As a passionate photographer, I have always been fascinated by the evolution of DSLR cameras and the advancements in technology that have shaped the photography industry. Nikon, a renowned brand in the world of photography, has produced some exceptional DSLR cameras over the years that have stood the test of time.
In this article, I will delve into the realm of older Nikon DSLR cameras and highlight some of the best models that continue to be popular among photographers for their reliability, image quality, and features. These cameras may be considered “older” in terms of release date, but they still hold their own in today’s competitive market.
Join me on this journey as we explore the legacy of Nikon DSLR cameras and discover why these older models are still sought after by photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Exploring the Best Older Nikon DSLR Cameras
When it comes to older Nikon DSLR cameras, there are quite a few models that still hold their own in terms of performance and features. As a photography enthusiast, I have had the opportunity to explore some of these older gems and have found them to be reliable and capable of producing stunning images.
One standout model is the Nikon D700, which was released back in 2008 but is still highly regarded for its excellent image quality, robust build, and low-light performance. With a 12.1-megapixel full-frame sensor, the D700 delivers sharp and detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions, making it a great choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Notable Older Nikon DSLR Cameras:
- Nikon D7000: A versatile and feature-packed camera with a 16.2-megapixel sensor, fast autofocus system, and Full HD video recording capability.
- Nikon D300: Known for its rugged construction and advanced features, the D300 offers a 12.3-megapixel sensor, fast continuous shooting speed, and a durable magnesium alloy body.
- Nikon D90: A popular choice among enthusiasts, the D90 features a 12.3-megapixel sensor, articulated LCD screen, and reliable performance for both stills and video.
Exploring the Capabilities of the Nikon D700
Having delved into the world of photography with various Nikon DSLR cameras, I recently had the opportunity to experience the Nikon D700, a remarkable piece of equipment that offers a blend of advanced features and exceptional image quality.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D700 is its full-frame sensor, which allows for outstanding low-light performance and impressive dynamic range. The 12.1-megapixel sensor delivers sharp and detailed images, making it a reliable choice for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.
- Advanced Autofocus System: The Nikon D700 boasts a sophisticated 51-point autofocus system that ensures precise and quick focusing, even in challenging shooting conditions.
- Durable Build: With a rugged magnesium alloy construction, the D700 is built to withstand the rigors of professional use, making it a reliable companion for on-the-go photography.
- High-Speed Performance: The camera’s fast 5 frames per second continuous shooting speed and responsive shutter ensure that you never miss a moment, whether capturing sports events or wildlife.
Nikon D300
The Nikon D300 is a robust and reliable DSLR camera that was released in 2007. It features a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor and a fast 51-point autofocus system, making it a popular choice among photography enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D300 is its durable magnesium alloy body, which provides excellent weather sealing and protection against dust and moisture. This makes it a great option for outdoor photography in challenging conditions.
- The Nikon D300 has a bright 3-inch LCD screen for easy viewing of images and settings.
- It offers a wide ISO range of 200-3200, expandable up to 6400, allowing for excellent low-light performance.
- The camera also has a fast 6 frames per second continuous shooting mode, making it suitable for capturing action shots.
Nikon D3
The Nikon D3 is a professional-level DSLR camera that offers exceptional image quality and performance. As a photographer, I appreciate the robust build and advanced features of the D3.
One of the key highlights of the Nikon D3 is its full-frame sensor, which delivers stunning image quality with great dynamic range and low light performance. The camera’s fast autofocus system and high-speed continuous shooting make it ideal for capturing action shots and sports photography.
- The D3 features a durable magnesium alloy body that can withstand tough shooting conditions.
- It has a large and bright viewfinder, making it easy to compose shots accurately.
- The camera’s ISO range is expandable up to 6400, allowing for versatile shooting in various lighting situations.
- Overall, the Nikon D3 is a reliable and powerful camera that is well-suited for professional photographers looking for top-notch image quality and performance.
Nikon D90
I am excited to share my thoughts on the Nikon D90, a classic DSLR camera that has stood the test of time with its exceptional features and performance.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D90 is its 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, which delivers stunning image quality and sharp details. The camera’s EXPEED image processing system ensures fast and accurate image processing, making it a reliable choice for photographers of all levels.
