Best Of 2023

The Top 3 Nikon DSLR Cameras of the Year – We Reveal Our Favorites

Nikon DSLR Cameras – We check out the best-sellers

Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLR, are the most popular type of interchangeable lens camera. This means that users can add different lenses to get the best photos, and boy, the image quality is good! Smartphone cameras just cannot match up, however much they have been improved.

It can be confusing being faced with so many choices of DSLR cameras – there are a large number of models that appear very similar until you dig deeper. While big brands like Canon DSLR are the market leaders, Nikon offers an equal selection of top of the range models. So what do you need to consider when you’re looking to buy a Nikon DSLR camera?

Here are a couple of points to note, before we start looking at specifics:

  • More than anything, the key to uniqueness and photographic strength is your lens. The body of the camera is the foundation, but the lens is what makes or breaks an image. Nikon has a large range of lenses for you to choose from. You can even choose a mirrorless camera, if you wish.
  • Many Nikon DSLRs have HD video feature now, and lots of photographers purchase cameras with a video option. Look at the video frame rate, and audio recording abilities in order to decide which model to choose.
  • The ISO is a feature that allows photographing in different lighting and environments which helps in low lit circumstances.  A flash is an important addition if you do a lot of spontaneous shooting, which most of us do.
  • Some Nikons are weather resistant for outdoor photography.
  • If you like to capture images from the ground, above crowds or any other unorthodox position, look for a Nikon DSLR with displays that can be pulled away from the camera body and adjusted around an angle.
  • Many modern Nikons are WiFi enabled, allowing easy sharing and downloading.

Sensors

The most expensive part of a camera is the sensor, and this plays a major part in a camera’s image quality and operation. The sensor’s size is important, and the two main sizes are APS-C sensors and full frame sensors. An APS-C sensor is smaller, engaging exclusively the central part of the lens, making the image appear as if it’s a long lens; as such they are suitable for distant subjects. Cameras with a full frame act as though you are using a wide angled lens, perfect for landscapes. The latter also uses larger pixels, decreasing the amount of ‘noise’ in an image, making it easier to take photos in low light.

Focusing System and Burst Rate

If you’re one of the photographers who likes to photograph sports or any other subject in motion, it would be beneficial for you to check the focusing and burst rates on a DSLR camera. Some cameras come with a focus system that encompasses a large part of the frame, which is helpful in shooting a subject in motion.

Now, on with the show – the TGN team are reviewing the best-selling Nikon DSLR range of cameras and included extras.

1) Nikon D7200 DX-format DSLR

Nikon D7200 DX-format DSLR Body (Black)

Overview

Nikon are at the top of their game. The D7200 is a masterful camera that will satisfy pro photographers. This is the first DSLR camera from this epic company to feature in-built Wi-Fi and Near Field Communication (NFC) for instant sharing of your shots. This camera is packed with exceptional features that will let you capture the world in astonishing, crystal clear, quality.

What We Like

This camera is so light and comfortable to hold for many hours out in the field, and with the awesome battery life, we were able to stay out shooting all day. Having a near silent camera means that it’s possible to photograph the wariest of wildlife.

Let’s talk about the specs. The Nikon D7200 has a 24.2 MP DX-format. There is no optical low-pass filter, which contributes to the incredible image quality. This is a high-speed camera that can take as many as 100 x shots on continuous shooting, ideal for capturing fast action scenes, adventure sports and capturing wildlife.

What Needs Improving

The addition of the WiFi is welcome but the connectivity could be improved on.

9.8Expert Score
The Final Verdict

This is the closest you can get to an outstanding pro Nikon DSLR camera without paying the eye-watering price tag of the most advanced model. We simply can't fault its performance.

$989.95  in stock
8 new from $989.95
60 used from $415.00
Amazon.com
as of March 19, 2024 12:17 am

2) Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera Bundle

Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens (1590) + 64GB ExtremePro Card + 2 x EN-EL14a Battery + Corel Software + Case + Filter Kit + Telephoto Lens + More - International Model (Renewed)

Overview

This is Nikon D3500 bundle will bring joy to all photographer lovers. The camera is extremely light, yet still feels solid, strong and ergonomically comfortable. The controls are well placed for ease of use, the screen is a great size, and the bundle of extras is awesome.

What We Like

This small, lightweight camera made shooting for long periods actually enjoyable for us, even in the rain! We found the location of the controls made choosing manual settings on the fly easily manageable. But when we wanted to switch to auto mode, this was equally simple using the well-labeled mode dial, instantly allowing the camera to take over. There is a generous range of exposure modes, and the image quality is well up to Nikon’s usual excellent standard.

What Needs Improving

Although the ‘SnapBridge’ app allows you to transfer your images to your smartphone via Bluetooth, it would be easier if the camera had WiFi. However, this isn’t a deal-breaker for us.

9.5Expert Score
The Final Verdict

Nikon’s D3500 is one of their flagship cameras and it’s easy to see why. This model has everything you could possibly want from a DSLR, and more.

$834.95  in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 9:18 pm

3) Nikon D850

Overview

Nikon have perfected the art of creating a lightweight, yet solid, camera, and added enough extras to keep anyone happy. This one’s for the real pro’s, and you won’t be disappointed.

What We Like

Right off the back, the Nikon D850 is blindingly fast. The auto focus is so sharp even in low contrast that the images come out in breathtaking quality. The touchscreen is one of the best we’ve experienced, highly sensitive and tilting, even better than a smartphone. The color and dynamic range are near perfect. You can also record 4K Ultra HD footage, and this camera makes exceptional time-lapse films.

What Needs Improving

The lenses weren’t included and had to be ordered separately, but that was easy.

9.8Expert Score
The Final Verdict

A state of the art camera that meets all the specifications of a modern masterpiece. Outstanding images and video fit for pro photographers.

$4,593.90  in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 18, 2024 7:12 am

If you loved our Nikon camera review, check out:

Load More
The Gadget Nerds
Logo