And if this convinces you in another direction, we always have our regularly updated guide to the best Nikon mirrorless cameras…Ī Nikon DSLR can make for a fantastic investment for photographers and videographers at every level. Then, for the second part of this guide, we look back at a few of the the most important DSLRs in Nikon’s history…įor more on the differences between camera types, see our guide to DSLRs vs mirrorless. Here, we present the 12 best Nikon DSLRs ever made. First, we’ve picked out the DSLRs we think are best to buy in 2023 – both new and second-hand. It was a tough challenge to narrow the huge list of Nikon DSLRs down to 12 seminal models – but we reckon we’ve done it. Nikon offers plenty of DSLRs in both sensor sizes – see our full guide to APS-C vs full-frame for a complete run-down of the pros and cons of each type. Bigger sensors give you greater dynamic range in images, the ability to create shallower depth of field, and upgraded low-light performance, with the main trade-off being that they are more expensive, and require larger camera bodies. You have two choices here – DX-format (APS-C) and the larger FX-format (full-frame). So if you want to shoot fast action or wildlife, it’s best to prioritise fast burst speeds.Ī big factor with Nikon DSLRs is sensor size. However, higher resolution cameras tend to be slower as all those pixels require more processing power. You aren’t going to get the best of all features in a budget camera, so it pays to prioritise the specs that will best suit you.įor instance, resolution is best for making large prints of your images, so if this is something you want to do, pick a DSLR with a high megapixel count. How to choose the best Nikon DSLRĪs with any camera-buying decision, picking the best Nikon DSLR is about weighing up two factors – your budget, and what you want to shoot. But first, let’s look a how to go about choosing a DSLR. We’re picking out all the models we feel offer the best value for money in 2023 – and revisiting a few classics from the early days. Some of the cameras on our list can be picked up in used stores for less than a quarter of their original asking price.įind a good Nikon DSLR, pair it with some of the best Nikon F-mount lenses, and you’ve got a photographic setup that could last you a lifetime. And even when Nikon does discontinue a DSLR, it’ll live on in the second-hand market. While the firm seems unlikely to bring out any new DSLRs, with the most recent release being the Nikon D6 back in early 2020, the firm has restated its commitment to staying in the DSLR game and manufacturing existing models for those who want them. In this guide, we intend to show you why. With large optical viewfinders and rugged, grippable bodies, DSLRs hold a special place in the hearts of many a photographer. While mirrorless models in the Nikon Z-mount may be where the attention and development is going, there is very much still a place for the humble DSLR. We reveal the best Nikon DSLR cameras you can buy in 2023, and take a look back at some of the milestone models from the firm’s history.Ī good Nikon DSLR makes for a fabulous companion for any photographer.