The Nikon D5200 is a popular DSLR camera that has been a favorite among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike since its release in 2012. With its impressive features, excellent image quality, and affordable price, it’s no wonder why many photographers consider it a great option for their photography needs. But is the Nikon D5200 a good camera for you? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of this camera, exploring its features, pros, and cons, to help you make an informed decision.
Key Features of the Nikon D5200
The Nikon D5200 is a 24.1-megapixel DSLR camera that boasts a range of impressive features, including:
- A 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- A vari-angle 3-inch LCD screen with 921,000 dots
- Full HD 1080p video recording at 30fps
- 39-point autofocus system with 9 cross-type sensors
- ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 25600)
- 5fps continuous shooting
- Built-in HDR and Active D-Lighting
- Wi-Fi connectivity
Image Quality and Performance
The Nikon D5200 is known for its excellent image quality, with a 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that delivers crisp and detailed images. The camera’s image processing engine, EXPEED 3, provides fast and efficient image processing, resulting in excellent color accuracy and low noise levels.
In terms of performance, the Nikon D5200 is a speedy camera that can shoot at 5fps in continuous mode, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects. The camera’s autofocus system is also impressive, with 39 points and 9 cross-type sensors that provide fast and accurate focusing.
Low Light Performance
One of the standout features of the Nikon D5200 is its excellent low light performance. The camera’s ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 25600) allows for shooting in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to low light environments. The camera’s noise reduction system also helps to minimize noise and grain, resulting in clean and detailed images even in low light.
Pros and Cons of the Nikon D5200
Like any camera, the Nikon D5200 has its pros and cons. Here are some of the main advantages and disadvantages of this camera:
Pros
- Excellent image quality with a 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- Fast and accurate autofocus system with 39 points and 9 cross-type sensors
- Good low light performance with an ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 25600)
- Vari-angle 3-inch LCD screen with 921,000 dots
- Full HD 1080p video recording at 30fps
- Built-in HDR and Active D-Lighting
- Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons
- No weather sealing or moisture resistance
- Limited buffer size, which can slow down continuous shooting
- No 4K video recording
- No touchscreen LCD screen
Who is the Nikon D5200 For?
The Nikon D5200 is a versatile camera that can be used by a variety of photographers, from beginners to professionals. Here are some of the types of photographers who may benefit from using this camera:
- Beginners: The Nikon D5200 is an excellent camera for beginners who want to learn the basics of photography. Its intuitive interface and automatic modes make it easy to use, while its manual modes provide room for growth and experimentation.
- Enthusiasts: Photography enthusiasts who want to upgrade from a point-and-shoot camera or a lower-end DSLR will appreciate the Nikon D5200’s excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and manual controls.
- Professionals: Professional photographers who need a backup camera or a camera for specific types of photography, such as landscape or portrait photography, may also appreciate the Nikon D5200’s features and image quality.
Alternatives to the Nikon D5200
If you’re considering the Nikon D5200, you may also want to look at some alternative cameras that offer similar features and image quality. Here are a few options:
- Canon EOS Rebel T6i: A 24.2-megapixel DSLR camera with a vari-angle touchscreen LCD screen and built-in Wi-Fi.
- Sony Alpha a6400: A 24.2-megapixel mirrorless camera with a tilting touchscreen LCD screen and fast autofocus.
- Pentax K-70: A 24.2-megapixel DSLR camera with a vari-angle LCD screen and built-in Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
The Nikon D5200 is a powerful and feature-rich DSLR camera that offers excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and good low light performance. While it may have some limitations, such as no weather sealing or 4K video recording, it’s an excellent option for photographers who want a versatile camera that can handle a variety of photography tasks. Whether you’re a beginner, enthusiast, or professional, the Nikon D5200 is definitely worth considering.
| Feature | Nikon D5200 | Canon EOS Rebel T6i | Sony Alpha a6400 | Pentax K-70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 24.1 megapixels | 24.2 megapixels | 24.2 megapixels | 24.2 megapixels |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 (expandable to 25600) | 100-12800 (expandable to 25600) | 100-32000 (expandable to 102400) | 100-102400 |
| Autofocus Points | 39 points (9 cross-type sensors) | 19 points (all cross-type sensors) | 425 points (phase-detection) | 11 points (9 cross-type sensors) |
| Video Resolution | Full HD 1080p at 30fps | Full HD 1080p at 30fps | 4K at 30fps | Full HD 1080p at 30fps |
Note: The table above provides a comparison of some of the key features of the Nikon D5200 and its alternatives.
