Every day I get questions like 'which digital SLR camera to buy Nikon'. In this article I will share my experience on this matter. I have shot with almost all Nikon DSLRs with different lenses and in different conditions. Some things in choosing a camera for beginners may not be obvious, but believe me, in this article, I have thought out everything as much as possible and adjusted it as much as possible for the optimal and truthful options for choosing.
Popular Nikon cameras
To begin, I advise you to understand what is the camera forthen you need to determine the most suitable class of cameras that are suitable for the selected tasks.
All Nikon digital SLR cameras are very easily divided into 4 classes:
- Amateur cameras (entry level) - these cameras are aimed at people who just need to get a high-quality photo without delving into the subtleties and settings of the camera. These are the so-called cameras - 'pointed and took off '. Most often, amateur cameras are best suited to people who don't do photography professionally, they just want a good camera for home, leisure, travel, family, nature, etc.. The main requirements for such a camera are ease, simplicity in management, reasonable price.
- Advanced Amateur Cameras (Advanced) - these cameras have advanced functionality with a large number of specific settings that can be dealt with for a long time. These cameras are suitable for advanced amateurs who at least basic knowledge of camera settings either want to get a good potential for mastering photography skills. These cameras are noticeably more expensive, heavier, but still with the same intuitive controls as entry-level cameras.
- Professional cameras (cameras of the upper price range) - these cameras are created for people who are engaged in photography professionally, they know a lot about photography and are not afraid of manual settings. Typically, these cameras have a much better body, functionality and support additional extensions and capabilities. These cameras are not suitable for amateurs as do not have automatic shooting modes and have a specific professional management with a small number of tips.
- Flagship professional cameras (TOP cameras) - these are cameras with exorbitant workmanship and functionality, are needed exclusively for professional purposes. These are the cameras that everyone else is equal to, like a 'flagship'. These cameras are not suitable for beginners and hobbyists.
Nikon itself makes the distribution even easier, only professional and amateur cameras exist on the official Nikon website, but wikipedia also divides Nikon cameras into 4 levels. By the way, the words 'camera', 'camera' and 'camera' in this article, and in many others, mean the same thing. View a graphical distribution of cameras by category can here.
Basic separation of Nikon interchangeable lens cameras
For beginners and lovers I recommend entry-level Nikon amateur cameras.
A camera is a complex technical device, and technology does not stand still. It so happened that in my rating cameras from Nikon can be traced clear correlation of camera output - the newer the camera, the better it is. For 2017, following this logic and other details, the best amateur camera is Nikon D5600, this can be seen from the nameplate below.
When choosing a camera, I do not recommend paying much attention to the number of megapixels, in most cases a large number of megapixels is not in demand and even unnecessarily (these issues are covered in more detail here, here и here). Once again, in big letters - think about the fact that megapixels in amateur-grade DSLR cameras do not solve anything at all.
Each Nikon camera model is highlighted by a link that leads to its review, which describes all of its features.
The question of choice is very much limited by your budget.. I recommend buying a camera that fits into your budget based on the ratings below:
| Model | Rating | Exit time | The number of MP | Speed c / s | Point focus. | Video | Comment |
| D5600 | 1 | November 2015 | 24 | 5 (4) | 39 | Full HD 60p with autofocus | Very nice amateur cam |
| D5500 | 2 | January 2015 | 24 | 5 (4) | 39 | Full HD 60p with autofocus | A very good option for an amateur camera |
| D5300 | 3 | November 2013 | 24 | 5 (4) | 39 | Full HD 60p with autofocus | A very good option for an amateur camera |
| D5200 | 4 | November 2012 | 24 | 5 | 39 | Full HD 60i with autofocus | Great option for an amateur camera |
| D3300 | 5 | January 2014 | 24 | 5 | 11 | Full HD 60p with autofocus | Great option for an amateur camera |
| D3500 | 6 | August 2018 | 24 | 5 | 11 | Full HD 60p with autofocus | Great option for an amateur camera |
| D3400 | 7 | August 2016 | 24 | 5 | 11 | Full HD 60p with autofocus | Great option for an amateur camera |
| D5100 | 8 | April 2011 | 16,2 | 4 | 11 | Full HD 30p with autofocus | Good option with rotary display |
| D3200 | 9 | 24,2 | 4 | 11 | Full HD 30p with autofocus | Good option, no rotary display | |
| D3100 | 10 | December 2010 | 14,2 | 3 | 11 | Full HD 24fps with autofocus | A good option without a rotary display |
| D5000 | 11 | June 2009 | 12,3 | 4 | 11 | HD 720p, no autofocus | Bad video quality |
| D3000 | 12 | December 2009 | 10,2 | 3 | 11 | No | Old matrix, does not work well in dark conditions |
| D60 | 13 | March 2008 | 10,2 | 3 | 3 | No | Old matrix, does not work well in dark conditions, few focus points |
| D40x | 14 | May 2007 | 10,2 | 3 | 3 | No | Old matrix, does not work well in dark conditions, few focus points |
| D40 | 15 | December 2006 | 6,1 | 2,5 | 3 | No | Slow shooting speed, low ISO, few focus points |
| D50 | 16 | July 2005 | 6,1 | 2,5 | 5 | No | There is a focus motor. Very small display, very old camera |
All these cameras are cameras. Nikon DX (cameras with a cropped sensor format APS-C). All amateur cameras except Nikon D50, do not have a built-in focus motor and should use only lenses to achieve auto focus Nikon AF-S, AF-I, AF-Por lenses third party manufacturersthat have a built-in focus motor. Also, all amateur cameras except Nikon D50, do not have an additional monochrome display for quick setup of basic functions. And yet these cameras do not have an additional front selector (disk), which on more advanced models is located under the power button. Nor do they have buttons for previewing the depth of field, and their built-in flash cannot remotely control external flashes in automatic mode. These cameras do not have a mode high speed sync with flashes for shooting at extremely short excerpt. Most of these functions are not in demand for the amateur and are not particularly critical when choosing a camera.
