So, are you ready to take your photography to the next level with a Nikon DSLR camera?
In the world of photography, Nikon has long been a trusted name, known for their high-quality cameras that deliver stunning image quality and exceptional performance. Among their lineup, the Nikon DSLR cameras have been a favorite among professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. In this comprehensive review and comparison, we will delve into the evolution of Nikon’s flagship DSLR cameras, namely the Nikon Z 9, Nikon D6, Nikon D5, Nikon D4S, and Nikon D3S.
From the cutting-edge features to the impressive image sensors, each camera in this series offers unique capabilities and advancements that cater to different photography needs. Whether you’re a professional seeking top-tier performance or an avid enthusiast looking for a powerful tool, this review will help you make an informed decision. So, let’s dive into the world of Nikon DSLR cameras and explore the strengths and nuances of each model.
Nikon Z7
| Nikon Z8
| Nikon Z9
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| Released 23/08/2018 Indicative price (USD) 3400 Sensor type CMOS Resolution 8288 x 5520 Sensor photo detectors (Mpix) 45.75 Sensor size (mm) 23.9 x 35.9 Color filter array RGB Pixel pitch (µm) Bits per pixel 14.0 Focal length multiplier 1 Aspect Ratio 3:2 ISO latitude 32 – 102400 Shutter type Electronic / Mechanical Fastest – Slowest speed (s) 1/8000 – 30.0 Frame rate (fps) 9.0 Live view Yes Stabilization Yes Firmware Dust cleaning Yes Mount type Nikon Z Weight (gr) Battery type Li-Ion, EN-EL15b, 7V, 1900mAh, 14Wh Battery weight (gr) Tropicalization Yes Camera material Mixed Plastic / Metal Mount material Metal View finder type Electronic View finder magnification 0.8 View finder coverage 100 Mirror lockup No View finder diopter -4 to +2 m-1 Monitor type LCD Monitor size 3.2 Monitor pixel 2100000 Articulated screen Yes Touch screen Yes Contrast screen Low-pass filter Focus mode Yes Autofocus modes Single-servo AF (AF-S); continuous-servo AF (AF-C); full-time AF (AF-F; available only in movie mode); predictive focus tracking Manual focus (MF) Number of autofocus points 493 Exposure bracketing Yes Exposure compensation -5 to +5 EV in increments of 1/3 or 1/2 EV available in modes P, S, A, and M Drive modes Single frame, Low-speed continuous, High-speed continuous, High-speed continuous (extended), Self-timer Buffer size Recording medium XQD Image format JPEG, RAW (NEF), TIFF White balance bracketing Exposure, flash, white balance, and ADL Connectivity USB / Wi-Fi Bluetooth Yes 3G No Sound recording Yes External micro Yes Histogram Yes GPS Yes Video Yes Maximum format image video 3840×2160 / 30 fps Full HD Yes Live autofocus Video file format MOV, MP4 Video codec H.264 / MPEG-4 Video stabilisation Yes | Released 25/05/2023 Indicative price (USD) 4000 Sensor type Stacked CMOS sensor Resolution 8280 x 5520 Sensor photo detectors (Mpix) 45.71 Sensor size (mm) 23.9 x 35.9 Color filter array RGB Pixel pitch (µm) Bits per pixel 14.0 Focal length multiplier 1 Aspect Ratio 3:2 ISO latitude 102400 – 32 Shutter type Electronic shutter with shutter sound and sensor shield Fastest – Slowest speed (s) 1/32000 – 30.0 Frame rate (fps) 20.0 Live view Yes Stabilization Yes Firmware 1.1 Dust cleaning Yes Mount type Nikon Z Weight (gr) 910 Battery type Li-ion Battery weight (gr) Tropicalization Yes Camera material Mixed Plastic/Metal Mount material Metal View finder type Electronic View finder magnification 0.8 View finder coverage 100 Mirror lockup No View finder diopter -4 to +3 Monitor type Vertically and horizontally tilting TFT touch-sensitive LCD Monitor size 3 Monitor pixel 2088960 Articulated screen Yes Touch screen Yes Contrast screen Low-pass filter Focus mode Yes Autofocus modes Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); continuous-servo AF (AF-C); full-time AF (AF-F; available only in video mode); predictive focus tracking Manual focus (M): Electronic rangefinder can be used Number of autofocus points 493 Exposure bracketing No Exposure compensation -5 to +5 EV in increments of 1/3 or 1/2 EV available in modes P, S, A, and M Drive modes Single, high-speed continuous (5 fps) , low-speed continuous (3 fps), self-timer Buffer size Yes Recording medium SD (Secure Digital) and UHS-II compliant SDHC and SDXC memory cards CFexpress (Type B) XQD Type Memory Image format JPEG: JPEG-Baseline compliant with fine (approx. 