492]

pensa quelli che hanno acquistato la Z9 e vedono i risultati della D3X quanto staranno piangendo,ovviamente scherzo ma per quella cifra ti aspetteresti una macchina super top

[@endowpictures22]

Beautiful comparison.... hoping to see you comparing.... Nikon Z9 and Nikon d6

[@Vahagraphy]

THank you Ajide.

[@mikedeloye8060]

V this was an eye opener! I really didn't expect it at all! great Job!

[@Vahagraphy]

THank you Mike. Glad you enjoyed it. More to come with the D3X in today's times.

[@danielng5903]

Good afternoon Vahagra . Thanks for sharing . 💯💯💯💯💯💪💪💪💪💪 .

[@outfield1988]

I have a Nikon D 3 and I love it.Purchased a Z 50 it’s sweet as well.

[@Yupthereitism]

The d3x definitely holds up. Great affordable option for photographers. The z9 is essentially a video camera that can take pictures, and in that regard, it also holds up really well. Two great cameras

[@gianlucadelgadopires2882]

D3, D3s and D3X have the same excellent sensor and I remember once I talked with some photographers at the time of the D5 launch(I ain't) and they told me that they had to switch to the new ones for working reasons but regret having done it because they noticed the extreme better quality of the predecessor lines (the sensor) even though the technology improvements the new ones had brought up! I own a D3s and I am so jealous of it. It all depends on your tastes in terms of results but the D3 line was capable of astonishing outputs

[@Vahagraphy]

Yes, I believe the D3 and D4 sensors are made by Nikon. The D4 for sure is. Amazing sensor n that camera. I couldn't be happier with the D3X.

[@richardedwards7780]

I have a D3x and I love it.. I use it for portrait and street photography and it's so much better than my Z6ii and Z7ii for these things - I prefer the 'texture' and colours. Great video. Spot on!

[@SpiritLifeMinistriesInt]

Just bought a D3X myself. It is closer to Leica than I thought! I absolutely love the colors!

[@Vahagraphy]

You see. Its magic. Like a film camera in digital form.

[@mugdays]

I like the colors from the D3X, but for professional work, I'd want a more neutral base (like the Z9's) to start from.

[@Vahagraphy]

I know what you are saying. Ofcourse Z9 for 2022 all the way. With the advances of tech and features and also having something cutting edge. yes.

[@kaak4737]

that is what I said in the previous episode : The d3X has a analog "feel" ... try the D200 at ISO 100 , a CCD is even more analog.. ( then do not judge the low DR/Noise levels etc.. just color) D3X is something special, the reason to go digital and the end off colorslide usage . The CCD is even more special.. 10Mp was used in the D200, D80, D40X ...: type in dpreview D40X samples and see the crisp brightness , superb clear tinge less images you can have with a cheap kit lens.. see how metal is rendered.. see how realistic the green leaves are...CCD -> black = black no shift , white = pure white... So I am a CCD fan...at the time the first CMOS that could give me what i want was the D3X..

[@Vahagraphy]

It is special like you said, this was a fun thing to try, Will it replace the Z9? no way, but it did do well in great light. Ahh man, I almost bought a D200 FOR $80 BUCKS, lol

[@georgedavall9449]

Vahagn! Congrats on the Z9!!! Finally, right? 👍👍👍👍👍✌🏻📷🇺🇸

[@Vahagraphy]

FINALLY HAHA. yah, if you are waiting for one, its well worth the wait. Don't cancel any pre order. hehe

[@desmondlewissmith]

I'm still using my D3X, and have no plans to upgrade. I will now be buying a 400mm lens since I can get one for under 3k. Thanks for the review.

[@Vahagraphy]

I saw an amazing price on an FL version. i was like whatttttt. prices are coming down and its good news for the rest of us. bad news for those that paid 12K to own one.