If there are financial constraints, then good budget option there will be a camera Nikon D3500, which I recommend as Nikon's first DSLR for beginners and amateurs who don't plan on getting into photography in the future. Although she is ranked lower than D3300but it is still available for sale.
It's important: The era of SLR cameras is gone. Mirrorless cameras are all the rage right now. Nikon has a few mirrorless cropped cameras of the Nikon DX series.
All Nikon DX lenses for mirrorless cameras with Nikon Z mount and APS-C sensor
- Nikon Nikkor ZDX 24 mm 1:1.7 [May 2023]
- Nikon Nikkor ZDX 12-28 mm 1:3.5-5.6PZ VR [April 2023]
- Nikon Nikkor ZDX 16-50 mm 1:3.5-6.3VR [October 2019]
- Nikon Nikkor ZDX 18-140 mm 1:3.5-6.3VR [October 2021]
- Nikon Nikkor ZDX 50-250 mm 1:4.5-6.3VR [October 2019]
For Nikon Z DX (APS-C), there are third-party autofocus lenses:
- felttrox: 13/1.4, 23/1.4, 27 /1.2, 33/1.4, 56/1.4, 56/1.7, 75 /1.2
- Sigma: 16/1.4, 30/1.4, 56/1.4
- TTArtisan: 27/2.8, 35/1.8, 56/1.8
- yongnuo: 11/1.8, 33/1.4, 50/1.8
- Brightin Star 50 / 1.4
- Meike 55 / 1.4
Cameras Nikon Z DX (APS-C)
- Nikon z50 [October 2019, AliExpress]
- Nikon Z fc [June 2021, black/silver, AliExpress]
- Nikon z30 [June 2022, AliExpress]
Among advanced amateur SLR cameras, the best is full frame Nikon D780. If you don’t want to mess with the full frame, then Nikon is the best option among cropped cameras. D7500.
| Model | Rating | Exit time | The number of MP | Speed c / s | Point focus. | Video | Comment |
| D780 (FX) | 1 | January 2020 | 24,2 | 7 (12) | 51 | 4K 30p with autofocus | The best option for an advanced amateur camera. Full frame. |
| D750 (FX) | 2 | September 2014 | 24,3 | 6,5 | 51 | Full HD 60p with autofocus | A very good option for an advanced amateur camera. Full frame. |
| D610 (FX) | 3 | October 2013 | 24,3 | 6,0 | 39 | Full HD 30p with autofocus | A very good option for an advanced amateur camera. Full frame. |
| D600 (FX) | 4 | November 2012 | 24,3 | 5,5 | 39 | Full HD 30p with autofocus | A good option for an advanced amateur camera. Full frame. |
| D7500 | 5 | April 2017 | 20,2 | 8 | 51 | 4K auto focus | The best option for a cropped advanced amateur camera. |
| D7200 | 6 | March 2015 | 24,0 | 6 (7) | 51 | Full HD 30p (DX) and 60p (1.3x) with autofocus | A very good option for a cropped advanced amateur camera. |
| D7100 | 7 | February 2013 | 24,0 | 6 (7) | 51 | Full HD 30p (DX) and 60i (1.3x) with autofocus | A good option for a cropped advanced amateur camera. |
| D7000 | 8 | November 2010 | 16,2 | 6 | 39 | Full HD 24p with autofocus | A good option for a cropped camera |
| D90 | 9 | October 2008 | 12,3 | 4,5 | 11 | HD 720p, no autofocus | Good option, badly shoots video |
| D80 | 10 | September 2006 | 10,2 | 3 | 11 | No | Old camera with a good feature set |
| D70s | 11 | April 2005 | 6,1 | 3 | 5 | No | Morally obsolete camera, has a small display, few focus points |
| D70 | 12 | January 2004 | 6,1 | 3 | 5 | No | Morally obsolete camera, has a small display, few focus points |
Advanced amateur cameras Nikon D70, D70s, D80, D90, D7000, D7100, D7200, D7500 are cameras Nikon DX. Cameras Nikon D600, D610, D750, D780 are full-length, Nikon class FX. Unlike amateur cameras, all advanced amateur cameras have a built-in focus motor and can use non-motorized, sometimes cheaper type optics AF (optics AF S, AF-I, AF-P may also be suitable). These cameras have a monochrome display for quick setup of all basic functions, an additional selector under the shutter button, a depth of field preview button, and their built-in flash can remotely control other flashes automatically. All advanced amateur cameras except Nikon D70, D70s have very useful high speed sync function when using external flash units.