1:4), normal (approx. 1:8), or basic (approx. 1:16) compression; size-priority and optimal-quality compression available NEF (RAW) + JPEG: Single photograph recorded in both NEF (RAW) and JPEG formats NEF ( White balance bracketing Connectivity Wifi – Type A HDMI connector 10 pin remote terminal: Built-in USB: Type C USB connectors USB data connector (SuperSpeed USB) x1 USB Power Delivery connector x1 Bluetooth Yes 3G No Sound recording Yes External micro No Histogram Yes GPS No Video Yes Maximum format image video 8K UHD 7,680 × 4,320 / 30p Full HD Live autofocus No Video file format MOV MP4 NEV Video codec H.265/HEVC (8 bit/10 bit), H.264/AVC (8 bit) Video stabilisation Yes | Released 24/12/2021 Indicative price (USD) 5999 Sensor type CMOS Resolution 8280 x 5520 Sensor photo detectors (Mpix) 45.71 Sensor size (mm) 23.9 x 35.9 Color filter array RGB Pixel pitch (µm) Bits per pixel 14.0 Focal length multiplier 1 Aspect Ratio 3:2 ISO latitude 32 – 102400 Shutter type electronic Fastest – Slowest speed (s) 1/32000 – 30.0 Frame rate (fps) 20.0 Live view Yes Stabilization Yes Firmware 1.10 Dust cleaning Yes Mount type Nikon Z Weight (gr) 1340 Battery type EN-EL18d (backwards compatible with EN-EL18/a/b/c batteries) Battery weight (gr) Tropicalization Yes Camera material Mixed Plastic/Metal Mount material Metal View finder type Electronic View finder magnification 0.8 View finder coverage 100 Mirror lockup No View finder diopter -4 to +3 Monitor type LCD Monitor size 3 Monitor pixel 2100000 Articulated screen Yes Touch screen Yes Contrast screen Low-pass filter Focus mode Yes Autofocus modes AF-S, AF-C, MF, AF-F Number of autofocus points 493 Exposure bracketing Yes Exposure compensation Yes Drive modes Single, Continuous low speed, continuous high speed, single high speed, self-timer Buffer size 1000.0 Recording medium CFexpress (Type B) XQD Type Memory Image format NEF (RAW), JPEG White balance bracketing Connectivity usb, hdmi, wifi, bluetooth Bluetooth Yes 3G No Sound recording Yes External micro No Histogram Yes GPS Yes Video Yes Maximum format image video 8K UHD 30fps Full HD Live autofocus Yes Video file format MOV, MP4 Video codec Apple ProRes 422 HQ (10 bits), H.265/HEVC (8 bits/10 bits), H.264/AVC (8 bits) Video stabilisation Yes |
Nikon D600
| Nikon D4S
| Nikon D5
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| Released 13/09/2012 Indicative price (USD) 2100 Sensor type CMOS Resolution 6080 x 4028 Sensor photo detectors (Mpix) 24.49 Sensor size (mm) 24 x 35.9 Color filter array RGB Pixel pitch (µm) Bits per pixel 14.0 Focal length multiplier 1 Aspect Ratio 3:2 ISO latitude 50 – 25600 Shutter type Mechanical Fastest – Slowest speed (s) 1/4000 – 30.0 Frame rate (fps) 5.5 Live view Yes Stabilization No Firmware Dust cleaning Yes Mount type Nikon F FX Weight (gr) Battery type Li-ion, EN-EL15, 7.0V, 1900mAh Battery weight (gr) Tropicalization Camera material Magnesium alloy top and rear, polycarbonate front-plate Mount material Metal View finder type Optical View finder magnification 0.7 View finder coverage 100 Mirror lockup Yes View finder diopter -3 to +1 Monitor type LCD Monitor size 3.2 Monitor pixel 921000 Articulated screen No Touch screen No Contrast screen Low-pass filter Focus mode Yes Autofocus modes Auto AF-S/AF-C selection (AF-A); Continuous-servo (AF-C); Face-Priority AF available in Live