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Nikon D200: Review

Posted to Digital SLR 2009-08-11


Nikon D200: Review
Nikon D200 Review:

If you want another powerful, feature-packed digital camera, perhaps the Nikon D200 Digital SLR is for you. Released in November 2005, nearly three and half years after the D100 appeared, the D200 has come with major changes. The quality of build and the number of features of this model makes it so impressive. When compared across similar professional photography products, this Nikon packs plenty of punch for a reasonable price. So if you are ready to upgrade from your older model, perhaps you should consider purchasing the Nikon D200 Digital SLR.

The Nikon D200 measures 147mm x 113mm x 74mm in dimensions and weighs a mere 830 grams (without batteries). The body of the camera is largely made up of magnesium alloy with sealed seams. The operating temperature range is 0-40 degrees Celcius, making it operational in virtually any environment. The TFT LCD is 2.5 inches, with a 230,000 pixel count. It also has a removable protective cover. This model features 10.92 total mega pixels (MP) and 10.2 effective megapixels. The CCD sensor is 23.6 x 15.8, and the Focal length multiplier is approximately 1.5x when compared to regular 35mm focal lengths. It also has a built-in wireless flash controller. Overall, this digital SLR is crammed with plenty of features. But most of all, it performs very well.


Rating:  4.6 out of 5

Features

This model has more than 40 custom settings, making it even more user-friendly. The number of features and abilities is astonishing. The Nikon D200 Digital SLR features a 10.2 megapixel DX-format CCD image sensor, 2.5 inch high-resolution LCD monitor, 5 frames-per-second high-speed continuous shooting, built-in wireless flash, 1/8000 maximum shutter speed, 1/250 flash sync, 50ms shutter lag specification, an ISO range of 100-1600 in 1/3 step increments, bright viewfinder, and the 11-area multi-CAM AF system (with 7 area wide AF sensor). It also comes with an EN-EL3e rechargeable battery which includes fuel gauge function. As far as ports and plugs go, the Nikon D200 includes USB 2.0, PC sync, NTSC/PAL video out, 10-pin remote socket, and a GPS Adapter Cord MC-35 for connecting to an external GPS unit. This camera is loaded for the price.

Performance

It also performs very well for the price. The 10.2 megapixel CCD image sensor captures high-resolution images ideal for posters and creative cropping. The high resolution LCD monitor facilitates ultra-wide, 170 degree viewing in all directions. For previewing images, magnification reaches up to 400%. The large viewfinder offers .94 x magnifications with 95% frame coverage, both horizontally and vertically, which is great for detailed viewing control. 5 fps (frames per second) continuous shooting enables the camera to capture fast moving objects in high-resolution. It can continuously burst up to 22 NEF (RAW) or 37 JPEG (fine - large) excellent shots. Sensor and image quality, combined with flexible controls and a rugged finish make it a stronger, faster, and more versatile camera.

Summary

The Nikon D200 Digital SLR Camera combines an impressive list of pro-class features in a model that is much less expensive than the Nikon D2X. But because you get what you pay for, there are always pros and cons to the D200. Some of the problems in the D200 include the following: no option of saving images in TIFF format, increased ISO noise when used at higher values/levels, and a lack of color-space options. Deficiencies aside, this is a great camera. The built-in vertical grip makes it comfortable to hold during shooting, which is a must for everyday photographers. When compared among similarly priced model, the Nikon D200 is indeed one of the best models and an excellent option for the price, regardless of whether you are a hobbyist or seasoned professional.

Pros

  • 10.2 megapixel DX-format CCD image sensor
  • Large viewfinder offering .94x magnification
  • Great for rugged environments and high-speed situations
  • 5 fps (frames per second) continuous shooting

Cons

  • Increased ISO noise when used at higher values/levels

Related Links

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Casio Exilim Zoom EX-1050:
10.1 megapixel 3x optical zoom 2.8 inch LCD

Nikon Coolpix S60:
10.0 megapixel, 3.5 inch wide LCD, 5x optical zoom lens

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