Nikon Digital SLR Camera Reviews

Egad and gadzooks! It’s time for Jack Neubart’s Halloween review, where he ponders life, the universe, and, most importantly, whether the added features (notably, movies & dual flash cards) mean it’s time to upgrade from the D300 to the D300S.

Nikon D300S--front of camera. The Nikon D300S is a solidly built 12.3 MP CMOS DSLR that exhibits solid performance. It’s not revolutionary, but is definitely a step up the ladder, compared to the original D300. Photo courtesy Nikon.

I’ve been very happy with my Nikon D300. I’m certainly glad I didn’t wait for the next iteration to come out because I’ve made good use of this camera on two continents. Three, if you count Brooklyn, NY (we like to think of ourselves as more than simply a borough of New York City). Anyway, I approached a review of the next-gen D300, the D300S, with some degree of trepidation. I’m obviously not going to hate the camera, unless they somehow managed to mess up a good thing. And if I love it, then I have to consider buying it to replace a body that still has that fresh camera smell, and for which I paid good money (is money ever bad?).

Before continuing, I should note that you’ve no doubt read my friend and colleague’s report on the D300—Peter Burian was quite thorough. (If you haven’t, check it out here.) But this is where I give you my take on the camera, and go into specific differences between new and old.

One thing I noticed is that the manual for the D300 is actually 18 pages longer than that for the new D300S. As a D300 owner, I gloated. Then I also noted that the D300S Quick Guide has nearly twice as many pages—now I’m starting to feel cheated. What could explain these odd discrepancies? Well, I wasn’t about to dig through each booklet page by page, so let’s just see what pops up as we continue to explore, compare and contrast.

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Peter Burian tests this affordable 12.3 MP DSLR with variable-angle LCD, D-Movie mode and sophisticated Nikon technology

Nikon’s most affordable enthusiast-level DSLR—the 12.3 megapixel D5000—is positioned between the D3000 and the D90 and offers the best of both worlds. The D5000 is as easy to use as the entry-level camera and provides even more Scene modes but it employs powerful technology and advanced features developed for the larger prosumer-grade model.That includes D-Movie mode in Live View, although the LCD screen is slightly smaller and provides lower resolution when compared to the D90. Read the rest of this entry »

Peter Burian tests Nikon’s latest affordable 10.2 MP camera which has great ease of use and surprising speed and versatility as well

Nikon’s D40 and D40x were very popular entry-level DSLRs but the replacement model is even more desirable. While it’s also very budget-friendly, the equally small D3000 offers some valuable benefits in spite of the pleasantly low price (about $600 with 18-55mm VR lens.) The primary improvements include a more effective AF system with 11 points plus 3D tracking focus, a larger 3-inch (7.62cm) LCD screen, a faster 3fps continuous framing rate and far more image retouching options in playback mode. The D3000 is also equipped with a new automatic sensor cleaner, employs a more powerful battery and provides even more convenient operation.

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Peter Burian tests this remarkably fast, rugged professional DSLR with full frame sensor and over-sized pixels for stunning image quality

Combining the best features and technology of the D3, the Nikon D700 is far more compact/affordable and 9.6 ounces lighter. This new professional model shares the fast EXPEED processor and full-frame 12.1 megapixel CMOS chip and it’s nearly a rugged as the D3 thanks to a weather-resistant magnesium alloy body. The primary differences are a slower (but still fast 5fps ) continuous drive speed, reduced viewfinder coverage (95% vs. 100%) and only a single CompactFlash card slot. But the D700 gains a built-in flash (great for wireless remote flash control) and an automatic sensor cleaner. Add the optional MB-D10 battery grip and it can fire long bursts at a blazing 8fps.