View only and D-Movie only; Normal area; Single-servo AF (AF-S); Wide area Number of autofocus points 39 Exposure bracketing 2 or 3 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1 or 2 EV Exposure compensation Drive modes Continuous low-speed [CL] mode; 1-5 frames per second; Continuous high-speed [CH] mode; 5.5 frames per second; Mirror-up [Mup] mode; Quiet Shutter Release; Self-timer mode (2, 5, 10, 20 sec; timer duration electronically controlled); Single-frame [S] mode Buffer size Recording medium SD, SDHC, SDXC Image format JPEG, RAW (NEF) White balance bracketing 2 or 3 exposures Connectivity Accessory Terminal: Remote Cord: MC-DC2 (available separately); GPS unit: GP-1 (available separately); HDMI output: Type C mini-pin HDMI connector; Headphone Connector; Hi-speed USB Bluetooth No 3G No Sound recording Yes External micro Yes Histogram Yes GPS No Video Yes Maximum format image video 1920 x 1080 / 30 fps Full HD Yes Live autofocus Yes Video file format MOV Video codec H.264 Video stabilisation No | Released 25/02/2014 Indicative price (USD) 6500 Sensor type CMOS Resolution 4936 x 3288 Sensor photo detectors (Mpix) 16.23 Sensor size (mm) 23.9 x 36 Color filter array RGB Pixel pitch (µm) Bits per pixel 14.0 Focal length multiplier 1 Aspect Ratio 3:2 ISO latitude 50 – 409600 Shutter type Mechanical Fastest – Slowest speed (s) 1/8000 – 30.0 Frame rate (fps) 11.0 Live view Yes Stabilization No Firmware Dust cleaning Yes Mount type Nikon F FX Weight (gr) Battery type Li-ion, EN-EL 18a, 10.8V, 2500mAh, 27Wh Battery weight (gr) Tropicalization Yes Camera material Magnesium alloy Mount material Metal View finder type Optical View finder magnification 0.7 View finder coverage 100 Mirror lockup Yes View finder diopter -3 to +1 Monitor type LCD Monitor size 3.2 Monitor pixel 921000 Articulated screen No Touch screen No Contrast screen Low-pass filter Focus mode Yes Autofocus modes Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); Continuous-servo AF (AF-C); auto AF-S/AF-C selection (AF-A); predictive focus tracking activated automatically according to subject status Manual focus (MF): Electronic rangefinder can be used Number of autofocus points 51 Exposure bracketing 2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV Exposure compensation 5 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV Drive modes Continuous low-speed [CL] mode; 1-10 fps Continuous high-speed [CH] mode; 10 fps Mirror-up [Mup] mode Quiet Shutter Release Self-timer Mode Single-frame [S] mode Buffer size Recording medium CF (Type I, compliant with UDMA), XQD Type Memory Image format JPEG, RAW (NEF) White balance bracketing 2 to 9 exposures in increments of 1, 2 or 3 EV Connectivity HDMI output (Type C mini-pin HDMI connector), Hi-speed USB, NTSC, Ethernet: 1000 Base-T (Gigabit) Wired LAN Bluetooth No 3G No Sound recording Yes External micro Yes Histogram Yes GPS No Video Yes Maximum format image video 1920×1080 / 60 fps Full HD Yes Live autofocus Yes Video file format MOV Video codec H.264/MPEG-4 Advanced Video Coding Video stabilisation No | Released 06/01/2016 Indicative price (USD) 6500 Sensor type CMOS Resolution 5584 x 3728 Sensor photo detectors (Mpix) 20.82 Sensor size (mm) 23.9 x 35.9 Color filter array RGB Pixel pitch (µm) Bits per pixel 14.0 Focal length multiplier 1 Aspect Ratio 3:2 ISO latitude 50 – 3280000 Shutter type Mechanical Fastest – Slowest speed (s) 1/8000 – 30.0 Frame rate (fps) 14.0 Live view Yes Stabilization No Firmware Dust cleaning Yes Mount type Nikon F FX Weight (gr) 1225 Battery type Li-Ion, EN-EL18a, 10.8V, 2500mAh, 27Wh Battery weight (gr) Tropicalization Yes Camera material Mixed Plastic/Metal Mount material Metal View finder type Optical View finder magnification 0.72 View finder coverage 100 Mirror lockup Yes View finder diopter -3 to +1 Monitor type LCD Monitor size 3.2 Monitor pixel 2359000 Articulated screen No Touch screen