Nikon D2x Review

For the opportunity Nikon D2x body review many thanks to Boris

Nikon D2x Review

Nikon D2x Review

Nikon D2x is the flagship professional camera. Nikon D2x is truly impressive in appearance and productivity camera. It is very interesting that the Nikon D2 camera does not exist, the camera was immediately produced in one of the D2 modificationsh,D2x and later D2hs,D2xs. You can read the link that denote the letters h, x, s in the name of the cameras.

Nikon D2x rear view

Nikon D2x rear view

The main difference between Nikon D2h \ D2hs and Nikon D2x \ D2xs consists in the number of megapixels, and therefore, in the speed and duration of continuous shooting. Nikon D2h \ D2hs can take 8 fps up to 40 pictures in the buffer, and Nikon D2x \ D2xs up to 5 pictures with a smaller buffer.

Sample photo on Nikon D2x

Sample photo on Nikon D2x

Nikon D2x has 12.4 million effective pixels CMOS sensor, which even for 2012 remains a good indicator. Nikon D2x and Nikon D2xs a matrix is ​​installed, which is not used anywhere except for these two cameras, therefore, do not confuse it with the matrices from Nikon D90 / D300 / D300s / D5000, a newer 12.3 MP matrix has been developed for them.

Sample photo on Nikon D2x

Sample photo on Nikon D2x

The main indicator of a camera of this level is the speed and duration of burst shooting. The shooting speed when using the entire area of ​​the matrix with 12.4MP images reaches 5 fps... The camera has one interesting feature - High speed cropped modein which the camera can only shoot the central area of ​​the matrix with a resolution 3216 by 2136 pixels (6,9MP). In High speed cropped mode, the camera can accelerate to 8 fps.

Sample photo on Nikon D2x

Sample photo on Nikon D2x

Responsible for the duration of burst shooting frame buffer. I was able to squeeze the following buffer capacity readings from Nikon D2x:

  • 17 frames in RAW mode (independent of compression level), the file weighs an average of 20 MB
  • 16 frames in TIFF format
  • 20 frames in JPEG L format with quality priority
  • 22 frames in JPEG L format with priority
  • 29 frames in RAW format High speed cropped mode (independent from RAW compression level)
  • 28 frames in TIFF format High speed cropped mode
  • 38 frames in JPEG format L High speed cropped mode in size priority
  • 34 frames in JPEG format High speed cropped mode in priority of quality
Nikon D2x sample photo without processing

Nikon D2x sample photo without processing

In fact, if you take the maximum quality, the camera can only use 17 shots in the frame buffer, which is less than 5 seconds for serial shooting at 4 fps. I want to note that a simpler Nikon D200 It has frame buffer 21 shots and the same high speed burst shooting. Also, the only drawback of the Nikon D2x camera is 12 bit RAW compression, but it can be deducted for the age of the camera.

Nikon D2x sample photo without processing

Nikon D2x sample photo without processing

Nikon D2x has simply amazing ergonomics. The Nikon D2x has a combo case with landscape and portrait orientation of the controls. All buttons are in place. The whole body is made of metal alloy and waterproof. True, protection from bad weather is only available when using appropriate lenses. Nikon D2x has dVA additional monochrome display with backlightwith which it is very easy to change the basic settings of the camera. The main camera display of all 2.5 inches and has 230.000 points. To date, the main display can not boast of anything. The same large display cameras Nikon D200, D80, D40, D40x, D60.

Nikon D2x sample photo without processing

Nikon D2x sample photo without processing

Of course, the Nikon D2x has a built-in focus motor. 'Screwdriver' allows you to use old type AF lenses... Also, Nikon D2x works great with manual optics, including those with AI-S lenses, while the Nikon D2x can use matrix metering exposure. For example, Nikon D1x did not have such an opportunity. In general, Nikon D2x can work with any lens that can be attached to it.

