Nikon D5200

24.1 MP DSLR w/ 18-55mm Zoom Lens  9/10

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Nikon D5200 ReviewThe Nikon D5200 is an update of the 2011 D5100. The most important differences are the 24.1 MP sensor, a built-in stereo mic for video, and the 39 point auto focus system found in the D7000. It weighs in at about the same as the 5100 at 19.6oz without a lens. It’s a fairly compact camera that feels good in the hands. The weight won’t bother you if you are used to shooting with a camera bigger than a point and shoot. The high resolution swivel screen is still found on this one, which is something I find useful. 75% of the time for me the screen is in the stationary position. When I want to shoot low or high, being able to turn the screen to see at any angle is a most handy feature. The 39 point auto focus system is exciting too. Auto-focus is fast and can now be used with pinpoint accuracy. The HDR mode combines the high and low exposures to form one image with all the highlights and shadows in sharp detail. For $899, the Nikon D5200 has excellent video capabilities and fast continuous shooting at 4 frames per second.

For those interested in the previous version, see the Nikon D5100 Review.


Strengths

High resolution swivel LCD monitor works for most positions

Fun and artistic effects like night vision, miniaturizing, and color isolation

1080 HD video shooting with dedicated live viewing and start buttons and stereo mic built-in

High dynamic range (HDR) brings out detail in both highlight and shadow

Continuous shooting at 5 fps (the D5100 was 4FPS)

39 point auto-focus system is a significant upgrade that helps to achieve fast pin-point focusing

Weaknesses

HDR mode can only be enabled for one shot at a time

No weather sealing

This camera may be an upgrade, but it’s hard to justify trading in your D5100 for it

 

Brian Jones has had a passion for photography and anything related for the majority of his life. One photography class in high school was all it took to get hooked on everything to do with the subject. He became more focused on learning about camera… See more about Brian

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Filed Under: Digital Cameras