Nikon has produced some of the most sought-after DSLRs throughout its history, appealing to both amateurs and professionals alike. This popularity stems from their extensive experience in photography and videography over the years. It’s no surprise that four of these models rank among our top-rated DSLRs from any brand.
Currently, Nikon is focusing more on its mirrorless cameras. Their latest and most sophisticated models are the top-tier mirrorless offerings, having made significant investments in the advanced Z-mount series. Nonetheless, traditional DSLRs maintain a strong following, as many photographers favor the instant feedback from their optical viewfinders and the extensive lineup of Nikon F-mount lenses.
This guide delves into the rich legacy of Nikon DSLRs, highlighting both the best models available for purchase today and some classic models from the past. Some of these timeless pieces can still be found at reasonable prices on the second-hand market.
If you’re curious about the differences between DSLRs and mirrorless systems, check out our guide on DSLRs versus mirrorless. Additionally, you’ll find a section at the bottom of this page that offers tips on how to choose a Nikon DSLR, answering common queries along the way.
Top Nikon DSLRs to Consider in 2025
Interested in snagging a great deal on Nikon DSLRs? You’ll discover not only top-notch Nikon DSLRs but also fantastic deals, with ‘Buy now’ buttons directing you to the best prices from trusted retailers. A roster of additional retailers can be found beneath each camera for a more personalized deal search.
- Best DSLR for beginners: Nikon D3500 (2018) – Buy now
- Best DSLR for sports photography: Nikon D780 (2020) – Buy now
- Top professional DSLR: Nikon D6 (2020) – Buy now
- Most affordable full-frame DSLR: Nikon D610 (2013) – Buy now
- Best for wildlife photography: Nikon D500 (2016) – Buy now
- Best DSLR under $500/£500: Nikon D5600 (2016) – Buy now
- Best for video: Nikon D7500 (2017) – Buy now
- Best for portraits: Nikon D850 (2017) – Buy now
- Best for astrophotography: Nikon D810A – Buy now
Keep reading to find out why we selected these models. Even though many Nikon DSLRs have been discontinued, particularly entry-level options, they typically remain available on the second-hand market. Here are the best Nikon DSLRs to consider, catering to various budgets and skill levels…
Best Entry-Level Nikon DSLR: Nikon D3500
Quick Overview
- Used price: $450 / £350 – £400 body-only (availability may vary)
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- ISO range: 100-25,600
- Records 1080p Full HD video up to 60fps
- 11-point autofocus system
- 3-inch, 920K-dot LCD display
For novices eager to explore DSLR photography, the D3500 stands out as one of the premier choices available. Its features remain impressive today, boasting a 24.2MP sensor, burst shooting capability at 5fps, and an ISO range of 100-25,600 which performs admirably in low light situations.
To assist beginners in mastering the camera controls, it offers a helpful Guide Mode that suggests options for various scenarios. This mode communicates in easy-to-understand terms, helping users utilize the D3500’s settings effectively, with both ‘Easy’ and ‘Advanced’ shooting modes available. More experienced photographers can skip this feature.
The D3500 also incorporates Nikon’s Active D-Lighting processing, which lightens shadow areas and maintains highlight details in high-contrast environments. Users can toggle this function on or off as needed.
Furthermore, the D3500 is praised for its well-designed body, deep grip, and intuitive control placement. A Quick Menu is accessible via the ‘i’ button on the back, making it easy to navigate essential settings quickly.
Read our Nikon D3500 review
Top Choice for Sports Photography: Nikon D780
Quick Overview
- New price: $1,595 / £1,595 body-only
- Used price: $1,230 / £1,125 body-only
- 24.5MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- ISO range: 100-12,800 (expandable to 50-204,800)
- 51-point autofocus system (with 15 cross-type points)
- Continuous shooting up to 12fps in Live View
- 3.2-inch, 2,360K-dot tilting touchscreen
Introduced in 2020, the Nikon D780 combines cutting-edge mirrorless technology with the traditional DSLR format. It features the same sensor found in the mirrorless Z6, all housed in a sturdy body designed for outdoor use.
This sensor includes a low-pass filter to reduce moiré and features backside illumination for optimal light-gathering across its ISO spectrum. Additionally, it has 273 on-chip phase detection pixels for enhanced focus performance in Live View—drawing from Nikon’s mirrorless technology.