- The D90 offers an impressive ISO range of 200 to 3200, expandable up to 6400, allowing for excellent low-light performance.
- Its 3-inch LCD screen provides a clear and bright view for composing and reviewing images, while the Live View mode offers added versatility.
- The D90 also features a robust build quality and ergonomic design, making it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
Nikon D200
As a photography enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of using the Nikon D200 DSLR camera, which has proven to be a reliable and versatile tool for capturing stunning images. This camera combines advanced features with a solid build, making it a great choice for photographers looking for a high-quality older Nikon DSLR.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D200 is its 10.2-megapixel sensor, which delivers sharp and detailed images with vibrant colors. The camera’s fast and accurate autofocus system ensures that you never miss a shot, even in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the D200 offers a wide range of customization options, allowing you to tailor the camera settings to suit your shooting style.
- Pros:
- 10.2-megapixel sensor for high-resolution images
- Fast and accurate autofocus system
- Robust build quality
- Customizable settings for personalized shooting experience
Nikon D7100: My Trusted Companion for Photography
When it comes to reliable and high-quality DSLR cameras, the Nikon D7100 is a top choice for me. This camera boasts a 24.1-megapixel sensor that delivers stunning images with excellent detail and clarity. Whether I’m capturing landscapes, portraits, or action shots, the D7100 never fails to impress with its sharpness and colour accuracy.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D7100 is its fast and accurate autofocus system, which ensures that I can capture fast-moving subjects with ease. The camera’s 51-point autofocus system covers a wide area of the frame, allowing me to focus on my subject quickly and accurately. Additionally, the D7100’s high ISO performance enables me to shoot in low-light conditions without sacrificing image quality.
- The Nikon D7100 is equipped with a durable magnesium alloy body that can withstand the rigours of professional use.
- Its 3.2-inch LCD screen provides a clear and bright view for composing and reviewing images.
- The camera’s weather-sealed construction allows me to shoot in challenging weather conditions without worry.
Nikon D80
When it comes to older Nikon DSLR cameras, the Nikon D80 is a standout option. I have personally used the Nikon D80 and have been impressed by its performance and image quality.
The Nikon D80 features a 10.2-megapixel sensor, which produces sharp and detailed images. It has a solid build quality and feels comfortable in hand, making it a great choice for photographers looking for a reliable camera.
- The D80 has a fast autofocus system, which is crucial for capturing sharp images, especially in fast-paced shooting situations.
- It also has a decent ISO range, allowing you to shoot in low-light conditions without compromising image quality.
- Additionally, the D80 has a variety of shooting modes and customization options, giving you flexibility in your photography.
Conclusion
The Nikon D5100 is a solid choice for photographers looking for an older DSLR camera that still offers excellent image quality and features. With its 16.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, 1080p HD video recording, and articulating LCD screen, the D5100 provides great value for its price.
While it may not have the latest technology found in newer models, the D5100 is a reliable option for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Its compact size and user-friendly interface make it easy to use, while its compatibility with a wide range of Nikon lenses gives photographers plenty of room to grow and expand their skills.
