Whether you’re a beginner photographer, or a seasoned filmmaking pro, our guide to the best Nikon cameras will help you choose the right device for you. Since everybody’s needs are different we’ve rounded up the top Nikon devices for 2021, to cover a whole range of uses.
Whether you need a Nikon camera that shoots high quality video, one that captures still photographs in the highest quality, or perhaps a camera that makes the best of both worlds – you'll find something to suit in this guide. We’ve even included the best budget Nikon and best compact Nikon camera for those that want to dabble with something more entry-level, as well as highlighting the very best, flagship cameras Nikon have to offer.
So whatever your budget may be, take a look below at our pick of the best Nikon cameras in 2021. And if you can't find what you're looking for here, head over to our round up of the best cameras for even more quality options.
The best Nikon cameras available right now
The Nikon Z 6II balances incredible features with a reasonable cost. This mirrorless camera has 5 stops of in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) to create sharp photos even in low light and during long exposures, which also makes it perfect for hybrid shooting as it can hold the frame steady even when capturing video handheld. It captures fantastic detail with the 24.5MP full-frame image sensor, able to follow the action with 14 FPS continuous shooting. It also delivers UHD 4K30 video footage for the filmmakers. This camera is ideal for those who like taking stills and video in one device at a reasonable cost but don’t want to compromise on image quality.
Nikon’s flagship full frame camera, the D6 is designed to withstand extreme shooting conditions with its strong, durable frame and excellent weather sealing. Don’t be fooled by the 20.8MP resolution because it can shoot RAW images at up to 14 bit for incredible tonal detail. It can keep up with even the most explosive of subjects thanks to its 14FPS continuous shoot speed and you can shoot for longer capturing up to 200 RAW files before it shows signs of slowing. This is the perfect camera for the user who wants the very best, or needs a camera they can rely on in any situation, and the price tag reflects this.
An excellent choice for beginners wanting to take a deeper dive into photography and shoot with an interchangeable lens system, the D3500 does an excellent job at doing many things well. It captures high resolution stills at 24.2MP with its DX image sensor and can also record Full HD movies. As well as the ability to run on Auto the D3500 also has a Guide Mode which assists users with adjusting camera settings to craft the kind of images they want, until they feel ready to move on to more intermediate use with greater control.
The workhorse of Nikon’s DSLR range, the D850 packs a punch in many aspects. Photographs are full of detail thanks to the 45.7MP image sensor but capture size can be reduced for those that require it. A useful touchscreen helps users navigate through hundreds of images in a matter of seconds. Capable of 4K UHD this is a professional-level camera for hybrid shooters that wish to switch between stills and video at a moments notice. Reliable, fast autofocus that works even in low light is possible thanks to a dedicated AF processor in the camera so users will never miss focus.
The D5600 is perfect for beginner users who want to take things a little further, or those who are already comfortable with using a DSLR. It features a monocoque carbon-reinforced shell making it lightweight at only 450g, ideal for those that love to travel.
A deep grip makes this camera easy to hold and comfortable in the hand. The vari-angle touchscreen means users can operate the camera from any position without needing to contort themselves to the viewfinder. The touchscreen is also gesture compatible with options like pinch to zoom and trim images. It borrows a frame-advance bar from bigger brothers the D5 and D500 professional-level cameras.
The Z 7 II’s hybrid AF system allows for pin-sharp focus across approximately 90% of the image sensor thanks to the 493 AF points which means users can focus almost up to the edges of the frame with ease. The 5-stops of in-body image stabilisation smooths out video perfectly, making it ideal for handheld shooting that gives gimbal-like quality. With Eye-Detection AF the camera also tracks focus on subjects automatically, and even features an Animal-Detection AF for those capturing pets or wildlife. The 4K UHD 60p video footage is highly detailed with fantastic dynamic range thanks to the N-log movie options and HDR (HLG) output.
Don't miss our round ups of the best cameras for vlogging and the best cameras for YouTube for more great video capture options.
Thanks to the full-frame sensor and an almost highly detailed EVF seen in more expensive models, it’s easy to eye-up a subject for high-end portraits. It comes equipped with Eye-Detection autofocus that is precise and most useful for portrait photographers. The AF even tracks movement with Eye-Detection, across the frame, and on a range of subjects from humans to dogs, and even cats. It’s easy to shoot on all day long with the lightweight magnesium alloy body. Dual card slots (UHS-II SD compatible) mean portraits can be backed up on the spot. It has great ISO range for low light shooting and users can charge the camera via USB, perfect for those using a power bank that want to shoot dawn until dusk.
The P1000 compact bridge camera is aimed at beginners who aren’t bothered about an interchangeable lens system. But the lens on this camera is quite unique indeed, with 125x optical zoom the P1000 zooms in on even the most distant subjects. Capture craters on the moon or capture wildlife subjects without disturbing them with this incredible zoom capability. There are plenty of built-in shooting modes for those that want to experiment without getting too technical. To share images the camera can also synchronise with the SnapBridge app via Bluetooth which can also be used to trigger the camera remotely.
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