The D780 utilizes Nikon’s EXPEED 6 image processor, enabling shooting at 7fps through the viewfinder. Its shutter speed ranges from 30 to 1/8000 sec, accommodating nearly any subject (excluding perhaps high-speed projectiles). A 180K-pixel RGB sensor, inherited from the D850, ensures accurate tracking of subjects for focused shooting.
Dedicated DSLR fans will find the D780 stuffed with a fantastic range of shooting options, making it suitable for various subjects. During testing, it received a Test Bench GOLD award, with our original review highlighting it as a, ‘sensational camera that meets a professional standard and is a joy to operate’… truly, it doesn’t get much better!
Read our Nikon D780 review
Top Professional Nikon DSLR: Nikon D6
Quick Overview
- New price: $6,497 / £6,799 body-only
- Used price: $3,100-3,650 / £2,400-3,150 body-only
- 20.8MP full-frame sensor
- ISO range: 100-102,400
- 105-point autofocus system
- Up to 14fps continuous shooting
- Integrated GPS
The D6 is Nikon’s flagship professional DSLR and likely their last of its kind, boasting a high price tag that matches its impressive specifications. The company markets the D6 as, ‘Nikon’s most powerful autofocus system to date’, and states this…
‘will provide remarkable captures of key moments… every time.’
For professional photographers, particularly in fields like news, documentary, and sports, having dependable gear is essential to consistently capture the perfect shot. To achieve this, the D6 features a refreshed AF engine equipped with 105 all cross-type autofocus points, an improved Group-Area AF with additional customizable settings for subject tracking, and a priority focus on the eye within Auto-Area AF or 3D tracking modes. More recent pro mirrorless models, such as the Nikon Z9, have enhanced this with advanced AI-driven Subject-Detection autofocus. Despite lacking these cutting-edge features, the D6’s system is still highly commendable.
Another strong feature is its outstanding ISO capabilities. The 20.8 MP full-frame sensor pairs with the Expeed 6 processor to offer ISO options from 100 to 102,400, which can be boosted to a staggering 3,280,000. Additionally, it includes faster in-camera Wi-Fi image transfers (15% quicker than the D5), Bluetooth connectivity, high-resolution displays for effortless viewing, and a sturdy body.
Learn more about the Nikon D6 pro DSLR
Best affordable full-frame Nikon DSLR: Nikon D610
Overview:
- Used price: starting at $430 / £454 for the body
- Initial launch price: $1,999 / £1,799 for the body
- 24.3MP FX format sensor
- ISO range of 100-6400 (extends to ISO 50-25,600)
- Optical viewfinder with 0.7x magnification
- 9-point AF system featuring nine cross-type points
- 6fps burst shooting speed
Nikon’s D600 DSLR, launched in 2012, appeared to be an immediate hit until issues of dust and oil on the sensor arose. Nikon provided refunds and repair options but didn’t clarify the cause of the issue. A year later, the D610 released, featuring the same design but a new shutter mechanism, effectively resolving the previous problems. Curious.
That’s history now – the Nikon D610 has established itself over a decade, and with used prices being about a quarter of the original, it’s an excellent deal as one of the most affordable full-frame Nikon DSLRs. The camera’s construction combines magnesium alloy and durable plastic, resulting in a user-friendly experience with a well-organized control layout.
While the 9-point autofocus may seem outdated today, images from the full-frame sensor still deliver exceptional quality. The detail captured in RAW files at lower ISOs is impressive, and the camera performs commendably up to ISO 6400 (recommended not to push beyond that unless absolutely necessary). If you have an APS-C Nikon DSLR and have acquired DX lenses, you can still utilize them on the D610 by activating DX crop mode.
Was the Nikon D610 merely a marketing fix for a prior error? Likely. Is it still an excellent DSLR? Absolutely.
Check out our complete Nikon D610 review for our original impressions of this camera at its launch.
Top Nikon DSLR for wildlife photography: Nikon D500
Overview
- Used price: $879 / from £700 for the body
- Initial launch price: $1,999 / £1,729 for the body
- 20.9MP DX format sensor
- ISO range from 50 to 1,640,000
- Continuous shooting at 10fps
- 153-point autofocus system
- 3-inch, 2.36m-dot adjustable rear LCD screen
The D500 boasts impressive specifications – an extended maximum ISO of 1.64 million, a robust 153-point autofocus system, and the ability to shoot continuously at 10 frames per second (up to 30 raw files and 90+ JPEGs). This blend of autofocus capabilities, speed, and low-light performance makes it a phenomenal choice for wildlife or sports photography.