[@agnethaladuff8559]

Wow, what a really good comparison between the Z9 and D3X flagship cameras. The D3X sure is really good camera for the time it was made and how it stands next to the Z9 today. I like the color and warmth of the D3X, the bokeh is really good and the details is really good. It's so cool thinking that you have 4 Nikon flagship cameras from different years and the great lenses that you have for the F mount cameras must feel like there is nothing that you can't photograph.

[@michael-4k4000]

Thanks Vahagan! I asked for this! Rock on Sir!

[@Vahagraphy]

Rock on! Enjoy

[@sn4rl277]

Already seen a few reviews on the D3s vs the Z9. And from what I can see so far the Z9 is for those that do photography for a living and need every single inch they can squeeze out of the Z9. For the rest of us a D3x or a D4 will be more than enough. I got the D4 after a few years of waiting for the right price vs wear. Man oh man the D4 has some colors I cannot get out of most modern day camera's. D3 - Bargin currently for anyone ok with 12MP, and decent high ISO (up to 5000 ISO) D3s - A tad pricy but for low light is pretty dang good D3x - still overpriced and to my eye don't really care to pay a extra grand for a few more MP's D4 - Is the sweat spot on price to performance currently, It's a freaking tank by the way. D4s - still pretty high price wise for a tad better high ISO and slight AF speed over the D4 D5 - To much plastic for a pro camera, get a D500 over it if you do outdoor sports to save a few $$'s D6 - Yah right $$$$ compared to the D4/D5 options out there. Z9 - Nikons benchmark currently, if you have the cash by all means.

[@Vahagraphy]

I love this breakdown. hehe, D4 is an incredible deal right now. If I can find a D6 someone is trying to get rid of for the right price with little use,. I would probably buy it just to have the last of that era camera.

[@nm.aviation]

Jedoch muss man beachten, dass der limitierende Faktor in diesem Fall das Objekt ist. Die Z Objektive sind nahezu alle merklich schärfer. Des Weiteren sollte man die Z9 auf ISO 64 einstellen. Die D3x ist eine tolle Kamera, ich nutze selber neben der Z9 noch die D4, jedoch würde ich in jeder Situation die Z9 vorziehen, da sie in allem die bessere Kamera ist.

[@jazzysnaps]

Confirmed my thoughts on the 3X its an amazing camera had mine since it came out and got it for a bargain price, iam a pro and shoot Phase iq160 and have every Nikon from D3 to D6 and have not gone to the Z as yet , i still use the 3X on commercial shoots as it is just as good as the iq160 and far lighter, the big down side is getting a D3X repaired by Nikon as the parts now are not available as i just had mine repaired by Nikon 2 months wait and a massive bill 500 US to repair a black screen , and was told don't expect any more repairs on it, so hope to still use it till it stops, thanks for your side by sides to confirm it cuts it today and does exactly what a camera should do shoot stills.

[@imagesourcery6671]

Ultimate warrior was my favorite too brother. Great video!

[@Vahagraphy]

He was amazing. AS a kid he was my all time fav. Loved the WWF .

[@Ostemadden]

Thanks for this great video! I recently found a great deal on a D3x, but I was a little unsure if a 2008 camera would do the trick, this video made me decide to get it - my Sigma FP killed itself for unknown reasons and I needed a reliable digital camera to go along with my trusty Nikon F5, which is still my daily driver. And what a beast of a camera this is. Does not disappoint. Beautiful almost film like colors, great handling and build quality like the F5 - they don’t make things like this anymore. Sure the low light capabilities are not the same as newer cameras, but drop em on a slab of concrete and see who survives- for sure not the new stuff, it would never survive what my F5 has been through. And I’ll continue this journey with the D3x

[@Ostemadden]

Also mind you, looking through the viewfinder directly through the lens with 100% coverage without any latency is just something else. Beats any EVF if you ask me

[@Vahagraphy]

its stories like these that make me want to make videos again. Thank you for this and congrats on your new old D3X haha. Enjoy.

[@mok8591]

I’ve never bought a new or latest camera - secondhand rocks!!