Nikon D2x sample photo without processing

Sample photo on Nikon D2x without processing. Color rendering at maximum ISO

Nikon D2x has 11-point focus system. The Multi-CAM2000 module is responsible for focusing. Focusing on the frame is excellent. Multi-CAM1000 in cameras by type Nikon D200, D80 much worse covers the frame area. In High speed cropped mode, the far right and left focus points are cropped.

Nikon D2x sample photo without processing

Sample photo on Nikon D2x without processing at minimum ISO

Since Nikon D2x is a real professional camera, its viewfinder is large, with 100% coated frame. Please note that in the viewfinder, in addition to the lower information panel, there is also a right side information panel.

Example photo on Nikon D2x

Example photo on Nikon D2x at ISO

Nikon D2x supports ISO 100-800 expandable to 3200 (Hi 2). I will not say that this is a lot. Talking about the noise of the matrix is ​​a very thankless job. Whoever needs it will squeeze out everything that he needs from this range. Here ISO 800 example shot in poor light conditions without processing, on-camera JPEG L, with noise reduction turned off. Auto ISO limited shutter speed 1 \ 250s.

Example photo on Nikon D2x

Example photo on Nikon D2x

For measuring exposure Meets 1,005-pixel CCD sensor. The camera can use 3D Color Matrix Metering II, which shows a good result in any conditions.

Example photo on Nikon D2x

Example photo on Nikon D2x

Nikon D2x also uses a good Li-On battery EN-EL4, which withstands over 1000 shutter releases. Also, Nikon D2x uses large and fast CF Flashcards. My Nikon D2x works without problems with CF at 32GB.

Photo by Nikon D2x

Photo by Nikon D2x

Attention: Nikon D2x does not have a built-in flash. But the camera supports high-speed FP synchronization. Minimum excerpt with flash in normal mode is 1 \ 250s.

Of course, the Nikon D2x still has a number of little things: various menu settings, ports for connecting equipment, interval shooting, a red timer lamp, rubberized selectors, crop function when viewing images, a shutter to close the viewfinder, flexible settings for everything that is possible.

Example photo on Nikon D2x

Example photo on Nikon D2x

Personal impressions

Nikon D2x is real, big break after Nikon D1x... The camera is just amazing, very fast. Turns on instantly, the shutter sound is very unusual. You can buy Nikon D2x instead of Nikon D2h / D2hs and use the same burst speed of 8 fps. Believe me, 8 fps is very tempting. It's funny, but cameras of the Nikon D2 series are not very popular in our country, usually instead of the Nikon D2 line they use simpler ones. Nikon D200, D300 or full frame Nikon D3, D700. Often the best cropped camera among the professional Nikon line is called Nikon D300s, I would add that D2x, D2xs can easily compete for the title of best cropped camera. At the moment Nikon D2xs - the latest of the flagship crop cameras, after which Nikon began to release already full-frame flagship cameras. Therefore, the D2 line is the best, but also the last.

Sample photos on D2x in this review without processing, reduced size and imprinted data EXIF. Everything is filmed on Nikon 35mm f / 1.8G AF-S DX Nikkor и Nikon 70-300mm f / 4.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor

Sample photo on Nikon D2x

Sample photo on Nikon D2x


Prices for modern Nikon cameras in popular stores can look at this link.

Comments on this post do not require registration. Anyone can leave a comment. Many different photographic equipment can be found on AliExpress.

Conclusions:

Nikon D2x is a great professional crop camera... Attracted by the speed and precision of work. Among the disadvantages is the small ISO range. Recommend.

Material prepared Arkady Shapoval. Training/Consultations | Youtube | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Telegram

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Comments: 152, on the topic: Review Nikon D2x

  • Alexey

    As for me, a normal picture, what's wrong with it?

  • Alexander

    Nikon D3000 has a 3-inch display, not 2.5

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Fixed

  • Alexey

    Oh, they didn’t say about the ISO range and which ISO is acceptable for low noise.

    • B. R. P.