The D500’s rugged body is crafted from magnesium alloy and features customization options that enable photographers to assign functions to specific buttons, handy for quick shots during fast-paced events.
Its 153-point autofocus system draws from the professional D5 DSLR and includes 55 user-selectable points, with the remainder aiding in focusing on moving subjects. You can also utilize a 3D tracking mode that engages all 153 AF points, working in tandem with a 180,000-pixel metering sensor to help focus on key subjects.
When we reviewed the D500 back in 2016, we stated, “It’s hard not to view the D500 as the leading crop-sensor camera ever created.” Though it may have faced newer competitors, the high features and quality performance of the D500 have kept it relevant for years.
Read our review of the Nikon D500
Preferred Nikon DSLR under $500/£500: Nikon D5600
Overview
- Used price: $454 / £540
- Initial launch price: $799 / £799 with kit lens
- 24.2MP APS-C format CMOS sensor
- ISO range from 100 to 25,600
- 39-point autofocus system
- SnapBridge for image transfers to smartphones or tablets
- 3.2-inch, 1.04-million-dot LCD screen
Visually, the D5600 stands out for its compact design, robust enough for carrying with any lenses. The handling is excellent, with well-placed buttons and controls.
Diving deeper into its specifications reveals a large, 3.2-inch vari-angle LCD screen (with touchscreen functionality), a 39-point autofocus system (featuring nine cross-type AF points in the center), and a sensor that omits an optical low-pass filter, enhancing sharpness and intricate details in images. The camera also shines with its speedy Live View autofocus.
Another noteworthy feature is Nikon’s SnapBridge technology, allowing photographers to wirelessly connect the camera to their tablets or smartphones for quick image transfers. SnapBridge also enables remote control of the D5600 while providing a Live View feed.
Overall, the D5600 produces impressive image quality, with vibrant JPEGs capturing accurate colors. Its performance up to ISO 6400 stands out, and despite being on the market since 2016, the D5600 remains an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts.
Read our Nikon D5600 review
Leading Nikon DSLR for video: Nikon D7500
Overview
- New price: $897 / £550 for the body
- Used price: approximately $650 / £550 for the body
- Initial launch price: $1,249 / £1,299 for the body
- ISO range from 100 to 51,200
- 20.9MP…
- APS-C sensor with a 1.5x crop factor
- Continuous shooting up to 8 frames per second
- 3.2-inch tilting LCD display
- 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type points
The Nikon D7500 boasts an exceptional set of features, including a shooting speed of up to 8 frames per second, low light capabilities reaching ISO 51,200 (and even higher), and a robust 51-point autofocus system that excels at tracking moving subjects. This camera brings the DX image quality from Nikon’s pricier D500 model, ensuring high-quality images without breaking the bank.
For video enthusiasts, the D7500 supports 4K/UHD recording at 30p and Full HD 1080p at up to 60p. Additionally, Nikon’s Electronic Vibration Reduction feature helps mitigate camera shake during handheld video shooting.
A standout feature of the D7500 is its ability to connect to smartphones via SnapBridge using Bluetooth Low Energy. This allows for the instant syncing of photos as you shoot, while videos can be transferred manually via the camera’s built-in WiFi.
The D7500 is a remarkable mix of rapid image capture, reliable autofocus, and accurate metering, which helps ensure impressive photos. Coupled with lightweight DX lenses, this DSLR system is versatile, portable, and dependable.
Check out our review of the Nikon D7500.
Top Nikon DSLR for Portrait Photography: Nikon D850
Quick Specs
- New price: $2,397 / £2,399 for body only
- Used price: $1,280-1,650 / £1,600 for body only
- Initial launch price: $3,300 / £3,499 for body only
- 45.7MP full-frame sensor
- 153-point autofocus system
- ISO range from 64 to 25,600 (expandable to 32-102,400)
- Up to 7 frames per second continuous shooting
- 3.2-inch LCD with 2.26 million dots and touchscreen interface
Since its launch in late 2017, the Nikon D850 has been hailed as one of Nikon’s finest cameras, and still stands out even with the arrival of newer Z-series mirrorless models.
The camera’s highlight is undoubtedly its 45.7MP full-frame sensor, which approaches medium format resolution but is packaged in a DSLR format.
Inherits key autofocus features from the Nikon D5, which was primarily designed for sports photography, the D850 excels in a variety of photography styles beyond just sports. It employs a backside illuminated sensor that enhances light efficiency (boosting low-light performance) and improves image quality at the edges of frames. Notably, the absence of an anti-aliasing filter allows for exceptional detail in images.
