Nikon D60: Review

Posted to Digital SLR 2009-03-04

Nikon D60 Review:

The Nikon D60 is Nikon's latest model in the entry-level digital SLR market. An upgrade to the Nikon D40x, the D60 features a 10.2MP DX-format (15.8mm x 23.6mm) sensor, a 2.5", 230,000 dot color LCD display and a new 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 image stabilization lens. The camera also offers 3fps continuous shooting, an active dust reduction system, Nikon's EXPEED image processing concept, and a built-in Speedlight with Nikon's I-TTL control.

The D60, Nikon's smallest DSLR ever, also features 8 automatic shooting modes, a full manual mode, fast 3-area autofocus, extensive in-camera editing features, and shutter speeds ranging from 30 to 1/4000 second. The camera features an ISO range of 100 to 3200, +/- 5 EV exposure compensation, and a viewfinder with a penta-prism mirror mechanism and a 95% field of view. Other features include a built-in hot shoe for external flash, a self-timer with settings of 2,5,10, or 20 seconds, and a 420 pixel RGB metering sensor.

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Features

While the D60 does have a rich feature set, it misses 5 stars in this category because of a couple that are missing. Most of the competition in the entry-level DSLR category, which with the exception of Canon are less expensive, features a Live View function, which the D60 lacks. In addition, there's no depth of field preview function, which might be a showstopper for the more serious photographer on a budget. All that being said, the D60's features meet or exceed the competition in other areas, and the camera's performance lives up to Nikon's usual high standards.

Performance

With the D60, Nikon has managed to produce a lightweight (16 oz.), easy to use camera that delivers excellent image quality and performance. Noise is not a problem except at the highest ISO settings, and images are sharp and clean. This camera makes it easy for even the novice photographer to take excellent photos, with excellent exposure and autofocus operation. Yet it offers plenty of features for the more advanced photographer to explore.

Summary

If you are ready to take the step up from an advanced point and shoot to a digital SLR, the Nikon definitely deserves to be on your short list. It's priced competitively when compared to the competition. In fact, with the exception of the now budget-priced D40 (at only 6.1 MP), it's the most reasonably priced Nikon digital SLR ever produced. And they didn't scrimp on the build quality in order to achieve the price point, either.

Pros

10.2MP DX-format sensor
Excellent image quality
2.5

Cons

No Live View Function
No depth of field preview