What are the key features of the Nikon D5200?
The Nikon D5200 is a 24.1-megapixel DX-format DSLR camera that features a vari-angle LCD screen, built-in Wi-Fi, and 1080p full HD video recording. It also has a 39-point autofocus system, ISO range of 100-6400, and continuous shooting speed of up to 5 frames per second. Additionally, the camera has a built-in HDR mode, active D-Lighting, and a range of creative effects.
These features make the Nikon D5200 a versatile camera that can handle a variety of shooting situations, from landscapes and portraits to action and low-light photography. The vari-angle LCD screen is particularly useful for shooting from unusual angles or for self-portraits, while the built-in Wi-Fi allows for easy transfer of images to a smartphone or tablet.
Is the Nikon D5200 suitable for beginners?
The Nikon D5200 is a great camera for beginners who want to learn the basics of DSLR photography. It has a range of automatic modes, including Auto, Scene, and Effects, that make it easy to get started with photography. The camera also has a built-in Guide Mode that provides step-by-step instructions for shooting in different situations.
In addition to its automatic modes, the Nikon D5200 also has manual controls that allow beginners to experiment with different settings and techniques. The camera’s menu system is also easy to navigate, making it simple to adjust settings and customize the camera to your needs. Overall, the Nikon D5200 is a great camera for beginners who want to learn and grow with their photography skills.
Can the Nikon D5200 shoot video?
Yes, the Nikon D5200 can shoot video in 1080p full HD resolution at 30p, 25p, and 24p frame rates. It also has a range of video modes, including manual focus, aperture priority, and shutter priority, that allow for creative control over the video recording process. Additionally, the camera has a built-in stereo microphone and can also be connected to an external microphone for improved audio quality.
The Nikon D5200’s video capabilities make it a great camera for videographers who want to capture high-quality footage. The camera’s vari-angle LCD screen is also useful for shooting video from unusual angles or for self-portraits. However, it’s worth noting that the camera does not have a headphone jack, which may be a limitation for some videographers.
Is the Nikon D5200 compatible with all Nikon lenses?
The Nikon D5200 is compatible with all Nikon F-mount lenses, including DX-format and FX-format lenses. However, when using FX-format lenses, the camera will automatically crop the image to the DX-format size, which may affect the angle of view and the overall image quality.
In general, it’s recommended to use DX-format lenses with the Nikon D5200, as they are specifically designed for the camera’s sensor size and will provide the best image quality. However, if you already have a collection of FX-format lenses, you can still use them with the Nikon D5200, and the camera will automatically adjust the settings to ensure the best possible image quality.
Does the Nikon D5200 have built-in Wi-Fi?
Yes, the Nikon D5200 has built-in Wi-Fi that allows for easy transfer of images to a smartphone or tablet. The camera can be connected to a Wi-Fi network, and images can be transferred using the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility app. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and allows for easy transfer of images, as well as remote control of the camera.
The Nikon D5200’s built-in Wi-Fi is a convenient feature that makes it easy to share images with others or to transfer them to a computer for editing. The camera can also be connected to a Wi-Fi network, allowing for easy transfer of images to a computer or other device.
Is the Nikon D5200 a good camera for low-light photography?
The Nikon D5200 is a good camera for low-light photography, thanks to its 24.1-megapixel sensor and ISO range of 100-6400. The camera also has a range of noise reduction modes, including Long Exposure NR and High ISO NR, that help to minimize noise and ensure the best possible image quality in low-light conditions.
In addition to its sensor and noise reduction modes, the Nikon D5200 also has a range of other features that make it well-suited for low-light photography. These include its 39-point autofocus system, which can focus quickly and accurately in low light, and its built-in flash, which can provide additional illumination when needed.
Is the Nikon D5200 still a good camera in 2023?
Although the Nikon D5200 is an older camera model, it is still a good camera in 2023, thanks to its 24.1-megapixel sensor, vari-angle LCD screen, and range of creative features. The camera’s image quality is still excellent, and it is well-suited for a variety of shooting situations, from landscapes and portraits to action and low-light photography.
However, it’s worth noting that the Nikon D5200 is an older camera model, and it may not have all the features and capabilities of newer camera models. For example, it does not have 4K video recording or touchscreen controls, which may be a limitation for some photographers.