Even years after its release, the D850 maintains its status among Nikon’s top cameras. With innovative technology built into this model, it’s an excellent option for various photography types—be it weddings, sports, wildlife, fashion, portraits, landscapes, and beyond. For a full-frame DSLR, it remains a tough contender.
Read our comprehensive Nikon D850 review.
Nikon D810A
Quick Specs
- Used price: $3,000 / £2,500 for body only
- Features a modified infrared cut filter
- 36.3MP sensor
- ISO range of 100 to 12,800 (extendable to 50-51,200)
- 3D noise reduction technology
- 3.2-inch TFT LCD screen with 1229K dots
The D810A’s designation hints that it’s tailored for astrophotography. It’s specifically designed with a modified infrared (IR) cut filter, making it four times more sensitive to the H-alpha spectral line (around 656nm) compared to Nikon’s standard D810 model.
This increased sensitivity allows for better capture of infrared light phenomena in the sky, such as diffuse nebulae. While other cameras can shoot night skies, few are internally modified for optimal performance right out of the box.
The Live View system in long exposure mode lets you preview an image comparable to one taken at 30 seconds exposure and offers a 23x zoom to check focus on scenes above or around you. Its intervalometer can take up to 9,999 shots in succession, which is advantageous for time-lapse and star trail photography.
The D810A’s 36.3MP sensor produces high-resolution images that minimize false colors, enabling superior night sky captures. Although discontinued, you can find the Nikon D810A in second-hand markets, but it tends to sell quickly.
Learn more about the Nikon D810A.
The Best Vintage Nikon DSLRs
Here’s a selection of some notable Nikon DSLRs from their extensive history, representing early digital SLR technology. While some may lack modern features like stabilization, subject-detection autofocus, or video capabilities, they are significant in DSLR history. No collection would be complete without them, and you can find many of these models at affordable second-hand prices, making them good budget-friendly options.
What to Know About Nikon DSLR Shutter Count
It’s essential to verify the shutter count for any used DSLR you’re considering, as shutter units have limited lifespans. Therefore, alongside inspecting the camera’s condition, be sure to inquire about the current shutter count to gauge the remaining lifespan of the camera.
Nikon D1 (1999) – The First Stand-Alone Nikon DSLR
Quick Specs
- 2.7MP APS-C sensor
- ISO range: 200-1600
- 4.5 frames per second continuous shooting (up to 21 shots)
- Shutter speed range: 30 to 1/16,000 second
- 2-inch LCD with 120,000 dots
Introduced in 1999, the Nikon D1 may seem outdated by today’s standards, featuring a 2.7MP APS-C sensor, 4.5fps continuous shooting, and a 2-inch LCD. However, it had several innovative features that made it popular among professional photographers transitioning to digital.
While the APS-C sensor may have compromised image quality, its 1.5x crop factor offered users enhanced telephoto capabilities. On an APS-C camera, a…
A 100mm lens can function similarly to a 150mm lens, which is incredibly beneficial for sports photography. Additionally, the F-mount’s legacy provided users with an extensive selection of lenses, and those already invested could continue to use their older lenses.
Although a burst rate of 4.5fps might seem modest compared to the astonishing 120fps of the Nikon Z9, it was quite remarkable for that era. The shutter speed range of 30-1/16,000 sec was a fantastic feature, allowing sports photographers with the D1 to capture nearly any action.
There were some unconventional choices with the D1, such as opting for the NTSC color space, which is primarily utilized by American and Japanese televisions instead of the more common sRGB or Adobe RGB. Nikon would soon make a change in this regard.
Discover top-performing Nikon cameras
Nikon D3 (2007) – The first full-frame Nikon DSLR
Overview
- Full-frame, 35mm equivalent 12MP CMOS sensor
- Dual Compact Flash card slots
- ISO range of 200-6400 (expandable to 100-25,600)
- Continuous shooting at 9fps (11fps in DX mode without AF tracking)
- 3-inch TFT LCD screen with 922,000 pixels
The Nikon D3 marked a significant milestone as the first full-frame DSLR from Nikon. Its new ‘FX-format’ sensor name would continue through its mirrorless Z-series cameras.
Targeted at professionals, the Nikon D3 featured the innovative EXPEED image processing engine, facilitating impressive capabilities like continuous shooting at 9fps, which remains commendable today and contributed to its popularity among professional sports photographers. It also included a 5:4 ratio mode, with an overlay in the viewfinder to visualize this aspect ratio.