Attention: physical matrix size all-all Nikon DX cameras are the same. Physical matrix size all Nikon FX cameras, too, are the same. Matrix size Nikon FX is 2.25 times larger than Nikon DX. This is described in more detail in the section Fx / dx.
A good option for an advanced camera would be a model Nikon D7100, which I recommend as the first Nikon SLR camera for advanced users who want to get a huge amount of functionality for a not-so-large amount of money. There is also focus motor and nice control fast flash sync, a huge 3-inch display, the ability to control flashes through Nikon CLS, Live View mode and high-quality video shooting.
About the video: auto focus on all Nikon SLR cameras does not work well or not very well when shooting video. This is because the DSLR mechanism is not well adapted to focusing with the mirror up, which is required by video mode. Usually focusing when recording video occurs by contrast, and not using the camera's phase sensors. You need to be prepared for the fact that autofocus speed will sometimes be hundreds of times worse than on conventional compact cameras. If the speed and accuracy of focusing for video is very important, then I recommend considering buying mirrorless camera cameras Nikon Z6, Nikon Z7, Nikon z50 etc..
I specifically do not affect professional cameras such as Nikon D500, D300s, D5, D4s, D850, D810, Df - because there are very slippery moments among the choice of a professional line camera. For professionals, this will be interesting performance plate.
Mirrorless cameras with Nikon Z mount
Nikon now has full-frame mirrorless cameras Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z7, as well as a small fleet of lenses for them. With these cameras, you can use lenses from SLR cameras using the Nikon FTZ adapter. If there are a lot of problems with accurate information, it’s better to ask me about these cameras in the comments.
It's important: The era of SLR cameras is gone. Mirrorless cameras are all the rage right now.
Full frame Nikon Z mount cameras
- Nikon z5 [July 2020, AliExpress]
- Nikon z6 [August 2018]
- Nikon z6 ii [October 2020, AliExpress]
- Nikon z7 [August 2018]
- Nikon z7 ii [October 2020, AliExpress]
- Nikon z8 [May 2023, AliExpress]
- Nikon z9 [October 2021, AliExpress]
- Nikon Zf [September 2023]
List of all 'Nikon Nikkor Z' full-frame lenses for mirrorless cameras with Nikon Z mount
Fixes:
- Nikon Nikkor Z 20 mm 1:1.8 S [February 2020, Aliexpress Nikon Store]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 24 mm 1:1.8 S [September 2019, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 26 mm 1:2.8 [January 2023]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 28 mm 1:2.8 [October 2021, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 28 mm 1:2.8 SE [June 2021]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 35 mm 1:1.8 S [August 2018, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 40 mm 1:2 [September 2021, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 40 mm 1:2 SE [November 2022]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 50 mm 1:1.2 S [September 2020]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 50 mm 1:1.8 S [August 2018, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 50 mm 1:2.8 MC [June 2021]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 58 mm 1:0.95 S Nod [October 2019]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 85 mm 1:1.2 S [January 2023]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 85 mm 1:1.8 S [July 2019, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 105 mm 1:2.8 S VR MC [June 2021]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 135 mm 1:1.8 S full [September 2023]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 400 mm 1:2.8 S VR TC [January 2022]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 400 mm 1:4.5 S VR [June 2022, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 600 mm 1:4 S VR TC [November 2022]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 600 mm 1:6.3 S VR PF [October 2023]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 800 mm 1:6.3 S VR PF [April 2022]
Zuma:
- Nikon Nikkor Z 14-24 mm 1:2.8 S [September 2020, Aliexpress Nikon Store]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 14-30 mm 1:4 S [January 2019, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 17-28 mm 1:2.8 [September 2022, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 24-50 mm 1: 4-6.3 [July 2020, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70 mm 1:4 S [August 2018, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70 mm 1:2.8 S [February 2019, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 24-120 mm 1:4 S [October 2021, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 24-200 mm 1: 4-6.3 VR [February 2020, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 28-75 mm 1:2.8 [December 2021, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 28-400 mm 1: 4-8 VR [March 2024]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 70-180 mm 1:2.8 [June 2023]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 70-200 mm 1:2.8 S VR [January 2020, AliExpress]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 100-400 mm 1: 4.5-5.6 S VR [October 2021]
- Nikon Nikkor Z 180-600 mm 1: 5.6-6.3 VR [June 2023]
Third party autofocus full-frame lenses for Nikon Z mount
- felttrox: 16/1.8, 20/2.8, 24/1.8, 28/1.8, 35/1.8, 40/2.5, 50/1.8, 85/1.8
- Tamron: 28-75/2.8G2, 35-150/2-2.8, 70-300/4.5-6.3, 150-500/5-6.7
- yongnuo: 35/2, 50/1.8, 85/1.8
- Meike: 50/1.8, 85/1.8, 85/1.4
- TTArtisan: 32/2.8
- 7Artisans: 50/1.8
- AstrHori: 85/1.8
- laowa: 10/2.8
Equipment
Usually the camera is sold separately from the lens, this is called bodyand sometimes the camera is sold with some kind of lens, this is called Kit, and the supplied lens is called 'whale lens'. Attention: take pictures with one camera body You can’t take pictures always with a lens.