- Pros:
- Good image quality
- Articulating LCD screen
- 1080p HD video recording
- Compact and lightweight
- Cons:
- Slower autofocus compared to newer models
- Lower resolution LCD screen
- Limited connectivity options
Best older nikon dslr cameras
Nikon D3400 DSLR Camera with AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED
$979.99
13 used from $450.00
Features
- SnapBridge Bluetooth Connectivity
- 24.2MP DX Format CMOS Sensor
- EXPEED 4 Image Processor.Magnification Approx; 0.85 x (50 millimeter f/1.4 lens at infinity, 1.0 m(*1))
- No Optical Low Pass Filter
- Native ISO 100 25600; 5 fps Shooting; Compatability information: C firmware v; 1.10 and later ( released August 31, 2016 )
| Price history for Nikon D3400 DSLR Camera with AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR and AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED | |
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Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video, WiFi, Splash & Dustproof Camera Body, LEICA DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens - DMC-FZ300K - (Black) USA
10 used from $326.10
Features
- 4K video and 4K photo: Panasonic’s exclusive 4K photo technology uses 30 frames per second in high resolution 4K ultra HD video to extract them as photos; You’ll never miss that moment again
- Leica DC Vario Elmarit lens: 24x zoom (25 600 millimeter with Full zoom range F2; 8 aperture for enhanced low light shooting meeting the stringent quality standards established by Leica
- High image Quality: The 12.1 Megapixel high sensitivity MOS sensor with the venus engine excels in diffraction compensation, yielding images that are crisp and Free from artifacts associated with small aperture settings
- Rugged Camera Design: Splash Proof/dustproof rugged camera design with tight seals on every Joint, dial and button, so it stands up to harsh weather conditions and challenging
- 5 Axis Hybrid Optical Image Stabilizer Plus: Reduces blur from 1 handed video shooting by compensating for 5 types of movement; Level shot function detects horizon line and maintains it, even if the camera is tilted
| Price history for Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video, WiFi, Splash & Dustproof Camera Body, LEICA DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens - DMC-FZ300K - (Black) USA | |
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Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black
25 used from $810.00
Features
- Class leading image quality, ISO range, image processing and metering equivalent to the award winning D500
- Large 3.2” 922K dot, tilting LCD screen with touch functionality
- 51 point AF system with 15 cross type sensors and group area AF paired with up to 8 fps continuous shooting capability
- 4K Ultra HD and 1080p Full HD video with stereo sound, power aperture control, auto ISO, 4K UHD Time Lapse and more
- Focal length in 35 mm [135] format equivalent to approx; 1.5x that of lenses with FX format angle of view
| Price history for Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black | |
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Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera with 18-140mm VR Lens (1582) + 420-800mm Super Zoom Lens, 128GB Memory + 3 Piece Filter Kit, Photo Backpack + More
Features
- This Bundle Includes: 2x Sandisk 64GB Class 10 SD Memory Cards, 3 Piece Filter Kit , Deluxe Photography Backpack, 50 inch DSLR Tripod, Slave Flash, Lens Cap, Body Cap ,Neck Strap , Cleaning Cloth , Camera Gadget Bag, Tripod and Includes :
- Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera Body - 20.9MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor , EXPEED 5 Image Processor , 3.2 922k-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD , 4K UHD Video Recording at 30 fps ,Multi-CAM 3500FX II 51-Point AF System , Native ISO 51200, Expanded ISO 1,640,000 , 8 fps Shooting for Up to 100 Frames , Multi-CAM 3500FX II 51-Point AF System , SnapBridge Bluetooth and Wi-Fi , 180k-Pixel RGB Sensor and Group Area AF
- Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens F-Mount Lens/DX Format 27-210mm (35mm Equivalent) Aperture Range f/3.5 to f/38 One Aspherical Element, One ED Element
- High-Power 420-800mm f/8.3 HD Manual Telephoto Lens + T-mount adapter for your Camera-A versatile lens for photographing distant subjects, the 420-800mm f/8.3 HD Telephoto Zoom features a convenient threaded T-mount for adapting to a wide variety of camera types. Its 4 elements, 2 groups optical design features a super HD multi-coating, and a lens hood is incorporated into the design, to suppress lens flare and ghosting
- The D7500 features a 20.9MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 5 image processor, this multimedia maven avails an 8 fps continuous shooting rate for up to 100 consecutive JPEGS, a native sensitivity range to ISO 51,200 that can be expanded up to ISO 1,640,000, and 4K UHD video and time-lapse recording capabilities.