Yes Contrast screen Low-pass filter Focus mode Yes Autofocus modes Autofocus (AF): Single-servo AF (AF-S); Continuous-servo AF (AF-C); auto AF-S/AF-C selection (AF-A); predictive focus tracking activated automatically according to subject status. Manual focus (MF): Electronic rangefinder can be used. Number of autofocus points 153 Exposure bracketing 2 to 9 frames in steps of 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 or 1 EV Exposure compensation +/-5 EV in increments of 1/3, 1/2 or 1 EV Drive modes Continuous low-speed [CL] mode, Continuous high-speed [CH] mode, Mirror-up [Mup] mode, Quiet Shutter Release, Self-timer Mode, Single-frame [S] mode Buffer size Recording medium CF (Type I, compliant with UDMA), XQD Type Memory Image format JPEG, RAW (NEF) White balance bracketing 2 to 9 exposures in increments of 1, 2 or 3 EV Connectivity USB (USB 3.0 Micro-B connector) / Ethernet (1000 Base-T (Gigabit) Wired LAN) Bluetooth No 3G No Sound recording Yes External micro Yes Histogram Yes GPS Yes Video Yes Maximum format image video 3840×2160 / 30 fps Full HD Yes Live autofocus Yes Video file format MOV Video codec H.264 Video stabilisation No |
- Nikon Z9: Full-frame mirrorless camera with a stacked CMOS sensor, 8K video support, and burst lengths of over 1000 shots.
- Nikon D6: Flagship DSLR camera with a 20.8MP resolution, 14fps burst shooting, and improved autofocus capabilities.
- Nikon D5: Professional-grade DSLR camera with a redesigned 20.8MP image sensor, expanded ISO range, and 4K video recording.
- Nikon D4S: High-speed flagship DSLR camera with a 16.2MP sensor, improved autofocus, and enhanced battery life.
- Nikon D3S: Full-frame DSLR camera with a 12.1MP sensor, high ISO sensitivity, and HD video recording capability.
Nikon Z 9: Pushing the Boundaries of Mirrorless Technology
The Nikon Z 9 takes the mirrorless game to new heights with its impressive features and capabilities. With a full-frame stacked CMOS sensor, this camera delivers outstanding image quality and remarkable low-light performance. Its 45.7 effective megapixels provide stunning levels of detail, making it a perfect choice for professional photographers who demand the best.
Superior Autofocus and Burst Shooting
One of the standout features of the Nikon Z 9 is its advanced autofocus system. With 493 focus points covering 90% of the frame, you can expect rapid and accurate subject tracking, even in challenging conditions. Whether you’re capturing fast-paced action or shooting in low light, this camera’s autofocus capabilities ensure that your subjects are sharp and in focus.
Unleash Your Creativity with 8K Video
The Nikon Z 9 is the first camera in the Nikon Z series to support 8K video recording. This groundbreaking feature opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for videographers and content creators. With the ability to capture ultra-high-definition footage at 60 frames per second in 12-bit N-RAW, you can create cinematic masterpieces with exceptional clarity and detail.
Burst Lengths and Storage
When it comes to burst shooting, the Nikon Z 9 truly shines. With burst lengths of over 1000 shots, you can capture every moment of action without missing a beat. And with dual XQD card/CFexpress Type-B slots, you have ample storage space to accommodate the high volume of images produced during continuous shooting. This ensures that you never have to compromise on capturing that perfect shot.
Ergonomics and Connectivity
In addition to its impressive performance, the Nikon Z 9 also offers excellent ergonomics for comfortable handling during prolonged shooting sessions. The well-designed grip and intuitive controls make it a joy to use in the field. Furthermore, the camera features a range of connectivity options including USB Type-C, HDMI, and built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for seamless file transfer and remote shooting capabilities.