[@Gibson1976uk]

I like the D3X pictures. I use a D3 and D700, got many great photos! including fast moving things! some people argue that you need the latest? and extra fast AF! I say BS!! its about the person taking the photos!! I know guys who have all the latest gear!! looks the part etc but doesn't really come up with the pictures :) no sense of composure! or being in the right place at the right time! I have taking photos of birds with the D3! i don't need to go rambo on them with clicks! I will do quick bursts of 3-5 at the moment I think is right! I have seen photographers blast away!!! they might as well did a video :)

[@Vahagraphy]

I like your name. Are you a Rush fan?

[@Gibson1976uk]

@@Vahagraphy not a big Rush fan but I don't think they are rubbish :) albums like Moving Pictures is cool! I am more of a Genesis, Pink Floyd fan :)

[@Vahagraphy]

@@Gibson1976uk oops, actually made a mistake, The Seeker is a Who song covered by Rush. Darn, should of known that. What's wrong with me. lol

[@Interbeing_CDN]

Very surprising results, I too love the way the D3X renders the photos.

[@Vahagraphy]

thank you TT. reminds me, I really need to jump back on the challenge.

[@Interbeing_CDN]

@@Vahagraphy Yup, I’m still plugging away, with all the SXSW festival activities this past week I struggled a bit but still managed to lose 0.2 lbs for the week. Currently at 204.7lbs, 19.7lbs to go! Heading out to BBNP tomorrow for 5 days of hiking, mtn biking, and photography with a buddy of mine. Another challenge food and drink wise, lol!

[@dwainhampton5811]

The tint was the color difference, using a color checker would make it more comparable. I still shoot a D3 and still love mine each camera has its place, I would still use the D3 for paid work even though my modern cameras make some things easier.

[@befreetv354]

Yes! Now we.re talking ! Cheers

[@Vahagraphy]

Rock n Roll Be Free. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@NikCan66]

This was excellent as always and interesting stuff

[@Vahagraphy]

Glad you enjoyed it Nik. More to come. 105 E, iso 64 and more.

[@NikCan66]

@@Vahagraphy can't wait to see the next photo video show.

[@Globetrotter-1]

The D3x holds it's own against the spectacular-new-kid-on- the-block Z9. It shows just how little photographers really need the extra pixels (except for large crops). It should be noted that the much older camera is using less number of pixels per mm, but larger light-gathering pixels. I prefer the warmer colours of the D3x, but of course the Z9 can easily match the warmth during editing stages (or pre-dial in settings and for jpegs to get those warmer images at time of shooting). A big plus for me with the D3x is that it has ability to shoot Nikon Tiff files. The Z9 is the first Nikon pro body to not include Tiff. A great side by side comparison, with the main big advantages of the Z9 being speed.

[@Vahagraphy]

thanks Globe, true on what you said. the Z9 is what is needed for a flagship in 2022. but I stand on my original statement, I bought the D3X for pure enjoyment but for studio and well lit pro work. Why not. I will use it. It has plenty of life left and its a cool camera to sport around. Fells good in my hand as well.

[@Globetrotter-1]

@@Tap-a-roo FYI it's a D3x ... 😉

[@nickreid5939]

Great point...i did not knw the Z9 has no Tiff option....which i use a lot on my D4....

[@Globetrotter-1]

@@nickreid5939 I shoot almost entirely in Nikon Tiff (including to second backup memory card) especially with my longtime favourite, the D800. The D850 was the last DSLR with inbuilt Tiff option. The Z6 and Z7 mirrorless bodies also have the superb Tiff option. But the Z6ii, Z7ii and Z9 unfortunately do not.

[@JRodPhotoArt]

Excellent video V ! Just goes to show that older cameras have not lost their ability to take great pictures. If your camera still does the job, why upgrade. And of course, great Nikon glass never goes bad!! I do like the differences in the images from the two sensors. Rock and Roll !!

[@Vahagraphy]

THank you James. Glad you enjoyed the video. More to come soon.

[@ToothlessSnakeable]

I prefer the D3X here

[@Vahagraphy]

I was def surprised at the results out of the box.