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Similar in many respects to the 10.2 megapixel D80, the Nikon D90 is even more desirable since it benefits from technology developed for the semi-professional DSLRs. The primary improvements include a 12.3 megapixel CMOS (not CCD) sensor and upgraded processor, larger 3-inch LCD with ultra-high 920,000 point resolution and Live View with three distinct autofocus modes. Other benefits include faster 4.5fps continuous drive speed (vs. 3fps) an automatic sensor cleaner, plus some valuable new features in capture mode and in Playback mode (for image retouching.)

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When it was first announced, the Nikon D300 received a lot of media attention because it appeared to be similar to the more expensive, professional D3. And it’s true that these 12 megapixel cameras share some technology and features but the D3 uses a much larger full-frame sensor. There are other differences too, so it makes more sense to compare the D300 to its predecessor, the highly-rated 10 megapixel D200. Aside from higher resolution, the primary benefits of the more recent model include a CMOS (not CCD sensor) that can provide Live View, a larger viewfinder and LCD screen, a more sophisticated Autofocus system, greater speed plus extra options for image capture and quality.

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If you own or have used this camera, let us know what you think! Leave your comments and thoughts below.

Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D3x 24.5MP FX Digital SLR (Body Only)

Popular Photography (D3X versus Canon 1Ds Mark III)

Sure, it can’t match the D3X’s 24.5MP, but at 21.1MP, this Canon’s no slouch. … If you mainly shoot in a studio environment, where you won’t need high ISOs, the 1Ds Mark III might be the camera for you — especially if you already have an arsenal of Canon glass. If your shooting is more varied, the D3X’s versatility may tip the scales in its favor. After all, the D3X nearly matches or beats the Canon in most areas of performance, including the burst rate of 5 fps. But if you’re not already wedded to a brand, the Canon offers one big advantage: It costs about $1,500 less. READ MORE OF THIS REVIEW Read the rest of this entry »

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Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D700 12.1MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only)

Imaging Resource

Nikon now has a full-frame digital SLR for pros, semi-pros, and well-heeled enthusiasts: the Nikon D700. Nikon has done it again, producing a market-leading digital SLR that sets a new standard for image quality and ISO performance. Stacked up against its nearest competitor, the Nikon D700 wins in high ISO performance and overall camera features. …The Nikon D700’s list of pluses is overwhelming. Easily the greatest advantage offered by this digital SLR is the ability to shoot usable photos in ridiculously low light. Though the initial price is still high, the Nikon D700 produces images of the same quality, if not better, than the Nikon D3. …The Nikon D700 earns a five-star, as one of the finest digital SLR cameras ever produced. READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D90 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens

Imaging Resource

With a 12.3-megapixel sensor, the Nikon D90 rises to the resolution of the more professional D300. … The Nikon D90 looks like a genuinely excellent camera for the intermediate photographer, and a great choice as a full-featured, light weight body for those who own a Nikon D200 or D300. The addition of video is ground-breaking, and will open up new possibilities that will be fun to explore, even though I wish it handled motion better than it does. Really, my only major disappointment for the intermediate market is the lack of a higher frame rate. I’d like to see at least five frames per second, if not six. Otherwise, there’s little to complain about, and only more great features to praise. Bottom line, the Nikon D90 is an exceptionally well-rounded digital SLR offering, with just about everything an aspiring photographer will need …Very highly recommended. READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews about this camera from Amazon: Nikon D3 12.1MP FX Digital SLR Camera

Imaging Resource

Pro photographers just got a new option for full-frame digital photography: the Nikon D3 digital SLR camera. Not only will it make their old Nikon glass fully usable again, but it’s now the fastest digital SLR on the market — with some limitations. As they did with the D2x, Nikon struck a very fine balance with the D3. It’s not 16 or 21.1 megapixels, it’s 12.1. And it’s not a full 10 frames per second, it’s 9; but you can get to 11 frames per second if you don’t need full resolution and track focusing. It’s an interesting and effective strategy. The resulting cameras are more versatile than the competition. READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D300 DX 12.3MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S VR DX Nikkor Zoom Lens