      And this is INTO: “Nikon D2x supports ISO 100-800 with expansion up to 3200 (Hi 2). I will not say that this is a lot. Talking about the noise of the matrix is ​​a very thankless job. Whoever needs it will squeeze out everything that he needs from this range. Here is an example of a shot at ISO 800 in poor lighting conditions without processing, on-camera JPEG L, with the noise reduction function turned off. Auto ISO is limited to 1 \ 250s. "

    • Pokemon

      On such old cameras (besides crop) it is better not to lift iso above 400.
      It is better to use up to 400 (IMHO) and if you really like the camera, then just use fast lenses with it.

      • Przemek85

        You're talking complete nonsense, my friend. I easily use D2X up to ISO 1600 and in 1/3 increments usually up to Hi0.03, i.e. ISO1000. The noise is very pleasant and easy to remove. Modern programs handle it without any problems. Just like this photo of a Nuthatch at ISO1600 in the middle of the forest and denoising it in Topaz Denoise.

  • Andrei

    I read your review, of course, not without interest. A normal person is always interested in any information. It's another matter of your own conclusions! Well, it means this: let's without emotions and prejudices, probably this will be more correct. I personally shot for 8 years with the Nikon D200. Your 21 fps, a lie. 27 fps and then, I myself had to release my finger, the camera did not even stutter. Your conclusions that the D2 series among the 1,5 crop is the best - this is the real confirmation that you do not understand image quality at all (figures refer to this article). If you follow your conclusions, it turns out that Nikon for all three years, i.e. from 2004 to 2007. It turns out that Nikon engineers have been drinking beer with chips for these three years and doing nothing. Great! As for the Nikon D300, it’s a shame to read. You simply confirm your complete incompetence in these topics. You have never had more interesting questions in your head, why is this and this done exactly this way and not otherwise? Apparently not. The Nikon D200 is a great camera that delivers stunning images and makes its owner happy. Well, of course, if the type of photographer knows where the shutter button is and does not care about the rest, then yes, everything can be the way you write. Forgive me, it will not be written for evil. Before you assert something - this, you need to know for sure, 100%. Well, to blurt out the language on the basis of rumors and their own illiteracy, it is available to everyone. I would advise you to add one very important expression in your articles - in my opinion, or in my opinion, or as it seemed to me. Then in your articles your own opinion will be visible, and not a statement that does not correspond to the truth. Excuse me.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      21 and 27 - no need to confuse the buffer and the series of frames. 21 is shown in the JVI or on an additional monochrome display as r21 (that is, rest 21 is the remainder in the buffer). Check, please. If r27 shows in RAW format, please send a photo for confirmation.
      The Nikon D2 series of cameras is a class higher than the Nikon D200-D300 series. If this is not the case, provide a link.
      Of course, the newer amateur cameras have better image quality than the D2x.
      Yes, and just a laugh, the phrase “Therefore, the D2 line is the best, but also the last one” is listed in the “Personal impressions” section.

    • Andrei

      Which of your statements corresponds to the truth?

      • Victor

        You are too expressive, sir.

        From what Arkady wrote above, every thesis corresponds to the truth, you don't want to challenge this, do you?

        • Arkady Shapoval

          I have mistakes, of course, I will correct them if they are really mistakes

        • Andrei

          My response was to namesake comment from 06-49.
          Read carefully.

      • Victor

        Oh, so you are a different Andrey. Excuse me. It's not easy to understand who is answering to whom and what, and in the mobile version it is completely impossible.

        The post above is addressed to the author of the original comment anyway.

    • B. R. P.

      Shaw the venerable critic did not follow his own advice about “in my opinion, in my opinion, it seemed to me”? Instead, in a mentoring tone, on the basis of extrasensory perception, he made conclusions about the "complete incompetence" and "illiteracy" of the author ?! And did not forget to attribute the hypocritical "sorry"? It is funny and sad at the same time.

      • Andrei

        + + +

    • Andrey (third :))

      Namesake (who is the author of the comment that served as the beginning of the branch), you are just stupid and badly brought up. I washed away all your squeamish writing that you disagree with Arkady. Let's not agree, we believe. Well??? Where are your facts and arguments, where at least your reasoned opinion on the issues voiced? Or were you just drunk and bored at the time of writing?

