Nikon D5500 DX-format Digital SLR w/ 18-55mm VR II Kit (Black)
With the D5500 DSLR, Nikon aims to repeat the success of the earlier model, the D5300, which launched back in October 2013. We really enjoyed shooting with the earlier camera that received a Dave’s pick because of its nice image quality, solid performance, smart handling, and also the convenience of inbuilt Wi-Fi. The Nikon D5500 builds on this with important upgrades in
many key areas.
Key among these changes is a brand-new body that is smaller (4.9″ x 3.8″ x 2.8″) and lighter (14.9 oz., body-only) than ever before; in reality, even the entry-level D3300 is not as compact. The 24.2-megapixel Nikon D5500’s body features similar construction; the company refers to that as a carbon-fiber monocoque structure, as was used antecedently within the D5300, but with a slimmer, deeper grip. The D5500’s new body brings with it control enhancements, together with a relocated data button and a simplified mode dial that does away with the various fixed scene mode positions of the earlier camera.
Nikon has additionally added a touch-screen overlay to the D5500’s 3.2-inch LCD monitor, permitting it to function as an input device and providing consumer-friendly features sort of like a
touch shutter and pinch zoom. Even with Wi-Fi on the earlier model, this is a first for a Nikon DSLR. And courtesy of electronic enhancements as well as a brand new proximity device that disables the LCD monitor after you raise the camera to your eye, the battery life has been extended by virtually 37 days.
Although the resolution of the Nikon D5500’s APS-C-sized, DX-format image sensor is unchanged at 24.2 megapixels, Nikon tells us that it’s really a brand new design, and this, it seems, has allowed the whole sensitivity range of ISO one hundred to twenty-five,600 equivalents to be created and obtainable by default. (In the earlier camera, sensitivities on the far side were ISO twelve; 800 were obtainable on condition that ISO enlargement was enabled, indicating that image quality might be lessened at these highest sensitivities.)
Also preserved from the D5300 is Nikon’s 39-point phase detection autofocus system, that features nine cross-type points and a 2,016-pixel metering system that is paired with Nikon’s
proprietary Scene Recognition System algorithms. This model has additionally preserved identical versatile side-mounted, tilt/swivel LCD articulation mechanisms, and additionally, the in-camera Wi-Fi support of the D5300 also carries over, as noted previously. So, too, does a burst capture rate of up to 5 frames per second, achieved due to an EXPEED four-image processor.
Other changes within the Nikon D5500 are to be found in the firmware. The new model currently sports a Flat image control for each film and still captures, that is additional conducive to color
grading post-capture, and also the D5500’s image controls permit finer-grained 1/4-step changes.
There are many new effects modes and a clarity control; additionally, the ability to lock
the cable is unleashed for continuous long-exposure shooting with shutter speeds of 4 seconds or
greater.
There is one removed feature that will be missed: in contrast to its predecessor, the D5500 no longer sports an inbuilt GPS receiver; therefore, if you would like to geotag your pictures, you will need to do it manually or rely on an external device to record a location track that can be
imported later.
Pros
This model is considerably compact for a DSLR camera; it has nice image quality for its category; it performs well in low light; and it has high ISO performance. It comprises a generous JPEG buffer depth and a high resolution.
Cons
The buffer depths are shallow once shooting RAW; it lacks GPS from the predecessor. There is no AA filter means that it’s at risk of aliasing artifacts.
Summary
Nikon’s mid-level DSLR line gets a solid upgrade in the form of the D5500, currently the smallest and lightest DSLR yet created by Nikon. However, do not let the small frame fool you, as there is a lot of firepower packed within this small gem.