[@ThomazMartinez]

Agree i like D3x images more, the colors are much nicer than Z9

[@Vahagraphy]

It really impressed me as well. More to come on the D3X for sure.

[@gabrielching7825]

Hi, I agree with you 101% I owned 2D3x, a 400/2.8 pre VR version and my friend owns a Z9. That's why I understand why you feel so happy, cheers! Gabriel

[@Vahagraphy]

Awesome. Im glad Im not alone. You see how special that camera is. The lens as well. Thanks for sharing Gabriel.

[@gregcorker2193]

Great review. It is remarkable how good the D3X images looked; really impressive.

[@Vahagraphy]

Yes they do. Good light, good lens, no problem. hehe

[@stevegellas7869]

Just bought a d3x with 11,000 actuations last week for 1 grand.Great camera. Like the comparison you did. I agree on the film like richness of the camera.

[@Vahagraphy]

Congrats on the D3X Steve. Welcome to the D3x club my friend. More videos on this amazing camera coming soon. Glad you enjoyed the video. Thank you .

[@DmitriyKostylev]

Thank you for this video. I know about you from Iliya stream. Your content is good!

[@Vahagraphy]

Thank you so much Dmitriy and welcome to Vahagraphy. Happy to have you here. LLIYA is a great guy. I really enjoyed the live stream yesterday.

[@joseghernandez2009]

Beautiful and great review......Thank you.......

[@Vahagraphy]

You are very welcome.

[@kavishrajpaul2917]

Awesome comparison. I would be curious to see the results if you used the natural light Wb on z9 vs d3x. Saying this, I owed all of Nikons flagship dslrs, and the d3 always produced the best rich beautiful warm colors compared to the others. Rock and roll

[@VineetKumar-js1do]

Awesome video. Love the colour richness of D3x.

[@Vahagraphy]

Yes, I love this camera. Magic in the hands. The AF is dated , FPS is slow, but the files. the images is a thing of beauty.

[@rickpinelli1586]

I still take great photos with my D2X, which is a 12MP camera. A Pro Camera is a Pro Camera for life. Besides my Z9, I also have a D7200, 24MP camera which take fantastic photos. Thanks, Rick

[@AMGOSUK]

I own Z9(2 of them) and used to own a D3X (and just about every pro body since this). When you perform pixel peeping comparisons of noise on images taken with the Z9 (45.7MP) to those taken on the D3X (24.5MP) then it is wrong to compare both at 100% magnification. You must compare noise on images at the same resolution - so 73.3% of the Z9's image size (73.3% each side leads to a 53.7% file size ). Since LR does not allow zooming to 73.3% you would have to resize the RAW file first -- without noise reduction or sharpening. This is exactly the same "challenge" faced by comparisons of noise in images taken on the Z6II and Z7II -- guess what downsampling the larger image from the Z7II to the same size as the Z6II images the results are identical !!! Your observations we colour comparison are worth understanding -- were the develop profiles set exactly the same for both raw files (Adobe Standard OR Camera Standard) and nothing else different between the settings. I use Camera Standard and overwrite all other LR applied adjustments with my own -- before using DxO PureRAW 2 for the optical adjustment and RAW conversion of RAW files from the Z9. One other point -- the Z9 shoots at an equivalent of 8.1k image/film resolution; whereas the D3X shoots at an equivalence of about 5.9k. The top cinema releases (in IMAX using an ARRI LF) only use 4.5k by the time they are projected. The filmic image quality of the D3X comes from the re resolution of 24mp sensor. Whereas Z9 oversampled 4K are almost unbelievably detailed. TOO sharp for a filmic look.

[@DidierMOULINPhotography]

Nothing is surprising to me. The D3X has for long been my favorite result camera. So so soooo good as soon you have the light!!! This simply shows haw 24Mpx is the sweet spot !

[@Vahagraphy]

it really is a gem. Glad I found out. Can't wait to do more with it , portraits landscapes and more.