Important: usually, if you buy a camera with a whale lens (Kit kit), then such a kit will cost less than buying a camera and lens separately.
Native (whale) lens
There are lenses really different for different purposes and for different tasks. Usually, the camera comes with a universal standard lens that can be used for basic photographic tasks. With a standard lens, you can shoot landscapes, and close-up objects, and portraits - almost anything. Usually the most common lens is Nikon 18-55 / 3.5-5.6 (one of 6 possible modifications) Instead of this lens, I highly recommend purchasing a kit with one of the following candidates:
- Nikon DX AF-S Nikkor 18-105 mm 1: 3.5-5.6G ED SWM VR IF Aspherical
- Nikon DX AF-S Nikkor 18-140 mm 1: 3.5-5.6G ED SWM VR IF Aspherical
- Nikon DX AF-S Nikkor 18-200 mm 1: 3.5-5.6GII ED SWM VR IF Aspherical
The above lenses are suitable for all Nikon DX cameras.. In online stores, the names of lenses can be specified differently, but they can be easily determined by the value of the focal length, for example, 18-105, 18-140, 18-200, etc.
Very important: choosing a lens is just as important as choosing a camera. The lens is sometimes so important that it is better to take a cheaper / simpler camera, but with a higher quality lens. Take my advice - instead of buying and using a camera with a lens Nikon 18-55 / 3.5-5.6 (or any modification of it), look for the recommended options mentioned above.
If you're on a budget, the best versatile, fast, professional Nikon DX lenses are Nikon 17-55mm f / 2.8G ED IF AF-S DX Nikkor и Nikon DX AF-S Nikkor 16-80mm 1: 2.8-4E N ED VR Nano Crystal Coat SWM IF Aspherical. ask note to the fact that this is purely my recommendations and in each individual case the recommendations can be very different.
What do all these mean incomprehensible coded designations in the names of the lenses can take a look here.
List of all professional lenses for Nikon DX cameras can be found here (there are 4 of them).
The choice of other non-universal lenses requires a separate large article, but in addition to the full-time (universal whale) lens, I recommend getting a fast, discrete fixed lens. Such a lens does not know how to zoom, but it has a very high aperture. Huge aperture will allow you to shoot without problems in poor lighting conditions, control the depth of field (create blurred background in photos), create a bokeh effect, get brighter and more vibrant colors in photos. In good light, such a lens allows you to shoot at a very short shutter speed, thereby 'freezing' objects in motion.
Recommended list of fast fixed lenses:
- Nikon DX AF-S Nikkor 35mm 1: 1.8G SWM Aspherical (for any Nikon DX cameras)
- Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm 1: 1.8G SWM Aspherical (for any cameras)
- Nikon 50mm 1: 1.8D AF Nikkor (for any cameras with a focus motor)
Usually the first such lens is the so-called 'half a ruble'(the last two in the list). The entire lineup of fifty kopecks for Nikon cameras can be found here.
You will find a complete list of all Nikon DX lenses. here.
Thoughts on optional external flash find in the section Which flash to choose for Nikon cameras?
How to check the camera upon purchase is described in the section 'Camera check'.
Recommendations for choosing a Canon camera can be found in the 'What kind of amateur Canon SLR camera to buy'.
Nikon or Canon? I have touched upon this question in a series of articles on this subject: time, two, three.
My experience
I had many Nikon cameras at my disposal: D700 (about 4 years) D90 (3 years), D80 (2 years), D40 (2 years), D200 (1 year), Nikon D70s (half a year) Nikon D70 (half a year) Nikon D100 (half a year) Canon 350D (2 years), Canon 450D (year), Canon 300D (half a year), Canon EOS 5D (1 year), Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro (about a year) Nikon AF N8008s (2 years), many cameras of other brands (like Sony a7). Due to the fact that I am writing camera reviews and work professional photographer, then in my hands I held and shot almost all models of Nikon and Canon SLR cameras.
Over the past 2-3 years, everything orders I shoot on Nikon D700 or Nikon D610 (I take from friends). Also i like Sony a7which I use for the needs of this site. For home in 2015, I bought myself Nikon D40which I love very much for a pleasant color performance. In 2017, I bought and Nikon D70s, which is not a pity to use in any conditions, the gallery of images from this camera is located just below. In 2018, in fact, I got a gift Nikon D100, pictures from her can be looked here. I do not hesitate to shoot on old cameras, as I know for sure that the final result depends more on other factors (described here).