Nikon D6: The Epitome of Professional DSLR Performance
The Nikon D6 is a powerhouse DSLR camera designed for professionals who demand uncompromising performance. With its 20.8MP resolution and Expeed 6 image processor, this camera delivers exceptional image quality and impressive low-light capabilities. The D6’s autofocus system is a standout feature, with its 105 cross-type focus points that ensure precise and fast subject tracking, making it ideal for capturing fast-paced action and sports photography.
High-Speed Burst Shooting and Extensive Battery Life
One of the most notable features of the Nikon D6 is its high-speed burst shooting capability. With a continuous shooting speed of up to 14 frames per second, you can capture every split-second moment with ease. Additionally, the D6 boasts an impressive battery life, allowing you to shoot for extended periods without worrying about running out of power.
Enhanced Workflow and Connectivity
The Nikon D6 is designed to streamline your workflow and provide seamless connectivity options. With its built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, you can easily transfer images to your smart devices or control the camera remotely. The D6 also features dual CFexpress card slots, ensuring fast and reliable storage for your high-resolution images and videos.
Robust Build Quality and Ergonomics
As a flagship DSLR, the Nikon D6 is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. Its robust construction and weather sealing make it durable and reliable in various shooting conditions. The ergonomic design of the camera ensures comfortable handling, even during long hours of shooting. With intuitive controls and a well-placed grip, the D6 is a pleasure to use in the field.
Video Capabilities and Advanced Metering
While the Nikon D6 is primarily known for its exceptional still photography capabilities, it also offers impressive video recording features. With the ability to shoot 4K UHD videos at 30 frames per second, you can capture high-quality footage with rich detail. The D6 also features advanced metering modes, including 3D Color Matrix Metering III, which ensures accurate exposure and precise metering in various lighting conditions.
Nikon D5: Redefining Professional DSLR Photography
The Nikon D5 is a true workhorse camera that pushes the boundaries of professional DSLR photography. With its redesigned 20.8MP image sensor, the D5 delivers exceptional image quality and impressive low-light performance. The expanded ISO range of 100 to 102,400 (boosted to 50-3,280,000) ensures that you can capture stunning images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Powerful Burst Shooting and 4K Video Capability
One of the standout features of the Nikon D5 is its impressive burst shooting capability. With a continuous shooting speed of up to 12 frames per second, you can capture fast-paced action with precision and accuracy. Additionally, the D5 offers 4K UHD video recording, allowing you to create high-quality videos with exceptional detail and clarity.
Advanced Autofocus and Enhanced Metering
The Nikon D5 boasts an advanced autofocus system with 153 focus points, including 55 user-selectable cross-type sensors. This ensures fast and accurate subject tracking, even in challenging shooting conditions. The camera also features advanced metering modes, including 3D Color Matrix Metering III, which delivers accurate exposure and precise metering for optimal image quality.
Robust Build Quality and Ergonomics
Built to withstand the demands of professional use, the Nikon D5 features a robust and durable construction. Its weather sealing provides protection against dust and moisture, allowing you to shoot in various environments with confidence. The ergonomic design of the camera ensures comfortable handling, even during long shooting sessions.
Expanded Storage and Connectivity Options
With two memory card slots (CompactFlash and XQD), the Nikon D5 offers ample storage capacity and flexibility. This allows you to easily manage your files and shoot for extended periods without interruption. The camera also features built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, enabling seamless file transfer and remote shooting capabilities.
In conclusion, the Nikon DSLR camera series offers a range of exceptional options for photographers at different skill levels and with varying requirements. From the groundbreaking Nikon Z 9 to the reliable and versatile Nikon D3S, each camera in this lineup has its own set of strengths and capabilities that cater to different photography genres and shooting conditions. Whether you prioritize resolution, burst shooting, video capabilities, or advanced autofocus, there is a Nikon DSLR camera that will meet your needs.
Nikon has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation and quality through its flagship DSLR cameras. With each new release, Nikon pushes the boundaries of technology, delivering cameras that offer improved performance, enhanced features, and exceptional image quality. These cameras are designed to meet the demands of professional photographers and serious enthusiasts, providing them with the tools they need to capture their vision with precision and creativity.
When it comes to choosing the perfect Nikon DSLR camera, it ultimately boils down to your specific photography needs and preferences. Consider factors such as resolution, burst shooting capabilities, low-light performance, video recording features, and ergonomic design. Think about the genres of photography you specialize in and the shooting conditions you often encounter. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision and invest in a camera that will elevate your photography to new heights.