[@DidierMOULINPhotography]

@@Vahagraphy definitively two cameras made for different scenarios. The Z9 is certainly a beast but the D3X files are so great also! A D6 is coming soon… at a good price… eager to play with it autofocus in low light conditions… complementing my D3X uses in day light conditions!

[@bfs5113]

While I don't have the D3x and Z9, but I tested the WB between my D3 & Z6 using color temperature reading from my color meter. The result is that the Z6 is closer matched than the D3.

[@davegball]

Fascinating comparison. I own the D600 and the D3s. It's that film type look that makes these cameras so attractive.. For me the D3x beats the Z9 each time in terms of image quality. Put aside AF and all the other bells and whistles and just look at these cameras purely on image quality.

[@Yupthereitism]

The z9 is a video camera first and foremost. The z9 has dual gain and will perform better in low light. A little editing will make these pictures identical

[@jeffreyneville9769]

I think the white balance out of camera is more pleasing on the D3X right out of the camera but nothing a bit of white balance adjustment can't correct. The Z9 obviously is going to offer sharper images with its higher resolution, noise reduction is personal preference but you can obviously eliminate it if desired with either camera. The Z9 obviously has much larger ISO range but the D3X to this day is still an amazing camera and usable today it just shows you how great Nikon cameras are regardless the decade. Entertaining video, Thx for sharing - Jeff

[@Vahagraphy]

Thank you Jeff. Ohh yah once I hot those sliders I can pretty much dial in what Im after. just thought lets see what the starting point is here. that era of Nikon cameras something special indeed.

[@burritobrosvideos8060]

This is pretty Interesting. There are definitely different white balances on each camera.

[@MrWitmis]

What a pleasure to watch such a nice rock'n'roll guy being so much in love with photography. What a positive person you are. Thank you Vahagn. For those about to rock, we salute you!

[@brianpatteson9776]

That was a lot of pixels back then in the D3X! I don't have either of those cameras but I have several D bodies and the files can look different depending on what Nikon picture control option is in play. I originally thought this was just something for JPEGS, but looking at some RAW test pics in LR Classic, they do look different, if for example you switch from Standard to Neutral in a D500 for example. Just read something that said the Z9 files don't show that difference. Maybe they all end up looking neutral (?), so maybe that could explain the warm look of the D3X pics side by side, depending on how the D3X was set up.

[@michael-4k4000]

Wow the D3X looks amazing! I still prefer the images on the Z9, but the D3X just looks amazing for such an old camera. Very interesting comparison. If you are brand new to photography, what a time to get a great dslr.

[@Vahagraphy]

Thank you Michael Prices are at bargain levels for pro older gear.

[@nunito66]

Nikon D3x all day!! Thanks for sharing!!

[@zoommb]

Well, you just convinced me that the $6700 I spent on the D3x when it was the flagship of the Nikon line, was worth every penny , and I don't need to go out and buy a Z9 for another $5500. I don't need video; my wife's D750 handles that very well, and I prefer the color rendition of the D3x to that of the Z9. Thanks for saving me all that money. :)

[@Vahagraphy]

You are very welcome. :) The D3x stands the test of time for sure. It wont match the Z9 as far as speed, AF, low light, and all the modern bells and whistles but if you capture stills only, have f mount glass, and shoot for the most part with good light then you are good to go. Enjoy that beast. I know I will. hehe

[@zoommb]

@@Vahagraphy I do, indeed have a bunch of F-mount glass. Between my wife and I we have accumulated nn (actual number redacted) Nikon bodies over the last 48 years. I still love the sound of a mechanical camera with a motor drive so often get out my film cameras also. We are basically landscape photographers and shoot available light so rarely get into really low-light conditions.

[@tripsvietnam]

like your reviews - I'm going to find a D3x... 🙂Thank you!

[@Vahagraphy]

thank you . yes great camera.