From personal experience I can add that choosing a camera is not an easy matter, it is especially difficult to choose the first camera, then everything becomes simpler and choosing something else becomes very, very simple. Take my advice - don't chase megapixels, they practically don't solve anything. I wish everyone to find exactly 'their very best camera', and also remember that important how to take pictures, but not by what means.
Alternative versions at the lowest price
If you have a urge to take pictures in your blood, and the budget for the purchase of an SLR camera is very limited, I recommend looking in the direction of used cameras. In used cameras are nothing wrong. For example, for only $ 100 can buy used Nikon D40 (or D50, or D70, or D70s, or D80) with a whale lens Nikon 18-55mm f / 3.5-5.6GII ED AF-S DX Nikkor. Even such an old DSLR will in many ways be better than some modern digital soap dishes and even advanced cameras with interchangeable lenses, such as Nikon 1 J1.
Nikon D40 body on the secondary market can be found for 60-100 ye - this is one of the cheapest SLR cameras of all time. For 80-100 USD you can find a pretty super-zoom to it Nikon DX AF-S Nikkor 18-135m 1: 3.5-5.6G ED SWM IF Aspherical or Nikon AF-S Nikkor 18-70mm 1: 3.5-4.5G ED DX SWM IF Aspherical and shoot for your own pleasure.
My practice has shown that The following models may be the cheapest and most functional.:
- cameras with a focus motor: Nikon D200, Nikon D80, Nikon D70s, Nikon D70, Nikon D50, Nikon D100
- cameras without focus motor Nikon D3000, Nikon D60, Nikon D40x, Nikon D40
- focus motor lenses: universal zoom lens Nikon DX AF-S Nikkor 18-135m 1: 3.5-5.6G ED SWM IF Aspherical, versatile zoom lens Nikon AF-S Nikkor 18-70mm 1: 3.5-4.5G ED DX SWM IF Aspherical, fast creative fixed lens YONGNUO 50mm 1: 1.8 (YN50mm F1.8N for Nikon cameras), fast, versatile fixed lens YONGNUO 35mm 1: 2 (YN35mm F2N for Nikon cameras)
- lens without focus motor (only suitable for cameras with focus motor) - fast creative prime lens Nikon 50mm 1: 1.8D AF Nikkor (any of the versions: MKI 165g, MKI 210g, MKII-MIJ, MKII N.J., MKII MIC, MKIII)
On this link you can see my picture gallery obtained with a fairly old camera Nikon D70 and a fast fifty-fifty lens Nikon 50mm 1: 1.8 AF Nikkor (MKII, Nikon JAPAN).
All pictures were taken with Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm 1: 1.8, MKII, NJ (NIKON JAPAN) и Nikon D70. Enlarge Image or go to large format photo gallery.
On this link You can see my gallery of pictures obtained with the help of an old man Nikon D100 (Nikon's first digital SLR camera in a classic case) paired with a fast fifty-pound lens Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm 1: 1.8 (MKII, MADE IN CHINA).
All pictures were taken with Nikon AF Nikkor 50mm 1: 1.8, MKII version, MIC (MADE IN CHINA) и Nikon D100. Enlarge Image or go to the gallery with large format photographs.
Imagine what can be removed on a better modern technology?
You will find many examples of inexpensive autofocus photo equipment among my galleries. here.
You can still get old soviet fast lens, such as MS Helios-81H 2/50 or any other inexpensive manual lenssuch as Nikon Nikkor-SC Auto 1: 1.4 f = 50mm и study just super-awesome shots, however, will have to lose auto focus.
Well, if you are a real ninja photographer and want to use some unusually stunning DSLR sword for a small amount of money, then I highly recommend that you look into my article Legends go to battle.
And that's not all, if you really want to shoot on full camera, then you can organize such a pleasure for yourself for just $ 240. How? Read in the section 'Full Frame for $ 240'.
If you’re not comfortable with Nikon amateur cameras, you can take a look a complete list of all Nikon Central Control Unitswhere you can find the top Nikon D1 professional cameras, D1h, D1x, D2h, D2x, D2hs, D2xs, D3, D3s, D3x, D4, D4s, D5, and top-tier cameras Nikon D100, D200, D300, D300s, D500, D700, D800,D800E, D810, D810a, D850. By the way, Nikon has also created a very interesting camera with a retro body design and without the ability to shoot video - Nikon DF :).
Results
Progress does not stand still, basically, the newer the camera, the better it is, but even with relatively old SLR cameras you can get wonderful image quality, since the photo quality affects not only the camera.
To choose the best option, just decide on the budget and use my rating of cameras in the plate.
I am constantly updating and adding to this article. This article was last edited on February 29, 2024.
I don’t understand anything and I was lost in the choice!