Among its innovations, the D3 introduced Live View mode, allowing photographers to see real-time images on the rear LCD screen. Additionally, its 51-point autofocus system rounded out a remarkable feature set. The magnesium-alloy body was rated for an impressive lifespan of 300,000 shutter actuations, providing professionals with many years of reliable use.
Currently, second-hand Nikon D3s can be found for under £400 or $600. At that price, it’s a fantastic option, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. The camera received further enhancement with the D3S, which included a video mode among other upgrades.
Check out our complete review of the Nikon D3S for our thoughts at the time. A typical used price ranges from $200-300 / £100-334 for the body only.
Nikon D90 (2008) – The world’s first DSLR with video capabilities
Overview
- D-Movie mode for 720p HD video recording
- 12.3MP DX-format sensor
- ISO range of 200-3200 (expandable to 100-6400)
- Continuous shooting at up to 4.5fps
- 3-inch TFT LCD screen with 920,000 pixels
While the Canon EOS 5D Mark II sparked the DSLR video revolution, the Nikon D90 actually achieved this milestone first, albeit by a few weeks. It could shoot HD 720p videos at a cinematic frame rate of 24p. Built solidly, it catered to the upper mid-range ‘prosumer’ market and was an impressive overall device.
The Nikon D90 featured a built-in autofocus motor, making it compatible with nearly all Nikon F-mount AF lenses, a novelty at the time. It borrowed much of its technology from the D300 and D3, including a 12.3MP DX-format sensor, an EXPEED1 image processor, a high-resolution 920K-dot LCD screen, and a viewfinder that covered 96% of the frame.
Ultimately, the Full HD 1080p capability of the EOS 5D Mark II led to its dominance among filmmakers, establishing it as a significant player in the DSLR video landscape. Nevertheless, the Nikon D90 represented a laudable achievement in its own right, with a typical used price ranging from $72-154 / £60-77 for the body only.
Read about our comparison of the Canon EOS 550D vs Nikon D90.
How to choose the best Nikon DSLR: FAQs
When selecting a Nikon DSLR, two main factors to consider are your budget and your specific photography needs. You won’t be able to find a budget camera that excels in every feature, so it’s wise to prioritize what specs matter most to you.
For instance, if you’re interested in resolution for making large prints, opt for a DSLR with a high megapixel count. However, keep in mind that higher-resolution cameras can be slower since processing those additional pixels requires more power. So if action shots or wildlife photography are your focus, prioritize fast burst speeds.
Another crucial aspect of Nikon DSLRs is the sensor size. You basically have two formats to choose from: DX-format (APS-C) and larger FX-format (full-frame). Larger sensors provide greater dynamic range, enhanced ability to achieve shallower depth of field, and improved low-light performance, though they tend to be more expensive and necessitate larger camera bodies. Nikon has many DSLRs in both formats – refer to our full guide comparing APS-C vs full-frame for a thorough overview of their advantages and drawbacks.
FAQ: Are Nikon DSLR lenses compatible with mirrorless cameras?
Yes, as long as you utilize the appropriate adapter. Nikon sells ‘FTZ’ adapters that allow F-mount DSLR lenses to be attached to mirrorless Z-mount cameras. In most cases, this ensures full functionality for digital features like autofocus and stabilization. Nikon has also released an updated FTZ II adapter, which has minor design adjustments to avoid clashes with the battery grip on the Z9. If you own the original FTZ, upgrading isn’t necessary.
FAQ: Which Nikon DSLR performs best in low light?
Our top recommendation is the Nikon D500. With an impressive maximum ISO of 1,640,000 and excellent high-sensitivity performance, this DX-format DSLR excels in challenging lighting conditions. If your budget allows, a full-frame DSLR like the D850 also provides outstanding low-light image quality.
FAQ: Is Nikon phasing out DSLR cameras?
Essentially, yes. Although Nikon DSLRs are still being produced, the company hasn’t introduced a new DSLR model since 2020, and it’s clear they have no plans to. Nikon is focused on their mirrorless Z-mount cameras, which will see new releases in the future. In 2022, Nikon reiterated they do not intend to exit the SLR market, but these statements have not been supported by any announcements of new DSLRs.
While you can still acquire a new Nikon DSLR for a few more years, there will eventually come a time when that won’t be possible.
Text by Steve Fairclough, with contributions from Jon Stapley.
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