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Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX NIKKOR Zoom Lens (Renewed)
Features
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished, shows limited or no wear, and includes all original accessories plus a 90 day warranty
- 24.2 MP DX format CMOS sensor,Display Screen 3.0 Inch Rear Screen, LCD (921000)
- EXPEED III Image Processing
- Wide ISO sensitivity range,Filter Thread: 52 millimeter
- One touch Full HD 1080p movie recording
| Price history for Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX NIKKOR Zoom Lens (Renewed) | |
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Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera with 18-140mm Lens (1582) + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Corel Photo Software + 2 x EN-EL 15 Battery + Card Reader + LED Light + Filter Kit + Wide Angle Lens + More (Renewed)
Features
- Bundle Includes: 1 x Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera with 18-140mm Lens, 1 x SanDisk SecureDigital 64GB Extreme PRO Memory Card, 1 x Camera Bag, 1 x Corel Photo Software With PhotoMirage, AfterShot, Painter Essentials, PaintShop Pro, and Video Studio, 2 x EN-EL15 Battery, 1 x Memory Card Reader, 1 x Mini Portable LED Video Light , 1 x 3 Piece Pro Filter Kit UV/CPL/F 67MM, 1 x Wide Angle Lens 67MM, 1 x Telephoto Lens 67MM, 1 x 67mm Graduated Color Filter Kit, 1 x Micro HDMI Cable and more...
- Designed as a true all-arounder, the Nikon D7500 is a DX-format DSLR offering a versatile feature-set to appeal to photographers and videographers alike. Based on a 20.9MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 5 image processor, this multimedia maven avails an 8 fps continuous shooting rate for up to 100 consecutive JPEGS, a native sensitivity range to ISO 51,200 that can be expanded up to ISO 1,640,000, and 4K UHD video and time-lapse recording capabilities.
- Balancing the performance attributes, the D7500 is also characterized by its sleek profile and monocoque construction that is comfortable and easy to handle. This physical design is also fully weather-sealed to permit working in harsh environmental conditions. In addition to the pentaprism optical viewfinder, a rear 3.2" 922k-dot touchscreen is also featured, and has a tilting design to benefit working from high and low shooting angles.
- The DX-format 20.9MP CMOS sensor is paired with the EXPEED 5 image processor to provide an esteemed mixture of high sensitivity, nuanced image quality, and fast overall performance. At native values, a sensitivity range from ISO 100-51200 permits working in a broad array of lighting conditions, and can be further expanded to ISO 50-1640000 (Lo 1 to Hi 5) to handle the most challenging of situations.
- Key Features: 20.9MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor - EXPEED 5 Image Processor - 3.2" 922k-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD - 4K UHD Video Recording at 30 fps - Multi-CAM 3500FX II 51-Point AF System - Native ISO 51200, Expanded ISO 1,640,000 - 8 fps Shooting for Up to 100 Frames - SnapBridge Bluetooth and Wi-Fi - 180k-Pixel RGB Sensor and Group Area AF - AF-S DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens
| Price history for Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera with 18-140mm Lens (1582) + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Corel Photo Software + 2 x EN-EL 15 Battery + Card Reader + LED Light + Filter Kit + Wide Angle Lens + More (Renewed) | |
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Nikon D3500 24.2MP DSLR Digital Camera with 18-55mm and 70-300mm Lenses (1588) Deluxe Bundle -Includes- Sandisk 64GB SD Card + Large Camera Bag + Filter Kit + Spare Battery + Telephoto Lens
Features
| Part Number | 1 |
| Model | 1 |
| Color | Black |
| Price history for Nikon D3500 24.2MP DSLR Digital Camera with 18-55mm and 70-300mm Lenses (1588) Deluxe Bundle -Includes- Sandisk 64GB SD Card + Large Camera Bag + Filter Kit + Spare Battery + Telephoto Lens | |
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Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera with 18-140mm Lens (1582) + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Corel Photo Software + EN-EL 15 Battery + Card Reader + HDMI Cable + Cleaning Set + Flex Tripod + Memory Wallet (Renewed)
Features
- Bundle Includes: 1 x Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera with 18-140mm Lens, 1 x SanDisk SecureDigital 64GB Extreme PRO Memory Card, 1 x Camera Bag, 1 x Corel Photo Software With PhotoMirage, AfterShot, Painter Essentials, PaintShop Pro, and Video Studio, 1 x EN-EL15 Battery, 1 x Memory Card Reader, 1 x Micro HDMI Cable, 1 x 6AVE Electronics TM Cleaning Set, 1 x 12 Inch Flexible Tripod, 1 x Memory Card Wallet
- Designed as a true all-arounder, the Nikon D7500 is a DX-format DSLR offering a versatile feature-set to appeal to photographers and videographers alike. Based on a 20.9MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 5 image processor, this multimedia maven avails an 8 fps continuous shooting rate for up to 100 consecutive JPEGS, a native sensitivity range to ISO 51,200 that can be expanded up to ISO 1,640,000, and 4K UHD video and time-lapse recording capabilities.