Just tell me the budget that you are willing to spend on the camera and the purpose of buying the camera (what you will shoot for and in what) in the comments and they will tell you the best option. Anyway, ask any of your questions in the comments under this article (the site does NOT require absolutely no registration). You can consult me directly on these contacts.
Material prepared Arkady Shapoval. Training/Consultations | Youtube | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Telegram
Hello Arkady, I need some advice. Buy Nikon d 700 for Avito or new d300s. Sell nikon d 700 here's an announcement: Excellent camera! Mileage is about 40000. For equipment of this class, not much. The left gum is swollen, peeling off. You can restore it in gasoline, but not hunting. Camera of the latest releases. It seems that the autofocus is improved, it is accurate and does not "glitch" in difficult conditions, and the color is also kind of better, as well as the autobalance and exposure metering in comparison with the first releases of these cameras. I sell because of the transition to canon, because of the video. A complete set as in the store, receipts, documents, charging boxes, 2 batteries. Write, call, Buy! Price 56 rubles. What would be your choice?
I would touch her with my hands.
Still, a new camera or a boo? Thank you ...
And why 2 batteries, if the mileage is 40000, and when the rubber bands came off? Ask this question, first of all, to yourself. And to the question crop or ff, the answer is unequivocal. Sorry to answer for Arkady.
Well, why 2 batteries - one sits down, you put a fresh one.
Further develop the logical chain. An amateur who shoots 2000 frames at a time and then rests for 3 months, or a professional who shoots once a quarter. Believe it?
Probably, it happens in different ways. I'm not a pro, I don’t shoot 2000 frames at a time, but I have a spare battery.
I'm not a pro, and when I go on vacation for 10 days I don’t charge, because one charged battery is enough.
I don’t believe the gum has come off. And I also have a spare battery, experience is the son of difficult mistakes ...
I apologize - I had a Nikon D700 - nothing came off even when the mileage was more than 300000 ... Apparently this camera worked in very difficult conditions. In China, now you can get a new D700 for 800 USD, and a practically new one with less than 2000 frames used - for 700 USD ... Ask someone to bring it to you and that's it ...
Hello! Tell me please! I have a Nikon D3100 and an AF-S Nikkor 50mm, 1.8 lens. I want to get a full-frame Nikon. I think about the D750, but they stop negative reviews. Can you advise? I don’t want to pay that much money and then be disappointed!
It's simple - read (listen) positive reviews before buying :). Mike Toptygin, for example, spoke well about this camera.
Good afternoon!
Prompt a camera for such a task ...
Macro shooting with a depth of field of 20mm or more, good color rendering, no time to remodel in equal. Not very good light conditions.
You can boo. Shoot dark objects. Already tired of retaking and curtailed the brain while studying the Internet.
It seems like this is removed macro small soap dishes with small matrices.
Thank you!
Arkady good afternoon! Thanks! Very informative article! Tell me, I really like to shoot with manual lenses and like the picture from cameras with CCD matrices, how convenient is it to use manual optics on d70-D90 cameras? Or is it better to pay attention to more recent models?
D90 is CMOS. It is convenient for ssd it is convenient for d200, d2h, d2x, d2hs, d2xs.
Arkady, hello, a friend asked me to shoot his wedding, and I have d90 and only 50mm fix to it. The question is how to get a cheap lens so that you can shoot a report in a cafe. Can I buy any used whale with a short end in 18mm or a new yongnuo 35mm fix? Will I have enough 35mm on the crop, and if not, which of the whales to choose looking only at their lower fr. Or maybe there are still some budget-friendly breadths for crop that are comparable in price?
I'm afraid that only 18 will not be enough for you, without a flash in a cafe in any way.
Yes, I’ll definitely plan to order a Yagu flash. But on the glass exactly what options are best suited?
Good evening! And for what reason did you swap Nikon D3300 with 3400 in the ranking table of amateur cameras? I choose the first camera for myself, and 3400 chose (with the presence of 3300 problem) your opinion is interesting. thanks
Because not all gold is glittering. Voschem marketers ruined 3400.
1. Functionally virtually no difference. 2. The D3400 is even somewhat less functional 3. The D3300 is cheaper (why pay more for the same sensor but in a new wrapper with a useless snap bridge?)
Well, that means if Nikon, then 3300. And the Canon d100. Which of the two?))
Well, that means if Nikon, then 3300. From the Canon D100. Which of the two ???)))
I was completely tuned in to the D3300, but noticed the lack of bracketing in time! (I’m only shooting landscapes). As a result, I settled on the D5300.
Good evening! Your help is very necessary !!! Previously, I temporarily used a Nikon D5100 camera - I liked the quality. And I decided to buy this model for myself, but since there were problems with this model in the store, I stopped at Nikon D5300. After reading the characteristics in comparison with other models, I came to the conclusion that Nikon D5300 and Nikon D3300 are almost the same, except that the D5300 has screen rotation and wi-fi and a couple of minor changes. Is this so, or is d 5300 better ??? I am an amateur, but I want to start developing in this direction, to study.