[@alphajam1]

It's amazing over the years how consistent Nikon color science is. Even though it's been a decade and a half. I never used a D3x because I photograph sports and events. I ran the D3s and D700 for over a decade. I switched to D500 for a couple of years, and after replacing the shutters I retired the D3's (I still have them, they are in mint condition) because I felt the industry changing and was really close in buying a D850 also. But anyway the older FX cameras do feel like film. If I had to compare the two cameras I would say the D3x looks like Kodachrome and the Z9 looks like Fuji-chrome. As i remember Kodachrome had unreal reds in a good way. That's one thing about Nikon, they remember were they came from. If your not concerned about older camera focus speeds there are a lot of deals to be had. Lenses really never get old and Nikon always had great lenses, tonnes of them!. I shot mostly inside and have a 2.8 300mm. I may pick up a 400 f/2.8 because the lens is so bright putting on tele converters don't impact sharpness much outside. It's a very versatile lens for sports. and you can get one for cheap if you don't mind brassing.

[@Vahagraphy]

THank you Bro for your comments and analysys . Very true that the color science has stayed almost the same,., Great point. Old Nikon lesnes are gems.

[@alphajam1]

​@@VahagraphyI'm glad some things don't change. Sometimes, I wish we still had darkrooms and film cameras. I found it more relaxing, focusing on finishing a print and listening to music. I used a Nikon F2a and an FM2 for years. I was a holdout until 2005, ha ha. It's great listening to you and really analyzing the D3x and why we like Nikon. I was hooked as a kid when I heard that song in the '70s.

[@olefinnhalse9012]

Thank you for a great review!!

[@Vahagraphy]

You are very welcome.

[@erichramone7812]

The results shocked me! That is for sure.

[@Vahagraphy]

I think im going to revisit this test in the future, there is a few things I left out and also a few new things I want to try,

[@erichramone7812]

@@Vahagraphy that’s an important test. Shows you that cameras don’t become obsolete as fast as marketing would like you to believe. Yes auto focus is many time better, but the images are not many times better in most normal good light situations.

[@Vahagraphy]

@@erichramone7812 and if one only cares of image quality and pretty good AF then this camera does it well. It was amazing to see the Z9 on single focus point lock on to the fence right away, where as the D3x was not locking on in the beginning , I had the lens on no limit- range. so it was shifting through the focus range trying to lock on, single focus point, and shooting on S. same position focus point on all images btw.

[@terrykellyphotography6171]

What a great comparison video! I think eBay will sell a lot of D3x in the next few days. I may be bidding on a D3x today! Thank you for the awesome video! I shoot real estate so the Z9 color looked better for that. I pre-orderd the Z9 still haven't received yet, but I'm in no hurry for it. Have a wonderful day!

[@Vahagraphy]

hehe you may be right, the next best OLD camera, the D3X. thats too funny you say that. Or sellers might be thinking twice about selling it now. lol j/k. When you make tests like this, after the fact you think, I could of done this or that, i should of said this or that. its not 100 percent, its all for the fun and love of cameras and photography. Z9 is a beast and we all know why. By no means will the D3X take the new flagships place. My next test will be to use an average lens or maybe a more common wider lens and shoot the Z9 at iso 64 like many have commented on here.

[@L.Lyubomirov]

The colors from the d3x are alot warmer and nicer compared to Z9,i prefer d3x !Same thing is with Canon,older models produce rich colors...i used to have Canon 6D after that i bought Eos R and i was little bit dissapointed in therms of colors...now i have Pentax K1,rich colors and crazy dynamic range...i guess best of both worlds...well the colors are not warm as d3x and 6d but still very rich if you push them they stay very natural and calm.

[@davidtheys6000]

Colours D3X much better.. look at the fence..

[@miguelortiz5270]

Great video V! Thanks

[@Vahagraphy]

Glad you liked it! You are very welcome.

[@LeNGUYENHUNG]

Thank sir, Your comparison is very helpful

[@Vahagraphy]

You are very welcome Le. Glad I can help.

[@giuseppecapraro9937]

Thanks for your video, I'm truly surprised by the result.

[@Photojouralist123]

Great video, I miss my D3X !

[@Vahagraphy]

Thank you John. This just confirms my decision to buy one of these bad boys in 2022. hehe .