Final verdict on D800 vs D800E

I don't believe there is a significant difference in output once the D800 images have been processed and sharpened slightly.

Thom H has what appears to be an interesting take on the two models co-existing (or otherwise).

The cost of manufacturing the D800 and D800e should be the same. The D800e is currently priced higher only because it is made in lower volumes and percieved as the premium product.

It is likely that Nikon will be able to keep reducing the D800 and D800e prices to fend off competition during the xmas sale season and to meet their end of year targets, but then drop the D800 model entirely, leaving the D800e as the only model.

Subsequently consumers will be getting what they believe is a cheap version of the D800e when in fact, as manufacturing costs for making the D800e as the only model should be the same as or lower than the manufacturing costs for the D800, they are actually giving Nikon the same profit margin as for the D800 before the price reductions.

If this proves true then it is an incredibly clever marketing tactic by Nikon. The consumer feels they are continuing to get a reduced price premium product whilst Nikon continue to make a high profit margin.

It is only the early adopters of the D800e that will feel cheated!

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Photo Pete