I thought, if the characteristics are almost the same, why spend more money on a carcass, it might be better to buy additional lenses (for example, Nikkor 50mm f / 1.8g) and learn to make beautiful portraits.
Which model should I use? Can you advise something else?
I want a good quality photo)
Thank you in advance for your help)
Correctly thought. If it’s portraits, then you can even dig 85mm deeper into the used carcass.
Hello, the same question as YULI. If Nikon 3300. And Canon d100. Which of the two?))
As the first SLR camera for a girl of 16 years old with a desire to continue to engage in photography. I will be glad to answer.
Tell me, I bought a Nikon d3300 AF-P DX 18-55 VR for shooting video on a hunt with a dog raising a bird. I have a Tair 3s lens from a photo gun. Is it suitable for these purposes, what kind of adapter is needed, or should I buy another lens for this, and if so, which one. Thank you in advance for your reply.
Hello, Arkady. Your advice is needed: the new NIKON 5300 DOES NOT SEE AUTOFOCUS. How to solve a problem?
oh, if I knew what your “does not see autofocus” means)
Hello, Arkady. Does not see autofocus the new NIKON 5300. How to solve the problem?
Those. autofocus does not work? On the Nikon AF-S lens, mode A is selected, on the AF-camera, any, the inclusion of autofocus is assigned to the shutter button (rather than AF / AE-L), but does not work? Let me tell fortunes on the cards.
Good afternoon!
I would like to buy a NikonD5300 camera with a Nikon 18-140mm 1: 3.5-5.6G ED VR AF-S DX Nikkor lens, but I am very worried about distortion and other distortions. Is it better to take an 18-55 lens? Or is it still better to have a more versatile 18-140? Then, as I understand it, if the case with photography goes, then you need to buy fixed with high aperture and flash? And what kind of flash do you recommend for a whale lens?
Take immediately 18-140. At first, I’m sure you can’t find distortion in any photo. Flash Sb-700
Arkaly, good afternoon. What do you say about the nikon d5500. there is a chance to take a new carcass for 480 €. The real price in stores is 700-730. I was just starting to learn photography. While I have a fotik girlfriend, Canon eos400d. so you have to buy something. or really take something completely budgetary? For example canon eos 1300d?
No difference. 5500 will be better than 1300.
Arkady, torment of choice! "Zero" photographer. I want to start with a more or less inexpensive DSLR. At your choice, according to the increase in cost: (NIKON D5300 + 18-55 AF-S VRII = 570 $) VS (the same + 18-140 AF-S VRII = 794 $) VS (Nikon D5600 + 18-55 AF-P VR = $ 890). It is clear that the type of new camera, new
D5300 + 18-140 is preferable
new type (AF-P) but the price does not console at all at the difference. Well, if the D5300 is also not comme il faut between $ 220 between the lenses. In general, I will be glad to your advice! Thanks in advance!
Hello, Arkady.
If you had a question about choosing a camera for travel and landscape photography, and the store would only have two cameras - Nikon d7200 and d610 (with corresponding price tags), which would you prefer? This is not a photo for sale, but for the soul.
P.S. The issue of lenses is not considered. Only the potential of the cameras.
My overall balanced answer is D610.
Good day! very cool article!
A question for connoisseurs, I have a d40 kit, recently acquired a Nikon 55-300 telephoto.
And it has long turned out that I still do not have enough frame rates, and even more parameters, I want something more serious, because I’m not professionally engaged, I decided on choosing d90 and d7000 or d7100 (from the articles, tips fall at 7100).
limited in budget, can you tell me the big differences between the d90 and d7100?
Thanks in advance for your answers and help!
The D7100 is much newer, works better at high ISO, faster, with a much better focusing system.
Arkady, hello. watched reviews on off. Nikon Channel about lenses. Among others, of course, 18-105 vr and 18-140 vr were compared. And in their opinion, the 140th has a little better sharpness, a little better stabilizer, etc. I want to ask your opinion, is that so? I choose my first DSLR d5600 and tormented with the choice of lens. I just think that they are promoting a more expensive new lens))
Is it so? Is he a little better in everything?
Thank you))
Overall, 18-140 is better.
Arkady good time of day !!! I found Nikon D90 Nikkor 18-105mm is it worth buying now ??? The princreen seller made 724 frames. Prior to that, there wasn’t just a Sony W40 soap dish. What prompt ???
D90 is a good camera, there are very few frames, almost a new camera, my first d90 ran 130.000 and died, now the d90 ran about 140.000 and runs.
As I understand it, you are in Kiev if I ask you to check it if you find the time. I will not stay in debt. The campaign is sold by a photographer but still.
Or in general, you should look towards the newer D7100 or D7200 models, but you don't really want to overpay ...
Somehow incredibly small declared mileage! Especially considering the fact that this model has long been discontinued. I would not trust the seller, and if possible I personally checked the mileage.
as he told me he is not alone ...
Warranty cards are not completed by the way ...
the seller said that Nikon D90 is better than the new models (d7100 and d7200) in color reproduction ... Is that so ???
