Nikon D40X

8.5 Rating

A high-resolution DSLR camera for everyday photographers with most of the same features as the popular D40 model. Nikon’s successful entry-level D40 DSLR has been given an upgrade in the new D40X by replacing the 6-megapixel CCD with a 10.2-megapixel imager, similar to the chip used in the D80 model. The new camera is identical to the D40 in all but a few areas and shares its position as the smallest and most compact DSLR cameras in Nikon’s range (although the D40’s body is20 grams lighter). The bundled kit lens is the same 18-55mm, F3.5-F5.5 AF-S Nikkor as you get with the D40.

Nikon D40

9 Rating

A DSLR camera for everyday photographers with a selectable graphic interface that shows users the effect of changing key camera controls. The D40 is Nikon’s smallest and lightest DSLR camera yet – and also the easiest to operate. Designed for everyday photographers, it replaces the D50 model and features the same 6.1-megapixel imager but sports a larger 2.5-inch high-resolution colour LCD monitor. Nikon gives users the choice of three information displays: the classic style found on all Nikon cameras, a new graphic style that shows users the effect of changing controls like lens apertures and a ‘wallpaper’ style that lets owners upload one of their own shots as a background to the data display.

Nikon D3s

9 Rating

The latest iteration of Nikon’s professional DSLR camera adds D-Movie video recording at up to 1280 x 720-pixel resolution.The D3s is the latest professional FX model in Nikon’s DSLR line-up. A small step forward, rather than a major upgrade to the previous D3 series models, the D3s introduces a new sensor and adds a couple of new features but is otherwise almost identical. The most important additions are video recording and sensor-shake dust reduction technology.

Nikon D3100

8.5 Rating

Nikon’s new entry-level DSLR features a 14.2-megapixel sensor and 1080p video recording. The D3100 steps into the entry level position in Nikon’s line-up featuring a new sensor with higher resolution than its predecessor’s and an expanded sensitivity range. It also adds Live View shooting plus Full HD video recording. Autofocusing is supported in Movie mode and the Guide mode settings from the D3000 have been ported into the new model and enhanced with extra functions. The D3100 is also compatible with Nikon’s GP-1 GPS Unit, which is sold separately.

Nikon D300S

8.5 Rating

Nikon’s flagship DX-format DSLR adds D-Movie capabilities and dual card slots to the feature set of the D300.Depending on how you rate the addition of video capture and dual card slots, Nikon’s D300S can be rated as either a major or minor upgrade to the D300. Aside from these features, little has changed from the earlier model. The sensor is the same DX-format 12.3 megapixel (effective) chip and both models include Nikon’s latest EXPEED image processor which is the same as in the D90 (the first DSLR to offer HD video recording).

Nikon D3000

9 Rating

Nikon’s latest entry-level DSLR adds an intuitive Guide mode to provide hassle-free photography for novice users.The D3000 slots into Nikon’s DLSR line-up below the D5000, replacing the D60 and D40x at the entry level position. Although not the smallest in its class, the D3000 is nonetheless compact as befits its target market. Offering 10.2 megapixels of effective resolution, it provides lots of features that will appeal to first-time DSLR buyers. However, it doesn’t support live view shooting or video recording.

Nikon D3

9 Rating

Nikon’s top-of-the-range professional DSLR with an outstanding variety of shooting options and pictorial controls.Unveiled at the end of August, along with the D300 ‘pro-sumer’ model, Nikon’s D3 is targeted at press photographers and is the first Nikon DSLR with a full-frame image sensor. Photographers can select from three image areas: FX format (36 x 24mm), DX format (24 x 16 mm) and 5:4 (30 x 24mm), with automatic detection when DX format lenses are used. Areas not covered by the sensor when the smaller formats are selected are automatically masked in the viewfinder. The D3 can use lenses designed for both FX and DX formats and will automatically recognise a DX lens when it is fitted.

Canon EOS 550D

8.5 Rating

A lightweight, easy-to-operate DSLR with high resolution for creative photography.Canon’s EOS 550D slips into the company’s line-up between the EOS 500D and the EOS 50D and offers higher resolution than both models without displacing either. It boasts the same 18-megapizel sensor as the EOS 7D but has only one DiG!C 4 processor. A key feature is the addition of a new, high-resolution 3:2 aspect ratio LCD monitor and a redesigned interface. Video capabilities have also been extended to support Full HD movie recording at a range of different frame rates.

Canon EOS 1000D

8.8 Rating

A competitively-priced entry-level DSLR that provides a good price/performance ratio for first-DSLR buyers.Replacing the popular EOS 400D at the entry level of Canon’s DSLR range, the EOS 1000D brings yet another level to Canon’s DSLR nomenclature, reflecting the days of film, when Canon’s lowest-priced SLR cameras had four-figure model names. The 1000D has been designed for photographers who want to upgrade from a digicam to a more capable, better performing DSLR. It boasts the same 10.1-megapixel imager as the 400D but is smaller and lighter and supports Live View shooting.