    • SERGOS

      EVERY KULIK HIS SWORD PRAISES. LET'S LEAVE HIM ITS SWAMP

  • Alexander

    The Nikon d200 was disappointing with its small dynamic range, causing shadows in contrasting scenes to fall into blackness. I suspect that the words of Radozhiva that the old CCD has a unique charm are precisely what this feature means. Working with manual glasses with this camera is not very convenient, since the green focus confirmation point is located at the bottom left and you need to squint your eye to observe it. On my camera, it almost does not work in room lighting, in outdoor daylight it works better, but its tenacity and ease of use are worse than the confirmation of focus in Canon and Pentax cameras with manual lenses. Such important data were not noted in Radozhiva's review. The very color of photos of low-contrast scenes after editing may not be bad, but there is nothing special about it, except that it slides into warm tones.

  • Jury

    Arkady, hello.
    I can't find information on the bottom information panel in the viewfinder - in particular, the extreme right element, when the camera is on, shows [1], and when I press the shutter button halfway, it says [r10].
    I tried to look in the manual, I could not find it.

    • Arkady Shapoval

      r10 is rest 10 - the remainder is 10, that is, a buffer for 10 frames
      there should be k next to [1] on the right - this 1000 frames can fit on the memory card at current settings

      • Jury

        Thank you very much!
        Thank you for the information.

        Good luck to you!
        Thank you for your site, everything is very informative and convenient!

  • Mr. boggy

    What a cool color the old Nikon flagships have! Natural…

  • Artem

    I bought Nikon D4X about 2 years ago and did not use it, circumstances, moving ...
    Then his hour came, I decided to take a picture. Armed with several zooms and 50 1.8. The frames from the zooms were completely disappointing, and 50 seems to be nothing, but it gives chromatic aberrations on light objects (for example, a white flower will be in a noticeable aberration glow and slightly blurry). 50 is definitely in good condition, it behaves as it should on other carcasses. In general, I'm upset.
    What do you think? Is it due to some kind of defect in the carcass or is it just pickiness after a photo from modern devices?

    • Artem

      It turned out that I was too picky. The device is far from suitable for shooting everything in a row and capriciously cooperates with lenses in terms of pictures. But the thing is quite interesting and will go into the collection (maybe it will cope with some working purposes). I also took his friends, Nikon D2H, D1X, D2Xs, I will continue to experiment

      • Dmitry Kostin

        “and capriciously cooperates with lenses in terms of picture”
        How's that?

        • Artem

          Yes, I wrapped it up at night looking)
          Not all lenses on the D2X give good color reproduction like on other cameras, I think it is connected with the matrix in the first place. On nikkor 50 1,8, in general, XA came out big, which I have not seen on other devices, and the colors are not very pleasant. Not bad only with Nikkors 18-70 and 18-105 photographs.
          In general, not only the D2X has such a problem in the poor combination of the lens and the carcass. For example, I put Helios 50 on D4, the throughput remained at the level, but the colors became very dull, despite the fact that the same Helios shoots much more beautifully on younger Nikon models

          • Viktre

            It's funny, I had the same story on the d70. There is also a noticeable increase in the number of XA on the same lenses, compared to ten-megapixel models of devices.

  • Vladimir

    The disadvantages of this camera are as follows:
    Compared to the later -D3, limited functionality, I will not comment, this is already clear to those who used both.
    Crop and full frame with possibly the same image quality gives a choice in favor of full frame. But personally, I like the color from the -D3 matrix more.
    The menu is not Russified as it was done in Nikon D3.
    The display is small, and you can see what was captured with great difficulty. In addition, the display resolution leaves much to be desired, which was done in -D3.
    Shooting indoors can be tricky. Namely: in several rooms where there is different light, and, accordingly, different color temperatures, the white balance has to be set manually each time, since auto-metering cannot cope with this. Exactly the same problem, by the way, in Nikon D300s (not to be confused with Nikon D300, where everything is fine with this.) This is very inconvenient.
    For commerce, the camera is hardly suitable. But with all this, the camera costs some money. ???

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