Nikon D3200

  • Resolution: 24 mp
  • LCD Size: 3"
  • Shutter: 30 ~ 1/4000 sec
  • Price: $629 - $712/£479 - £642
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Review

The Nikon D3200 was introduced in spring 2012 as a replacement for Nikon's previous entry-level DSLR, the D3100. And just as they did with the D3200's predecessor, the price increase here it doesn't make much sense given the fact that there are several competing cameras of equal quality, for less money. Nonetheless, if you love the Nikon name and you're willing to spend for it, you'll be pleasantly surprised with this 24 mp DSLR.

Right off the bat the D3200 offers a 10 mp boost over its older brother. It also features a Nikkor interchangeable lens mount to take advantage of half-a-dozen lens options; the camera can be purchased with the body only or with the stock 18-55mm VR lens. Nikon threw in a couple of other good features including an external mic jack, a programmable function button, and three different shooting modes to satisfy beginners, amateurs, and advanced users.

What I don't like about the D3200 is that Nikon kept the same body design as the D3100; a design I find very clumsy and uncomfortable. Nikon also moved the video record button to the other side which is somewhat confusing and unnatural. Lastly, I was disappointed in the fact that overall image quality was not better than the previous two incarnations despite the higher price tag. Image quality isn't any worse -- don't misunderstand -- but it's not any better.

Advantages: 24 mp resolution; interchangeable lens mount; programmable function; very good image quality; full 1080p HD video; easy guide mode for beginners.

Disadvantages: a bit expensive for an entry-level DSLR; sluggish performance in continuous shoot mode; awkward and uncomfortable profile; useless viewfinder.

Price and Availability: the Nikon D3200 is now available in Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia - other markets will vary; US price: $629-$712; UK price:£479-£642

Release Date: April 19, 2012

Ratings:

  1. Megapixel Count: 5/5
  2. Lens: 4.5/5
  3. Shutter Lag & Sensor Size: 5/5
  4. Flash: 3.5/5
  5. Memory Card: 5/5

Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Basic Specifications:

  • Resolution: 24 mp
  • Kit Lens: Nikkor AF-S DX VR 3x xZoom lens
  • View Finder: Optical (eye-level penta-dach mirror)
  • LCD Size: 3"
  • ISO: auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800
  • Shutter: 30 ~ 1/4000 sec.
  • Max Aperture: F3.5-F5.6
  • Dimensions: 125 x 96 x 77 mm (4.92 x 3.78 x 3.03")
  • Weight: 505 g (17.81 oz)
  • MSRP: USD $699.95
  • Availability: worldwide

Detailed Specifications:

  • General Information: optional accessories include GPS, wireless, and remote control; 4 exposure modes, 6 scene modes; custom white balance; NO image stabilization
  • Image Sensor: CMOS APS-C 24 mp
  • Image Capture: JPEG, 12-bit NEF (RAW); 3 size options
  • Video Capture: H.264 format; 7 res. options
  • Optics: 3x xZoom lens; focal length 27-82.5 mm; Nikon F mount
  • Auto Focus: yes; with fave and contrast detect, tracking, live view
  • Display: 3" fixed TFT LCD
  • Exposure and Flash: ±5 EV (at 1/3 EV steps); built-in flash with 12 m range
  • Image Storage: SD, SDHC, SDXC (UHS-I compliant); no internal
  • Connectivity: high speed USB, HDMI output, composite video/audio
  • Power: Nikon EN-EL14 Li-ion rechargeable battery
  • Software: Nikon ViewNX 2
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