It is rather an advertisement
maybe but still ...
This is not so, although there are fans of the colors of the cameras of that generation (d90, d300, 300s, d5000)
In short, as I understand it, you still need to look towards the newer models B7100 or d7200 or D7500
D90 with a good lens is a perfectly suitable camera, it is better to invest in the lens.
well then how about what would you check the camera in Kiev ??? I will give all the seller's contacts ...
well, write in a personal
but how do you write in PM ???
https://radojuva.com/about-radojuva/#contacts
ok i'll pick you up tomorrow
better write me in the mail discount_050@ukr.net I will answer you right away
I found an interesting device, but I can’t understand what’s the price http://you-foto.com.ua/collection/Nikon/product/nikon-d7200-18105-mm-vr-kit-sumka-shtativ-karta-pamyati-64gb
who can be from the Belgorod-Dniester and who can check this warehouse ???
The article is definitely fake! And the site does not cause trust.
so here I am about the same thing, but I called there and said, come here, everything that is presented on the site is available ...
Divorce!!! I said that I would come, it is not a question, on Tuesday!
No problem, I said, he hung up! And the payment scheme is muddy! Only regular cash on delivery or hand in hand !!!
And ask him provocative questions)) about getting lost) not at all in the subject)
Hello Arkady. Thank you for your blog, a lot of useful information in an accessible language. Question: I have an Olympus PEN EP-L3 with a minimum set of lenses (kit, tele, fix), I’ve recently thought about changing the camera. The agony of choice between the Olympus OM-D 10 mark II and the Nikon D5300. The price is approximately the same, but there are lenses to Olik. What to purchase? The priority is the quality of the pictures. I have never used a SLR camera and can not compare. I ask for help. Thank you in advance.
The acquisition of the Olympus OM-D 10 mark II is a step forward, while the Nikon D5300 is a step away.
Yes, I completely agree. And I’m sure that the future lies with system cameras. And it would be logical to develop this system, but the worm constantly eats that for the same money you can get a better result on the mirror camera.
(but the worm is constantly gnawing) - buy and report the result.
What to buy? Both?)
Yes, the worm will die !!!
In the conditions of unlimited financial freedom, I would have done so. But unfortunately you have to choose one thing.
"In conditions of unlimited financial freedom" and would not look in their direction - there are more attractive devices :)
Dreams)))
Nikon D5300 is not the best option. It will not be very easy to operate. It is necessary to take at least D7x00 or D6x0 series.
Pros of DSLRs:
1. Higher picture quality, including at high ISO.
2. An interesting and more beautiful picture (DOF + bokeh + optics drawing).
3. Convenience in work.
4. Focusing.
But the transition will require a lot of money. Carcass + at least one fixed fifty dollars.
You can take D90 + 50 / 1.8G for testing, but it is better to immediately D610 + 85 / 1.8G
Thanks. Details and substance.
I can not decide, d3200 or d5100 SECOND-HAND !!! Help. I use the camera outdoors all year round + photos in dimly lit rooms. Thank you
And what is the real price of bu d3200 and d5100?
Maybe there is an analogue cheaper ???
The cheapest of its kind is Nikon D3100, it will be behind the eyes, it is better and the lens is stronger, like 18-105
Thanks for the tips, I still took d5100
“What is the real price” - for 3200 kit about 18t. rubles, 5100 kit - 15-16. I would take 5100.
Thank you, but what about the competitors of the Nikon d-series?
Of the canons, brother 3200 - d1200, 5100 - d600.
There is still an intermediate version of kenon 100d
And you can’t tell a budget lens to it: portraiture and telezoom.
Hello Arkady!
I really need your help.
Help me choose between the Nikon D750 Kit 24-120mm f / 4 ED VR and the Canon EOS 5D Mark III Kit 24-105 f / 4L IS USM
The price is about the same. Which kit would you take?
Thanks. I hope for an answer.
You also wrote that on 24-120mm f / 4 Ed vr you can take macro shots. Is it possible to do macro on a canon lens 24-105? And a question on the video. Will there be a big difference in the quality and speed of video autofocus?
In the video, the focus speed of the kenon will be a little better, but both will be very poor for automatic focusing while shooting the video. The macro capabilities of the lenses are similar (the maximum magnification factor for the macro is the same).
The choice is difficult, I would take 24-120 and d750, my personal preference, since the Nikon 24-120 is better than the Canon one.
Thanks a lot for your answer!
Take D750 if you are not going to put Magic lantern for professional video on kenon. I have 5D m3, it gives out a picture during processing with terrible banding, but the viewfinder is a masterpiece. But the D750 is better, if only because of the rotary display and wide DD, as well as in post-processing, the files are excellent.
By the way, focusing on the D750 works better, and it is also the best in the dark, the canon is not very good in this regard, many times its autofocus infuriates me even in not very strong darkness ... Canon 24-105 - it is smarter, but I always try not to use, the picture is purely technical and not very sharp, but its autofocus is smart. 24-120 from nikon is better in my opinion ...