Imaging Resource Review

There are a lot of great cameras on the market, but the D300 more than any of them is designed for the serious photographer. The bottom line is this: If you need a great digital SLR camera and the price is no issue, the Nikon D300 will exceed your needs. Those requiring a faster frame rate and greater autofocus speed should consider a D3, provided they can handle the extra size and weight . I won’t call it a compelling upgrade for happy D200 owners, but it sure wouldn’t hurt if you’re in the market for something even better than the D200. Nikon’s D300 is an amazing machine, well worth the $1,799 price tag, and a rare five-star. READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D60 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens

Imaging Resource

The Nikon D60 has a sensor resolution of 10.2 megapixels, and offers ISO sensitivity ranging from 100 to 1,600, with the ability to extend this to ISO 3,200 using the Hi-1 setting. The Nikon D60 makes a really excellent entry-level model for those just making the move to an SLR. Even for established photographers, the D60 is a pleasure to use, making a great second (or even first) body. … The D60 maintains the same body design and control layout as the earlier models, with a grip that’s remarkably comfortable for a wide range of hand sizes. Best of all, image quality is, if anything, improved. Bottom line, this is another excellent model for Nikon in the entry-level DSLR derby. … No matter how you look at it, the Nikon D60 stands up well against the competition, with great image quality at all speeds, and near-perfect utility as a family camera. It’s very fun to use … polite, attractive, and well-built; just the kind of companion you want to have along on your next family outing. READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D80 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-135mm AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens

Imaging Resource

The new Nikon D80’s combination of high-end features and its 18-135mm DX kit lens make a killer photographic tool for the amateur and intermediate photographer who can’t afford or justify the extra cost of the Nikon D200. By any measure, the Nikon D80 is a superb photographic tool, offering value well beyond its relatively modest price point. … It’s solidly built, well-balanced in the hand, highly responsive, and delivers excellent image quality. The Nikon D80’s combination of build quality, image quality, extensive configurability, rich post-capture processing features, and excellent kit lens make it a genuine bargain. This is a camera that’s quite approachable for complete novices, thanks to a very capable fully automated “Green” zone and handful of Scene modes, yet offers the serious amateur a range of creative control and sophisticated operating features unparalleled in its price class. Very highly recommended, and a slam-dunk as one of the better cameras on the market. READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews on this camera from Amazon: Nikon D40x 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens

Camera Labs

The Nikon D40x is a 10.2 Megapixel entry-level digital SLR aimed at general consumers, family users and photographic students. … The Nikon D40x is one of the more interesting DSLRs around right now because it clearly illustrates both the marketing and monetary value of a 10 Megapixel model over an otherwise identical 6 Megapixel version. By inheriting the D80’s sensor and shutter mechanism the D40x was always assured of great quality output, but the subsequent increase in cost makes you look more critically at some of the weaker aspects … For example at the D40’s low asking price, we could just about forgive its basic 3-point AF, lack of depth-of-field preview and a reliance on modern lenses for auto focusing. Unfortunately for the Nikon D40x though, it inherits all of these but is now priced virtually the same as Canon’s EOS 400D/XTi which boasts 9-point AF, anti-dust features, RAW processing software, DOF preview and compatibility with both new and old lenses. So can the D40x really compete against better-featured cameras? READ FULL REVIEW

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If you own or have used this camera, let us know what you think! Leave your comments and thoughts below. Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon:  Nikon D200 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-135mm AF-S DX f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF Nikkor Zoom Lens

Imaging Resource

The D200 really goes far beyond what would normally be considered as a prosumer model. In virtually every detail, the Nikon D200 creates a new category, that of a compact professional SLR. The Nikon D200 consistently impressed us with its ruggedness (including full environmental seals, a first on a camera selling for less than $4,000), excellent user interface, exceptional feature set, and sure-footed performance. One of the D200’s weak points is clearly that it uses so much antialiasing and so little in-camera sharpening. …Another weak point is high-ISO image noise. … Its few shortcomings aside, the Nikon D200 truly does establish a new level of performance, functionality, and ruggedness at a competitive price point. … Bottom line… highly recommended. READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon:

Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED II AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens

Imaging Resource

While geared for the entry-level market the D40 packs enough features into its diminutive frame to keep serious enthusiasts interested as well. It’s also the smallest and lightest Nikon DSLR to date, so the point & shoot photographer looking to move up to a real SLR, can do so without having to put up with the heft and bulk that the genre usually dictates. I can tell you that the Nikon D40 is one of the finest family cameras on the market. I’ve really enjoyed shooting with it, and would seriously consider it as a second camera to something like a D80, D200, or 30D. If you’re just getting started in SLR photography and want a light, sweet, competent, and simultaneously friendly digital SLR, the Nikon D40 is a superb choice. READ FULL REVIEW

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If you own or have used this lens, let us know what you think! Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D2HS SLR 4.1 Megapixel Digital Camera – BODY ONLY

Photo.Net

The D2Hs offers a faster buffer and a presumed improved buffering method. This translates to eight frames per second in continuous shooting, capturing 50 JPEG frames, or 40 NEF frames. Other improvements include a higher resolution monitor and 3D Matrix Metering II. Coupled with the the new Wireless Transmitter WT-2/2A, the D2Hs provides working Photojournalists with a faster and more secure tool for capturing and transferring their images. While the D2Hs is certainly an improvement for its targeted market, that being daily news shooters, it has left others scratching their heads. Where’s the higher resolution? A 4.1 megapixel camera is hardly groundbreaking news. The overall feeling is that Nikon is getting further and further behind Canon in the digital market. READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D1H 2.66MP Digital SLR Camera

Digital Photography Review

The D1H is based on the original 2.74 megapixel D1 sensor but has a far larger data buffer and frame rate ability. Capable of shooting at a maximum of 5 frames per second for up to 40 frames the D1H is clearly aimed at sports and current affairs journalists who need high frame rates and good buffer size. … Nikon took the already very good D1, fixed several of the issues surrounding it (color space, pattern noise) added even better image quality, a much more user friendly menu system and text custom functions. They also boosted its continuous shooting speed and added a larger buffer. … The D1H is an excellent, extremely well built, well engineered and high image quality digital SLR in its own right, its pricing is competitive … The real question will be deciding between it and the excellent D1x. READ FULL REVIEW

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Digital Photography Review

The D1H is based on the original 2.74 megapixel D1 sensor but has a far larger data buffer and frame rate ability. Capable of shooting at a maximum of 5 frames per second for up to 40 frames, the D1H is clearly aimed at sports and current affairs journalists who need high frame rates and good buffer size. … Nikon took the already very good D1, fixed several of the issues surrounding it (color space, pattern noise) added even better image quality, a much more user friendly menu system and text custom functions. They also boosted its continuous shooting speed and added a larger buffer. … The D1H is an excellent, extremely well built, well engineered and high image quality digital SLR … READ FULL REVIEW

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Get information and user reviews for this camera from Amazon: Nikon D1X – Digital camera – SLR – 5.3 Mpix – body only – supported memory: CF, Microdrive – black

Digital Photography Review

Well the D1x takes the strengths of the D1, throws away the weaknesses and builds a whole raft of new functionality, features and usability. When you see the camera as a whole, it’s excellent build quality, super rugged body and you add amazing resolution, superb color reproduction, low noise at higher ISO’s, fast operational speed, and support for Microdrive, you begin to realize that the D1x is going to be a very tough act for ANYONE to follow. An amazingly good performance, almost no visible noise all the way up to ISO 400, at ISO 800 there’s noise but it’s nothing too distracting. … I’m quite comfortable applauding Nikon and giving the D1x the crown of the best digital SLR on the market (at the time of writing this review). READ FULL REVIEW

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