- Balancing the performance attributes, the D7500 is also characterized by its sleek profile and monocoque construction that is comfortable and easy to handle. This physical design is also fully weather-sealed to permit working in harsh environmental conditions. In addition to the pentaprism optical viewfinder, a rear 3.2" 922k-dot touchscreen is also featured, and has a tilting design to benefit working from high and low shooting angles.
- The DX-format 20.9MP CMOS sensor is paired with the EXPEED 5 image processor to provide an esteemed mixture of high sensitivity, nuanced image quality, and fast overall performance. At native values, a sensitivity range from ISO 100-51200 permits working in a broad array of lighting conditions, and can be further expanded to ISO 50-1640000 (Lo 1 to Hi 5) to handle the most challenging of situations.
- Key Features: 20.9MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor - EXPEED 5 Image Processor - 3.2" 922k-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD - 4K UHD Video Recording at 30 fps - Multi-CAM 3500FX II 51-Point AF System - Native ISO 51200, Expanded ISO 1,640,000 - 8 fps Shooting for Up to 100 Frames - SnapBridge Bluetooth and Wi-Fi - 180k-Pixel RGB Sensor and Group Area AF - AF-S DX 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens
| Price history for Nikon D7500 DSLR Camera with 18-140mm Lens (1582) + 64GB Memory Card + Case + Corel Photo Software + EN-EL 15 Battery + Card Reader + HDMI Cable + Cleaning Set + Flex Tripod + Memory Wallet (Renewed) | |
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Nikon D3100 14.2MP 1080p Digital SLR Camera Body (Black) 25470B - (Renewed)
Features
- This Certified Refurbished product is refurbished to factory specifications, it shows limited or no wear
- Includes all original accessories plus a 90 Day Warranty
- Nikon D3100 14.2MP 1080p Digital SLR Camera Body (Black) 25470B
- Step up to the Nikon D3100. It's the affordable, compact, and lightweight photography power-house featuring 18 Guide Modes. Full HD 1080p Video with Autofocus. 3" LCD w/ live view. Fast 11-point Autofocus System and 3 Frames per second shooting.
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: Nikon D3100 Digital Camera Body - Refurbished | EN-EL14 Battery | MH-24 Battery Charger | DK-5 Eyepiece Cap | DK-20 Rubber Eyecap | AN-DC3 Camera Strap | BS-1 Accessory Shoe Cover | BF-1B Body Cap | Limited Nikon 90-Day Refurbished Warranty
| Price history for Nikon D3100 14.2MP 1080p Digital SLR Camera Body (Black) 25470B - (Renewed) | |
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Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD (Renewed)
Features
- 12.3-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor
- Outfit includes the 3x AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens with image stabilization
- D-Movie Mode with sound; record 720p HD movie clips
- Vari-angle color 2.7-inch LCD monitor; one-button Live View
- Capture images to SD/SDHC memory cards (not included)
| Price history for Nikon D5000 12.3 MP DX Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens and 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD (Renewed) | |
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Q&A:
Which older Nikon DSLR camera is the best for beginners?
The Nikon D3300 is a great option for beginners. It offers excellent image quality, easy-to-use controls, and is budget-friendly.
What is the best older Nikon DSLR camera for professional photographers?
The Nikon D750 is a popular choice among professional photographers. It offers a full-frame sensor, great low-light performance, and advanced features for a professional shooting experience.
Which older Nikon DSLR camera is known for its rugged build and durability?
The Nikon D800 is renowned for its robust construction and weather-sealed body, making it a great choice for photographers who need a camera that can withstand tough shooting conditions.
What older Nikon DSLR camera is recommended for wildlife photography?
The Nikon D500 is a top choice for wildlife photography due to its fast continuous shooting speed, advanced autofocus system, and crop sensor that provides extra reach for capturing distant subjects.
